The brightness of white is also known to create a sense of space, making it seem larger and more spacious, especially when natural light is added into the spatial equation. 

“The natural light in your space can affect how white appears,” adds Omar. “Cooler whites might work well in rooms with lots of natural light, while warmer whites can add cosiness to dimly lit spaces.”

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On top of that, according to Very Well Mind, white is the number one colour in “evoking moods of quietness and concentration, conveying a sense of austerity that is calming or refreshing.” 

“I love white because it brings a sense of purity. It creates a calm, bright, and lively atmosphere wherever it’s applied,” comments Fabian Tan of Fabian Tan Architects.

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When it comes to minimalist homes, no colour does it better than white. 

It is the sturdy backbone for other neutral shades like grey, beige or taupe, as well as materials like wood or marble. Whether it’s a compact apartment unit, or a multi-storey build, white gives homes the warmth and comfort homeowners seek from the popular interior design style.

Omar advises to “stick to shades within the same colour family for a monochromatic look, and choose colours adjacent to white on the colour wheel such as soft pastels or light neutrals for a harmonious look.”

“While some might think it’s dull, white actually represents space in its purest form and complements people, objects, and nature with an organic contrast,” Tan adds on the colour’s other plus points.

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“It blends well when the basic elements—such as walls, floors, ceilings and openings—are in a balanced state of ratio with the paintings, sculptures, objects and furniture; which isn’t a surprise when you see it’s the colour of most art galleries.”

Not only that, the timeless colour also plays best with the surrounding nature for indoor-outdoor spaces. Tan’s past projects have converted stuffy terrace houses into “breathable,” expansive lots that embrace greenery and the ample light and ventilation that comes through.

“Interestingly, white isn’t always just white; it can take on various shades depending on factors like the sky’s colour, the time of day, and the presence of shadows,” Tan elaborates.

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While white functions as a dominant colour in minimalist interiors, it can also act as a neutral background for other colours and textured materials to take the spotlight.

For more contemporary and opulent interiors, often off-whites help carry the weight of effortless glamour that comes from natural stones like marble and brass or gold accents.

Besides that, pairing white with bold, contrasting colours, such as deep navy colours or black accents, can also create visual interest in the space.

“When selecting the right shades of white, consider factors such as the lighting in your space, the mood you want to create, and any existing colours or decor elements you plan to incorporate,” Omar advises.

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“The key is to ensure that colours and materials complement each other well, allowing for creative freedom without strict rules,” comments Chuah Say Yang of award-winning interior design firm Nevermore Group. 

Chuah, whose past projects include private residential and hospitality projects in Penang and the Klang Valley, also recommends integrating white into home designs by dividing the white paints into cool or warm tones: “Warm whites can harmonise with materials like maple wood for a cosy ambience, while pairing cool whites with vibrant accents can create striking contrasts.”

He adds: “There’s a vast array of white shades suitable for interiors and furnishings, and homeowners should explore the diverse spectrum of white shades available to add depth and character to your space.”

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When there are so many whites at one’s disposal, it can get overwhelming on where or how to begin.

Omar proposes “to obtain paint samples or swatches to test in your space before making a final decision,” whereas Tan considers: “Whilst it is important to prioritise colour, the other spatial elements–texture and the degree of sheens, for example–contribute equally to the overall ambient of the space.”

“While white paint offers versatility, it’s crucial to consider factors like existing fixtures, such as window frames and sunlight exposure when choosing the perfect shade,” Chuah adds. “For example, pairing white with wood or natural stone involves extracting tones from the base colours to achieve harmony.”

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But, at the end of the day, homeowners should not fret as professionals are available to offer their assistance.

It is recommended to collaborate with a design professional to ensure the relationship of the space and colour shows a good clarity on the intention of an idea, as they provide valuable guidance tailored to every homeowner’s specific needs and preferences.

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