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Wednesday, 6th June 2007

See the light with white

Gabrielle Fagan


THERE is something blissfully relaxing about white interiors. Opting for white walls and neutral floors is a much safer option too. Opt for red and you might just regret it six months down the line.

But if you’re now muttering, ‘but how impractical’, Karena Callen thinks you’re wrong. She’s intent on disproving that prejudice with her new book, At Home With White.

She says: “White has magical properties that transform rooms. It can maximise space, radiate light and never dates.”

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And Karena dismisses the practicality issue: “Washing machines, tumble dryers, stain removers and washable paints mean there’s no excuse for avoiding white.”

WHAT’S YOUR WHITE STYLE?:

CLASSIC WHITE
Karena says: “This look is elegant, marrying old with new. Think of a gentrified Regency drawing room.”
HER TIPS...
COLOUR: Brilliant white didn’t exist until the 20th century, so stick to shades that fall within the muted white and grey family.
STYLE: Paint shutters and floorboards white, and pick out original features such as picture rails in a lighter shade.
SOURCE: Graham & Green and Oka both cleverly blend old and new furniture styles. Find fabrics at Ian Mankin or John Lewis.

ROMANTIC WHITE
Karena says: “Let your imagination run riot.”
HER TIPS...
COLOUR: A palette of chalky, ice-cream whites.
STYLE: An elegant carved wood dresser is reminiscent of a French boudoir.
Add a colonial touch with a mosquito net hung over an old iron day bed.
Candelabra, floaty transparent fabrics like muslin and lace, and accessories like vintage clothes or sepia-toned prints set the scene.
SOURCE: Laura Ashley decorative metal beds and chandeliers, ornate bird cage candle holders and picture frames.

BEACH WHITE
“For those who are drawn to the sea, it’s easy to create a beach retreat with a blend of aquatic hues, rough wood and beach finds,” Karena says.
HER TIPS...
COLOUR: White, grey blues for paint, and splashes of navy, aqua or ocean blue in fabrics or accessories.
STYLE: Flooring is key: pick either highly varnished boat decking or painted boards in eggshell blue, green or lime.
SOURCE: Furniture, such as the white painted Hampton range, and fabrics from John Lewis.

MODERN WHITE
“Simple lines, calming neutral tones and tailored upholstery.”
HER TIPS...
COLOUR: Cool whites have bluey undertones and are best for crisp, clean modern interiors.
STYLE: Use materials in surprising ways, so replace skirting boards with stainless steel ones.
SOURCE: Ikea or Nordic Style. Magnet’s high gloss white Urban Lineaire kitchen is cutting edge.
Accessories: The White Company’s collection is irresistible.

At Home With White, by Atlanta Bartlett & Karena Callen. Buy this book from Amazon.