Image by: Elad Gonen
The latest trend in interior design and decoration is characterized by a wide and very lively use of dazzling colors that are full of energy and playfulness. Modern homeowners have embraced brilliant colors in their interiors in recent years, while designers have distanced themselves from the popular '90s "beige and cream" trend. But with this new development comes the danger of overcompensating on the brilliant side of the color spectrum and designing interiors to have far too much color and very little peace. The idea that decorating walls with neutral colors can induce napping is as much a color perception myth as the claim that bright colors aren't particularly sublime for a sophisticated setting.
Harmony in neutral colors
Most people who are devoted to the color palette are actually too lazy to renovate or redesign their homes every season. Decorating with calm and neutral colors requires as much attention and care as using bold tones. Neutral tones can create a calming effect, making them a good choice for public and private spaces.
Subtle shades of neutral colorsImage by: Tamara Magel Studio
Using the neutral color scheme doesn't mean at all, you just have to limit yourself to one neutral color. It also can't limit the color palette you can use. Combine different colors: cream, gray or even white to make your interiors airy and cozy! Gray has arguably been the hottest neutral shade in recent years, and the “gray craze” only seems to be getting more sought after and popular every day. One of the advantages of using the many shades of gray is that you can combine warm and cool tones to create an impressive room. This type of “tone-on-tone” interior design also looks elegant and never goes out of style.
Tempting textures
Image by: Brian Dittmar Design
We often pay too much attention to the visual aspect of decoration and the idea of interior design with textures seems to escape us. A room in neutral colors can still seem exciting if you introduce a wonderful combination of textures. The use of leather in the living room brings a touch of luxury, while the use of natural materials such asBamboogives the room a calming touch. Plush carpets, a beautiful pashmina throw blanket combined with a few beautiful decorative pillows and you get a cozy and elegant picture in your room.
Shining silver and shining gold
In the last two years we have not only seen a bold push in the use of colors, but also the presence of bright metallic accents in design and decoration. Many modern designers are inspired by the retro design of the 60s and 70s and create modern reinterpretations that shine with their beautiful gold, silver and copper finishes. One of the biggest names in the global design world, Tom Dixon, proved this trend flawlessly with his latestGentleman’s Club,who stole the show at this year's Milan Design Week.
Accents in metal and glass
Image by: dSPACE Studio Ltd
Simple pendant lights, elaborate chandeliers, smart chairs, discreetly placed vases and exclusive bedside tables can all be used to introduce a touch of metal without disrupting the neutral color scheme. In fact, these sparkling accents look much more attractive when paired with a calm color palette than with brighter shades.
Varied geometric patterns
Image by: Corynne Pless Photographers
If you don't particularly like playing with shades and even textures, then try introducing a variety of shapes into your interior that will bring plenty of geometric contrast there. Most modern living rooms, bedrooms and dining areas are characterized by simple straight lines, so adding a strange curve here and there will really help a lot. The varied geometric shapes often establish an exciting feeling and are far more effective than the use of different shades and colors. Unique coffee tables that stand out visually, plush stools in interesting shapes and innovative DIY wall art additions are a few of the many options in this regard currently on offer.
An ode to nature
Image by: Caroline Bass Citi Habitats
Sustainable designand eco-friendly materials have become much more than just a fashion statement in the last decade. Natural materials and neutral colors go hand in hand and bring us closer to nature, even in a posh, urban environment. Rattan and bamboo furniture is sturdy, lightweight and weather-resistant, making it the perfect addition to your porch or backyard. Another great way to enjoy the inviting warmth of the neutral color palette is by using wood in different finishes, it adds visual and textural contrast to any room.
Black and white decors
Nothing can define a neutral color space like black! Instead of using black excessively, use it to better design the space and delineate individual rooms. You can also use it to highlight certain architectural or decorative accents. This idea is inherently simple and timeless. If you want to give your lighter shades maximum visual impact, then you need to combine them with darker tones in a balanced and elegant way. Black is the icing on the cake, it really completes this interplay between light and darkness excellently and even magically!
Image by: Jennifer Hagler
Shiny light
Bild von: Vanni Archive/Architectural Photography
As always, lighting plays a crucial role in getting the most out of the neutral color palette. In most cases, natural lighting seems like an ideal match for the unpretentious color scheme. The golden rule of lighting is to make a room filled with lighter colors appear even brighter, and one filled with darker shades – darker! As we deal with neutral and pale colors, make the room appear as natural, open and airy as possible. Once dusk falls, use different lights - focused and plenty of diffused light and the job is well done.
Decorate in the neutral color palette
Image by: Michael Abrams Limited
Have you ever noticed that the best rooms and inspiring interiors are often the ones that are most simply designed? Interior decoration is not about what you can add, but what you have to take away, and a neutral color palette allows you to do that in the most natural way. Of course, you can always add an extra can of color to make your space appear more attractive and personal!
Image by: Leclair Decor
Image by: Suzie Parkinson from SÜZA DESIGN
