Tips for choosing the right shade for your living space

A common misconception is that "white is white” and considered an easy decision to make.

A common misconception is that 'white is white' and considered an easy decision to make. Picture: Rikki Lancaster

OPINION:

A common misconception is that "white is white” and considered an easy decision to make. If you have ever painted your interior white, you'll appreciate that this is not a decision to make lightly. Things really can go oh, so wrong.

It's important to first ask yourself how you want your interior to feel. Enjoying some alone time within your space to really think about what vibe you want to portray will help dictate your colour choice. Cool or warm?

Then consider your surrounds and the amount of natural light entering your space.

Every individual interior is open for negotiation, but generally speaking I prefer to use blue and grey-based whites for contemporary and industrial-style homes - open-plan spaces with a minimalist approach in both style and form, where fixtures and finishes are the statement. Clean lines and sleek finishes of two-pack, metal, concrete and timber perfectly lend themselves to a cool, bright white. Cool whites also neutralise natural sunlight so work well in north-facing rooms where sunlight is at its peak. I love Dulux Lexicon, Vivid White and White on White for these spaces. Bright, warm and welcoming interiors are more suited to a warm white. Ideal examples of these are Bohemian, Scandinavian and even coastal spaces where warm colour tones are part of the existing interior.

Oak timbers, neutral textures, large pieces of greenery and pops of vibrant colour beautifully complement hues such as Dulux Natural White, Casper White or White Dune Half. Warmer whites have a yellow and/or brown base, which produce warmer hues, making a room feel cosier.

Older spaces with period character including Edwardian or Victorian homes are more luxurious with a sense of grand elegance. These traditional interiors tend to have classic furniture, rich carpets and tiles, timber floors and perhaps statement antiques.

Depending on the colour palette of the finishes, I like Dulux Antique White USA, Hog Bristle Quarter and Whisper White.

This may sound like a no-brainer, but it's ever-so important to purchase sample pots.

Try your selection in different lighting situations to see how each colour reflects natural and installed lighting. Check morning, afternoon and night to see how the colour changes under different conditions.

I personally like to invest in good-quality paint.

While, of course, there are cheaper options available, you may be required to double the number of coats to cover your existing colour.

For more interior design inspiration, visit www.designbydanni.com

Originally published as Tips for choosing the right shade for your living space