October 17, 2012

“word to the wise” wednesday: darryl carter

I chose white because I collect art, and I don’t want the art fighting the wall color, but also because I think that if you have architectural detail, you don’t need a lot of color.  And I move things around all the time, so the monochromatic palette  of off-whites and beiges works well for me, with accent pieces and dark wood providing color.

— Darryl Carter (Metropolitan Home, March/April 2002)

I have found that homes with spectacular architectural detail — whether that detail is traditional or contemporary — are the ones that work the best with a monochromatic palette.   By comparison, homes that lack such detail seem to come alive when the homeowners use color in their interior design.  I love pops of color, but this house relaxes me just to look at it.  And remember, white and twins can co-exist … peacefully!

Do you see a connection between the use of color and the presence (or absence) of architectural detail?

4 Comments

  • Linda
    Oct. 17, 2012
    I love this quiet and calm look too. I guess that solves it..I need at least two homes..one filled with bright pops of color and one with a monochromatic palette.
  • Sherry Hart
    Oct. 17, 2012
    Love Daryl and love white walls!
  • pretty pink tulips
    Oct. 17, 2012
    Hi Traci!! I'm surprised I hadn't really thought of it like that, but you're absolutely right. I find that my charming 1940 house was lacking a lot of architectural detail, which may be why I just wallpapered the entry and 3 story stair well. It was transformative. I think if I had had a lot of architectural detail, it might not have been "too much". Hope you are well, enjoying those cute boys and fall in Charlotte! xoxo Elizabeth
  • Lisa Mende
    Oct. 18, 2012
    I totally agree with this! YOu have to have some interest for white to work! I mentioned you on the blog today!

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