Decorate with neutrals

DECORATING WITH whites and other neutrals can lead to very classic and interesting rooms. Using black, brown, grey, taupe, beige, ivory and all their shades doesn’t have to result in plain hum drum rooms. When used carefully, the result is usually serene, giving us a calm feeling. Neutrals are not boring when used the right way, however, there are a few rules to follow in order to keep these spaces interesting and even exciting!

Texture — Incorporating various textures in the room is perhaps the most important thing to do — soft, smooth, woven, shiny, rough, tone-on-tone, etc. Mixing textures will bring the room to life!

Colours — Avoid using just one colour. Mixing shades of different neutrals will make your décor much more interesting. Even when doing a white room, use different shades of white. Incorporating some black in the room helps to ground the décor as well as adding some excitement. A pop of colour in accessories, distributed carefully throughout the room, can create some drama. However, don’t overdo this. Colour in art is often enough, and remember, a neutral room is your aim.

Even neutral colours can have warm undertones. Choose a warm ivory or grey, for example, to help prevent the room going flat, instead giving off a welcoming, comfortable feeling.

Furnishings—In choosing furniture, include one or two oversized pieces that creates impact, and again, help in bringing the room to life. Striking pieces of accessories also do the same. Drama will not come from colours in the room but from other elements in the room.

CONTRAST

Contrast is key when using neutrals in a room — White or ivory or grey will look good when paired with rich, dark wood furnishings, for example, interesting shapes become important and stand out in a neutral scape, so include these in furnishings and fabrics. Don’t overdo this, however, — hold brakes! Everything in the room doesn’t have to be striking. Nor is it about competition as too much of any one thing will rob you of the calm feeling you are seeking.

Lighting is an important element in neutral rooms. Varied lighting and impressive pieces such as pendants of appropriate sizes add sparkle and help in lifting the room to a new level.

Include nature elements — Organic items such as rustic wood (in furniture or accessories), stones, shells, and plants have an innate character, which brings depth and a natural warmth to any room.

So neutral rooms really don’t have to be sterile and unfriendly. When done right, they can be comfortable, relaxing, and warm nurturing spaces.