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Neutrals emanate a calmer, more relaxing vibe than some stronger colour schemes. And they can make for elegant, glamorous and charming decor. Neutral colour schemes are pretty versatile – you can pair them with all kinds of fabric and furniture, they allow for some experimentation and they can work with most décor styles and any room size. Bedrooms, especially, are your private relaxation zone; they should be tranquil and serene. This ideabook explores different ways neutrals can help achieve just that.

Bring in a monochromatic look

A simple way to fashion an elegant neutral colour scheme is by going monochrome; it’s super chic and saves you the hassle of matching colours. Pick a favourite neutral and spread the love – over the cushions, curtains, bed linen and the rug, like in this bedroom. Even the ceiling and walls follow the colour code here. Using a consistent colour brings a sense of calm and harmony to a space – exactly what’s required in a bedroom.

Use variations of the same colour

Layering varied shades of the same colour makes for a sophisticated look. This bedroom displays a range of greys from light to dark, with the eye travelling from the light-grey pillows to the slightly darker throw and down to the rug – the darkest of all. Even the owner’s personal effects are colour co-ordinated! The colour scheme allows the hardwood flooring and wooden bed to make a warm statement amidst a sea of cool greys.

Play with textures…

A monochromatic scheme can be refined by adding textures and patterns. The uneven surface of textured materials, even when they’re in the same colour, can look light or dark depending on how light hits the surface. The quilted headboard upholstered in beige leather gives the room a distinct personality, as does the crinkled bedspread. The addition of the patterned rug is a well-thought-out move, as it complements the headboard perfectly.

…and patterns

Variations in patterns take this neutral bedroom from blah to beautiful. The mixed patterns – be it the folksy geometric-design carpet, the striped pillows, the frayed diamond-pattern trims on the slipper chair or the ornate wall frame – are far from being at odds with each other. The trick to achieving this balance is to use subtle colours and complementing patterns.

Add a woody flavour to a neutral palette

Wood is natural, and neutral; and it goes with most colours of the spectrum. This bedroom combines a simple and clean layout with a neutral two-tone colour theme to create a serene vibe. The dark-grey wall is a perfect foil for the linear four-poster bed. There’s not an element that disturbs the flow and harmony of the space.

The all-wood fan stands out starkly but not harshly against a white ceiling and walls. There is a decorative element in the form of the ridged four-poster bed frame, which finds a complementary partner in the rug.

Combine different neutral colours

Why limit yourself to only one colour? Create a mélange of ivory, grey and blue, with a dash of brown wood thrown into the mix, like in this bedroom. The pale wall-to-wall carpeting sets the stage for charcoal-grey armchairs, while warm cream walls and bed linen pair to show off the cool blue accents of the pillows. The dark wooden accents of the beams and the door anchor the room.

Use contrasting neutral colours for subtle drama

One way to liven up a space is by introducing a contrast between light and dark, and this goes for neutrals too. In this image, the spotlight (and not just literally) is on the light-coloured bedding that stands out against a chocolate wall. The play between light and dark that permeates the room right up to the two-toned ceiling, creates a dramatic yet warm atmosphere.

Mix with metallic

Metallics by themselves fall in the neutral zone. Pairing them with other neutral colours can inject an instant dose of glamour into any space. Metallics can either add a brilliant contrast or be muted and yet make a statement, as is evident in this image.

Neutral colours highlight ‘real’ colour accents

A neutral palette allows you to introduce bold elements into your design scheme that may otherwise look over the top. The beige and golden hues in this bedroom provide the perfect setting for the jewel-like blue alcove. The sparkling chandelier and the symmetrical arrangement of the furnishings create balance and relaxing energy.