The world is filled with age-old debates: which came first, the chicken or the egg, and were Ross and Rachel really on a break on the television sitcom Friends? In the design world, one of the great debates is around which color palette is better – neutrals or bold choices.
While we may not be solving the world’s problems by taking a closer look at this question, it may help some homeowners choose the style and color palette for their new home. What hues are included in each color scheme and which may be best for your lifestyle and personality?
What Are Neutral Color Palettes?
According to Master Class online, “The basic neutral color palette is comprised of black, white, brown, and gray, as well as beige, taupe, cream, and greige with varying shades in between. Neutral colors are muted shades that appear to lack color but often have underlying hues that change with different lighting.”
When To Use Neutrals
Real estate agents often advise homeowners to sell a home, the goal is to appeal to the broadest number of potential buyers. Neutral colors can do that. Bold color choices such as reds, bright blues, and purples may be off-putting for some buyers, enough to reconsider a home based on the amount of work they may need to do on it. Re-painting many rooms may dissuade some potential buyers.
Neutrals are also well utilized in main rooms or rooms that connect two rooms. A neutral color can be a great way to decorate multiple rooms that open up to each other and provide a level of coordination between the spaces.
In terms of decor, neutral wall colors allow for a wide variety of colors to be used in furnishings, accent pieces, and artwork. According to Welsh Design Studios, “Neutral wall colors are great if you want to change up your color palette from time to time, and don’t want to repaint your walls.” Neutral colors on the walls provide an opportunity for homeowners to use a pop of color with accent pillows, knick-knacks, or window/floor coverings.
What Are Bold Color Choices?
Take a look at the color wheel or any rainbow and colors such as red, blue, green, orange, yellow, purple, or indigo are considered bold choices for wall color palettes.
When To Use Bold Colors
Bold color choices tend to draw the eye in and create drama around the space. Bright bold colors are best used in spaces where homeowners want to highlight an accent wall or architectural feature.
Colorful rooms allow homeowners to give spaces energy or create a mood. Many bathrooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms are painted in favorite colors that show a personality all their own.
If furnishings in a space such as sofas, built-in bookshelves, and floors tend to be neutral, a bold wall choice may help bring some personality to a space. Accent walls are often painted brighter colors.
Tell us your thoughts on where you stand in the great debate between using neutrals or bold colors on your home’s walls.
