Camila Mendes's minimalist approach to bedroom decor creates a sophisticated sleep space, experts say

The actor uses neutrals to make the space feel cozy and eternally classic, and her look is simple to replicate

Camila Mendes
(Image credit: Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

Trends come and go, but neutrals are forever. That's the message we are getting from actor Camila Mendes' bedroom, anyway.

The actor and star of Riverdale, along with the upcoming film, Musica, posted a photo of her modern, minimalist bedroom featuring wood-paneled floors, a vanilla shag rug, beige walls, and white accessories.

A calming color scheme that evokes the natural world, neutrals are a safe design choice, yes, but also incredibly versatile and customizable.

'It's safe to say that decorating with neutrals is a trend that will never die out,' says Homes & Gardens' editor, Jennifer Ebert. 'Neutrals extend beyond, black, white, and gray, and can veer into warm browns or soft creams,' she says.

Jen Ebert
Jennifer Ebert

Jen is Deputy Editor (Digital) of Homes & Gardens online. Before starting this position, she had completed various courses at KLC Design School, as well as working across Ideal Home, LivingEtc, 25 Beautiful Homes and Country Homes & Interiors as an interiors writer. 

Though on the surface level, neutral paint colors work in any light, it's important to consider the undertones of the neutral to determine which lighting looks best.

'Warm neutrals have a green or yellow undertone and therefore work well in north-facing rooms where they can absorb light,' Jen explains. She also recommends utilizing these subtle hues when working with a historic or architecturally interesting space, as these colors can enhance existing features.

'If you're living in a space that has mid-century modern details or lots of natural wood, then warm neutrals can make the space feel even cozier and sophisticated,' she says. 

Texture is one of the ultimate ways to create visual interest within a neutral-heavy space; think woven chairs, soft rugs (like Camila's), and grainy wood surfaces.

'Natural materials are amazing in several ways: they are often environmentally friendlier, as well as charging our sense with textural interest,' Jen explains. 'Even simple fabrics, like cotton or linen, can create ambiance depending on the item and color,' she says.

Finally, don't be afraid to add pops of color. Even Camila added subtle dashes of color into her bedroom with her metallic green artwork on the wall and maroon bedside table.

'If you're looking to add color to a neutral space, an easy entry-point is earth tones. Dark greens or rusty oranges look fantastic with neutrals, and add some more visual interest,' she explains.


Shop the Camila Mendes-inspired look

Hannah Ziegler
News Editor

Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.

Her love of film is rivalled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.