Sofia Vergara's living room is a masterclass on styling neutrals in a way that will never feel boring
The quietly luxurious space is a reminder that most versatile palettes are simultaneously among the most stylish
Neutrals, known for their ever-versatile qualities and soothing undertones, work almost too well in every room – so how can we ensure they don't fall on the wrong side of boring? Let's start with Sofia Vergara's lead.
The Griselda actress and (unintentional) color maestro shared her ability to decorate with neutrals while keeping her space interesting with varying textures, statement artwork, and a large houseplant. These elements ensure she can enjoy the benefits of a white living room while still showcasing her personality (in the chicest ways possible, naturally).
Among their many benefits, people turn to neutrals as an eternally safe choice that doesn't require risk, but as Sofia demonstrates, we can still inject pockets of color through artwork and accessories (instead of large wall areas). And interior designers agree.
A post shared by Sofia Vergara (@sofiavergara)
A photo posted by on
'If you're not confident with color, introduce accent colors in smaller areas to brighten a room,' comments designer Clara Ewart.
'Whether it is a trim on a headboard or cushion, a window frame, a favorite piece of painted furniture, or a colorful picture frame, these small pops of color lift a space, and you can introduce more as your confidence grows.'
Clare is the head of London-based interior design studio, Kitesgrove. The practice work on a variety of projects, from private client homes and family offices to residential and commercial spaces.
As mentioned, Sofia interrupted her neutral room with vibrant-hued artwork and natural greenery – both of which are replicable in our homes.
'Colorful artwork is a brilliant way to add bold, surprising shades of color to a room. Artwork can often be the starting point for a scheme, setting the color palette and atmosphere without taking the room over,' Clara notes. 'Similarly, rugs can pull different colors in a room together as well as bring inviting texture underfoot.'
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.
A post shared by Sofia Vergara (@sofiavergara)
A photo posted by on
Another way we can add instant interest to our light-toned neutrals? Create a monochromatic juxtaposition with dark accessories. Sofia has not experimented with too many dark features (stand-out elements only include her coffee table books), but as Clara explains, we can also do so with black and white furniture.
'Neutrals, including off-white, black, brown, and grey, are vital to any palette due to their versatile nature. Use shades of grey and brown as a calming backdrop for a bold, stand-out piece of furniture, and add some dark drama with black.'
Shop our neutral living room edit
Inspired by Sofia? We can buy into the same look with these handpicks below.
This ivory rug will work well in a neutral living room. The design is understated, but never boring: the stonewash effect of the slightly raised threads creates tonal highs and lows.
Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens. She first joined Future Plc as a News Writer across their interiors titles, including Livingetc and Real Homes, before becoming H&G's News Editor in April 2022. She now leads the Celebrity/ News team. Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and an expansive collection of houseplants.
-
Lewis Hamilton's unorthodox Christmas tree uses an elevated, festive trend that's dominating in 2024 – and it's so easy to recreate his look
The F1 driver uses an unconventional light color to add an air of luxury to his fun Christmas tree design – get his look starting at $10
By Sophie Edwards Published
-
What is insulation paint? HVAC and paint pros reveal whether it's a cheap fix or a DIY disaster
Our experts warn this alternative to traditional insulation won't have a significant impact alone
By Ottilie Blackhall Published