Mastering White Interiors
In my twenty years of designing houses, I’ve only been asked to create a white space once. Since I don’t have much to showcase on the topic, I was thrilled to discover someone who has truly mastered the art of white interiors. This week, we’re highlighting a fellow Villager whose home is a stunning example of how to get white just right. Designing a predominantly white room can be challenging, but when she shared her beautifully curated spaces on Facebook, I knew I had to reach out and feature her work. She describes her style as Coastal Chic, and her home exudes both sophistication and serene elegance. Layers of soft white tones, accented with hints of gray and tan, create depth and dimension. Plush textiles, performance rugs, and flowing drapes pair seamlessly with clean surfaces like quartz countertops and white cabinetry, resulting in a dynamic yet harmonious feel. Natural light plays a crucial role, making the space feel expansive and luminous. As you gaze out toward the water, a sense of tranquility washes over you, inviting you to linger and take in the beauty of the surroundings somewhere in the heart of The Villages.
• Wall treatment
A key element to creating an inviting white space is with wall treatments. The wall treatments provide texture in a white space and texture provides interest. In this design, the walls feature strategically placed wooden slats, each spaced six inches apart. The pattern is thoughtfully arranged slats running halfway up the wall before stopping, while the next set begins halfway down, creating a visual rhythm. The treatment is very appealing, and it looks timeless because it complements rather than overwhelms the serene, white aesthetic.
• Fireplace focal point
The living room features a fireplace as its focal point, beautifully enhanced with a simple white shiplap treatment. A white wooden surround frames the electric fireplace, adding a clean and timeless touch. Above the fireplace, a mounted TV integrates seamlessly with the shiplap wall treatment. The fireplace can produce heat when needed but otherwise it just provides a warm glow.
• Ceiling treatment
In interior design, the ceiling is often referred to as the “fifth wall” and in this home, it was thoughtfully addressed. A large section of the ceiling features a stunning coffered treatment, mirroring the dimensions of the furniture placement below. This architectural detail visually delineates the space without the need for physical walls. Coffered ceilings, or any ceiling treatment, can be a striking way to highlight a specific area in a home, offering limitless possibilities to match personal style and creativity. Instead of the traditional Florida ceiling fan, the homeowner opted for a chandelier at the center of the coffered design, adding an elegant and refined touch.
• Window treatments
The large windows at the back of the room are beautifully framed by drapes that hang high, almost to the ceiling. Their light tan color ensures they remain airy and harmonize with the natural light streaming through the expansive sliding glass doors. By extending the draperies upward, the design draws the eye to the ceiling, emphasizing the room’s height and making the view feel even more expansive.”
• Large sectional
The large sectional sofa beckons you to sink in and stay awhile, offering both comfort and style. Chosen in a rich camel hue, it stands as the darkest tone in the space, adding depth and grounding the design. In a predominantly white room, incorporating an element with visual weight is essential because it prevents the space from feeling too airy or disconnected, ensuring a balanced and inviting atmosphere.
• Dining room table
The dining room table is generously sized for entertaining and provides ample space for gatherings. One of the best features is the slipcovered dining chairs, chosen for both style and practicality. Their washable covers make cleanup effortless because they can simply be tossed in the wash for a fresh, like-new appearance. This thoughtful detail adds convenience without compromising on elegance.
• Dining chandelier
The dining room chandelier is an empire-style fixture, beautifully crafted with beads that lend a fresh coastal twist to its classic form. The homeowner has a keen eye for continuity, subtly incorporating spherical shapes throughout the room which are echoed in the overhead lighting, pillow trims, and lamp designs. These intentional details serve as a unifying thread, seamlessly tying the space together with a personal touch.
• Washable rugs
In high-traffic areas, the homeowner selected rugs that are fully washable. This is a great choice that doesn’t compromise on style. Their timeless, rich traditional prints give the impression of classic elegance, making it nearly impossible to tell they’re designed for easy maintenance. These rugs blend durability with sophistication, ensuring they will remain both beautiful and functional over time.
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