Designing With A Monochromatic Palette

In the pursuit of sophisticated design with visual interest, we find monochromatic color schemes. This trend offers the ease of built-in harmony and a distinction from the design trends of the past.  

 Evolution of Trends

With a style motto of "ultra neutral sophisticated boho California cool," the past decade highlighted beige, gray, and other pale colors. Monochrome spaces saw layers of neutrals and hygge-inspired minimalism. This contrasts with the warm colors and jewel-tones that are becoming popular today.

Marked by a post-recession mindset, the 2010’s focused on safe choices in color, pattern, and fabric. Now we have bolder choices like rich velvet and statement interior doors.  Neutrals are still appealing though, and many are choosing to stick with their soothing tones.

Getting Started With Color

When starting on a monochromatic space, choosing your base color is key. Once selected, everything else will come together seamlessly. While "monochrome" literally means "one color," monochromatic design uses variations of a base color to create interest and unity. Vibrant colors like Classic Blue offer a bolder visual impact than the neutral palettes of past years. Color theory is important to consider when deciding on your base color.

Limiting a space to one color scheme helps create a soothing environment. This is because the brain will have less stimulation to process. For the most part, cooler colors are relaxing while warm colors energize. The tone and value of each hue can affect this reaction.  

Key Color Terms

Color - also called hue, color refers to the appearance of an object based on how it reacts to light.

Value - describes how light or dark a color is.

Tint - adding white to a color to lighten its value.

Shade - adding black to a color to darken its value.

Tone - adding gray to a color to mute its value.  

Principles For Effective Design

When you are getting started with a monochromatic design, a small space is easiest. Bathrooms are perfect for this treatment as the limited palette will give it a Zen spa feeling.

To keep shades from blending together, layer textures and patterns. Sticking to one color keeps everything cohesive while giving you the freedom to experiment. Remember that white and black are values of any hue so these will always accent your space well.  

As you embrace the experience of working in monochrome you will fall in love with the elegant simplicity this trend offers.