When it comes to color palettes, many homes fall into two categories: neutral or not. In my own environment, I like to live with both approaches. As I’ve said before, I love color in other homes, but subtle tones have a soothing effect on me. Still, colorful elements also found their way into my rooms through the years. When you buy what you love, the pieces often share traits that help them work as a whole.

Having a neutral backdrop can be another benefit. Our walls may be white for the most part, but the living room comes to life with the contrast between black and tan furniture and the yellow and gold art and other accents.

White walls also appear in the kitchen after a failed attempt at yellow. Cobalt blue elements stand out when paired with neutral cabinets and countertops. Vintage

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