In decorating magazines and blogs today there is so much talk of colorful decorating and pops of bright colors.  This might make you think everyone is decorating their homes in washes of strong colors and bold accents. This isn’t the case. Many people prefer to use neutral colors and whites in their interiors. No matter whether this is a preference or a fear of color, You can still create inviting and warm interior using neutrals of creams, white and browns as this living room shows.

The color palette for this room is set by the architectural elements of the fireplace and wood column.  Leaving the stone fireplace and wood column natural lets their beautiful materials be the stars.  The two colors are then carried throughout the furnishings, curtains and flooring to create a well designed room.

The wood of the column is repeated on the coffee table. The warm hue also becomes an accent color in the area rug below the coffee table.  The rug ties in both the cream of the walls and furniture along with the stone fireplace and wood colors.

Using different shades of neutrals creates a layered look.  Pattern and texture can add interest like they do in this living room.  The pattern of the rug as well as the texture of the wood, stone and upholstery mix together to make for a more lively design.  Adding patterned throw pillows to the seating or a bit of the wood or stone color would bring more interest to the cream upholstered sofa and chairs.