Move over minimalism, whites and grays, and cool monochromatic tones, and make way for cozier, warm, earthier color schemes, more daring pops of color, statements of individuality through design, and dare I say… the boldness of authenticity expressed in our homes. Like a colorful, statement piece of artwork on a neutral wall color, we can feel free to be vibrantly authentic from the foundation of our home environments.
How do we start adding some spice to our living environments?
- Move away from pale grays and stark whites by incorporating an all-over off-white paint color with a strong touch of your favorite undertone, such as apricot, green, or blue.
- Place more colorful artwork, throw pillows, and accent pieces on your existing white and gray rooms for a less permanent and possibly more cost-effective change.
- Afraid to go too bold too fast? Use a mid-toned hue paint color on a larger area, like your kitchen cabinets or a wall color in one room.
- Want to dip your toe into the bold waters? Choose a vibrant wallpaper for a bathroom, bedroom, or dining room. Pick a paper that expresses the motif of a favorite destination, a splash of your favorite colors, or reminds you of an activity you enjoy most. Express your life desires in the wallpaper.
- Go all in on one room and make it your “trendy room.” For example, your primary or guest bathroom could be a retreat filled with your favorite warm colors in the tile, wood, and textiles. I bet when you entertain, everyone will want to visit your bathroom!
- For all-over inspiration, pick a multi-colored rug or piece of artwork with your favorite colors and coordinate the wall color, fabrics, and accessories to carry the theme of that piece throughout that room or even your whole house.
Leah Alexander of Beauty Is Abundant, an Atlanta-based design firm, says, “I see the appeal of gray and white kitchens and endless beige bouclé tapering off in favor of vibrance, saturation, and increasingly edgy color combinations.” Seeing people's lifestyles and homes come alive with personality, individuality, and authenticity is exciting.
