How to Infuse Life into Our Grey World with Colour
BY ROXY ALLNUTT
Breaking free from monotony
11 OCT - 2023
Who else is getting bored?
In a world increasingly characterised by monochromatic aesthetics and the relentless march of consumerism, it's about time we pause and contemplate the repercussions of these trends on our culture and self-expression. Reflecting on one of my previous articles that explored the "Greyer World" we live in, let's break free from the muted shades that have engulfed our homes and lives. In this piece, I'll delve deep into the vibrant realm of colour and drama within interior design and how it has the power to breathe new life into our living spaces and individuality.
Consider the stark contrast between the 'modern homes' of the 70’s and 80’s and the residences of today. A research group employing cutting-edge machine learning techniques embarked on a journey to track the evolution of colours in everyday materials and items, spanning from the 1800’s to our contemporary era. What they uncovered was a disconcerting trend: colour is disappearing from our world. This revelation compels us to wonder whether, as consumers, we have grown nervous to stand out in a crowd.
For years, minimalism and neutral hues have ruled the interior design landscape. That has been changing as more people work from home and want more individuality in their private spaces. People are opting for eye-catching colours, distinct textures, and curvy furniture. Let me say it for the ones in the back… colour isn’t an all-or-nothing game. Even when used in small doses, bright and bold hues can instantly liven up a space and create a fun, joyful atmosphere. Colour and pattern can take a neutral room from blah to beautiful. So, if you’re a colour-shy neutral loyalist or a colour maximalist unsure of where to start, I’m here to tell you that there are plenty of easy ways to master colour in your home.
Start with Inspiration
To start your colour journey, I recommend looking at #interiordesigncore on TikTok and loading your Pinterest feed with things you love. Dull and drab colours can make you feel unenthused, whereas more saturated colours can help uplift your spirit. Pinterest is a great place to save pictures of design trends that you like, and the images are great to show to contractors or designers when you get serious about remodelling your home. But if you’re trying to find that perfect accessory to go with your breakfast nook, Pinterest and TikTok have the answers.
Chatty’s Interior Pinterest Board
Using Patterns and Colours
A bold, patterned rug can effortlessly elevate the aesthetic of a white-themed room while also providing inspiration for the entire colour scheme. In such a setting, the area rug and the surrounding textiles may feature different patterns, but they share a harmonious colour palette that complements one another. To maintain balance and prevent overwhelming visual chaos, selecting furniture with solid fabrics within this colour scheme serves as an anchoring element. For instance, a striking blue chair paired with a leather-top coffee table creates a harmonious blend of patterns and solids, revitalising the space.
Balancing Bright and Neutral
Achieving a livable yet vibrant look in a room involves skillfully combining bright colours with strong neutrals. This juxtaposition allows peppy pink, lime green, and yellow to infuse energy into the space, all while resting on a foundation of assertive neutrals. You'll find these neutrals in various elements, from a classic brown chair to a grey sofa, dark wood floors, and black light fixtures. This harmonious interplay of bold and neutral elements creates a dynamic and inviting environment that's both visually stimulating and comfortable.
The Power of Symmetry
A simple yet effective approach to infusing colour into a room involves committing to two primary hues and distributing them evenly throughout the space. Consider a scenario where bold blue and orange accessories take centre stage in visually stunning symmetry. An eye-catching, warm orange couch paired with warm wood panelling directs attention toward the room's focal point, making the blue and orange pairing even more captivating. To add an element of surprise and visual interest, opt for asymmetrical art pieces that feature the same colour scheme, allowing for a captivating and balanced composition.
Onboarding these design strategies are effective and creative ways to incorporate colour and drama into your living spaces, aligning perfectly with the theme of breaking free from monochromatic trends and embracing a vibrant, individualistic approach to interior design.
While I personally cherish the serenity of my neutral-toned home, I must acknowledge the possibility that in an era inundated with stimulation, a calm sanctuary could be precisely what we need. The digital age subjects us to a constant barrage of colours through advertisements, television programming, and mobile applications. The ceaseless bombardment has transformed a neutral haven from a luxury into a necessity.
Designers agree that the trend right now is to rebel a little bit and stand out. When times are hard with the economy or with excessive layoffs, people tend to turn to house projects to put their worries at ease. Nonetheless, this article serves as a call, urging us to contemplate the repercussions of consumerism on our cultural identity and individuality. It implores us all to reassess our relationship with colour and consumerism.
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