Color is powerful. Even if you prefer your rooms anchored in neutral tones, you can achieve an enormous impact with colorful accessories.

Bath After

See what Dallas Designer Cristie Schlosser, ASID, did with this kitchen and bath renovation. First, check out the Before and Afters of the striking transformation.

Bath Before

Kitchen Before

In the resulting contemporary spaces, Cristie used neutral-toned finishes, accented with pops of bright color in the accessories.

“My clients really like bright art and glass,” said Cristie. “Their furniture was all neutral so when we were selecting the mirror for the bathroom instead of making it tonal, I suggested we use bright colors like their artwork and glass collection.”

“For the kitchen, using warm rich tones and neutral colors transformed the large open space to an area with balance, warmth and intimacy—providing a great backdrop for their bright glass pieces.”

Kitchen After

I like the flexibility this approach gives. You could create a rotating gallery space—especially in this kitchen—and change up artwork and accessories to showcase your current favorite pieces.

What’s Cristie’s advice for someone who is timid of using strong color?

“Color can liven up a space and make it more personable,” said Cristie. “Lots of colors can be used as neutrals, not just browns and creams. Any color and hue found in nature can provide a canvas for your personal belongings and decorative items.”

Cristie Schlosser, ASID is a Texas Registered Interior Designer, and can be reached through her full-service interior design practice in Dallas, Texas.

What’s your color personality? Do you blanket your rooms in bold hues, or do you prefer to express yourself with colorful accessories?