Often we have residential interior design clients who prefer a neutral colour palette. A neutral palette in a room design can be beautiful, but many times it is simply too bland. As well, the trend toward neutral sometimes goes on too long and the viewer simply tires of the look, while not actually craving a move toward colour. Since technically, neutrals go with everything, a neutral palette must be a safe one. Perhaps not, particularly if there’s just no drama or zing. Some neutral shades also have undertones which are very unattractive. Since our goal in interior design is to create room designs which are full of life, as well as being beautiful, safe may not get us to where we want to go. 
Neutral colours are taupe, grey, white, ivory, black, and even some shades of brown. These colours are just not as simple as they first appear. All of these colours have significant undertones. Neutral does not simply mean a hue without colour. Undertones in beige may be gold, tan, green, or even pink. When used in the quantities that you would do painting a room, the undertone becomes a significant colour element and a large part of the room design. White is not simply white, but will have undertones of blue, peach, yellow, or ivory. Elements of a neutral room design can be made up of several layers of neutrals. The undertones of each element need to relate to the overall scheme or the result will not be pleasing. Often, it’s not only a bit of an art, but since we all have different taste the mix must suit the individuals who will live in the space. 
Neutrals are either warm or cool. Brown, putty, cream and beige are warm neutrals. Some cool ones are grey-blue, stone, white and grey. All of these, when used correctly can result in a room design that is pleasant to live in as well as exiting and refreshing. Neutrals can be dark as well as light. Dark neutrals can really add punch to a room. Texture, shape, and detail all add to the final effect. If the room is designed in a neutral palette without interesting textures, shapes, and surprising objects there will be no personality or drama in the room. Individual elements in the room should effectively stand alone as well as in the overall design. Furniture should have interesting lines and uplifting details, otherwise the neutral colour palette on its own could be bland and uninspiring. A contemporary style room will have streamlined furnishings, but they will still have an eye-catching character. Decorative details on more traditional pieces will be more ornate and strongly emphasized. A little lavish layering of texture, pattern and quirky style is a great way to refresh a tired old neutral room design. It is possible and even interesting to mix contemporary elements with some traditional items. A mix of materials and shapes is the route to an interesting room. 
We are in a Golden Age of fabric design. Advances in technology have provided us with an amazing variety of techniques which can be used to embellish and enhance fabrics. This has resulted in unprecedented variety in custom draperies, window blinds, sofa fabrics, area rugs and toss cushions. Accessories are what really add impact to a room. Often, accessories are too small and understated. Dramatic lighting, large floor vases with tall botanicals, large artwork, striking baskets all add the final touches to a room design which really achieve our intention to create a beautiful room. 
Since 1993 Mulberry Interiors, headed by designer and colour specialist, Marguerite Roberts, has been assisting clients in Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, Brampton, Milton, Georgetown, Etobicoke, western Toronto, and Vaughn. We specialize in residential interior design and decorating and are at our most creative when we use colour as our theme. The photos we show are often inspirational images to express the type of work and the quality of the work that we can do. We offer a full range of interior design services such as choosing paint colours, space planning, furniture sourcing, custom draperies and soft furnishings, flooring selection and accessories. Call Mulberry Interiors now at (905) 849-6423 to book a consultation. We look forward to working with you to increase your enjoyment of your home.
Full Décor Service
Colour Consultations a Specialty
Window Coverings including Draperies, Shutters, and Blinds
Fine Furniture
Area Carpets
Space Planning
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