Exclusive: Michelle Keegan says there is always space for this one accessory – it should be the finishing touch in every room

2024 is the year of Fool Me Once – one of the most talked-about Netflix shows of the moment – and with it comes an international celebration of Michelle Keegan. The actress may be synonymous with the screen, but there is more to her résumé than her TV career. The most recent addition? Homeware designer.

Keegan has teamed up with British-based brand Very to launch a collection of furnishings that pay homage to the versatility (and eternal appeal) of a neutral color palette. The partnership is a reminder of how decorating with neutrals translates to every style of home – whether we're looking for an unintrusive base for our maximalist prints or we're opting for a wholly bright, minimalist space.

It is perhaps impossible to go too far wrong with neutrals, but with the right styling, we can use them to create an elevated, designer-approved space. According to Keegan, the secret is pairing soft neutrals with statement indoor plants.

'I often find that when I think I've finished styling a room, there is always space for adding in some house plants – it really brings the space to life and helps elevate those corners of a room you aren't sure what to do with,' Keegan explains. 'I have so many gorgeous plant pots in my Very Home collection that are great for this; I especially love this pot, which instantly makes a space feel more luxurious.'

Indoor plants are an organic, time-honored way to add interest to a neutral room, but Keegan reassures that we can also add pockets of vibrancy using textured accessories, including cushions and throws.

'I love a neutral color palette, and I really believe a blank canvas is a perfect place to start when styling a room. It allows me to look at adding small pops of color and interesting textures, which really bring the space alive,' Keegan comments.

'I would definitely encourage people not to be scared of using a lot of varying textures, even simple touches such as a concrete-textured candle holder or an embroidered quilt. These little additions really help elevate a space and add a bit of excitement to a neutral color palette. Plus, I think textured furnishings make everything feel a lot cozier.'

With this in mind, it's important to remember that textures begin on the floor. In her home, Keegan goes lighter, as she aims to keep her rooms as bright as possible – starting with her rug.

'I try and avoid using a lot of darker colors as having a bright and airy room is so important for me. This is why I've been enjoying these lighter-colored rugs from my home collection – they are so fab for a clean look whilst still feeling very homely.'

Shop H&G's neutral edit

A neutral palette, as Keegan suggests, is effortlessly timeless, making all furnishings a safe investment. Here are some more of our favorite acsessories that are shoppable below.