While many people shy away from white on white, I embrace the crisp, clean effect of a pale palette. Creams, egg-shells, and ivories can create a calming effect when layered together in a room. Here are a few of my favorite examples of white rooms done well over the years from Martha Stewart Living.
1 A high gable brings in brilliant light filtered by maple and hemlock trees. The faux-antler chandelier came from an antique market.
2 I love how linen-covered furniture can still feel fresh and appropriate in winter.
3 How beautiful are these white stucco walls?
4 Who wouldn't want to take a seat next to this fireplace?
5 The white painted paneling gives this room a cheerful glow.
6 The white-and-grey color palette of this room is like a canvas—the owner's belongings are like little pops of color.
7 The wide-planked wooden floor's white sheen, along with the light walls and sparse decor, helps offset the dormers in this low-ceilinged guest room.
8 This living room features circular shapes, including a sofa by Modernica, Warren Platner stools, and a chandelier by Gaetano Scolari, all in a snowy-white hue.
9 A capiz-shell curtain creates a shimmering backdrop in the dining area, which is mostly soft whites and cool grays.
10 The Swedish vibe of this white kitchen is so inviting.
11 This stark white landing is punctuated by abstract art, completing the pared-down look.
12 The contrast of light and dark in this room is striking.
13 A shag rug and a sheepskin throw are especially appealing in winter.
14 I like how this white kitchen is anything but sterile and cold, thanks to a runner and a fun bull's-head sculpture.
15 To achieve a feeling of openness, this Chicago row-house kitchen was washed in a clean, pale palette.
16 A black leather couch offsets the airy white walls of this cozy living room.
17 The pine floors and brick walls of this loft were coated with white paint to brighten a space dominated by wooden columns and beams that are original to the structure.
18 A pale palette ensures bright interiors all year -- as in this Gustavian-influenced dining room.
And if you would rather not commit to white walls, and floors, and ceilings, here are a some products that you can swap in to achieve the look.
1 Ceramic Flower Votive, $12, cwonder.com.
2 Ranunculus Swirl Shade, $98, anthropologie.com.
3 Faux Sheepskin Area Rug, $279, homedecorators.com.
4 Fleece Flounce Pillow, Cream, $188, anthropologie.com.
5 Large Bud Vase, $75, brookfarmgeneralstore.com.
6 Natural White Birch Wood Candle Holders, Set of 3, $26, www.etsy.com/shop/urbanplusforest.
7 Martha Stewart Collection Whiteware Cake Stands, from $36, macys.com.
8 Martha Stewart Collection Bedding, Shimmer Collection, from $85, macys.com.
Kevin Sharkey 
From: Rowaida Flayhan | 1/11/12 at 6:49 am
Beautiful images from Martha Stewart Living, wish you a wonderful day.
From: Bridget | 7/14/12 at 4:52 am
Hi Martha and Kevin really miss your show in Australia hope to watch you again soon and am hoping to visit America next year with my coming to see Martha live being number 1 on my agenda'cheers.bridget wickert