When decorating your first home, committing to a definite color scheme can be pretty nerve-wracking. So why not ease into the whole color question and go with none? Or rather, go with neutrals! They are trendy yet understated, modern yet easy on the eyes, and oh so versatile. As long as you stay within a palette of beige, gray, ivory and white, you can mix and match materials, textures, styles, even design periods to create an ultra-stylish setting you’ll love coming home to—and entertaining in! Let us guide you in pulling it together.
Decorate Your Home: Neutral Home Accessories are In!
Here are our 10 tips for making decorating with neutrals work for you. Each tip is anchored on a fabulous home accessory we found (courtesy of our affiliate sites), but you can always apply the same principles to other decor discoveries of your own!
Tip #1: Create interest through textured accents.
Bring in instant chic coziness with throw pillows in combinations of different materials, textures and sizes. A perfect example is this Zander Gray and Ivory Oversized Pillow, from the Magnolia Home Collection by Joanna Gaines.
Tip #2: Go with the “faceted” trend.
Faceted decor pieces are trending now! Check out this Faceted Table Vase by Dwell Studio, that may seem plain in white but features a mod geometric shape.
Tip #3: Glam up your walls with art prints.
Stay within the neutral zone by choosing modern artwork like this Birch Lane Agate Framed Print by Corrigan Studio. Note that the subject itself is subtle, and the frame is sleek and simple.
Tip #4: Stick with minimalist designs.
Even the most mundane of home items can be kept in style. For example, choose a timepiece like this Parker Marble Wall Clock that leaves only the clock hands on a spare marble disc.
Tip #5: Add metallics for a hint of sleek style.
A few metallic accent pieces, like this 9.25” Spry Bowl by Global Views, will make an eye-catching contrast to the overall neutrals. You could achieve this, too, with metallic lamp bases, candle holders, decorative trays and the like.
Tip #6 Soften the scene with fabrics and woven fibers.
Make monochromatic inviting with comfy and cozy touches, like this Luxury Chenille Throw Blanket by J&M Home Fashions. Who can resist?
Tip #7: Include natural materials in a modern form.
If materials from nature like wood, stone or seashell are brought in, select pieces like this Mother of Pearl Picture Frame from Zingz and Thingz that present them in a cool, contemporary design.
Tip #8: Illuminate with the warm glow of candles.
There’s nothing like candle glow to create a welcoming mood in your home. A stylishly modern and safe option are these Outdoor LED Pillar Candles from Deco Wick™.
Tip #9: Don’t overlook the floor coverings.
A carpet or area rug is just the thing to complete the look. You could go modern, of course. But we spotted this Trinity Rug from the Magnolia Home Collection by Joanna Gaines, and realized that a traditional, even aged design would work, too. The key, again, are the neutral tones.
Tip #10: Have secondary furniture pieces with pizzazz.
Think bar cart, bean bag, or pouf—accessories that stand out while blending in! Like this Gennep Leather Ottoman by Bungalow Rose that is covered in all-neutral woven leather strips.
Once your stylish digs are ready, entertaining at home is sure to be next on your list! Depending on the season, you can add fresh greenery and potted house plants for a summer vibe. Or glitz up the neutrals with gold elements for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations. That’s the advantage of having such a versatile base palette to work with!
Finally, applying neutrals through the use of home accessories and even furniture pieces gives you the added flexibility of not having to paint your walls, which can be a limitation for some couples who are still renting, or who are looking for a less costly way of integrating color into their decor.
Share and Pin this Palette for Your Inspiration!
