Don't Nix Neutrals
t’s common to picture white or beige when talking neutral colors, but no one says they have to be the de facto choice. Rich almond tones or muted greens can work well in the background of a room without being boring or plain. A subdued brown or moss-colored wall can bring warmth into a space without making it feel claustrophobic. Using neutrals can also set the stage to enhance other elements, like large plants or dark-hued furniture.
Lighting is Key
Since black absorbs light and white reflects it, it’s important to consider the lighting of space when choosing a wall color. For spaces that receive a lot of sunlight, a deeper neutral shade, such as a blue-gray will absorb some of that light and revitalize the room. In a room with a lot of light, a neutral accent wall will anchor bold-colored furniture and eclectic artwork. Experts advise viewing a sample of the wall color during different times of the day before deciding on a hue since the brightness level will change.
Shades of Sophistication
Neutrals have always been in style, but in the era of all things inspo-worthy, classic neutrals are taking on a new level of sophistication in deeper tints as people are leaning towards shades that fall between two other colors. Subtle colors hold up alongside architectural features, such as exposed brick or embellished details, without overpowering them.
Play Up the Details
For a cohesive look, you’ll want to consider all aspects of the room before choosing a shade. For a living space with brassy pieces, antique wooden tables, or brown leather chairs, you’ll want to choose a neutral that will complement those predominately warm brown tones. Alternatively, if your furniture and accents are bold and bright, like oranges and greens, you can choose a dusty pink or warm gold, colors that are desaturated enough to be called neutral but still give the room depth and accentuate light.