Simple window covering with roller shades brings light into a small room

All whites are not created the same, and home decorators need to keep that in mind when choosing white as the main color in their design projects.

According to Better Homes and Gardens, white creates a sense of spaciousness because it reflects from various light sources around a room. Taking advantage of natural light by limiting window treatments in a small room to window blinds or shades only is one way to maximize the light entering a room.

Roller shades are always a good choice in a white palette because when they are matched to the walls they convey the impression of an unbroken surface. They also combine well with other treatments.

The magazine states that some white tones are more effective when paired with a certain type of décor. For instance, a bright white coordinates well with modern décor that may include charcoal gray, silver and black.

Off-white is more traditional and pairs well with many shades of blue, sage green or dusty rose. Antique white is similar to off-white, but has a slight yellow undertone which allows it to work best against hardwood furniture and kitchen cabinetry.