Country Living Decorating with White

Awash in a seemingly infinite range of warm shades and cool hues of white, this handsomely illustrated how-to includes eight informative chapters thoughtfully edited by Hyams. Pristine, inviting rooms and vignettes are amplified by a breezy, lucid text that extols the virtues of the color most associated with light, tranquility, and spaciousness. As a "blank canvas that offers endless possibilities," white's abilities to weather stylistic changes, hide flaws, and highlight details in rooms romantic, traditional, and contemporary are persuasively documented. Bathrooms and bedrooms are included, with special attention lavished on the bath, including tips for selecting a claw-foot tub. There are strategies for striking the right visual note with textures, layering, shine, textiles, china, and painted furniture.%C2%A0While other colors creep in,%C2%A0it is in the context of "cozy"%C2%A0companionship: for example, blue and white "from watery light blue and periwinkle to cobalt and navy." Even red makes a brief appearance, along with black, whose "grounding quality adds sophistication and drama." Wood is also recommended as a warming accent, and tips on how to display collections are chronicled with engaging images. A helpful Index is included. (May)