13 rooms that prove that neutral is anything but boring

Chloe Hines Chloe Hines
Dom jednorodzinny w Redzie , PracowniaPolka PracowniaPolka Kitchen
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Neutrals are some of the easiest colours to decorate with, but they are often avoided for lack of spontaneity and spunk. White walls and off-white sofas can easily make a living room or bedroom seem as though it's an endless abyss of flush creams—and if you're not careful, this can destroy the design integrity of almost any room.

However, this does not mean that this colour palette should be written off as the go-to for dull and uncreative folks. The key to neutrals is your use of all the different shades, textures and especially the accessorising decor. We have thirteen rooms that prove that neutrals are anything but boring!

1. Use different grains of wood

This compact and neutral bedroom has used wood as the prime design feature and especially with the multiple layers of wood used to support the elevated bed, you have a drastic, yet subtle, effect!

2. Pastels can easily add colour to light, neutral environments

There are multiple shades of different pastels in this wonderful Berlin living room. Although some people would cringe at the use of several pastels, this designer has kept them light enough as to not overpower the neutrality of the room.

3. Ceiling beams + textures

Wood ceiling beams, a great wood floor and the vertical window shades give this room a modern, yet rustic effect! The mix of pillow cushions (textures and colours) also gives the neutral sofa a new life. 

4. For a soft effect, add greenery and shades of any colour for unique seating arrangements

A mix of beachy serene and rustic modernism, this living room is perfect for those that like to relax indoors with natural sunlight and comfortable seating. The tall greenery adds depth, while the lower-placed seating bags give a new, colourful dimension.

5. Proper lighting is a game changer

All white, besides the candlit fireplace, this room is the ultimate definition of neutral. However, the strategic and manipulative lighting highlights certain interior features and adds even more depth to this large, city space. 

6. Textures, patterns and wood, oh my!

In smaller rooms, like kitchens and bathrooms, you might be in desperate need for some colour or pattern. A great backsplash can do just that!

7. Subtle pops of bold colour

A modern kitchen that most can only dream of, the stainless steel appliances and white bar area make for a functional and new-age space. The use of bright blues in different areas of the kitchen reminds guests that this designer and homeowner still considered colours—just less of them!

8. Textured feature walls

Another great way to add some colour and texture to your neural dining room is to add a raw stone feature wall. Worried about cost? Don't. There are plenty of faux-stone or veneer options that can cut down on cost drastically while maintaining the same, great look. Just ask a professional.

9. Interior partitions that add texture and sophistication

In addition to feature walls, why not consider small partitions to divide certain areas of your home (Iike the kitchen and dining room) and add some architectural elements, like raw wood?

10. Metals, anyone?

Just as wood and raw stone can add a texturising effect to neutral rooms, so can metals.  Reflective and metallic, they are a great way to work with your natural light. 

This metal bookshelf is a perfect example of how stainless steel can add a great metallic and reflective quality to an otherwise neutral, bland room!

11. Add multiple types of raw stone

The raw slate on this bathroom wall paired with the tile floor keeps everything neutral, yet modern and sleek.  Keep tiles larger for easy installation and cheaper costs!

12. Natural accessories and decor

Forget all the large-scale projects, simply add some natural and sustainable decorative elements  and furnishings to your home for a polished look to your neutral habitat.

13. Hardware, storage containers and small items

The key to a neutral room or home is to add tiny details that bring the space to life, without being overpowering. This can include drawer and cabinet hardware, containers and smaller items (like plants and gardening objects), as well as other worldly materials and decor.

We hope these examples have give new light to neutral interiors, as well as some small tips on how to keep them interesting and visually stimulating!

If you liked this article, check out: What interior design style should I have for my personality?

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