There is a reason why Hollywood's version of heaven is usually populated by white-robed figures floating through misty white passageways: No other color is as dreamy and soothing. But here on terra firma—specifically, in your home, which is populated by grape-jelly lovers—no other color is quite as nerve-racking. "I have so many clients who are parents," says New York City–based interior designer Thomas Jayne. "They buy a white sofa they love, and then they get it home and realize, Hey, even our kids' clean clothes aren't that clean—how are we going to live with a white sofa?" But thanks to new stain-resistant fabrics, as well as an ever-growing selection of kid-friendly material like leather and nylon, young families no longer have to resign themselves to dark colors or mottled, mess-friendly patterns. In other words, it is entirely possible for fantasy furniture and finger-painting children to live in perfect harmony. Now that's divine.

The Living Room

This generously proportioned tufted three-seater is upholstered in fabric finished with stain-repelling Stoneguard. (Crate & Barrel can similarly treat any of its fabrics.) Petrie sofa, $1,499, Crate & Barrel.

Fearlessly rest a cup of coffee on the arm of any white chair—as long as the fabric has been treated with Gore Seating Protection. If it spills, the coffee will bead instead of soaking through. Chair R809, $3,900, Jarrett Hedborg for A. Rudin, (323) 589-5547 (available through the trade). Presto fabric in Winter White, $15 a yard (plus $11 a yard for Gore Seating Protection treatment), Knoll Textiles.

Relax. Put your (dirty) feet up on a comfy foot rest made of leather, the coarser the better. Tough leather isn't as porous as fine leather—and is therefore great at resisting messes. Moroccan leather pouf by Michelle Baconnier, $225, John Derian, (212) 677-3917.

Flor's lifesaving stain-resistant nylon-fiber tiles can be lifted individually and rinsed in the sink—or easily replaced, should their fate involve a Chuck Taylor and a wad of chewing gum. Walking on Clouds carpet tiles in Marshmallow White, $15 for each 19.7-inch square, Flor.

Next Page: A pristine dining-room scheme