Why I'm Crazy About Neutral Colors for Home Decorating

Organic, natural colors range from white to black; this includes greys and browns. Not to mention, decorators are including pale greens and yellows as the 'new' neutrals. It is easiest and in best advice to use neutrals on large items such as carpets, walls, and furniture. Large items are hard to change so it makes the most sense to keep them neutral and add bright, colorful accessories which can be changed out more easily. If you are afraid of bold colors, you can stick to an all neutral palette. However if you do this make sure you choose a variety of different textures, such as leather, suede, silk, and bamboo.

Now, here are four reason why I absolutely love neutral colors and use them in my own home!

Neutral colors never go out of style. We see many trends come and go, but neutral colors are here to stay. Due to this little fact, it is most important to use neutral colors in carpet, tile and appliances. You want to use neutral colors whenever you are about to invest a great deal of money to see your dollar well spent as well as a future return on your investment. Using neutrals on major accessories is timeless as well as stylish.

Neutral colors connect you with nature. It is becoming more and more popular to 'bring the outside in.' It's all a concept of the 'Green' and 'Zen' movement and relying on natural materials to be more environmentally friendly. When using natural colors in order to feel a connection with nature don't just rely on wall and furniture color. Think about natural textures such as bamboo, stone, wood and metal.

Neutral colors make the resale of a home much easier. Neutral colors appeal to everyone and give consumers a 'move-in feel.' Bright, bold colors do not always appeal to everyone and they may be discouraged to buy if they feel like they will have to repaint. Although, if you can't resist bold colors I won't discourage you to paint away. However, if you do decide to sell I would encourage you to consider repainting in a cream or beige to be more appealing to home buyers.

Neutral colors allow you to accessorize with small bits of dramatic color. For example, my favorite color combination is tan, cream and turquoise. I think it is a beautiful combination and currently use that color coordination in my living room. I have a big, bright turquoise painting above my couch that contrasts so well with the tan walls and cream couch. And if I ever get tired of the turquoise, it will be much easier to change my accessories than the couch and wall colors.