I've been surprised to discover recently just how much white walls divide opinion. It seems for some they spell a light, airy space and blank canvas for detail, while for others they feel cold, sterile and boring. I'm firmly in the first camp and this lovely family home in the Netherlands demonstrates just how well a white palette can work to create a warm and cosy space.

The key is to remember that white comes in a variety of hues from warm to cool shades and the best white for your walls will depend on the direction of your home and the type of light it receives. North-facing homes that receive cool light may benefit from warm shades, with nuances of yellow or rose, for example, while south-facing rooms with warm light can be balanced with cooler hues with hints of blue or grey.

This beautiful home also shows how layering shades of white with difference textures such as sheepskins, knits, ceramics, paper and wood easily combat the risk of a clinical or one-dimensional space. It is a wonder how an all white home can be kept so pristine with two little scamps running around but for a space this calming and stylish, I reckon it is worth a try! And the surprise bit? There's heaps of stuff here from Ikea - via Ikea Family Live.

Other posts you might like:

Room envy // white bedroom bliss

Festive party decorating

Room Envy // Swedish pad of Elin Kling