Crisp White on White Rooms - Or is it White?

Nothing says  fresh and clean like a white on white room.  Even though I am a HUGE color person I always let out a sigh when I encounter a lovely white on white room.  However, if you will look closely, it is almost NEVER really just white on white.  It is almost always layers of pale neutrals; cream, pearl, flax, linen, oyster and on and on.  (Notice I did NOT say beige, remember I don't DO beige!!)
Examine a white room and see what shades are there.  Sometimes there will only be the color of the wood in the room, or just the green of plants in the room,  while others will usse a very pale blue or green with the whites.   Layering  antique linens will give you subtle shades of whites and creams. Some people actually use a weak tea solution to stain white linens into aged colors.  To get this look you can start with a pretty ivory or cream color on the walls and a bright white on the trim.  You can  use the same trim paint on odd pieces in the room .  It is amazing what white paint will do to an old cruddy table or picture frame.( I love getting them from the Salvation Army store)  Shiny white paint will also add another dimension.  Always think layers; layers of color, layers of texture, layers of soft and hard, layers of old with new, layers of finishes, some matte and some shiny.   When you have a room with this basic white pallette you can always throw in an accent color with pillows or accessories,  Or you can just walk in and sigh as you sink down into the fresh , restful atmosphere of this color way.  If you would like to try this color combination, here are two that I would recommend:
 Benjamin Moore colors   Trim color: Linen White  with Wall color: elmira white HC-84
Examine these pictures from the publication Summer Cottage 2011 by Hoffman Media. and see if you can pcik up on the subtle colors in these rooms.   It is a lovely issue, you should pick one up. Enjoy!!!  ele