Neutral spaces often get a bad reputation for being bland, but actually you need to look at them differently - they’re actually completely full of potential. The fact is that things like cream walls, light floors, and simple finishes all create a blank canvas that means you can be as creative as you like, and if you remember that the key isn’t to overwhelm the neutral backdrop with too much, then it should all work out. With that in mind, keep reading to find out more about how to add character to a neutral space.
Choose Pieces That Tell A Story
One of the easiest ways to breathe life into a quiet room is by adding things that have history, and that means anything at all, like a vintage mirror, a reclaimed wooden bench, an old sideboard that’s been restored, and so on. These pieces always look brilliant, and they’ll fill the space in just the right way, but the added bonus is that they’re also very often conversation starters because they’re unique and always catch the eye, which is the opposite of what happens when you have something brand new in place, especially if it’s mass produced.
Pick A Focal Point
Sometimes just one great feature can completely transform a room, and that might be a big piece of artwork, a statement light fixture, or perhaps a lovely fireplace, and that kind of thing. And in a space that’s really neutral, even something like elegant cast iron radiators might be just what you need to have a contrast and make that room feel a little different and give it plenty of character. Once you’ve got a piece like that in place, it can be the focal point of a room, and you can design everything else around it. Remember, not every element has to compete for attention, and if you’ve got one main feature, you don’t have to worry about anything else.
Mix In Some Unexpected Colour
Even in the most neutral of spaces, a little splash of colour can make a room feel more alive, so you don’t have to go really bright and bold if that’s just not going to work for you. You could have a colourful throw or some cushions with a brighter pattern on them, or some artwork, or maybe a rug, and that kind of thing. These little injections of colour can work really well, especially when there’s some texture included as well, so that’s something else to consider when you’re decorating a room and want to add some character to a neutral space. The contrast between softness and structure next to lovely, interesting pieces or items can really help, and it’ll make the room a place you want to be in.
Go Slow
You don’t have to decorate a room all in one go, and it’s actually a good idea to let things happen naturally - that means adding one piece, living with it for a bit, and seeing what feels right after that. Maybe you’ll love it, maybe you’ll decide it’s not for you, but once it’s all settled in, that’s the time to take the next step or do the next thing, not before.
