Although experts rarely agree on anything, I have seen a number of articles lately extolling the virtue of neutral bedroom colors to improve sleep patterns.  There is a strong correlation between restful sleep and general good health, and bedroom colors (and décor!) can be a significant part of that puzzle.  Life can be stressful, so it’s important to make your bedroom an oasis for rejuvenation and relaxation!

Fortunately, “neutral” doesn’t need to be synonymous with dull or boring.  The term certainly took a beating with the rise of farmhouse style (so much white with a little black!) and the sterile grey-on-grey-on-grey era, but its back for 2022 and it’s better than ever.  While choosing color palettes can be incredibly tricky, there are some great options to make a warm, cozy bedroom without sacrificing pizazz.   Here are a few designer-inspired tricks to create a neutral oasis that isn’t lackluster:

Tip 1: Pick Your Neutrals

Neutral doesn’t mean just white and ivory!  The four neutrals are usually considered to be white, grey, black, and brown, but there are really more like eight neutrals including beige, ivory, taupe, gray, cream, brown, black, and white.  And they all look great together!  PRO TIP: The way we view paint color changes with the light.  Much like our skin, there are warm neutrals (with green and yellow undertones) and cool neutrals (with pink and blue undertones).  The amount of light your room gets will help determine which warmth of neutrals to lean towards – generally, warm for more light and cool for less light.

Tip 2: Look for Contrast

Many interior designers will opt for lighter colors in the bedrooms and bolder colors in hallways and attached bathrooms. This gives almost a “jewel box” effect when the brighter colors are viewed through the bedroom doorways.  It can be a significant contrast or a subtle one, but you’ll notice the effect!  PRO TIP: Another way to invite contrast in a neutral bedroom scheme is with the ceiling and floor.  A darker tone on the ceiling will make the room feel cozier, while a pattered or textured rug can bring in vibrancy and contrast.

Tip 3: Mix & Layer

The key to visual appeal in a neutral space is combining materials, textures and tones.  This creates depth and warmth that goes beyond color.  Look for knitted throws, nubby pillows and natural fibers like rattan, bark cloth and fur.  Another great way to bring in interest is monochromatic patterns in rugs, art and furniture!  PRO TIP:  When curating a neutral palette, always look to nature.  Warm and earthy browns, wood tones and other natural elements are always serene and restful.

BONUS TIP: Maximize natural resources!  Make use of natural light and choose window trimmings that allow as much in as much light as possible.  If your space lacks natural light, work with what you have and accentuate it with mirrors and other reflective surfaces that will help “bounce” the light around the room.