Earth Tones
Most modern color schemes mix hues. Earth tones offer a subtle, organic backdrop that suits the sophisticated aspirations of a modern room. These hues have undertones of brown, gray, or black and are derived from the natural environment. Other natural elements, such as stained wood furniture, natural fiber rugs, woven baskets, and artful pottery, are at home in these schemes. In this living room, a sofa with charcoal upholstery melds easily with the espresso-stained kitchen peninsula, a sisal rug, and chairs the color of newly grown tree leaves.
Bright Schemes
Another melting pot palette for modern decorating interiors comes from international influences and typically includes bright hues. These lively spaces feature colors that may be inspired by a Chinese silk tapestry, a Moroccan lantern, or an Afghan rug. The result is saturated tones with depth and intensity. A worldly palette can exist in any decorating style, but in modern interiors, the rich colors are paired with minimalist collections, spare architecture, and clean-lined furnishings designed to highlight the artifacts. In this living room, salmon-pink pillows are balanced by deep cerulean in the vases, silk chair cushion, and upholstery. One more dash of equal-value color comes in the curry orange throw draped over the chair.
Modern Meets Vintage
Often, a modern interior looks to the past. The vintage furnishings, collectibles, or accessories from another era spark the color palette for the space. Every period in time has distinctive colors, which you can choose to replicate accurately or update with newer, more contemporary tints. For example, you may collect Victorian glassware, so you could do your kitchen in the same jewel-tone ambers, purples, and greens. In this living room, mid-century lamps with happy yellow bases kick off a palette that combines period leathers and wood tones with velvet upholstery in an oh-so-current peacock blue.
Artful Mix
Sometimes artwork serves as a catalyst for a modern color palette. The source of inspiration for this small, comfortable living room comes from the poster-size photograph over the sofa. The bright orange paint on the bicycles spurred pillow choices and two leather-covered storage cubes in the same punchy color. A striped rug incorporates the orange and the photo’s sky blue and sandy tan hues. Neutral slipcovers and upholstery recede into the background, so the art—and the accents it inspired—can take center stage.
