(StatePoint) If you are looking to elegantly redesign the spaces in your home, consider taking your cues from the latest trends in the luxury market. Neutral color palettes and soft, soothing shades, such as gray, taupe and cream are on the rise among today’s luxury homes and adding touches of color will help personalize these spaces.
“Neutral color schemes are versatile, sophisticated and best of all, easy to live with,” says James Thomas, senior product designer for residential lighting manufacturer Progress Lighting.
But design experts point out that adding carefully selected accessories and home accents in bolder colors can be a pleasing way to customize the spaces in your home.
“Color selection is one of the first ways I create visual interest in any neutral space,” says Tracey Amadio of Porch Daydreamer Design Blog, who lists sapphire, turquoise, dusty pink and lavender as popular color choices this spring.
To add a splash of color to your neutral settings, try these design ideas.
• Refresh home accessories: Home accents, such as throw pillows, blankets and rugs, are items that can be quickly updated and therefore more trend-centric. These items are guaranteed to add a pop of color to the room.
Additionally, Amadio says more designers are choosing rich hues over white for accent furniture, kitchen islands and bathroom cabinets.
• Update an accent wall with wallpaper: Wallpaper is making a comeback in a big way. There are lots of fun patterns and colors to explore. Incorporate textured wallpaper in a powder room or smaller living area to add color and dimension.
• Incorporate mixed metals: Mixed metals are also emerging as a way to bring dimension and interest to a home’s color palette. This look can be achieved through mixing fixtures with different — but complementary —finishes.
“Many of our new lighting offerings showcase dual finishes or mixed metal accents that really punch up the look of a fixture, which would be an eye-catching addition to a neutral color scheme,” says Thomas. “We’ve had really good visual success with antique bronze and brass combinations. Also, some of our newer designs feature a combination of antique nickel and brushed nickel, to offer visual interest with a pairing of matte and shiny finishes.”
Searching for more design inspiration? Visit www.progresslighting.com to view images, collections and project ideas for every budget, style and space, or contact a local design expert.
