White Done Right: Traditional Elegance

The purpose of creating a white monochrome elegant space is to feel peaceful, serene and sophisticated. In a white on white room, you have more freedom to do things differently. "Clutter is kept away, everything should be hidden," says Ammie Kim, a Beverly Hills designer. All unnecessary items or things with colors should be moved. It’s a very sophisticated and minimal look.

In an all white space, the only things to differentiate the elements are texture. "If you use silk white drapes on the window, I would suggest different textures elsewhere, on the wall for instance," says Kim. Try a matte wall finish for contrast, like she's done in this elegant bedroom. Cover one sofa in linen and another in hemp. Lay a downy rug and a nubby cashmere throw. Whether it's cream tulips in a silver vase, a bouquet of ivory glass stones in a bronze bowl or a china white teacup and saucer, having lots of texture creates interest, and provides an elegant feel rather than a harsh one.