Navigating Neutrals

Neutral paints may seem like an easy choice in home design but beware: using colors that work with any style can become bland! But, by following a few design rules, you can avoid the blahs of neutral. With the right choices in décor items and color matching, a neutral palette can be just as stunning and inspiring as an array of bold hues.

4 Easy Tips for Decorating in Neutrals

Mix and match – Merge multiple neutral palettes to create a quiet charm. Timeless and minimal, subtle varieties in neutral colors can create a unified, calm space without feeling flat. I really appreciate the addition of several neutrals, both light white and dark blacks, brown leather, natural woods and grey.

Image: Christine Dovey, photographed by Ashley Capp

Image: HK Living.

Image: Yankee Magazine/Kelly McGuill, photographed by Eric Roth

Focus on textures – Highlight the beauty of a neutral palette with rich textures like leather accents, natural fibers, plush rugs or woven pillows. Maintain similarly neutral tones in the furnishings and allow the different textures to add character and depth to the room.

Living room with great texture by Style-Files

Great textured bedroom by Ikea

Incorporating metallics – For a sleek look in a neutral color scheme, try adding metallics that will stand out. Use pops of metallic in picture frames, mirrors, vases and fixtures to revamp a drab room. Other unique ideas include subtle metallic window treatments and bed linens.

Image: Bethany Nauert via Homepolish

Image: House Seven

Image: Natalie Franke

Pair neutral with an accent – Accent walls, like a bold red or deep purple, pair perfectly with neutrals. Accent colors can be isolated to accessories, artwork and textiles that are easy to change through the seasons with a neutral backdrop.