Home decorating: white on white

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There is nothing as calming in a home as a completely white room. It acts as a blank canvas and can easily be changed as trends come and go, or just kept white and neutral as a sanctuary from the overload of visual stimulation in your surroundings. And it doesn’t need to be boring. Mix and match, or don’t match at all, use a range of hues of white, or add interest by using textures in textiles and furniture. Mia Asker shows you how with three looks for the lounge room, dining table and bedroom.

A lighter shade of pale
Take inspiration from the simple things in life. Decorating with furniture and textiles in shades of white creates a calming atmosphere for the home. We take a look at a winning garden of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, designed by Australian Dean Herald. Also this month, a kitchen gets a functional and sleek makeover, and we show you how to give old armchairs a new lease on life.

Keep it simple
When displaying treasured items, keep the colour palette simple and don’t overdo it. You want to be able to admire each piece without distraction from the surroundings. Update your collection as you find new trinkets and mix with colours used in the room.

Talking point
A simply furnished room takes on a dramatic look with a modern light fitting. This folded PVC pendant, manufactured by Danish company Le Klint, is one of several classics designed by architect Poul Christiansen between 1969 and 1978.

Breakfast in bed
A sideboard on wheels will make your lazy Sunday breakfast in bed a breeze. When not used over the bed, it makes a great table for storing hair and make-up products, or it can be used as a small desk. Just hang a mirror above the table, and add a chair and desk lamp.

Storage tip
Blanket boxes or storage benches placed at the end of a bed are extremely useful if your home lacks cupboard space. Use them to store your bedlinen, blankets, extra pillows and jumpers when not in use.

To learn how to upholster a blanket box for a comfy seat, click here.

Production & styling: Mia Asker. Photography: Scott Hawkins. Stylist’s assistant: Georgia Harvey-Sutton.