White Done Right: Traditional Elegance

To create a sophisticated room, choose toned down colors in a variety of values. For instance, a beige may be light and have little weight to it, while another is infused with gray shades, which tone it down to appear heavier. "I would suggest colors like that because they are more sophisticated," says Kim. Plus, you won’t get tired of subtle colors as easily as you would brighter varieties. Shades that are less intense make you feel calm and centered and include pebble, sandbar, linen and cornsilk.

Here, Kim used subdued fabrics to complement the strong architectural lines in the dining table and chairs.