But, use it as a method of decorating and design in a room and you feel the 'presence' of the light.

Whites and off whites can be used almost exclusively in a room, and, when splashes of color are applied sparingly, the whites take on a focus and personality of their own.

Gone are the distractions of multi colors and patterns, so each muted piece, texture, shape and shade of white can be fully seen and appreciated.

Should you add some color to a room that is has been decorated with white? That is up to you, but consider introducing a subtle touch of color.

Your selected color(s) could be found in a table arrangement, a picture frame, as a pattern in an area rug, collectables on display, flecks of color found in a carpet, artwork on the walls, a lamp base or shade, to name a few.

What colors look great with white? When decorating with white you can add just about any color and it will look good against the neutral backdrop of the room.

Mix white with lavender and gray and you’ll get instant glamour. White and black, instant drama. White and yellow, instant chic. White and blue, instant freshness.

Another important consideration when interior decorating with whites and off whites is the use of texture in the space. Nubby fabrics on upholstery and window treatments; metals used as accents on casegoods, lighting and accessories; flooring choices and wall treatments are some of the creative methods of creating interest in a space with texture.

The many shades of off whites and the hues that they cast is another critical element when decorating with white. Here are some options from Benjamin Moore, my absolute favorite brand of paint, that work well in selected interior decor environments:

• Decorator's White CC-20, Benjamin Moore: For contemporay settings nothing defines the space like a crisp white. Because this white has a blue undertone, it works well paired with charcoal, gun metal silver, icy blue, and black.
• Ballet White OC-9, Benjamin Moore: This is a good choice for trim, particularly as a contrast with yellow or putty walls. The romantic whites are grey-based and they bring a dreamy, ethereal presence to walls. This range of gray white works in both traditional and contemporary interiors and complements Wedgwood blue, sage green, and dusty rose.
• Floral White OC-29, Benjamin Moore: In the kitchen next to white appliances this white will look great, bringing in some sunny warmth to the room. It also enhances the look and feel of fine antiques and old wood floors like a mellow, yellow white.
• White Blush OC-86, Benjamin Moore: A warm, rosy hue with just a mere suggestion of rose beneath the surface. Though this range has femininity below the surface, paired with strong neutrals like chocolate brown, charcoal gray, and black they make a handsome statement.