How to Bring Warmth to a Neutral Color Scheme

PHOTO CREDIT: PINTEREST

In recent years, neutrally-toned rooms have been growing in popularity as people seek more restful, cozy retreats from the modern world. Not only is a neutral color palette highly versatile, but it can create a sense of calm and serenity with a visual appeal that’s easy to live with on a daily basis. While too much white can come across as drab or sterile, the right balance of layered hues, textiles, and light can create blissful neutral spaces and a welcoming home environment. Remember, your space should be muted, not silent.

Layer Warm Neutrals

PHOTO CREDIT: PINTEREST

Instead of opting for cool grays and true whites, we like to use various earth tones to bring a sense of warmth to a room. Layering different shades of neutral colors on the walls, ceiling, floors, and upholstery creates depth and interest, rather than having everything be the exact same color. For example, in a recent home office project, we used shades of tan and brown to create a warm and inviting nook where productivity will surely soar.

Emphasize Natural Light 

Paying attention to lighting is really important to create an inviting space, rather than one that feels like a hospital or office building. Instead of blocking out the windows with thick drapes, we prefer to use floor-to-ceiling sheer curtains that provide privacy without blocking the light. Keeping the windows unobstructed allows warm natural light to flood in. You can also hang mirrors on the walls to reflect light and make a space feel brighter and more welcoming.

PHOTO CREDIT: PINTEREST

At night, use warm light fixtures with incandescent bulbs that emit a yellowish light, rather than using harsh fluorescent overhead lights. Another option is to use string lights or candles to create an inviting glow. Finally, installing a working fireplace can add that extra cozy ambiance in a room.

Add Organic Textures

While sleek surfaces can give off a cold aesthetic, textural accents like woven artwork and wood floors add life and dynamism to a space. Using natural materials like rattan, jute, wool, and stone adds dimension while bringing the outside in. The stronger the contrast between textiles, the more comfortable and welcoming a space will feel. Metallic accents, like the gold tables in this calming living room can also add a bit of eye-catching shine that will enhance a neutral color scheme.

Avoid Harsh Edges

When you are working with a neutral color palette, it's important to make sure that your furniture works with the pared-back aesthetic. We often use sculptural furniture with organic shapes to add a touch of softness to a room. Not only does a neutral color scheme provide the perfect backdrop for more dramatic furniture shapes, but the curved lines help to create a more inviting space that you will actually want to sit down in.

A neutral color scheme doesn't have to be cold or minimalist, in fact, it can be very stylish as well as timeless. By using different textures and playing with light and layering, it’s possible to create a warm and inviting space that everyone in the family will enjoy. With a little bit of creativity, any room can be transformed into a cozy retreat with neutral colors.

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Talk to you soon,

Paula