The New Neutrals

I find it fascinating that people’s default position for choosing a paint colour is white.  “I can’t decide on a colour!”  White.  “I’m selling my house.”  White.  “I’m freshening up my home.”  White.  “I really don’t want my house to feel dated.” White.  Big room?  White.  Small room?  White.  “Maybe we’ll go grey, just for something new” and “oh no, I couldn’t possibly paint my walls black!”  Yet, if you look in most wardrobes, black is often the preferred (and safest) option for clothes - it’s the perfect go to!  It’s slightly ironic that people literally layer themselves in black but are scared to paint a room black, for instance. However, I digress. 

Does this sound like you?

Gone are the days when black, whites and greys were considered the only neutrals. While I absolutely understand that neutral means “without colour”, I would like to challenge this notion to say that neutrals are colours that are chosen to let other elements shine.  Now make way for Navy, Green and Terracotta.  These are the new neutrals, and if colour psychology has anything to say for it, they will work wonders on your soul.  I also find comfort in recognising that these colours feature strongly in the Australian landscape which is truly spectacular and awe-inspiring if you are lucky enough to have the opportunity to see it in all it’s beauty.

Navy

Navy is the new black.  A dark and moody colour, navy blue is a calming, yet authoritative colour and commands the room.  Don’t be shy when it comes to navy.  Pair navy hues with pops of brass, leather and mustard/golden tones for a classic colour combination. Navy is the perfect colour for bedrooms and cosy reading nooks. 

Orange

Burnt and rusty orange, terracotta has seen a resurgence like no other.  It’s energising and inviting.  However you go about it, do so with a measured dose and be sure to break it up with those more “traditional” neutrals.  Green and blue go naturally well with a burnt sienna tone; just think of outback Australia. Orange is the perfect colour for entryways, dining rooms and kitchens.

Green

I’m talking those sage greens through to those hunter greens and encompassing those olive hues.  Green is invigorating, lively and refreshing.  Go all out with earthy green tones and accent with pops of pinky-reds, natural fibres (e.g. rattan, jute), and burnished bronze for a sophisticated dose of 70’s nostalgia.  A healthy lashing of indoor plants is also welcome. Green is the perfect colour for living areas and bathrooms.

In the famous words of Marie Kondo “does this bring you joy?”

Those who know me well, know that I am passionate about truly embracing styles and things that speak to you, that you love, and that fill you with joy.  In interiors, this is certainly no exception and I firmly believe that you shouldn’t be motivated by what others would do, or what you think you should do.  Have you ever lived in a house where you actually painted or decorated from the heart?  This is what I aim to pinpoint with my clients - what makes them tick.  And don’t get me wrong; there’s definitely a place for whites and greys, and definitely black, but I see these more as the back up dancers than the one’s who steal the show.

Are you with me?

Contact Hè Hè and let’s chat soon!