There’s nothing wrong with erring towards beiges and greys at home, but the right amount of risk-taking color can take a room from safely chic to completely memorable. This move doesn’t even require committing to a bold red wall or a jewel-toned couch; smaller decorations, like a patterned ceramic bowl or a textured throw, can add just the right amount of pop. Color play can also be found in less obvious palette combinations, like melding cool blue accents with warm woodwork, or playing up a heavily neutral space with art that boasts energetic hues. Here, Elena Frampton, creative director of New York-based interior design firm Frampton Co, tells us how to bring color into our spaces, even for the most neutral-obsessed.
“Spaces often go too chilly or too earthy. We love to play with cool and warm tones to achieve a sense of balance. We installed warm millwork to anchor the space and offset it with cool blue and lavender accents.”
Spartan Shop vases, $130, spartan-shop.com; D. Bryant Archie blanket, $660, shop.dbryantarchie.com.
“Texture brings depth and interest to neutral spaces, so you get the quietness without the boredom. Rugs are the perfect way to bring in texture for a layered look. Architecturally, stone and tile in various finishes like matte or polished create shadows and texture.”
The Rug Company ‘Cobra’ rug, $177 per sq. ft., therugcompany.com; Heath Ceramic tiles, prices upon request, heathceramics.com.
“The introduction of art is a chance to infuse color and personality into a neutral palette. Think large scale photography, paintings or even mixed media. When it comes to statement pieces, go big to go home.”
Kim Foster Gallery: Moon Beom, price upon request, kimfostergallery.com; Maria de la O Garrido, ‘Untitled II,’ $430, upriseart.com; Lindo NG Collective Studio, price upon request, upriseart.com.
“Sculptural lighting in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors enlivens and activates a neutral space. Mixing lamps with sconces and chandeliers not only provides a nice light quality but also brings the je ne sais quoi. Don’t forget room corners, which often end up feeling dark. Create a moment out of an otherwise forgettable square foot.”
Sciolari chrome and brass chandelier, $5,500, lobelmodern.com; Workstead industrial chandelier, $2,150, workstead.com.
“Dressing your space, like yourself, is transformed by a few finishing touches. Think about adding bold patterns through accessories. Pair unlikely objects in vignettes to create a story about your collections. Ceramics, bowls, trays, pillows and throw blankets offer pattern opportunity. Most importantly, don’t worry, get attached or be too exacting. Move things around every once and a while – it’s not a museum, it’s your home.”
Matthew Ward Studio ceramic bowls, prices upon request, matthewwardstudio.com.
“Our real neutral obsession is the color camel. It provides richness to a monochromatic palette without drawing too much attention. Its adaptability to several color palettes make pieces upholstered in it timeless. Whether you are introducing it through textiles, leather or various stains of wood–camel will translate well.”
Design Within Reach ‘Barcelona’ couch, $9,772 – $10,528, dwr.com.
Save these ideas for Pinterest.
From: Harper’s BAZAAR US
For more Elledecor
