Navigating Neutral Colors

It seems like such a simple task. Everyone says, "Just paint it a neutral color." Have you been to a paint store lately? It's easier to find a needle in a haystack than to pick the right cream, the perfect off-white, or the best beige. Well, we've cracked the code to decorating around shades of brown. Here are some tips to guide you into a stylish neutral space with ease-plus, we've thrown in our own tried-and-true favorite paint colors. Happy decorating! -JULIE FEAGIN SANDNER

THE WALLS

Do you want the wall color to be the star? In that case, go with a darker tan or taupe. Do you want the art and furnishings to be the focal point? Then opt for soft and creamy hues. A neutral color may look great on the tiny chip, but on your walls it might appear moss green or putty pink. We can't stress it enough: Buy a sample or quart, and test out the color before committing to it.

Mix stripes with diamond-patterned carpet. Add rich chocolate brush fringe to make pillows pop off a neutral sofa.

THE FLOORS

Decorating with neutrals is an invitation for playing with textures. Carpet can help layer the look. From wool to natural sisal or sea grass, select one with a subtle pattern such as herringbone or a thick weave to add interest and textural contrast to the room.

This sisal is simple and sleek. Pair it with pretty botanical fabric and coordinating trim for a more feminine look.

THE FABRIC

When you're seeking fabrics, just as with carpet, choose ones with pattern and texture. Plaids, stripes, and botanical prints can be used in the same room if the colors all blend together. Take the squint test: Place all the fabrics together, and squint your eyes when you look at them. If one jumps out, pull it from the pile; everything should harmonize.

Here sea grass and plaid fabric feature the same moss green accent color. The trim picks up the fabric's brown tones.

FINALLY, THE ACCENTS

Use trim or fringe to add interesting details to draperies and pillows. Remember it's the tiny details that add up to make a room look truly amazing.

WHAT'S ON OUR WALLS

Southern Living staffers share their favorite shades. Trust us-when you find a great hue, you'll want to stick with it.

* Swiss Coffee by Behr-Amy Bickers Mercer, Assistant Homes Editor: "The name can deceive-it's more like white chocolate. It creates a clean backdrop for colorful furnishings and art. This color will never go out of style."

* Masterpiece Tan by Sherwin-Williams-Sara Andersen, Homes Editor: "This color doesn't go pink or green; it looks good in any room. It's been a favorite of many Idea House designers over the years."

* Baja Dunes by Benjamin Moore-Buffy Hargett, Senior Photo Stylist: "This color has been on my walls for 10 years, and I've never tired of it. It's a richer hue than the others and looks great in rooms where sun soaks in."

* Lambswool by Pratt & Lambert-Julie Feagin Sandner, Associate Homes Editor: "I moved into a house where this was the family room paint color, and now I'll always use it. It's a clean, crisp tan-not too green or yellow."

* Toasted Walnut by Behr-Robert Martin, Architecture Editor: "The name is just as yummy as the color. It's a rich hue that will add depth to your walls. Perfect for a study or any room you want to make feel cozy."

FOR MORE INFO

More online paint resources: southernliving.com/october2006

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Oct 2006
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