12 Foolproof Ways to Incorporate a Pop of Color Into Any Space

Decorating with neutral colors is a safe, timeless, and chic way to go. On top of that, it seems as though minimalistic and monochromatic design trends won't be going anywhere anytime soon. However, just because these tame interior styles are in vogue doesn't mean you can't experiment with bright colors and fun hues. Sometimes you may want to add just a little something to your mainly white, beige, and gray space (or possible greige?).

how to add a pop of color — Michela Buttignol / MyDoamine

Scared of going too bold? Don't be. No matter your comfort level, there's a way to incorporate pops of color into any space. Think rugs, accessories, art, and even botanicals. All these elements can be utilized to add just the right amount of color to your home. If you still aren't convinced, take a look at these nine ways to add pops of color to your space, whether it's simply adding in a plant or striking the perfect balance with multiple saturated hues.

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Opt for a Colorful Rug

colorful rug in kitchen — Alyssa Rosenheck

Incorporate a rug with a colorful pattern or detail to add some interest underfoot. An area rug with a colored component will help hide dirt and debris and is a good way to ease into more colorful décor. A long runner can also add color to unexpected places and add dimension to just about any room or hallway.

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Choose Bright Accessories

A grouping of like-colored accessories can add impactful and non-permanent pops of color to your space. In this living room, matching bright yellow lamps make a bold statement in an otherwise neutral space. Despite their loud hue, the pair makes the room look cohesive and balanced.

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Incorporate Flowers and Plants

Colorful living room with rattan swing and chair — Jonas von der Hude / Picture Press / Getty Images Plus

A colorful floral arrangement or house plant will not only add an organic element to your space, but it will add a vibrant hue as well. Plants are also temporary and portable, so you can test out different locations for your arrangement to find a spot where you feel most comfortable adding a dose of color and life.

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Get Artistic

blue living room ideas — Design: Interior Impressions

If you prefer to keep your furnishings and accessories monochromatic, introduce pops of color into your space through artwork and photography. Keeping the surroundings simple will allow your artistic pieces to take center stage and create a gallery-like environment of little outside distraction. Don't be afraid to try out bold prints and mixed media collages.

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Go With a Saturated Textile

A single patterned or colored piece can make a real statement in a neutral space, as seen here in this dark and moody contemporary living room with a simple pop of orange. Opt for a single, attention-getting throw or blanket to inject personality without having to completely redecorate an entire room.

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Choose a Single Statement Piece

green velvet headboard — JESSICA HELGERSON

Bring pops of color into your home and make a statement with a single saturated piece of furniture. The deep blue velvet chair in this room is certainly an attention grabber, but it nicely coordinates with the room's other neutral, textural elements. A bright chair is a simple way to add color to a room with a single purchase.

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Start with Soft Hues

Master bedroom in neutral colors featuring white carpet — Jodi Jacobson / E+ / Getty Images

If you’re ready to move on from a totally neutral color palette but not quite ready for an overpowering array of hues, start working in soft colors in small doses. Peach, blush, mint, and pale yellow will add a different perspective to your space without seeming too out of place with your room’s existing calm neutrals. Incorporating faded rugs, textiles, and accessories is a good place to start.

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Introduce a Single Accent Color

This otherwise simple white bathroom is treated to green pops of color that make the space so much more dynamic and interesting. Each emerald piece works together to create a bright and colorful room that's still cohesive and elegant. Despite the small space, the colors don't overwhelm the room and appear in sync.

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Limit Your Colorful Components to Two Distinct Accents

white walls with pop of color — KATHERINE CARTER

If you want to incorporate color into your space through accents and accessories but are afraid of getting carried away, limit yourself to two different hues to prevent your space from becoming disconnected and abrasive. This living room layers white and blue tones in a neutral space to create a cohesive design with a neutral foundation.

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Use Pattern as Inspiration

A patterned rug or throw pillow will often present you with a foolproof color palette, taking all the guesswork out of pairing different hues together. With a neutral base to start, pull from your favorite accent colors to bring in pops of color as needed.

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Opt for Statement Lighting

Bringing in dimension through a colorful pendant is an unexpected and easy twist to incorporate in any living space. Not only are colorful pendants easy to change (keeping the color commitment flexible), they're also subtle while still making a big impact. Go for a soft powder blue for a laid back vibe, or choose a bold red for a more energizing feel.

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Feature Bold Window Treatments

Colorful curtains are a step above a bold throw pillow or blanket, but still impermanent enough to soothe even the most fickle design aficionados. A playful blue against a sea of bright white walls feels fresh, fun, and simple without being a snooze fest. Wanting to up the ante? Try out a floral pattern or a stripe if you're wanting something a bit more subtle.

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