Neutral colours are sometimes associated with minimalism. To
some degree, minimalism helped promote use of neutral colours by reducing use of bold popping colours. There has been a
development of colour trends throughout the century as published countless
times in design blogs and magazines.
However, there is a general colour palette that is observed around different regions and countries in the world.
This palette is picked from the culture
of the people; artifacts, fabrics, dyes etc, the flora and fauna, food, spices
and colour of the landscapes.
Southern parts of America have warm wet climates and rich cultures. This translates to their
designs which are colourful, bold, exciting and vibrant. Antarctica is
characterised by snow with cold weather and no sun. Design therefore have taken
up a calm look and feel with greys, whites and stone as the main colours.
African designs and colours richly borrow from from the savanna landscape .
Deep oranges, browns, greens,maroons and yellows are a main characteristic. In France, natural neutral colours are a
common factor borrowed from their love of bread, cheese and coffee.
Neutral colours can be used in any style of design.
1.The Modern Neutral
Charm
In this day and age where countless colours have been
invented, bright colours may be too much. In study of colour psychology,
different colours create different moods. Orange for instance denotes energy
and warmth. After a while, this may start feeling overwhelming. White creates a mood of calm and therefore
works well in homes located in busy environments. White also denotes elegance and sophistication
and therefore is a good colour to use in luxury apartments. It s a common
colour in modern style of design
2. The Boho Chic Neutral Charm
Boho chic is a melting pot of colour, texture and pattern.
Boho is denoted from Bohemian style which emerged from Central and Eastern European
decent. This style generated from people who lived unconventional lives, richly
artistic and nomadic. They travelled a lot taking with them collectibles and
souvenirs which they used as art and decor in their home. This style became
common in 1960’s and 1970s. Boho style has variants based on where items were
collected from
3. The Beach Neutral
Charm
Beach style interior design colours, patterns , prints and
textures are adapted from the beach environment. Sand, water, stones, shells,
and flora are some of the elements that influence these colours and therefore
Beige, white and grey become colours mostly used. Sometimes, surrounding
communities contribute to some of the elements used in different areas. Swahili
community around the Kenyan-Tanzanian coast influence the coastal design in
this area. Marsala and maroon colours
with brass/bronze metal therefore become part of the coastal design in these
areas.
4. The Farmhouse
Neutral Charm
Farmhouse Interior design is characterised by use of wicker
and rattan for the furniture, slip cover on the couch and armchairs as is
casual and practical, vintage furniture pieces, Belfast sink in white ceramic
or copper, butcher block counters on dining tables or island, exposed wood
beams, reclaimed barn wood and pellets. One of the most important element is
the weathered look on wood ; floor wall and ceiling finishes or on furniture.
Farmhouse colours are subtle with minimal pattern.
5. The Scandinavian
Neutral Charm
Scandinavian
style as per the name originated from Scandinavia by
the Nordic people . This style leans towards the contemporary style of designs
with a minimalist characteristic. In this style of design, light wood finishes
are used on floors and furniture, wall
to wall carpets are replaced with simple rugs, light muted colours on walls and
fabrics, clean lines, de-cluttered spaces ,
simple decor and art and lots of natural light. Black White and Grey
hues are quite common .
Inspiration pour le
Journee
Margie wanted
the aesthetic to reflect her client’s personality so she went for a fresh,
playful look. She chose pinks, greys and taupe's that all have the same
undertone to achieve an airy feel, and layered on quiet patterns and texture
for visual interest. The kitchen is made for entertaining with a large island
that divides it from the adjacent family room. A large, comfortable sofa adds a
relaxed vibe to the space, while built-ins showcase thoughtful accessories.
Moldings detailed with cashmere grass cloth wallpaper add depth to the dining
room.
Check out video below by House and Home for inspiration.
