Sharon Stone's pink throw pillows are the perfect accent for a neutral living room – the power color goes beyond trends

For some pink is not just a color; it's a lifestyle. Pink decor is a powerful tool in the home, instantly brightening and boosting the mood in any space it is placed in. While it fluctuates in popularity as design trends come and go (we are talking about you, Barbiecore), we believe that it can be the ultimate burst of color in a space.

Case in point: Sharon Stone's living room. While the Basic Instinct actor's room is painted gray, we couldn't help but notice the pops of pink of her accent pillows on the sofas. A beautiful bouquet of flowers sitting next to her white table lamp brings another burst of color.

The space is filling our heads with pink room ideas, so we got insight from an expert on how you can use this punchy shade in your living rooms (and homes in general). The power pink has is undeniable; it truly transforms any space depending on which shade you choose.

'Decorating with pink accents in the living room is a bold, yet elegant way to introduce warmth and personality into your space,' says Westchester-based designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'Whether you’re drawn to soft blush hues or vibrant fuchsias, pink can transform a room into a welcoming, energetic, or even serene haven, depending on how you incorporate it.'

She continues, 'Pink, in all its forms, brings warmth and softness to a living room, often creating an inviting, nurturing environment. Lighter shades like pale pink and peach can promote a relaxed, tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reading or enjoying intimate conversations. On the other hand, more intense pinks, such as fuchsia or magenta, bring vibrancy and energy to a space, making them ideal for social areas where liveliness and conversation are encouraged. Beyond mood-setting, pink is also a color linked to creativity, compassion, and comfort. In a living room, it feels welcoming and fosters a sense of emotional connection, whether through soft accents like throw blankets and pillows or statement pieces such as art and furniture.'

You might be wondering: what colors go with pink? A perk of pink is that it is highly compatible with a variety of colors. First and foremost, of course, is neutrals.

'Pink’s versatility shines when paired with neutral tones like white, beige, and gray,' Lichtenstein explains. 'These shades allow pink to be the focal point while maintaining a calm and balanced atmosphere. For example, a blush pink throw pillow on a charcoal sofa creates a striking yet soothing contrast.'

Alternatively, nature's color palette is also a great partner for pink. 'To give your living room a grounded, nature-inspired feel, pair pink with earthy hues like terracotta, sage green, and warm browns,' Lichtenstein states. 'This combination evokes a modern rustic ambiance that remains fresh and inviting.'

For a truly luxe look, you can't go wrong with gold. 'If you’re aiming for a more luxurious, glamorous look, combine pink with metallics such as gold, copper, or bronze. A pink velvet chair with gold accents or a soft pink rug with metallic throw pillows can instantly elevate the space in a sophisticated way.'

There are several ways to incorporate pink into the living space, whether you want to start small like Stone with a throw pillow, or opt for paint. 'If you’re hesitant to commit to a full room makeover, start with a pink accent wall,' Lichtenstein says. 'This can add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. A light blush or coral tone can give the room a refreshed look, especially when paired with neutral furniture.

Alternatively, 'Add pink through soft furnishings like rugs, cushions, and throws. A pink area rug can anchor a room, while blush pink pillows on a neutral sofa can provide just the right amount of color contrast. If you’re bold enough, consider incorporating pink furniture, such as a velvet pink sofa or a pink accent chair. This adds a feeling of luxury and modernity to the room while also making a statement.'

Try pairing pink throw pillows with a gray sofa like Stone for a perfectly neutral look. Whatever the season, whatever the trends, pink is always in style.