Why Neutral Homes Are The Most Cost-Saving Interior Style

August 4, 2017

Even though it doesn’t seem like it at first, neutral themes provide the freedom to mix décor styles and truly make it your own. It’s gentle, calming and homely but it can also be superbly elegant and upscale in certain settings.

Neutrals may sometimes be given an unfair rep of being a little boring and common. But when done well, this theme can turn any home into a style haven that's timeless as well. Who knew that unassuming neutral tones held such power? Well, these 10 effortlessly stylish homes stuck with the neutral theme and it sure paid off! See what we mean:

1. Southern Marina

Interior Designer: Nice Style Refurbishment

This lovely modern condo has its genteelness emphasised with pretty neutrals, almost everywhere. From ivory tile flooring to light taupe drapes and whitewashed furniture, these neutral elements add natural warmth and refinement to the overall décor. You might also notice a slight contrast with darker wood panelling, which does its duty and gives the room structure.

2. Vortex KLCC 3

Interior Designer: Movent Signature Design

The calm and relaxed vibe that neutrals are capable of is definitely reflected in the stylings of this contemporary condo. Notice how the choice for bare tones like these open up smaller spaces and lends airiness to the area. We also love the grey velvet materials chosen for the sofa and dining chairs that actively kicks up a bit of drama in an elegant way!

3. Windows On The Park

Interior Designer: Hatch Interior Studio

Even, layered lighting is vital when playing up neutrals. This is because the colour can seem lifeless or plain without soft, warm illumination to enliven it. Incandescent or warm white lighting is a good option for interiors with neutral palettes. Do also choose less adorned lighting fixtures and be sure to mix up the styles (e.g. a combo of pendant lights, and recessed and diffused lighting) to create a warmer effect.

4. Taman SA, Bangsar

Interior Designer: Rosamund Sparks

Neutrals don’t always have to be bright and light - in fact, if you’re into something a little duskier – you can follow the stylings of this contemporary landed home. While lighter materials can make a space appear bigger, in already spacious homes, you might want to draw space inward instead. This will create a cosier atmosphere and cooler overall look. In this home, we see mixed materials in dark wood and shadowy marble that brings an edge to the typical nice-guy neutral.

5. Hulu Langat

Interior Designer: SQFT Space Design Management

There’s an innate richness and romance to this style of neutrals which will draw you in and make you want to spend all of your time at home. There’s a touch of everything in this home from dainty Scandi features to more masculine industrial elements, which you can see in the materials, colours and accents chosen. And that’s something else to love about neutrals – you can combine a few of your favourite décor styles and have it come together, seamlessly.

6. Stafford, Setia Eco Glades

Interior Designer: Pocket Square

Minimalists love neutrals and with the impeccable décor of this landed home, you’ll understand why! The mix of whites and light wood give this home an unmatched freshness. There’s a ton of life in this décor as the brightness of natural light and optimistic whites come together. Accent colours are an essential part of any neutral décor and we see it here with a single blue-grey armchair in the hall area.

7. Setia Ecohill

Interior Designer: SQFT Space Design Management

Stepping away from minimalism, we enter this fun, almost eclectic-modern-contemporary landed home that uses neutrals in a more exaggerated manner and it works! With dramatic accent pieces and ornate furnishing, the neutral colour scheme takes a backseat to the décor but in a supremely complementary way. We see it come together with darker undertones in black and brown hues, even dark voile curtains. The result is neutral perfection!

8. Pavilion Suites, Taiping

Interior Designer: EDI: Essential Design Integrated

As the neutral scheme itself doesn’t draw much attention, there is an opportunity to decorate more. You can go bigger with lighting pieces (e.g. chandeliers), choose heftier, fuller furniture or even install attention-grabbing feature walls. You can also add an assortment of embellished elements and still get away with it, just like in this modern-contemporary home!

9. Palace Court, Kuala Lumpur

Interior Designer: JCS Design Project

If you dream of clean, structured slightly retro décor, the neutral flavours you’ll see in this modern-contemporary condo is sure to float your boat. A ‘less is more’ style is present with simple dark bases and lighter tops. You’ll also see unique grey tones meshed with warm woods and marble materials that give the space an exclusive look.

10. Scenaria Residence

Interior Designer: IQI Concept Interior Design

For a sleek, upscale appearance, nothing beats the union of high-gloss and neutrals! This ‘fact’ is certainly on display in this modern, high-end condo that employs plenty of reflective surfaces (e.g. shiny flooring and mirrored cabinetry) amidst a neutral theme. It’s lovely to see such balance between ‘cold’ materials and warm undertones both play its part to lend style and warmth!


Neutral homes are more up your alley?

Whether it's coming up with a timeless look that will last the ages, or simply being practical with your style choices, we can match you up with 5 interior firms for free - based on your budget and style.

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