Is white actually out of style? Interior designers weigh in on this classic color for 2025 decorating

While white is amongst the most classic of all colors, in a world full of bold and statement-making hues that have dominated recent color trends, it can soon be labeled as bland or even 'out of style'.

Of course, the risk of decorating with white is that spaces can lack personality or depth, especially with the use of cool-toned white paints. However, the rise of warm white paints allows spaces to maintain that sought-after light and airy look while feeling warm and welcoming.

But even then, what do interior designers have to say about white room ideas for 2025? Can a predominantly white room impart design flair amid much bolder room color ideas? I spoke to a range of designers to get their thoughts and settle the debate. If you want to know how to pull off this classic shade in 2025, read on.

Is white out of style for 2025?

The overriding consensus from interior designers I spoke to is that white is a classic color that will always be relevant in the world of interiors. While some color trends are short-lived, white endures as a foundational color, suiting a huge range of homes and interior design styles.

'For us, white is always in style,' says interior designer Andrea Goldman. 'We adore an all-white approach with our interiors. It always feels fresh and inviting, and it allows other details to play center stage – whether it be the art, the rug, the fabrics, or the views outside the window! I personally live in a world of white in my own home and office. I never feel bored or over it. Rather, it gives me freedom to create without distraction and provides peace when I need it most.'

NYC-based designer Marina Hanisch agrees that white is a timeless color, adding: 'I don’t believe white can ever truly go out of style. Its versatility allows it to adapt beautifully to various design aesthetics, making it timeless. White has the ability to create a sense of luxury and openness in a space, but the key to decorating with it lies in the details.'

That said, decorating with white in 2025 can feel to be going against the grain of the most popular trends, which have seen bold and vibrant hues take center stage, notes designer Miranda Cullen of Inside Stories: 'While rich, colorful spaces are very “in” right now, classic white will truly never go out of style. In addition to making spaces feel larger and brighter, white is the perfect blank canvas for any design style or decor.'

While white hasn't fallen out of style but is a constant color in the world of design, it can be used in the wrong spaces, adds designer Melissa Read, creative director at Studio Burntwood:

'Interestingly, white is often overused in small spaces, where it can feel uninspired. Instead, we now recommend embracing deep colors or even intricate patterns in compact rooms, such as powder rooms or cloakrooms, to create a sense of drama and depth that white simply cannot achieve.'

Beyond how 'trendy' a color is, it's important not to overlook color psychology. White can be an incredibly soothing color that helps make our homes feel restful, so it's worth considering how you want your space to feel rather than sticking purely to the latest trends.

'White is synonymous with serenity, quiet, calm – fresh and ethereal – which is why I’ve always been so drawn to it,' explains Atlanta-based interior designer Beth Webb. 'When asked over the years why I gravitate to neutrals my answer has always been simple and the same – we live in an often chaotic world so coming home to a clean palette of calmness helps soothe the soul. Texture is my color when using white so as not to feel sterile or clinical and whites are reflective, often reflecting the colors in the outdoors off of the wall.'

How to decorate with white stylishly

While it's clear that white is a timeless color that has always been and will always be used in interior decorating, the way in which you style it is key to creating a balanced look that doesn't feel bland or uninspired. Designer Lara Apelian of Lara Apelian Studio notes that incorporating richer hues as well as interesting textures into your white color scheme adds design interest:

'Instead of white on white, we are seeing a draw towards rich colors, depth of color in woods, and hints of patterns. There’s always a stylish way to use white – and develop richness with white – if you layer white with other colorful textures and patterns. Bringing warmth to a white palette is welcome; think white plaster walls, bouclé white chairs, sheer linen white curtains… whites that exude texture and can be layered with other hues.'

Melissa Read agrees, adding: 'White comes alive when combined with meaningful elements, such as a striking piece of large-scale artwork or an oversized antique mirror. White can also be used as a color for a textured wall such as polished plaster or limewash finishes. White doesn’t need to mean stark or soulless'.

Another important step is choosing the right shade of white paint. Below, Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene, shares some tips for finding the best white paint for your space to ensure a balanced look that doesn't feel stark:

‘White is an incredibly versatile color, which spans classic and contemporary schemes and can be used as both a striking main color or a quieter highlight, on all four walls or contained to just the ceiling or woodwork. This timeless color can be used effectively to bring balance and light to a space, but with the many different white tones, it should be carefully considered.

'Start by looking at the most important considerations when choosing white, particularly the light and orientation of the room as different whites can have subtle undertones like warm (yellowish), cool (blueish), or greenish, which can significantly impact the feel of a room. Understanding how the nuances in different whites and soft neutrals behave in different light settings is key.

'It is also a good idea to take into account other colors you will be using within the room as white is a very reflective color and can be impacted by the colors that surround it. Contrast with a bold black such as Jack Black to deliver a striking monochromatic touch, or with a sumptuous blue such as Deep Space Blue or Smalt. White is also a classic color to combine with paler blues: pair Shirting with Bone China Blue to create a light, airy, and peaceful ambiance, and for a touch of depth and warmth why not add an earthy red such as Arras or a delicate powder pink such as Masquerade.'

White isn't going anywhere when it comes to interior decorating, but the way in which you use it is key. Opting for warm white paints instead of anything too cool adds warmth and an inviting feel while layering in richer accent colors and interesting textures ensures your calming white color scheme isn't at all lacking.