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Decorating with Neutral Tones: A Resurging Trend

Some people think decorating with neutral tones is safe and reliable, and today’s selection of inspiration rooms prove that neutrals are anything but boring. Neutral decorating palettes are making a comeback. Browns, creams, and plenty of texture create warm, inviting rooms that say, “Come and relax. You’re home!”

A stone fireplace takes center stage in this living room with a vaulted ceiling. The rich wood floor provides contrast to the beige, slip covered furniture. Soft blue pillows and ottomans add just a touch of color.

Photo by Ally Whalen Design

Rustic wood beams create drama in a farmhouse living room with neutral tones. The stone fireplace, tufted ottoman, and planked walls add texture to the space. The soft palette allows all the amazing features of this room to come to the forefront.

Photo by Dalgleish Construction Company

A few doses of dark gray add visual interest to this home with its expansive windows and open floor plan. Neutral tones flow from one room to the next while the dark gray accents provide a place for the eye to rest.

Photo by Shaddock Homes

Neutral colors are the perfect complement to wood floors and ceilings. Using color with wood can be tricky, since wood tones often carry underlying colors like red or yellow. Beige and white are safe choices and allow the opportunity to add colorful accents like a bowl of fruit or a fun pitcher.

Photo by Deborah Leamann 

Photo by Haver & Skolnick LLC Architects

Lucky is the homeowner who enjoys brick in their kitchen. Whether it’s a fireplace, a wall, or even flooring, brick always pairs well with neutrals.

Photo by Connor Homes

Neutral tones aren’t limited to beige and white. Gray, brown, and even shades of green and blue can be used as neutrals. I love the richness of these gray kitchen cabinets.

Photo by Wright Design 

A neutral dining room uses a smart combination of textiles. Soft slip covers circle around a sleek, black table top while a rustic wood hutch adds texture in the background.

Photo by Stone Creek Builders

Warm woods feel so organic. The vaulted ceiling in a blonde shade keeps the room from feeling heavy and dark.

Photo by Phoebe Howard

Outdoor dining feels cozy due to surrounding dark neutral tones.

Photo by Wright Design

Creamy colors create a peaceful, elegant bedroom. This sleeping space makes me want to paint my bedrooms. If you need a shot of color, add a beautiful oil painting or two.

Photo by Phoebe Howard

You can also introduce color in a neutral room with a fun patterned rug.

Photo by Phoebe Howard

Even a bathroom looks warm and cozy, with the texture of a wood vanity and shiplap walls.

Photo by Wright Design

An outdoor porch enjoys rich texture in the form of a stone fireplace and wood walls. A fibrous rug, a couple of throws, and a geometric-patterned pillow provide additional texture to the space.

Photo by Jeffrey Dungan Architects 

I’ve started planning my fall decor and I’m leaning toward a neutral color scheme. All of these rooms make me feel warm and cozy – perfect for the autumn season.

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Decorating with neutral tones doesn't have to be boring. Use textures and shades of light and dark to create cozy, dramatic rooms.

What colors do you like to use in your rooms as the days become shorter?

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Decorating with Yellow

Decorating with French Gray

Decorating with Pink and Green

Decorating with Navy Blue

Decorating with Red, White, and Blue

Decorating with Black

Decorating with Pastels

Decorating with Blue

Decorating with Red

Fun Colors in the Home

Are You Ready to Decorate with Apple Green?

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6 Comments

  1. Wow. I loved every one of these photos. Neutrals are my favorite decor and that even is expressed in my clothing. Color has its place, surely, but I like the serenity of neutrals.

  2. You had me at ivories, creams, neutrals! Love all these rooms. I have always said my favorite color is Haagen Daz vanilla ice cream. 😁 We have used mostly ivory with black and then add what ever colors we are in the mood for seasonally. I enjoy the colorful rooms many people have, but need the serenity of soft pale colors at home, it is so peaceful.

    1. Jillian – your color approach sounds dreamy. I’m with you – neutral backgrounds allow you to add whatever color you’re currently in the mood for. My mother always told me that before making a decorating decision, try to imagine if you’ll quickly tire of it. I think that’s what’s led me to choosing neutral tones.

      Jennifer