Neutrals such as white, beige, and gray have traditionally played a supporting role in interior design, particularly in bold styles. Even when highlighted in minimalist decor, the stark, all-white aesthetic can come across as impersonal and sterile, resembling a dental office rather than a home. It is essential to rethink the incorporation of neutrals to infuse them with a more vibrant and natural essence.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Harkaran Singh Boparai, founder and principal architect, Harkaran Boparai Studio (HBS), shared how to transform the minimalist neutrals into something livelier.

Here's a guide Harkaran shared for you to make boring neutrals appear cool:

Shift from stark to subtle

Crisp white interiors have traditionally represented minimalism and contemporary design. Although white serves as a neutral backdrop, it can occasionally come across as chilly or impersonal. Taupes, which combine grey and brown tones, introduce a sense of warmth and comfort. Earthy greens, drawing inspiration from the depths of nature, bring an organic richness that anchors a room. Ochres, with their warm golden hues, create a gentle radiance akin to sunlit clay. The latest neutrals prioritize warmth and texture, fostering a more inviting and grounded environment while maintaining the versatility that makes neutrals so appealing.

Versatile shades with personality

Designers are embracing this shift because muted tones strike a perfect balance between versatility and personality. Unlike the fleeting trends of neon pinks or electric blues, these colours adapt effortlessly to various styles. A taupe sofa can anchor a living room without overwhelming it, while an ochre accent wall adds just enough drama to elevate a minimalist space. Earthy greens, meanwhile, pair beautifully with natural materials like wood and stone, blurring the lines between indoors and out. Green evokes renewal, taupe exudes stability, and ochre radiates warmth. Together, they transform homes into retreats, a trend that’s especially resonant in 2025 as wellness-focused design takes centre stage.

Palette aligned with the planet

Sustainability plays a role, too. With eco-consciousness driving design choices, these hues, often inspired by the natural world, pair seamlessly with organic textures like linen, jute, and reclaimed wood. Designers are ditching synthetic brights for pigments that echo the earth, aligning with a growing preference for materials and colours that feel authentic and enduring. It’s a subtle nod to the planet, proving that style and responsibility can co-exist.

Bold Statements

The new neutrals shine because they are anything but boring. Far from the beige monotony of decades past, today’s muted palette is dynamic and nuanced. Layer a sage green throw over a taupe chair, or let an ochre vase pop against a charcoal wall—these colours play well together, inviting experimentation. They are bold in their restraint, proving that you don’t need loud shades to make a lasting impression.

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