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Neutral paints may seem like an straightforward 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 strong and inspiring as an array of bold hues.
4 straightforward 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 options 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 straightforward to change through the seasons with a neutral backdrop.
Image: HGTV
Image: Apartment Therapy
What do you think about neutrals? Are they too boring, would you like them with a pop of color? Tell us what you think!
Article submitted by Sara McLean, color expert at Dunn-Edwards Paints.
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striking neutral paint colors to try:
