Updating Monochromatic Decor but Keeping the Effect

Monochromatic Color Schemes

Color, and lots of it, is in, and the popularity of monochromatic color schemes is fading fast. However, if you love the understated elegance and soothing feel of your monochromatic decor there are some things you can do to update it without losing the overall effect.

First, keep in mind that monochromatic does not mean that every item has to be exactly the same color. You can add several different shades of a particular color and create a tasteful tone on tone look. Your room will retain the same calming essence, but it will gain some visual interest.

If you decided on a monochromatic color scheme in order to make a small room seem larger, don't worry. A tone on tone scheme will still help you achieve the same feel, and adding more lighting will also help your space appear larger.

Another way to add interest and give your room some depth is to add patterns and textures. Fabrics, in different tones as well as different prints are more eye-catching and help move the eye around the room. The key to mixing patterns is to use similar shades of color, and similar sized patterns. Texture breaks up the monotony and gives the space some character. A wicker chair, a mosaic accent table, a hand carved wooden box, a couple of leather pillows, or a thick, luxurious rug will quickly change the feel of the space.

To really move things forward, add an occasional punch of color. Some bright pillows and a new throw, or artwork with a splash of vivid color will add instant warmth.

The key to keeping the tasteful, understated feel of a monochromatic room while updating with color, is to make sure the new colors are also in the same family as each other. For example, if you have white walls and cream-colored furniture, and you choose to add rich red pillows, make sure any other new accents are in the same range of red.

Keep it simple. You don't have to go crazy with color, and you don't have to change everything all at once; you can add a bit of color here and there until you get used to the idea. Before long you may find out that you like the pop of a bright color against the more muted elements of the room. You wouldn't be the first one to surprise your family and friends by switching from your usual creamy whites and beiges to deep, wonderful colors.

Play around with different colors, patterns, and textures until you find what works for you. Remember, it isn't anything permanent, so you can change it if you aren't comfortable with it. The idea is to try something new. That doesn't mean you have to get rid of everything you love, because it isn't "hot" at the moment.

Remember, you are adding another dimension to your decor, rather than taking something away from it.