Decorating Principles
White Space
White space (also called negative space) refers to the intentional empty areas in a design that give the eye places to rest and allow featured elements to breathe and stand out. Despite the name, white space isn't necessarily white—it's any unoccupied area, whether it's bare wall, empty floor, or the space between furniture pieces. This breathing room is as important as the objects themselves.
Without adequate white space, rooms feel cluttered, chaotic, and overwhelming regardless of how beautiful individual pieces might be. White space creates visual clarity, emphasizes key elements, and ironically makes spaces feel more luxurious and larger. The most sophisticated interiors understand that what you leave out is as important as what you include.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Intentional empty areas
- ✓Allows visual rest
- ✓Emphasizes featured elements
- ✓Creates breathing room
- ✓Not necessarily white color
- ✓Fundamental to composition
Types & Variations
Macro white space (large empty areas)
Micro white space (spacing between objects)
Active white space (intentional gaps)
Passive white space (natural margins)
Wall white space (bare walls)
Floor white space (clear paths)
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Leave wall space bare between art groupings. Maintain clear floor areas around furniture islands. Don't fill every surface with accessories. Allow breathing room around focal points. Create circulation paths free of obstacles. Less is genuinely more when it comes to white space.
💡 Pro Tip
When a room feels "off" despite having quality furniture and decor, the problem is often insufficient white space rather than wrong pieces. Try removing 20-30% of accessories and decor. The remaining items will have more impact, and the space will feel intentional rather than cluttered.