A monochrome interior, based on one colour and its various shades and hues, radiates peace and harmony. However, it can also appear dull or cold if it is not carefully designed. With the right approach, you can create a warm, inviting space that is anything but monotonous. Where to start? How much of a single color is too much? What can be done to bring out the undertones of a palette? In this article, I’ll take you step-by-step through creating a monochromatic interior that’s not only stylish, but also feels warm and inviting.
Image via Instagram: Moredesign
Step 1: Choose your base color
The first step in creating a successful monochrome interior is to choose a base colour. This can be a favourite colour or a shade that appeals to you and fits well with the space. When choosing a base color, it is important to consider the different shades, nuances, and surfaces in the room. Consider how the color will relate to floors, ceilings, furniture, and accessories to create a cohesive and inviting monochromatic interior. The right choice of color is crucial because it sets the tone for the rest of the design. When choosing earthy tones, colours such as beige, brown and taupe offer warmth and a natural look to a monochrome interior. White and off-white create a light and spacious feeling. They are also ideal for smaller spaces and can easily be combined with different textures. A popular choice is green because of the wide variety of tones and its natural look. Our eye can distinguish more shades of green than other colours, which creates a rich and vibrant effect.
Image via Pinterest: Lynda Gardener for Bauwerk Colour
Step 2: Vary in shades
A monochromatic palette doesn’t have to be boring. By playing with different shades and hues of your base color, you can create contrast and depth. Consider mixing light and dark shades to accent certain elements in the room. This will add visual interest and prevent the space from becoming monotonous. Choose items that have darker shades of your base color and items that have lighter shades of the same color. The important thing is that they are all in the same color family. For example, place a dark green sofa with light green cushions against a pine green wall. This will create a dynamic effect.
Image via Pinterest: Colin King
Step 3: Accentuate with neutral colors
While the emphasis is on one main color, neutral tones such as beige, cream or gray can help to add warmth and balance without disrupting the monochromatic effect. These neutral tones can also serve to soften or emphasize certain areas of the room.
Image via Architectural Digest Kim Kardashian's home
Step 4: Material and texture for added depth
With limited colour choices, the emphasis is on materials and textures. By combining different materials and textures, you add depth and dimension without deviating from your chosen colour palette. Think contrasts such as smooth silk next to raw wool, or shiny metal against matt wood. This creates visual variation within your colour palette. Use natural materials such as wood, natural stone, leather, linen, sisal, jute, wicker and pottery to add warmth and character. Even within one material you can use different textures to create subtle variation.
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Step 5: Accentuate with accessories and decorative elements
Accessories such as cushions, vases, decorations and artwork can complete a monochrome interior. It is important that these decorative elements remain within the same colour family to maintain a cohesive effect. This creates a subtle but thoughtful addition to the space.
Image via A1000xBetter | Michael PH Clifford
Step 6: Add life with plants
Plants are an easy way to add life and a natural element to a monochromatic interior. They also improve air quality. Greens often work well with most colour palettes and can help brighten up a space without disrupting the harmony.
Image via Instagram Pure & Original Paint x KOI Color Studio | Kirsten Visdal | Margaret M. de Lange
7: Strategic lighting for the right atmosphere
Good lighting is essential in any interior, but in a monochromatic design it can play a particularly important role. Different light sources, such as natural light, ceiling lights and mood lighting, can emphasise the nuances of the different tones in the room. Experiment with lighting to create interesting shadows and to accentuate certain elements and textures.
Image via Pinterest: Bert Frank
Step 8: Make it personal
A monochrome interior can be timeless, but it is important to make it personal and unique. Add character with vintage finds, artwork or special pieces that appeal to you. Feel free to take a look at the current collection of SelectedBy.
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Step 9: Dare to break rules
Although a monochromatic interior is all about one color, that doesn’t mean you can’t add bold accents. A contrasting accent piece, like a brightly colored armchair, can bring a surprising and dynamic element to the space. This not only adds visual interest, but also makes the interior unique and personal.
Conclusion
A monochrome interior can be both calming and vibrant, depending on how you style the space. By carefully choosing colors, materials, textures, and lighting, you can create a cohesive and inviting space. Let your creativity flow and make your monochrome interior a harmonious, warm, and timeless place to enjoy every day.