White Done Right: Traditional Elegance | HGTV

“The purpose of creating a white monochrome elegant space is to feel peaceful, serene and sophisticated. In a white on white room, you have more freedom to do things differently. "Clutter is kept away, everything should be hidden," says Ammie Kim, a Beverly Hills designer. All unnecessary items or things with colors should be moved. It’s a very sophisticated and minimal look.

In an all white space, the only things to differentiate the elements are texture. "If you use silk white drapes on the window, I would suggest different textures elsewhere, on the wall for instance," says Kim. Try a matte wall finish for contrast, like she's done in this elegant bedroom. Cover one sofa in linen and another in hemp. Lay a downy rug and a nubby cashmere throw. Whether it's cream tulips in a silver vase, a bouquet of ivory glass stones in a bronze bowl or a china white teacup and saucer, having lots of texture creates interest, and provides an elegant feel rather than a harsh one.

To create a sophisticated room, choose toned down colors in a variety of values. For instance, a beige may be light and have little weight to it, while another is infused with gray shades, which tone it down to appear heavier. "I would suggest colors like that because they are more sophisticated," says Kim. Plus, you won’t get tired of subtle colors as easily as you would brighter varieties. Shades that are less intense make you feel calm and centered and include pebble, sandbar, linen and cornsilk.

Gold and silver tones lend sophisticated elegance to a traditional white space. Hang a gold-framed mirror, a chandelier with a bronze finish, or metallic candelabras. Choose candles in rich shades like burgundy and moss for added elegant zest.”

Find the full article written by Jennifer Nelson here.