When I picture a tranquil living space, neutral hues spring to mind. To me, nothing says serenity like a soft color palette – but bringing movement and interest to a neutral living room can be a difficult task.
Cream tones and beige hues might create an instantly calming look, but great design is just as much about inspiring a feeling – and neutrals can make a room feel flat. It's a tricky balance to strike, but I think Jessica Alba employs the perfect use of these shades in her LA living room.
I took a glimpse into the actress's home, designed by duo Kathleen and Tommy Clements of Clements Design, and quickly discovered that texture is the secret. Alone, a neutral scheme can be plain, but carefully incorporate some tactile elements, and the room will come to life.
In Jessica's space, a set of low-slung cream armchairs (much like these from CB2) is the star of the show. Crucially, however, the classic cream hue takes the form of faux shearling upholstery, creating a scene that's both visually stunning and tangibly inviting.
Shop the Jessica Alba-Inspired Edit
This luxe armchair is a brilliant investment piece. With channeled details and a cream bouclé finish, it offers the perfect blend of comfort and elegance, making a real statement in any neutral scheme.
Soft furnishings are the simplest ways to bring texture into your space without breaking the bank – and this bouclé pillow is my top pick. It's available in a variety of neutral shades, from camel to cream.
Dial up the cozy charm with this throw blanket. Combining chunky knit fabric with a fringed trim, it's rustic and yet refined, with a blend of textural details that create instant visual interest.
When it comes to the importance of texture in neutral spaces, experts are firmly in agreement.
'Neutrals work best when you vary both the temperature and texture,' explains Craig Gritzen, the founder and principal designer of Curated Style Collective. 'This usually means layering warm creams, soft taupes, and one deeper shade to create contrast and visual clarity.'
In Jessica's home, cream colors are paired with a beige rug, while a dark wooden cabinet acts as a contrasting piece. The result is a space that feels dynamic and yet grounded – and I'd say that the chairs really do make all the difference.
'With color kept largely within a neutral range, the eye is naturally drawn to the textured armchairs in this room,' explains James Mellan-Matulewicz, the creative director of Bobbi Beck.
'Their plush material adds tactility and depth, preventing the space from feeling flat. Ultimately, the chairs anchor the palette, pulling the room together and elevating it into a space that prioritizes comfort over style.'
Yet I'd argue that Jessica's living room doesn't sacrifice sophistication in pursuit of comfort and ease. While it invites you to relax and unwind, it remains a picture-perfect space, producing a sense of visual interest that feels effortless.
Decorating with neutrals can seem deceptively easy, but transforming a simple color palette into a truly striking scheme takes real skill. Jessica proves that, when soft shades are involved, texture is crucial – and it can become a focal point in its own right.
