Great Color Combos: Neon and Neutral
Add a touch or two of neon to a neutral color scheme to make a bold — but not too bold — statement
It's not the first color pairing you might think of, especially this time of year when everything leans toward festive silver and gold touches. But adding a bit of radical neon to a neutral palette is a fresh and exciting way to experiment without getting too crazy. Whether your definition of neutral is cream, beige, white, gray or natural wood, this combination works.
Let's consider the kitchen. It's the life center of many homes. You may think of natural light wood cabinets and steel-gray-tiled floors as safe modern finish choices, but it can feel a little ho hum. Invigorate the space with neon touches: an orange countertop, a shelf element painted green or a striking yellow light fixture. Or why not try all three?
If committing to permanent neon fixtures scares you, bring in some furniture and decorative items such as orange counter stools and a green vase.
Even just one accent wall of chartreuse is enough to energize this kitchen. If you get sick of it, it's easy enough to paint over when the next color trend rolls around.
A chartreuse accent wall works just as well with dark wood and white cabinets and counters.
A lime green pedestal sink looks compelling if not a bit nostalgic for the '80s in this bathroom, paired with simple white walls and a gray penny tile floor. A tiny framed print complements the colorful centerpiece.
The glossy floating vanity in this small bathroom looks super chic.
Punch up an all white bathroom with gray and yellow accents. This gray patterned shower curtain, lemon-yellow martini side table and vintage vanity are fun and feminine.
Here's another instance of chartreuse paired with wood and gray tile. It's actually a natural combination if you think about it: a light green leaf or moss, against the wood bark of a tree, near gray stones on the ground. Painting the inside of a shower stall is a creative and playful way to incorporate the trio.
Furniture is an easy way to update your space. A few candy-hued acrylic chairs around a white table with other white furniture will instantly make your space feel like a trendy boutique hotel.
A bright neon sofa among comforting wood tones is a welcome jolt of color.
Even a colorful neon throw on a gray sofa is enough to contemporize the room.
In the bedroom, neon colors feel fresh and retreat-like with natural tones such as woods, seagrass and creamy whites.
Neons can also add a touch of city cool in the bedroom with grays and whites. Neon comforters and pillows are a noncommittal inexpensive way to dabble with the look.
Here, a light-green ceiling creates an open and bright space.
More: 20 Ways to Add a Little Neon to Your Home
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Pantone Color of 2012: Tangerine Tango
More: 20 Ways to Add a Little Neon to Your Home
Wasabi-Green Spaces that Wow
Pantone Color of 2012: Tangerine Tango