When people diss neutrals in front of me, it’s safe to say I’ll get a little emotional.
“That room is crying out for some colour.”
“Beige is for beige people.”
“It’s so… boring.”
No, no, no, no, no!
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| Neutrals are elegant and chic in this formal lounge |
Come on, people! Have you never lounged on a French linen day bed whilst cotton sheers gently billowing in the wind framed the view beyond? Have you not holidayed on the cliff tops of Santorini, your luxuriously white-washed studio apartment gloriously stark against the vibrant azure of the oceans below? Have you never enjoyed the rustic simplicity of a beach cottage, coloured dove grey with timber bleached by the ocean spray? Alright, I understand I’m getting a tad melodramatic, but I truly am passionate about this topic…
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| Rustic timber warms this neutral scheme |
To me, a neutral colour palette sets the ideal backdrop for living. It allows beautiful raw materials and luxurious ornaments alike to shine, it sits in unity with lush gardens and highlights architectural details without distracting from them. It is timeless, calming and elegant.
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| Rustic brick shines with monochromatic tones |
Neutrals in a psychological sense are representative of nature, purity, elegance and harmony (Peterson, M. 2007). They are serene, yet can create incredible impact - think a striking black abstract against a white wall.
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| A black and white exterior is timeless, yet modern |
As many scientists agree, human beings are designed to live surrounded by nature. It’s been found that those working in clinical environments perform much better after taking a break surrounded by trees and grass, that people who garden are generally happier and less stressed, and that those who live in leafier locations have improved attitudes (Green, J. 2011). Looking to nature as the source of inspiration for our interiors is not only aesthetically beautiful, but good for the mind and soul too.
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| Serene grey tones characterise this beach home |
So if you’re looking to re-decorate, or mix up your current look, why not turn your attention back to the dreamy neutrals that nature has provided us with. I can assure you, your sense of style (and mental state!) will thank you for it.
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| The interior of a Santorini hotel |
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Brown-based neutrals are calming and versatile in this house
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References:
- Peterson, M. 2015, http://www.moosepeterson.com/techtips/color.html
- Green, J. 2011, http://dirt.asla.org/2011/09/08/research-shows-nature-helps-with-stress/
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