Why Neutral Colors Are Not Timeless: The Fallacy of Sticking to a 'Safe' Palette
Are neutral colors really timeless? When choosing home decor, many people default to a safe palette of creams, beiges, and grays. But is sticking to these hues truly the key to creating an everlasting style? In this blog post, we will explore why following this rule can hinder your home's timelessness and lead you down a path of boring design choices. Let's break free from the "safe" neutrals fallacy and discover bold new color combinations that can stand the test of time.
Introduction to Color Theory in Design
Color theory is a topic of discussion in the design world that often comes up when discussing ways to make a space feel timeless. The go-to suggestion is almost always to stick to a "safe" palette of neutrals, but this advice is based on a fallacy. In reality, there is no such thing as a timeless neutral color palette - what is popular changes with the times. This article will explore why neutral colors are not timeless and provide some alternatives for creating a more timeless design.
How Neutral Colors Are Used Incorrectly in Home Decorating and Interiors
While there's nothing wrong with using neutral colors in home decor and design, they are often used incorrectly. This can lead to a dull, lifeless space that lacks personality and visual interest. This is a room designed by a famous duo. I will be honest with you every time I see their designs I get anxious due to the poor execution of neutrals and color. In this room, the pastel pink chaise with a charcoal orb pillow, the pink- yellow-beige drapes, the greige walls, the off-white chair, and the bright white and black cabana striped accent chair all sitting on an orange-beige carpet are a train wreck. Nothing relates to one another except the wicker shades and the carpet. Frankly, that is not enough to save this room from itself. Yes, the magic in a high-end design is the juxtaposition of colors and styles which stirs curiosity in the viewer. However, a trained eye can pick out the elements that make the room symbiotic. It is not a room full of untethered items and 8 different undertones and hues that do not relate to one another.
How would I correct this room?
First, I would change the green-greige walls to an off-white like Sherwin Williams Alabaster and reselect fabrics on both chairs that have a warm off-white background to relate to the walls. Secondly, I would select a light orange-beige drapery to compliment the carpet. Lastly, I would introduce a color for the chaise fabric that is more in the light corals or peaches to coordinate with the orange-beige carpet. Then make the orb pillow black, not charcoal.
Let’s take a look at other mistakes that are commonly made when trying to design a timeless look.
Here are some common mistakes when using neutral colors:
1. Not considering the undertone: Every color has an undertone, which is the hue that comes through when the color is mixed with white, black, or red. For example, beige walls may have a pinkish undertone while a greige may have a greenish undertone. It's important to consider the undertone of your neutrals when selecting them so they complement each other and don't clash.
2. Ignoring lighting: The way the light hits your space can greatly affect how your neutrals look. A room with white cool lighting (3,500K and higher) will have cooler, harsher light than a room with warm, soft lighting (2700K). This can make a big difference in how your neutrals appear - for example, warm tones may look more orange in cool light while cool tones may look more blue-grey in warm light. Be sure to take lighting into account when choosing neutrals for your space.
3. Going too monochromatic: Using different shades and tints of the same color can create a beautiful monochromatic scheme. However, it can also result in a boring, one-dimensional space if not done carefully. To avoid this, be sure to mix in some texture and pattern to break up the mundane.
The Fallacy of Believing That Neutral Colors Will Never Date
Most people believe that sticking to a neutral color palette is the safest way to go when it comes to design. After all, neutral colors are classic and timeless, right? Wrong. It can be quite the opposite. Every decade or less are we not told, "Greys are out. Beiges are in. Or beiges are out and greys are in?" How often do you hear blues are out and greens are in? Not often if at all. Just ask Maria Killam, color specialist, and influencer to the interior designers and color enthusiasts. It was at her certification classes in 2018 that I had my color theory challenged and walked away with career-changing color skills to give me the confidence to make the bold statements I do now on neutrals and color.
While it is true that the trend of neutral colors will never go out of style, they can certainly date a space if not used correctly. The key is to use neutrals as a foundation and then add pops of color through accessories and decor. This way, you can easily update your space as trends come and go.
So next time you're tempted to stick with all beige everything, remember that a little bit of color can go a long way in keeping your space looking fresh and modern.
Tips for Incorporating Trends While Keeping A Timeless Look
When it comes to incorporating trends into your home’s décor, there are a few things to keep in mind if you want to maintain a timeless look. First and foremost, let go of the notion that sticking to a “safe” palette of neutral colors is the key to achieving timelessness. In reality, using a mix of colors – both on-trend and classic – can help give your space an updated look that won’t feel dated in a few years.
Another tip for achieving a timeless look is to focus on quality over quantity. Rather than filling your home with cheap, trend-driven pieces that will quickly fall out of style, invest in a few well-made pieces that will stand the test of time. And finally, don’t be afraid to mix old and new. Incorporating vintage or antique pieces into your décor can add character and interest, while still allowing you to embrace current trends.
In conclusion, neutral colors are not the "safe" option they have often been presented as. Many classic designs incorporate a variety of muted tones to create a timeless look, while certain bolder shades can be used to evoke an era-specific aesthetic or stand out among the crowd. Whether you choose to follow trends or stick to what you know, there is no harm in playing around with color and experimenting with different hues. After all, interior design is about having fun!
If you are local to the San Diego area, I can help. If you are out of the San Diego County area and need my virtual design services Contact me here. I would love to talk with you and discuss the dreams you have for your home.
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Beiges are trending along with vibrant colors.
Light wood cabinets and pops of colorful pieces in the home are trending.
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When introducing color into your neutral home keep in mind the concept of muddy palettes and clean palettes.
For example, if your neutrals are muted with grey undertones then gravitate towards colors that are more muddy undertones. This will marry your neutrals with your new colors.
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