I have recently created some Colour Ideabooks in my Houzz profile, to collect beautiful images gathered by Colour families. Today I'll begin showcasing White.
Traditionally used in neutral colour schemes, the use of whites was a predominant trend in the 20 th. Century, between the 50's and the 70's. Considered by some to represent purity and cleanliness and thought to be an ideal background to colourful decorating items and effects by many Interior Designers, Colour Expert Frank Mahnke devoted a chapter to White in his book "Color and Light in man-made Environment". The Chapter's title was "The Case Against White". There Mahnke argues why, "on a psychological basis, white is sterile" and is not recommended in Hospitals and Old-age Institutions. It seems that we humans need sensory variety in our homes and this can be introduced with the help of colour and the use of texture and patterns (wallpapers, textiles). On the contrary, the predominance of white can become boring and tedious in the end.
There are other issues with white: in contrast with bold colours, it can lead to eye strain, as it requires "extreme adaptative changes from light to dark".
Being highly light reflectant, too bright whites can cause a distressing glare. This is why, according to Mahnke, white should not be used as a predominant colour in Interiors:
On the other hand, Design Writer Linda O'Keefe has devoted a book to White in Design. There she states that "White has the ability to pull everything together in a way that is kind of seductive". A timeless colour, it endures Seasons and Trend changes and never dates. As she says "all begins and ends with white"...
What do you think on this Colour Trend?
And if I can help you in some way, please contact me!
Isabel de Yzaguirre,
La Colorista.
Browse Lighting on Houzz- For Example:
