How To Make Neutrals Interesting: 4 Tips From Bobby’s New Project
Think a mostly neutral interior is going to be bland and boring? Then allow us to introduce you to Bobby’s latest project! Yes, it’s full of shades of grey, brown, and beige, but it also perfectly demonstrates how to make neutrals interesting. Using some smart design techniques, Bobby and the team gave this home drama and depth – and we’re sharing the tips to help you do the same in your space!
Part of the Tri Pointe Homes Alterra community in Newcastle, Washington, this 4,101 square foot home is equal parts organic, contemporary, and cozy. It’s also entirely designed with a neutral color palette that still feels engaging and interesting. How did we make it happen? Let’s take a look.
How to make neutrals interesting
Incorporate Unique Stone
This rather simple kitchen design got a whole lot of visual appeal courtesy of the heavily veined Caldera Blue Quartzite countertops. Despite its subdued colors, the unique stone with a swirling pattern is a real statement and creates an ideal counterpart to the clean lines of the oak cabinets. The addition of black dome pendants and dark wood barstools, while still neutral, brings in some much-needed contrast.
How to make neutrals interesting
Try Texture
In a room that is mostly one tone, the trick to adding interest is embracing texture. So in this living room, shades of grey are interpreted in a nubby upholstered sectional, a plush wool rug, and smooth ceramic tiles on the fireplace. We also pulled up a pair of armchairs made of a tactile woven leather, and a natural basket and wooden tables introduce some natural wood.
1. Caldera Blue Quartzite Stone | 2. Faux Leather Pillow Covers | 3. Lillian Ceramic Table Lamp | 4. Schwell Solid Wood Coffee Table | 5. Shallow Artwork | 6. Baden Counter Stool | 7. Wavy Woven Basket | 8. Round Boylan Bread Board | 9. Ceramic Decorative Pedestal Bowl | 10. Double Sullivan Sconce | 11. Quinlynn Faux Leather Upholstered Bench | 12. Twiggy Sisal Wallpaper | 13. Gathered Light Suede Lumbar Pillow
Photo: Kara Mercer
How to make neutrals interesting
Bring On The Pattern
A pop of pattern can go a long way. In this home office, a built-in pale wood desk and shelving cover an entire wall, so on the other 3 walls, we applied a pale green botanical wallpaper. It’s not an attention-grabbing pattern, but breaking up clean lines with any sort of pattern or print can be quite compelling. You can also introduce pattern through throw pillows, artwork, or upholstery.
How to make neutrals interesting
Add Warm Wood Tones
Wood is our go-to when trying to warm up a neutral interior. It truly works wonders to make a space more inviting and engaging. And we’re talking about more than just wood floors. In this primary bedroom, we incorporated wooden furniture (a bed and nightstands), but the real star is a fully paneled wood ceiling! It’s not only an elevated look, but the rich chocolate shade envelops the room and draws the eye up.
