Why White

Author Lee Brown writes, “White is very useful when starting out in interior decorating or design. Start with white walls and gradually build up colour around it, this is the safe way to get confidence using colour.”

Scandinavian interiors have been the single biggest trend of the last few years. These schemes maximise light and space, with a pared-back neutral palette of cool whites, blonde wood and minimalist furnishing.

For a glamorous modern twist on traditional all white schemes no one does it better than the French – look to interior designers Maison Hand, Jean-Louis Deniot or Joesph Dirand.

The latest trend for white interiors is a textural, layered look. Shaggy Moroccan rugs, thick knitted blankets, linen sofas and striking artwork can create the perfect place to relax.

White works just as well for minimalists or maximalists – whether you want to achieve chic understatement or give the perfect blank canvas to display a collection of beloved furnishings and artwork.

For Kassia St Clair, times and tastes may have changed “but the secrets to doing an all-white room well remain the same: layer textures; get the lighting right; and banish red wine, children and pets!”