Painting and Decorating with White

How does white make you feel? How do you react to it? Can you live in harmony with white?

By definition, white is the absence of colour. White is not a true colour because it is the sum of all possible colours. White is the colour of waves in the ocean and fluffy clouds in the sky. Whitewashed houses by the sea reflect the sunlight. White is associated with cleanliness. White surfaces remain cool to touch and white is a practical colour for clothing in hot weather. An artist begins work on a fresh white canvas. Food presents best when served on white. Minimalist interiors often associate with white. White is used to lighten a space and make darker colours go pale (Alexander, Victoria, Colour a Journey, Australia, Murdoch Books, 2012).

The choice of available whites is enormous and can be overwhelming when you start researching. There are many tonal variations including bright, chalk, yellow and blue whites. Popular names include Pure White, Brilliant White, Antique White, Cream, Ivory, Natural White and Oyster. Every white will create a different mood in the space where it is used. (Fricke, Shannon, Sense of Style – Colour, Australia, Murdoch Books, 2006).

Positive effects of white include simplicity, cleanliness, sophistication, purity, peace and calm. White can provide clarity for a cluttered mind and even emotional safety. White can also have adverse effects, perceived as being sterile, isolating, cold or uncaring. (Haller, Karen, The Little Book of Colour – How to Use the Psychology of Colour to Transform Your Life, UK, Penguin Random House, 2019)

White is often used intentionally so the design of a space is not impeded or obstructed. Sometimes it can be a non-decision (of colour) and is often seen in carparks, factories and other areas where there is little consideration for how it will make people feel. (Haller, Karen, The Little Book of Colour – How to Use the Psychology of Colour to Transform Your Life, UK, Penguin Random House, 2019))

White is always popular and I find people want to paint with it for many reasons. Some white is always popular in kitchens and bathrooms for creating a feeling of cleanliness. White exteriors and Australian Coastal Style are currently very popular. If you need help choosing the right shade of white for your property, get in touch today!