Color plays a central role in interior decorating and home staging, bringing life and warmth into our homes and creating comfort and atmosphere. Perhaps the most versatile design tool, color can be used to enhance and alter the quality of natural light, make a space more intimate or more spacious and either stimulate or calm the environment.
When the word neutral is used about a shade or a color, the image of a dreary, non-descript beige is the first thing that comes to mind. But, as we move into Spring, why not consider the green spectrum-from the pale creamy tone of celery through a fresh leaf green to a deep and muddy tobacco-colors that live in perfect harmony with every other. Just look in the garden or visit your local florist to see endless shades of green co-existing happily with many different color flowers. Green is a perfect neutral in its many shades and strengths.
With respect to paint, a good rule of thumb to follow is, that the more space you intend to cover, the lighter and more delicate the color should be. This calm quiet look is wonderful with Oriental furniture, as the dark woods are a perfect foil for the celadon color scheme. Once that soothing environment is created, it’s time to bring in more depth and texture. Add an item or two in Chinese red as an accent, and the effect will be exciting yet at the same time peaceful and elegant.
And finally, no matter how contemporary your space, try to add something vintage or metallic, which will ground the room and make it feel rich and inviting. Silver candlesticks or metallic pillows work beautifully with greens.
