While neutrals are certainly popular (and safe) color schemes for interiors, pops of color undeniably add some oomph to a room. Though trends such as dopamine decor and organic modern see color and neutrals respectively stay in their own lanes, we are firm believers that infusing a neutral space with a couple strong accents can be one of the most impactful design strategies.
Case in point: Friends star Jennifer Aniston's former home. Designed by Stephen Shadley, the living room, as seen below on Instagram, features rich, wood walls and beige carpeting as a base, while a bright orange, blue, and pink artwork hangs handsomely in a gold frame next to a lighter wood piano.
The combination of sturdy, traditional materials, and mood-boosting colors makes for an extremely engaging space.
Colorful decor can be as grand as a large painting or as small as an accent pillow on a sofa. However, if looking to incorporate the former into the home, experts say that art can be a high-impact design choice.
'Incorporating artwork is a great way to add interest and level up your space, particularly when using bold, statement pieces that command the attention of the room,' Danielle Castagna, Framing and Interiors Expert and Level Frames. 'Not only does statement artwork add a touch of refinement to the room, but it can also allow you to express your personality through your decor and really personalize your space with a piece that’s unique to your taste.'
She continues, 'Artwork - particularly bolder, statement pieces - can also work as a great focal point, drawing your eye to that part of the room and creating a strong impact from the moment you enter the space. This visual anchor point is the difference between a standard room and a captivating space.'
When it comes to adding colorful works to a space, Castagna recommends looking first at location. Where will this statement piece sit or hang?
'When buying artwork, what you should look for depends on what stage of the design process you’re up to,' she says. 'If possible, it’s best to start with the blank canvas of an empty room, review your space, and decide where you’d like the piece to sit. This will tell you what size to look for, as well as allow you free rein to choose a piece you love rather than trying to fit with an existing decor theme.'
Contrast is key for coloring a neutral space with statement pieces. This can be subtle (for example, Aniston's light wood piano against the dark wood wall) or dramatic (the hanging work, with bursts of bright colors).
'You can then build the rest of your room around the piece, allowing the artwork to do its job of being the main statement in the room,' Castagna says. 'For the best impact, you can curate the rest of the room in a different color scheme that allows the artwork to stand out even more due to the contrast. But if taking this approach, it’s best to stick to decorating with neutral colors so that the difference is a striking contrast rather than an overpowering clash that takes away from the art.'
Abstract and neutral, this fine line print is the perfect pairing for a modern and minimal space.
Pops of color and soft shapes are vibrant and inviting for a communal space.
This print infuses a room with some modern yet natural elements.
For those who still prefer neutrals over color, we suggest opting for Aniston's strategy of pairing different shades and textures together, such as the wood wall and piano, or even the navy blue, velvet sofa. There are many ways to create focal points in a space, and statement art is just one.
