Choosing the right paint colour can often be one of the most difficult decisions a household can make, but deciding to go with no colour at all is just as hard.

There are many benefits to white walls - any piece of furniture will match, sun-starved spaces will feel lighter, and small rooms can appear larger. The universal colour can be used in rooms where there is a mix of textures - such as matte walls and glossy tiles - and it also works well against timber.

However, there are many factors to consider when selecting the appropriate shade of white.

Cool whites are those tinted with cooler colours such as green, blue and black. While more suited to contemporary spaces, cool whites require plenty of sunlight in order to work well. Bright colours and metallic surfaces provide the best contrast to cool whites.

Warm whites are those tinted with colours such as red and yellow and can provide warmth and intimacy to a cold room. The aesthetically appealing colour is usually chosen for older homes, and makes for a relaxing and restful room.

Whatever your choice, all paint options need to be viewed together, trend forecaster and interiors expert Marylou Paino said in a Paint Place newsletter.

"The true nature of whites can only be seen when you look at them side by side," Paino said.