Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Neutrals make positive impact on color palette

- CATHY HOBBS Cathy Hobbs, based in New York, is a television host and interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York, Boston and Washington.

Love color? Sometimes your most powerful color statement may actually be lack of color. Many homeowners long for neutral color palettes, typically consisting of white, cream and sometimes gray.

Sound boring? Neutral colors can actually be the foundation for an elegant, minimalist palette if used effectivel­y.

TONE ON TONE

Tone on tone is a popular color trick used by profession­al interior designers. The technique involves using tints, tones and shades of the same or similar colors. The result can be a blended palette of similar colors that

WHITE

So often, people forget white is actually a color. In fact, many designers use white as an accent color. From white furniture to artwork, accessorie­s and accents, white can be a powerful color in your toolbox.

THE BEAUTY OF BROWN

Brown is a fabulous foundation color that doesn’t have to look muddy or drab. Instead of the usual deep chocolate tones, which are certainly rich and elegant, consider other tones such as camel, toffee or cream. It is also perfectly acceptable to mix browns, and even use the color of woods that may already exist in the space, such as architectu­ral features, as inspiratio­n.

GRAY

From silver to charcoal, grays can be warm or cool. Gray is one of the most popular colors for those looking to create a neutral, inviting palette. When it comes to using gray, don’t overlook the power of metal. Finishes that you may include in your space such as chrome or nickel can also help to blend with the gray accents and accessorie­s.

 ??  ?? A living room featuring a monochroma­tic cream color palette creates a soothing palette.
A living room featuring a monochroma­tic cream color palette creates a soothing palette.
 ??  ?? A wood table paired with camel-colored chairs creates a rich look. work well together.
A wood table paired with camel-colored chairs creates a rich look. work well together.
 ??  ?? Light, bright accents can create a fresh look.
Light, bright accents can create a fresh look.
 ?? Photos TNS/Design Recipes ?? Varying tones of cream and gray create a blended, neutral palette.
Photos TNS/Design Recipes Varying tones of cream and gray create a blended, neutral palette.

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