Classically NEUTRAL

A neutral color palette creates understated elegance that will last a lifetime. Use these 5 tips to maximize

your subtle shades.

1. USE THE RIGHT NEUTRALS. Even with neutrals, there are classic and trendy shades. White, black, silver and gold are timeless choices. Steer clear of trendy colors such as rose gold and gray.

2. INTRODUCE CONTRAST. This is a concept we tout often in home décor, but it’s not too complicated. White on white is beautiful, but it tends to blend together. Instead, pair your whites with darker colors to make the room pop. For example, couple white shaker-style cabinets with darker wood butcherblock countertops and black hardware.

3. DON’T FORGET TEXTURE. Think about how a material feels to the touch— is it smooth or bumpy? Soft or rough? Physical texture also creates visual texture in a room. Mix glossy tile with grainy wood furniture, and use natural materials such as jute and rattan to add visual interest. Fabric accessories will add a softer quality to any space.

4. GO GREEN. The hues of living plants don’t register as color in the same way as a floral fabric or mosaic tile. Whether you set up a miniature greenhouse on the coffee table or grow a crate of herbs by your kitchen window, you can’t go wrong with green plants to bring your home to life.

5. ACCESSORIZE. The perfect way to experiment with color for different seasons is with small accessories you can easily remove. Add flair with a colorful bowl on your countertop or play with a few bright throw pillows. Let neutrals act as the base and decorate with splashes of color.