Minimalism: Transform Tiny Spaces With Shades of White

When to use cool whites

Cool whites have blue, grey or green undertones, making them look crisp and clean. For a serene, contemporary look, try using cool whites to create strong silhouettes and sharp lines. You’ll find that they also do a great job of showing off striking accessories and artwork.

Cool whites are useful in small rooms, because they have the effect of making walls recede and so a space looks bigger. They also neutralise bright light, so work well in rooms that get a lot of sun, particularly in south- and east-facing rooms.

When to use warm whites

If you want to create a welcoming atmosphere, choose warm whites that have a little red or yellow in them. These hues create a soft and relaxing atmosphere, so are ideal for bedrooms and living rooms. As warm whites reflect light well, they are also good to use in north-facing rooms, which often have less natural light than south-facing rooms.

Inject a bit of vibrancy into a plain white room. Go for bold Dulux colours on your doorframes or wall panels then paint them in a complementary colour.