Gorgeous White Rooms From Our House Tours

White is sometimes underplayed as the default choice of colorphobes, but some of the boldest and most sophisticated rooms in the world have white walls. Maxwell loves decorating with white walls – as long as it’s the right kind of white. According to Maxwell, the best whites aren’t just a “blank canvas.” He says, “I like the ones with a bit of depth and color.” A good white wall never looks unfinished, “it looks intentional.”

In honor of Simply White, Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year for 2016, we’ve combed through our House Tour archives and found three wildly different rooms that offer beautiful evidence in support of white’s timeless elegance.

Courtney & Michael’s Scandinavian Comfort

Scandinavian modernism is famous for pairing clean, modern whites with natural materials. Bright white reflects light through dark winters, while rustic woods and layered textures keep things cozy. Inspired by Scandinavian style, this dining room uses white to make a collection of mix-and-match chairs feel cohesive. Hardwood floors, a woven wall hanging and wooden candlesticks warm things up.

Arthur’s Long Distance Loft

To maximize light and unify the fixtures, Arthur painted the ceiling, pipes and walls of his industrial loft in the same shade of white. While exposed brick can be beautiful, it absorbs light and can make a room feel dim. A flat white finish retains this loft’s warehouse character as it brightens the space.

Cow Hollow Home Gets a Pro Makeover

In the bathroom, you want your space to feel fresh. White works because it conveys cleanliness. In tight quarters, it also helps to add reflective finishes. In this glam, polished master bath, the marble counters, glass shower, mirrors and metal stool all expand the sense of space.

For other ideas on working with white, check out Benjamin Moore’s 2016 color trend report.