8 Neutral Color Palettes Designers Swear By

Ever wondered why neutral color palettes are so popular? They bring effortless ambiance, simplicity, and versatility into your home like nothing else. Let’s explore what makes neutrals a designer favorite and how you can use them to create beautiful spaces!

What Colors Are Considered Neutrals?

Classy shades of cream in a living room by Decorilla — Classy shades of cream paired with dark woods in a living room by **Decorilla**

Neutral colors are hues that don’t fall within traditional color categories like primary or secondary colors. Instead, they provide a soft, balanced backdrop, making them extremely versatile for stylish interior design. Some common neutral shades include white, beige, taupe, gray, brown, and even muted tones of green and blue. For example, a neutral beige color palette might consist of creamy whites, soft tans, and sandy browns. Warm neutral paint colors often add a cozy, inviting feel, while cool neutral tones provide a calm, modern vibe.

Pro Tip: Style your neutral color palette to align with your favorite interior design style. Not sure what that is? Take our Free Interior Design Style Quiz to find out today!

Designer-Approved Neutral Color Palettes

Neutral color palettes define this transitional space by Decorilla — Neutral color palettes define this transitional space by **Decorilla**

Neutral color palettes are adaptable to almost any design style and any home. Whether you prefer earthy neutral paint colors or cool, modern tones, there’s a neutral scheme to fit your style. Here are the subtle differences to help you easily create the exact ambiance you desire.

1. Warm Neutrals with a Cozy Twist

Earthy tones and wood create a cozy rustic living room by Decorilla — Earthy tones and wood create a cozy rustic living room by **Decorilla**

For spaces where you want to feel extra comfortable, consider using warm neutral colors like soft beige, taupe, and creamy white. These shades pair beautifully with wooden furniture and warm lighting, creating a welcoming atmosphere. These kinds of warm neutrals are perfect for a living room color scheme, adding coziness without overwhelming the senses.

Warm beige tones in a bright study by Decorilla — Warm beige tones in a bright study by **Decorilla**

Paint Colors to Try:

Sherwin Williams—Accessible Beige
Benjamin Moore—Natural Linen
Farrow & Ball—Slipper Satin

2. Cool Neutrals for a Modern Vibe

Soft pastels and grays complete this neutral palette by Decorilla — Soft pastels and grays complete this neutral palette by **Decorilla**

If you prefer a sleek, contemporary look, opt for cool neutral color palettes with shades of gray, soft blue, and charcoal. These tones give a fresh, airy feel to any room and work exceptionally well with modern furnishings and minimalist decor. Add also touches of chrome or metal finishes to enhance the trendy appeal.

Taupe and cream neutrals in a living room by Decorilla — Taupe and cream neutrals in a living room by **Decorilla**

Paint Colors to Try:

Sherwin Williams—Repose Gray
Benjamin Moore—Gray Owl
Behr Silver—Drop

3. Neutral Browns for Earthy Warmth

Cream and muted brown neutrals bring depth to this room by Decorilla — Cream and muted brown neutrals bring depth to this room by **Decorilla**

Create a space that feels grounded with a neutral brown color palette, featuring shades like chocolate, tan, and mocha. These colors bring a touch of nature indoors, making them ideal for rustic or boho-themed rooms. Use this palette in your living areas for a warm, earthy vibe that invites you to relax.

A neutral beige palette pairs with wood beautifully in this interior design by Decorilla — A neutral beige palette pairs with wood beautifully in this interior design by **Decorilla**

Paint Colors to Try:

Sherwin Williams—Latte
Benjamin Moore—Kona
BehrMocha—Foam

4. Soft Neutrals for a Gentle Touch

Light taupe and white brighten this airy space by Decorilla — Light taupe and white brighten an airy space by **Decorilla**

For those who love a light, airy feel, a soft neutral color palette with gentle pastels and light gray undertones is the way to go. This scheme works wonders in nurseries, bedrooms, or any room where you want to create a sense of calm. The softness of these tones makes them perfect for blending, even with other warm neutral colors.

Warm browns and ivory make a classy yet cozy living area by Decorilla — Warm browns and ivory make a classy yet cozy living area by **Decorilla**

Paint Colors to Try:

Sherwin Williams—Alabaster
Benjamin Moore—Sea Pearl
Farrow & Ball—Wimborne White

5. Modern Neutrals for a Trendy Space

Soft greiges define this neutral color palette interior designs by Decorilla — Soft greiges define this interior designs by **Decorilla**

A modern neutral color palette often includes shades like greige (a mix of gray and beige), muted olives, and light stone colors. These tones give a chic, understated organic look while maintaining a sense of coziness. If you aim to make a statement, consider pairing this palette with black accents for a stylish contrast that’s sure to impress.

Neutral color scheme in a bedroom by Decorilla — Neutral color scheme in a bedroom by **Decorilla**

Paint Colors to Try:

Sherwin Williams—Agreeable Gray
Benjamin Moore—Edgecomb Gray
Behr—Greige

6. Warm Neutrals for the Kitchen

Sand tones warm up this contemporary kitchen by Decorilla — Sand tones warm up a contemporary kitchen by **Decorilla**

Want a kitchen that feels both fresh and inviting? Warm neutral kitchen colors like creamy whites, warm grays, and soft browns are your answer. This palette pairs beautifully with natural wood cabinets, gold hardware, and marble countertops, giving your kitchen that timeless appeal.

Light beige neutral palette softens contrasts in a kitchen by Decorilla — Light beige neutral palette softens contrasts in a kitchen by **Decorilla**

Paint Colors to Try:

Sherwin Williams—Dover White
Benjamin Moore—Revere Pewter
BehrSoft—Linen

7. Pops of Green with Neutral Undertones

Neutral green tones of sage and moss in a dining room by Decorilla — Neutral green tones of sage and moss in a dining room by **Decorilla**

For a fresh take on neutrals, try incorporating muted greens into your decor. A neutral green color palette combines warm and earthy tones with soft sage greens or olive hues. This stylish blend brings a hint of nature indoors without overwhelming your space.

A neutral color palette with gray sage accents in a bathroom by Decorilla — A neutral color palette with gray sage accents in a bathroom by **Decorilla**

Paint Colors to Try:

Sherwin Williams—Evergreen Fog
Benjamin Moore—Sagebrush
Behr—Nature’s Gift

8. Bold Contrast with Dark Neutrals

A bold neutral scheme in a great room by Decorilla — A bold neutral scheme in a great room by **Decorilla**

Lastly, a dark neutral color palette featuring deep grays, charcoal, and dark browns adds drama and sophistication. Use these shades as accent walls, furniture upholstery, or flooring to create a bold contrast against lighter hues. Pair them with metallic accents like brushed brass or chrome for a refined Art Deco touch.

Slate gray and charcoal balance this chic space by Decorilla — Slate gray and charcoal balance this chic space by **Decorilla**

Paint Colors to Try:

Sherwin Williams—Iron Ore
Benjamin Moore—Kendall Charcoal
Farrow & Ball—Railings

Need help making neutral color palettes work for your home?

Our team of design experts can turn your neutral dreams into reality, creating spaces that feel uniquely yours. Book your Free Online Interior Design Consultation to get started today!