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Leukòs was the term that the ancient Greeks used to evoke the brightness and clarity of white: for them the water was white, as well as the air and anything that evoked a glow. The etymology of the word refers instead to the ancient Germanic blanch, shining like the metal of weapons. A (non) color that can turn everything into light.
White is the sum of the seven colors of the eye, but when we match it to another color its purity and lightness leaves only the essential into sight. You need courage to choose white when it comes to clothing or linen, common sense would push you to avoid it because we it gets easily dirty. But there is no color easier to wash than white, a touch of bleaching can defeat even the most hostile stain on our white tablecloth.
And, as we know, even dirty white has its charm: a pair of white Superga or Stan Smith shoes are not beautiful if they are not used, a bit like antique furniture that would not be valuable without its original patina. The English decorator Syrie Maugham (1879-1955) had understood this very well when in 1927 she launched the first of her "white rooms" in which she presented a furnishing made up of white tones and mirrors. The materials were very varied: plaster, silk, upholstery, leather, carpets, furs and natural elements such as shells.
“White walls, white satin curtains, white-flowered chairs, white lilies and the light softened by a white velvet lampshade, all give that modern feeling, which in conjunction with old furniture, is so attractive.” Its whitewashed rooms came back in fashion in the 70s and can still be seen in the repertoire of the greatest interior designers of today.
Do you think you know all the shades of white? We have explored them for you.
Natural White: organic white is a balance between the immaculate white of the snow and the ivory of animal's tusks. It can also be enamelled like shells and is particularly suitable for bohemian environments.
Material white: with its pop and pungent look is ideal for minimalist environments, but it is never aseptic and rather futuristic and extra terrestrial.
Geometric white: the most neutral of all whites, this tone allows lines to be more sinuous and soft. It is perfect for furniture and upholstery. A rigorous and eternal tone.
Absolute white: this is the white of Limoges porcelain, pure and beautiful, but also that of acrylic and 3D printed objects. Choose it to make an immaculate environment.
We know and appreciate all whites because they can easily give a touch of brightness to our environments. Pick your favorite.
