Are White Interiors Ideal For Indian Homes?

Many home owners prefer a white-themed décor, even at the risk of it being labeled dull or boring. Those who argue against such a theme cite common disadvantages. Nevertheless, these very disadvantages have a positive side, too.

They say, white is high maintenance and it can dirty in a blink. As a matter of fact, all things get dirty, irrespective of their colour. It is merely that a white décor that is dirty, shows it more obviously.  However, this can be an advantage rather than a disadvantage, as it demands your attention and you are mentally pressured to clean it regularly. By way of that, you would have yourself a comparatively cleaner home. “If you cannot figure out where the dirt lies, there is no way to know when to clean it,” points out Neelanjan Gupto, co-founder and director, Neelanjan Gupto Design Co.

Those who have a wild liking for bold pallets would dismiss white shades as dull, boring and monotonous. “You can never go wrong with white and there can never be too much of it,” maintains Manuu Mansheet, founder, Mansheet Design. White happens to be his favourite décor theme.

If you feel the need for a change in the future, all sorts of possibilities lie in front of you. The same may not be possible, if you have used a bright colour theme. In this case, everything may need to be changed.

“You could play with patterns and textures in a white scheme. One could, for instance, use natural elements, such as wood grain, greenery, aqua (water, fish and aquariums) , flowers, etc., which act as accents and bring out the beauty of white. Whites can be dressed up in any colour, as and when the mood changes,” adds Mansheet.

“White is the colour of peace, calm and purity and is one colour where you can play with lights and texture to change the entire scenario,” says Gupto.

While conceding that it is the purest colour, Abhineet Seth, founder, Abodekraftz, cautions: “An all-white décor may not be ideal.  It has to be carefully mixed with other colors, at specific points.”

White has been popular across geographies (from Europe to Asia to America) and timelines (across ancient, medieval and modern times) and has hardly ever gone out of fashion.

However, it is most commonly used in countries where dirt and dust are not as big a problem as it is in India, because white interiors need diligent upkeep. “This is why this theme is more commonly found in European climates,” opines Seth.

“A white theme works best in regions with cold climate, such as Russia and Siberia, where dust and air pollution levels are quite low. In India, we have a huge amount of dust pollution. This is why white is not popular here, as a décor theme. Moreover Indians' taste palette is tilted towards loud elements,” says Gupto.

Nevertheless, those who are yet to finalise a décor theme, can stick with white, as it will be easy to make changes. Those looking for a minimalistic look are advised to do the same. A white theme is also idea, for those living in smaller homes, as it makes spaces look larger than they actually are. As we live in a hot and humid climate, having a white home can be soothing and cooling, too.

There are different shades of white and one should pick the most suitable shade for the walls and furniture, to get the desired results. “In case of cabinets, for instance, a polyurethane or acrylic-coated surface finish should be used. This will give a much better result than a laminate one. Even on walls, a Royalle shall give a much better look and feel than standard paint,” concludes Seth.