What Are Neutral Colors?
Most people think neutral means without color but it's not quite that simple. Neutral colors such as beige, ivory, taupe, black, gray, and white appear to be without color, yet in many applications these hues often have undertones of color. Be aware of these underlying tones as you match colors or choose paint. For example, beige might have an undertone of pink or tan or gold. White might be slightly ivory, yellow, bluish, or peachy.
There are two types of neutrals: warm and cool. Some examples of warm neutrals include beige, cream, putty and brown. Some examples of cool neutrals include grey, grey/blue, stone and white.
Decorating with Neutrals – Things to Think About
Much like when decorating with white, it's important to create depth in neutral spaces.
Shape
Anytime you've got a room full of similar colors it's important to define all the individual elements by making use of different shapes. Unlike a room where you can use color to make things stand out, in a neutral room it will be accomplished with shape.
Furniture
When using furniture in a neutral space think about what styles and shapes appeal to you. Sofas and chairs can be curvaceous and feminine or sleek and streamlined. Tables can have graceful legs and decorative aprons or they can be minimalist and free of decoration. Think about how all the shapes that appeal to you work together.
Accessories
Use accessories to create even more interest in a neutral room. Lamps, vases, magazine holders, baskets, sculptures, picture frames – whatever you use to decorate your room make sure they're made up of different and interesting shapes.
Texture
When we talk about textures it's not just fabrics. Sure, they're very important, but it's just as important that hard surfaces be made of a variety of materials.
Soft Textures
Soft textures are made up of things like fabrics. Use a mix of materials such as cotton, linen, velvet, tweed, wool, faux fur – whatever you like. When deciding on fabrics for your upholstery, window treatments, pillows, and other soft furnishings and accessories make sure you've got some variety.
Hard Textures
There are many different hard textures that can make their way into a home and it's important to use a variety of them when you're decorating with neutrals. For example, you don't want every table and chair to be made of the same wood. It's better to have a mix of wood, stone, metal – whatever appeals to you and works in your space. Or perhaps everything is wood but some is light and some is dark; some is rough and some is smooth; some is unfinished and some is painted.
There's no end to all the different textures that can be incorporated into a neutral room, so think about using a mix of smooth, rough, glossy, matte, hard and soft.
Styling Tips for Neutral Rooms
To bring even more interest to neutral rooms follow some of these tips.
- On mantels (or anywhere you create vignettes such as sideboards or bookcases) layer accessories beginning with the tallest pieces in the back and working your way forward. Layer mirrors or artwork in neutral frames, neutral vases, and other little objets for a vignette with depth and visual interest. Also use small items like candlesticks, decorative boxes or any other items you love.
- Layer couches and chairs with blankets, throws and pillows in different shades and textures.
- Use mirrors to open up the space and reflect light. Take into account what will be reflected when you place it. If possible, place a mirror across from a window to take advantage of the natural light and outdoor view.
- Glass and crystal accessories are welcome additions in neutral rooms. They're visually light but can add shape and depth to the room.
- Give accessories room to breathe. Too many items crammed together will look cluttered so place items strategically and create balance in your displays.
- Create contrast with shapes and textures. If you have a stack of boxes displayed, place a shapely object on top. It's all about creating a little bit of contrast.
- Be sure to include some natural elements in neutral rooms. Whether it's wood, wicker, rattan, decorative branches, plants, or something else, elements of nature add life to rooms in a way nothing else can.
For more inspiration check out this photo gallery of neutral rooms from Better Homes and Gardens.