Fail-safe ways to decorate with a monochrome palette.
Contrast
“A monochrome palette scheme involves the use of colour that varies in lightness, tones and saturation. In order to achieve a monochromatic scheme in your home it is essential to apply contrast by using lighter colours on places like the walls, and then introducing slightly darker shades to furniture.
“The lighter walls give the illusion of a larger room while the slightly darker furniture creates a visual statement, especially when a variety of materials such as marble, timber or textured fabrics have been used. Finally, apply the ‘in-between’ shades through the use of scatter cushions, bedding, rugs, accessories or accent details to create a balance. If there is no contrast, you will have a space that feels flat.” – Leanne Van Niekerk, designer and owner of LVN interiors
Styling
“A neutral monochromatic colour scheme creates a base for any space in your room which you can layer by styling with accessories and soft furnishings that can be switched out as taste and seasons change.
“Establish this by styling sofas, occasional chairs and beds with groups of textured or patterned scatter cushions and throws that allow for a further decorative flair, but stay in the same harmonious colour palette. Include a mix of accessories with glass, marble and metal accents to further assist in breaking up the repetition of the monochrome colour palette.” – Leanne Van Niekerk, designer and owner of LVN interiors
Natural materials
“Elements like wood, leather and stone bring warmth to a monochrome interior without feeling like an additional colour has been added to the overall scheme. We like to repeat these materials and textures across different areas of a home to harmonise the look and create a golden thread throughout.” – Lucy le Roux, owner of Illuminate Home Staging
Art, lighting and accessories
“Accessories, art and lighting usually finish a space off in an interior with multiple colours, but in a monochrome interior they are the highlight, so don’t be shy. We play around with interesting feature lights, over-the-top natural dried flower arrangements or intriguing custom-made art to keep the space interesting.” – Lucy le Roux, owner of Illuminate Home Staging
Monochromatic geometrics
“Use strong, bold colours, textures and patterns. Intentionally repeat small details in various aspects of the design – this ensures that all design elements feel intentional rather than haphazardly thrown together. Use the endless variety of textures to bring the monochrome scheme to tactile and visual life.” – Schanè Anderson, CEO and founder of Olala Interiors
Keep it simple
“Walls, floors, ceilings, windows – they are all blank canvases, ready for a dramatic infusion of the classic black and white monochrome palette. Keep the scheme minimal and simple – this is the key to achieving an elegant, chic aesthetic.” – Schanè Anderson, CEO and founder of Olala Interiors
Consider shades
“A monochromatic colour scheme uses different shades and textures of one colour for a harmonious look. To avoid flatness in your monochromatic room, layer textures and tones to create depth. Natural light also adds to this stylistic option.” – Cheryl Du Preez, visual merchandising coordinator at Cielo
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