Modern, clean, minimalist: All white interiors are always chic (bonus: when kept tidy, they tend to make a small space appear larger, too). Since—for better or worse—most NYC apartments are delivered whitewashed (think walls, ceilings, appliances, and the like), it seems only fitting to offer a few pointers, courtesy of Apartment Therapy, for decorating around this non-color.

Add a splash of color or a dash of black: A vase of fresh blooms, a bookcase full of multi-hued books or a brightly colored print livens up an all white space. Similarly, a few black and white photographs, a single piece of furniture (like a sofa or chair) or a light fixture in black or charcoal creates contrast and drama.

Warm things up with golden or wooden accents: A couple of metallic lamps or a single large lighting fixture add a sophisticated touch to an all white room. On the other hand, a few carefully chosen wooden pieces (a dining table or chairs—but not necessarily both) contribute to a feeling of warmth and texture.

Think shades and texture: Piling on pieces in shades of white or varying textures of the same keep a white on white space from becoming overly sterile-looking—and boring.

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