vs. The Debate OVER NEUTRALS

If you’ve spent any time watching HGTV, you know white is in. Owners are adding all-white kitchens, all-white bathrooms, all-neutral wall colors… It goes on and on. But what about adding in pops of color? Hear from a local builder and designer on their top tips for white and color-forward spaces.

BY PEYSON SHIELDS

White Kitchen

WHITE LIVING ROOM

White Powder Room

DO: “Go classic. Mix in a marble or soapstone looking counter. White kitchens have been around and popular for decades and will continue to be a popular design. I think you play o the classic style no matter the style of your home.” —Jason

DO: “Choose beautiful wood oors. This is something that adds warmth into your space, so it doesn’t get too sterile.” —J.B

Bekebrede, CGP, CGB, Monticello

Custom Homes and Remodeling

DO: “Incorporate texture with materials. Allwhite kitchens can often feel cold and sterile, but this can be avoided by mixing in natural stone and accents of warmer woods like walnut. An all-white kitchen also lends itself to be the perfect opportunity to add interest with a tone-on-tone patterned backsplash.” —Nathan

Taylor, Obelisk Home

COLOR-FORWARD KITCHEN

DO: “Let the backsplash or surrounding walls be bold. Those accents are easier to change once a trend has come and gone.” —J.B.

DON’T: “Go bold everywhere. If you choose a color on the cabinets, keep other accents more tame.” —J.B.

DO: “The key here is layers. To avoid a space that feels at, incorporate a mix of textured fabrics. Pair leather upholstery with softer textiles like velvet or linen. To add more dimension, add architectural interest with shadow box paneling, co ered ceilings and venetian plaster. These details elevate a home.” —N.T.

COLOR-FORWARD LIVING ROOM

DO: “Stick with neutral paint colors and use furniture, art and accessories to add color. Of course, if you love a color, embrace what makes you happy. Oranges, pinks and yellows can brighten and energize your day, and reds and purples feel majestic, but that strength might overwhelm you. A black and white color palette can appear classic and chic while others might feel the contrast is too arresting.” —N.T.

DON’T: “We’re seeing fewer accent walls in living rooms. Instead, owners are using accent furniture to make a statement.” —J.B.

DON’T: “This is a simple x, but it’s often overlooked. Don’t put the bathroom door facing a main living space. Let access be around the corner for privacy.” —J.B.

COLOR-FORWARD POWDER ROOM

DO: “Go bold. We’re seeing a willingness— either homeowner- or designer-driven—to be more bold in a smaller space that you don’t see every day.” —J.B.

White Primary Bedroom

DO: “If you are surrounded by chaos, pattern, color and noise all day, you might actually need your home to be a tranquil and calming retreat. Cocoon yourself in soothing neutrals, tinted tones and monochromatic color. We love white and use it often.” —N.T.

COLOR-FORWARD PRIMARY BEDROOM

DO: “An accent wall on an alternate wall than your bed. That way you can enjoy the design, and it’s not primarily covered by your headboard.” —J.B.