It's hard to go wrong with the color white. But often, designers and decorators strive to cover barren walls with color. It is true that white, in the wrong hands, screams unfinished, unrefined, unsophisticated. And in most cases, white walls do indeed indicate a lack of creativity or confidence. Who doesn't remember white walls from the half dozen apartments they've rented, or the dorm walls you weren't allowed to paint.

But as you'll clearly see, white can often be the dramatic color a refined space needs. And the key word in that sentence is color. Yes, white is indeed a color that can help you evoke a mood. It can elevate, it can downplay. Yes, the great shade of white is quite chameleon like. It goes without saying that white can also be formal and modern. So the images below (all harvested from Desire to Inspire) will show you some of the other faces of magical, versatile white. Enjoy...

It's not surprising that white can be romantic. We expect that. A painted brick wall, a white duvet, an off-white chair paired with white shutters. This space screams romance. I want to imagine the window overlooks a small garden or patio in a chic little neighborhood, and if you lean out you can just catch the scent of the corner cafe. Such a mood. All thanks to the power of white.

Here, white is both classic and modern. The Saarinen table somehow blends perfectly with the Byzantine columns and rustic arched doorway. The items themselves are so varied in origin, but the mellow palette is the unifying glue that holds it all together. Behold, the power of white.

Here, white is rustic and weathered. It is soft and moody. It begs the viewer to ask about the history of the space and the objects contained within. Is this a seldom used corner of a weekend cottage? Are we in Nantucket or Savannah? White is mysterious and full of stories here.

And finally, in this image white is downright inviting. This space is relaxed and welcoming. And lets be fair, white sofas do not often beg you to put your feet up. But this one wants you to bring your dog and your coffee and settle in for a long, lazy afternoon.