WHITE: it's clean, crisp, and classic; but it can also be BORING! Go ahead, you can admit that you've said it too - no judgement here. We've all seen that colorless spaces can exude elegance, but without some variety can easily become sterile and harsh. I've listed 5 tips below to keep your unpigmented color scheme from encroaching on the land of bland!

Wondering where to begin with white? Tones are a good place to start! If you live in a warmer climate, cool whites are usually a better choice, and vice versa - warm colors make a cold region more inhabitable (from the indoors, anyway). You can also pick your contrast colors first, and choose your white to match: if you want to decorate in blue, choose a cool white. If you'd love to decorate in shades of pink, choose a warm white.
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If you're still not sure which you'd prefer, explore the paint section of your local hardware store and take home some chips. On a nice bright morning or afternoon examine the chips in the space you'd like to paint.  This will help determine which shade will look best with your lighting and existing furnishings.

Even if you choose to decorate with neutral colors you can still build a beautiful palette to work from! White comes in many different undertones including pink, yellow, green, or even blue. Choose contrast colors that contain these same undertones to create a gorgeous neutral color scheme that still has interest. Just a tip: monochrome neutrals are better for large areas such as walls, floors and cabinets, and contrast colors look great in accents such as textiles and decor.

As you can see from the Monika Hibbs design above,  texture can work wonders in a simple room! A tufted bedframe, a wonderful variety of hard goods, and an interesting (but still neutral) light fixture give this room character where there could have been none.

Itching for a kitchen remodel but can't afford it right now? Mix up the monotony by giving your kitchen island a face-lift. Contrasting kitchen islands are all the rage, and a fresh paint job is an easy and affordable way to change up your kitchen while you're saving up for the full reno you've been dreaming of.

Chances are that if you have kids, pets, or both, an entirely white theme may not be right for you (especially if housework is not your favorite pastime). Don't be afraid to make compromises with other neutral colors like taupe, beige, or grey. Floor coverings, blankets/pillows, and other textiles can be easily washed; bigger items like couches and headboards, however are not - so opt for darker shades to avoid that unattractive dingy look.

​Sometimes it's easy to forget that the bedroom is one of the most sacred places in your home. You don't just sleep there; it's where you prepare for your day, take moments to relax, and unwind at night. So don't skimp when it comes to making your bedroom as comfortable and enjoyable as possible! Here are some designer tips on how to achieve the perfect bedroom atmosphere.

Even if your favorite color is red, it's not a great color for the bedroom. Wall colors that are soft and cool exude a calming effect that will help set the mood for whatever that day may hold in store for you. Keep large surfaces light and natural and use contrasting colors for small items such as throw pillows and decorating accents.

When it comes to bedding and other soft goods, keep it interesting!  Add some velvet throw pillows,  a chunky knit throw or a braided rug to really add to the comfort factor. Remember, the bedroom is supposed to be the most comfortable room in the house, so fill it with textiles you love!

You know those 100% down duvets and 400 thread count sheets?
They really are worth it! Having luxurious linens makes such a difference in everyday life, you will be surprised how much you appreciate them. Splurge on great linens like sheets and towels, and you will thank yourself on a daily basis. They will also last much longer than department store sheets and towels.

Lighting is a very important part of bedroom ambiance. There are three main types of lighting in design: ambient, which is an overall soft, illuminating light, such as from a ceiling fan; task, for performing specific activities such as reading or putting on makeup; and accent, which is simply for fun! Overhead lighting shouldn't be too harsh, while ample task lighting is essential to eliminate squinting and straining while reading or dressing. Feel free to accent with whatever fun fixtures or lamps fit your style.

Having a clean, uncluttered space only adds to the relaxing feel of the bedroom, so make it easy on yourself to keep it that way. Invest in a good closet organizing system, keep designated hampers for laundry, and keep lots of storage space available. Baskets, storage ottomans, and under-bed storage tubs will cut down on chores and increase free time. And who doesn't love that?