Especially the neutral ones! We call neutral rooms a lot of things: "soothing," "boring," "lacking," but what we don't hear very often is "dramatic." Unless, of course, we're talking about neutral rooms graced with a bit of black. Black is that magical shade capable of snapping life into the mildest of rooms.

The more colorful my life becomes, the more I appreciate the tranquil effect of neutrals at home— not boring beige, but restful grays, peaceful ivories, and serene earth-tones. However, I've found that it's all too easy to cross the line between calm and mushy when it comes to decorating with these muted hues. Thankfully, a little black, whether it be in the form of a large piece of furniture (pictures 1, 2, 6) or a subtle accent (pictures 4, 7, 8), goes a long way. In a rustic room it adds refinement, in sophisticated one it adds edge, and like the little black dress, it goes with just about everything!

(Images: 1, 4: Country Living, 2,8: Elle Decor, 3: Australian House & Garden via My Notting Hill, 5: Elle Decoration, 6: home life, 7: Traditional Home)

You might also like