Neutral Living Room Makeover - Liven it Up With Pops of Color
Is your neutral living room looking a little dull and lifeless? A neutral color palette of whites, grays, beiges and browns can create a calming, soothing atmosphere. But sometimes all that neutrality can start to feel boring. If your neutral living room needs a refresh, don't be afraid to pump up the volume with bold pops of color!
Strategically adding vibrant punches of color is an easy way to inject personality and visual interest into a neutral space. The key is balance - you want to liven things up without going overboard. Follow these tips to give your neutral living room a makeover with just the right amount of colorful pizzazz.
Benefits of Adding Pops of Color
Injects Personality
An all-neutral color scheme can lack character. Pops of color allow you to reflect your personal style. Showcase your favorite tones and make more of a decorating statement. Vibrant pillows, art, flowers or other accents put your unique stamp on the neutral backdrop.
Creates Visual Interest
Pops of color naturally draw the eye, adding depth and dimension to a neutral space. They create focal points and break up any monotonous, flat visual effect. Your living room will look more vibrant, layered and visually stimulating.
Lifts Mood
Color has an undeniable psychological impact. Bright, happy pops of color feel more energetic and cheerful. They create an uplifting ambiance and improve the overall mood of the room. Studies show that surrounding yourself with color can reduce stress too.
Rules for Adding Pops of Color
When using pops of color in a neutral room, moderation is key. Follow these guidelines to achieve balance:
Start Small
Begin by adding smaller pops of color through throw pillows, vases, artwork, books or decorative objects. Once you're comfortable, graduate to bolder pops of color through an area rug, accent chair or eye-catching lamp.
Build up the color gradually so it doesn't overwhelm. Adding color should feel exciting, not jarring.
Follow a Color Scheme
Choose pops of color that complement each other and the existing neutral scheme. Stick with analogous, complementary or triadic colors for harmony. Repeating pops of color in different tones also creates cohesion.
Balance Pops of Color
As a general rule of thumb, pops of color should make up about 25-30% of the room. Space colorful accents out evenly so the room doesn't feel chaotic. Groupings of 3-5 colorful items work well in most living rooms.
Best Places for Pops of Color
Not sure where to add your shots of color? These elements are ideal starting points:
Throw Pillows
Tossing vibrant throw pillows onto sofas or chairs is an easy, inexpensive way to layer in punches of color. Swapping out pillows allows you to change up the pops of color anytime. Varying pillow textures and patterns creates added visual appeal.
Area Rugs
An area rug with bright, bold pattern anchored in the middle of the room establishes a foundation for your color scheme. Layer a brightly hued rug over a neutral one for extra interest. Rugs underfoot also help define sitting areas.
Artwork
Cover those neutral walls with eye-catching artwork full of vibrant color. Groupings of colorful paintings, prints or photography create an artful feel. Try framing your child's artwork for a personal touch.
Accent Furniture
Make a statement by introducing accent furniture like chairs, stools or side tables in a dramatic hue. A glossy lacquered box in fuchsia or a chartreuse storage ottoman packs a visual punch.
Tips for Selecting Colors
Unsure which specific colors to choose? Keep these tips in mind:
Complementary Colors
Classic color pairings like blue and orange or purple and yellow automatically work in harmony. The contrast makes them pop against neutrals.
Different Tones of One Color
Using a variety of shades within one color family creates a cohesive look. Try light blue pillows, deep navy curtains and a robin's egg vase.
Opt for Saturated Shades
The boldest pops come from saturated, full-bodied jewel tones and bright primaries rather than pale, washed-out pastels. Think emerald green, sapphire blue or magenta.
More Tips for a Cohesive Look
Here are some additional pointers for effortlessly working pops of color into your neutral living room:
- Incorporate textured elements like a woven jute rug or nubby throw blanket to add visual interest.
- Add greenery with potted plants, hanging plants or botanical wall art. Green is refreshing against neutrals.
- Hang bold, colorful artwork on the walls as a focal point. Try abstract pieces for impact.
- Use patterned throw pillows, blankets or area rugs in contrasting colors for interest.
- Add colored lampshades or smart bulbs to lamps and make mood lighting.
- Consider bold wallpaper with stripes, flowers or geometric shapes for a major pop of color.
- Display colorful vases, candles, books and accessories throughout the space.
- hang vibrant patterned or brightly colored curtains on the windows for cheer.
- Paint one accent wall in a dramatic hue for serious drama.
- Layer brightly hued rugs over neutral rugs for an extra color boost.
It's amazing what a difference a few vibrant pops of color can make in a neutral living room. You can easily transform a boring, blah space into one with energy, character and style. Remember to start slowly, build up the color over time and aim for an invigorating yet balanced look.
Be bold - your neutral living room is the perfect backdrop for your favorite bright and dazzling colors. Bring warmth, creativity and a major mood boost by liberally adding pops of color. It's an easy makeover that packs a serious decorating punch!