HOW TO MAKE NEUTRALS MORE INTERESTING

They make small rooms look bigger, dark rooms look lighter, and go with everything. But, neutral schemes can look bland and boring if you don’t use these simple tricks…

Add ‘quiet’ pattern

Pick a tone-on-tone neutral mix: ‘It allows you to add pattern and texture via wallpaper without the risk of feeling overwhelmed by it,’ says Helen Shaw, director of Benjamin Moore UK.

Work in wood furniture

‘Natural materials introduce real texture, detail and warmth. Without these, neutral rooms can feel a little flat,’ says Fiona Duke, founder of Interior Design Collective.

Put texture on the walls

Try bare plaster, concrete or a lookalike wallpaper, softened with layered textiles. ‘Natural finishes vary enormously and their imperfections only add to their simple beauty,’ says Fiona.

Use black for definition

Add some structure: ‘The contrast of black against neutral tones creates a statement without clashing and overpowering the room,’ says Philippa Prinsloo, head of design at John Lewis & Partners.

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY...

Designers and stylists share their views: