White living rooms always look clean and timeless. That’s why they are such a popular choice in Scandi homes which are all about minimalism with warmth. But decorating a living room in mostly white can go wrong too as it can end up looking cold and clinical without the right styling.
That said, it’s entirely possible to have a white living room that is cosy and inviting while still having a minimalist vibe. If you’ve always wanted this look but are worried it will look too cold or boring, here are some tips on how to make a white living room look stylish and feel cosy and inviting.
How to make a white living room look cosy and stylish
Layer different whites
Using just one shade of white throughout the space is probably the biggest mistake people make when decorating a white living room. Using the same white throughout is almost guaranteed to make your room look flat.
Instead using different shades of white like chalky whites, cool whites, creamy whites and more. Using variations of white will add depth to your space and will make it look and feel much cosier.
Use lots of texture
Adding texture is key to any neutral space but even more so to an all white space. In a white living room texture doesn’t have to mean colour (though it can) but even textures in varying shades of white and off-white will do the trick. Think things like white linen curtains paired with creamy white throws, perhaps a fluffy off-white sheepskin and some textured white cushions.
These are just a few examples but the key is adding lots of texture and even if you opt for mostly white, go with different types of textures in different shades of white from cool to warm.
Decorate with natural materials
Much like texture, adding natural materials is key to making a white living room feel cohesive and interesting. Wood is probably the one material I would say is the most important as it will add warmth to a white room. Dark and pale woods will both work well or even a combo of the two if you’re comfortable mixing different wood tones.
In addition to wood consider other natural materials like stone (e.g. marble with subtle veining), rattan, jute, seagrass, metals, sheepskins and more.
Consider your lighting
Nothing will make a white room feel more stark than having one harsh overhead light. Instead in a white living room you need layered lighting like a combination of wall, floor and table lamps with warm bulbs to create that cosy glow. Candle light is also definitely worth adding to the mix especially in the colder months.
Add contrast
In mostly white rooms, contrast matters a lot, even just a small amount of contrast. Scandinavian living rooms often include small touches of black, soft grey, or muted earth tones to anchor the space. Think things like a black lamp, earthy toned cushions, a muted brown vase or a simple line drawing in a pale frame. Even a few of the smallest of these touches will give the eye somewhere to rest without breaking the calm of the white space.
Play with shapes
This is probably the least talked about styling tip for white living rooms but it makes a big difference. In an all white space adding furniture and decor in various shapes will add interest. Think curved pieces, organic sculptures or decorations, coffee tables with unexpectedly shaped legs, lamps in interesting shapes etc
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