The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
Home improvements
Interiors experts share their thoughts on texture, natural materials and putting a little luxe into neutral schemes
Even if you’re not new to neutrals and love everything clean and serene, chances are you’re at your most creative come high summer – and looking for ways to buff up your beige and freshen those fawn floors.
“Light neutrals are always popular during summer months, as we enjoy longer days and want to instil a sense of relaxation into our homes, reminding us of holiday travels,” says Tara Thallon, cofounder of Bound Concept, a new online modern design store offering a curated range of ‘objects of desire’ from emerging designers.
Copenhagen Cobra Vases: Tall Bubble White Vase, £135; Cobra Double, £145; Cobra Uno, £95 (others from a selection), Bound Concept
“To avoid neutrals looking too flat, mix in tactile pieces to bring rich texture and visual interest. Think hand-made, imperfect ceramics with rough surfaces and accessories with strong, interesting silhouettes that will draw attention,” suggests Thallon.
To further your sense of calm, consider introducing natural materials alongside neutrals. “Jutes, rattans, light woods – all hint towards nature and have calming, natural tones to complement neutral surroundings,” adds Thallon.
Rebel 3 Seater Sofa in Taupe Velvet, £1,099 (other items part of room set), SNUG
If you’re not sure where to start, Jenna Choate, co-founder of Interior Fox, says working with cream, grey and taupe shades will allow you to create a base that’s easy to build upon, depending on the season or mood.
“Add in bursts of vibrant colour during the summer months, or sumptuous and earthy colours during the winter,” suggests Choate.
Rattan Wall Mirror Natural, £25 (inset, left), Dunelm
As well as adding texture, creating interest through natural materials, such as decorative seashells or beach themed decos, channels holiday vibes.
As Choate points out: “These materials are perfect for summer as they give a relaxed, lived-in feeling that transports you somewhere warm, like the coast.”
Somerton Twist Carpet in Sand Heather, £31.99 per square metre; Safi Fringed Pyramid Natural Rug, from £59.99 (other items part of room set), Carpetright
“Pairing neutral tones with natural materials like rattan and raw woods, adds depth to your scheme whilst helping bring the outside in, for an additional summery feel,” says Dayman.
“If you’re looking to tone down bolder themes, pairing throws and lighting with neutral flooring will ensure the room feels considered, rather than overpowering.”
Natural Braided Rattan Lampshades (inset, right) – Low, Belly or Bottle, £90 each, Kagu Interiors
“Sophisticated and contemporary, soft summery neutral tones are the perfect base for an understated decor,” Dayman continues. “Enhancing natural light and brightening darker rooms, these versatile yet complementary shades will emanate warmth and unify existing colour schemes, creating a harmonious and relaxing atmosphere.”
Tactile to the touch, texture is a word that comes up a lot in the world of neutral interiors. And if you’re starting out on your jute journey or pale palette, to echo your love of paredback simplicity, in the same vein as ‘more is more’, you can never have too much texture.
Portobello Scalloped Bowls – Set of 2, £25, The White Company
“When decorating with neutrals, texture is key,” says Chrissie Rucker, founder of the The White Company.
“I like natural elements and lots of texture: weathered wood, slubby linens or marbled slate, all of which connect us back to nature and contrast well with crisp china and glassware, adding interest.”
And for the finishing touch, what could be lovelier than the scent of freshly washed tumbledried fluffy white towels, or sun-dried cotton sheets? Check out Yankee Candle’s collection of Pre-Fragranced Reed Starter Kits, from £16.49, to sit alongside their Candlelit Cabin Reed Diffuser, £19.99, in Fluffy Towels and Clean Cotton.