7 Reasons to Reconsider White Interior Walls for Your Home

7 Reasons to Reconsider White Interior Walls for Your Home

Max Ruthven

When it comes to interior wall colors, white has long been considered the safe choice. After the gray trend has phased out, earthy tones such as taupe made their appearance back on the scene, but I still have many clients that just want “white”. One has to be careful by just painting "it all white" though. While it's true that white walls can create a clean and minimalist look, and make spaces feel larger and airier, they may not be the best option for everyone or every space.

Let’s explore seven compelling reasons why you should think twice before painting your interior walls white.

1. Lack of Personality:

White walls can come across as plain and uninspiring, lacking the personality and character that color can bring to a room. If you want your home to reflect your unique style and taste, opting for more vibrant or nuanced colors can be a better choice. Visit model homes or local home tours for color inspiration.

2. Overwhelming Brightness and Light Orientation:

White walls can be blindingly bright, particularly in well-lit rooms. This can lead to discomfort, eye strain, and difficulty relaxing in your space.

Additionally, the orientation of natural light in a room can affect how white walls appear. North-facing rooms might make white walls seem dingy, while strong sun exposure can result in temporary color changes and cast a yellowish or peachy glow in the room. Not that this is permanent, but if you really dislike these colors, you may want to consider a different color.

Softer hues can create a more calming atmosphere, especially in rooms with insufficient light.

3. Unforgiving of Imperfections:

White walls are unforgiving when it comes to revealing imperfections in your wall surfaces, such as uneven textures or drywall flaws. Colored walls tend to hide these imperfections more effectively. If you opt for a stronger wall color, choose a matte sheen to further minimize imperfections.

4. Cold and Sterile Ambiance:

An all-white room or house can have some drawbacks. By reducing contrasting elements, it can easily feel like a utilitarian space, and appear stark and sterile. Adding a textured wall surface such as beadboard or shiplap and using different sheens of white paint, can diminished the sterile look. (Or you can just add color!) :-)

If you are in a region where it is much colder than other places, a phenomenon called “Transference” would occur, which means that you will feel colder in that space. Needless to say, it is more effective in warmer climates where you do want a west facing room to feel cooler!

5. Mood and Energy Impact:

Colors have a significant impact on our moods and energy levels. White walls can sometimes feel sterile and clinical, potentially leading to feelings of anxiety or restlessness. Consider the emotional atmosphere you want to create in each room and choose colors that align with your desired ambiance.

6. Consideration for the Elderly:

As individuals age, the lenses in their eyes undergo "yellowing", causing colors in spaces to appear more yellow-toned. Bright white walls may strain the eyes, especially for those who spend long hours in front of screens. When decorating spaces for seniors, opt for brighter colors and ensure higher contrast between surfaces, which can aid in acuity loss.

7. Backdrop for Art:

While white walls are often considered the perfect backdrop for art galleries, it's essential to ensure that your art collection complements this aesthetic. Not all art will look its best on a white wall, so consider the compatibility of your artwork with the chosen wall color.

In conclusion, while white walls have their advantages, they may not suit everyone's preferences or every space. Don't hesitate to explore a wider spectrum of colors that can add personality, warmth, and character to your living spaces.

Your home should be a reflection of your individuality, and selecting the right wall colors plays a crucial role in expressing your unique style and creating a comfortable atmosphere.