Cambridge Edition January 2026 - Web

WINTER INSPO

Atkin and Thyme atkinandthyme.co.uk Stockists

Glasswells glasswells.co.uk

Lime Lace limelace.co.uk

Secret Linen Store secretlinenstore.com

Sweetpea & Willow sweetpeaandwillow.com

The Cotswold Company cotswoldco.com

The White Company thewhitecompany.com

made luxury wallpaper – white has a timeless appeal that, regardless of any trends, makes it a permanent hallmark of successful interior design. “White remains incredibly relevant despite current trends embracing warmer palettes and textured interiors. As layered tones and rich materials take centre stage, white provides the perfect element of balance. The key is to use it as a layered, intentional palette rather than one single flat colour.” Extra dimensions When it comes to making white work for you in an interior design scheme, Suzanne recommends that you start by thinking about finish rather than shade. While a matte white on walls hides imperfections and diffuses light, a satin or eggshell white

on woodwork will add structure and durability. “My biggest practical tip is to mix materials, not just tones. Pairing a smooth white wall with a woven rug, a chalky side table and crisp bedding gives the room rhythm. If everything is the same

texture, that’s when white can start to feel clinical. Give it contrast and it becomes incredibly sophisticated,” she shares. Similarly, Ethan strongly encourages incorporating a range of different tones such as ivory, cream, off-whites or a calming calico to seamlessly bridge the gap between white and beige, as opposed to a single flat shade. “This will add more depth and dimension to the room, instead of creating a dull and lifeless interior,” he explains. “A mix of textures and materials can be the perfect way to create visual interest in your space while using a simple colour like white. In particular, a woollen throw, linen sheets, fur rugs and marble surfaces can all create an inviting, yet sophisticated atmosphere.” In terms of shade selection, cooler whites tend to lend themselves to brighter, contemporary spaces, while warmer whites enhance cosy, textured schemes. Not such a washout after all, white is a versatile tool that can be employed to elevate any space. As James tells us: “Even as our interiors become more expressive and personality-driven, this kind of adaptability is exactly why white will continue to play an important role.”

NEW HEIGHTS As shown by The White Company (top) and Sweetpea & Willow (above), mixing white with materials like wood or chalky furniture stops your room feeling clinical and creates visual intrigue

80 JANUARY 2026 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

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