How HGTV's Nate Berkus Adds Color To A Space Without Being Overwhelming

If you're looking for ideas on how to bring color into a room without going overboard, HGTV's Nate Berkus is a great source of design inspiration. Whether on TV or on his social media, the designer has been offering advice and practical tips that can make redecorating a space feel less stressful, while also making it easier to try new things, for years. In an Instagram post shared by Nate Berkus Lifestyle, followers get a chance to see how Berkus brings earthy tones into a room to add color without it being overwhelming.

Based on the pictures shared, most of the color in the room comes from the furniture, accessories, and even the fabrics, instead of the paint. For example, all of the pieces in the room, from the sofas to the curtains, are done in rich, earthy tones that feel like elevated neutrals. Even the bathroom gets a subtle pop of color with the inclusion of white, beige, and brown hand towels hanging in a row next to each other. As can be seen by these design inspirations, it's about utilizing warmer colors that work with the overall neutral palette of the room to add depth and dimension to the space. 

A similar post on Berkus' Instagram offers a look at another room with a neutral color scheme that uses the same warm tones to bring in color. According to the caption of the post, "I love how the living spaces of this #NateBerkusAssociates desert retreat use warm tones that make everything feel even more inviting." Once again, the furniture features earthy colors that pop against the off-white color of the wall. The warm tones help to add a touch of texture to the room without being overly bold.

Even with a neutral palette in a room, Nate Berkus incorporates color with decor pieces and fabrics in richer tones that complement the rest of the space. This means relying on warm neutral colors in darker shades, which bring in color without being too bold. If you're trying this design technique and have beige or white walls in the living room, consider adding in pops of color with the help of mustard yellows, chocolate browns, and even gold tones. These colors are a versatile addition to any room, especially if you're looking to incorporate modern neutrals into your design aesthetic. When you're considering adding these colors into your home, pick furniture, such as a couch or an accent chair, as well as smaller pieces like throw blankets, decorative pillows, and curtains, in these warm tones. Even vases and planters can help to bring in those earthy colors without overpowering your space.

When adding warm neutrals to your design through furniture and fabrics, it's about bringing depth and dimension to the space. This means thinking about the texture of the material being used to add visual interest in the room. Consider utilizing fabrics such as velvet, leather, and wool, which is something Berkus is also known for incorporating into his designs. One example of a piece that can bring warmth to a space is the Spruce & Spring Atlas square arm faux leather straight sofa in Cognac Brown from Home Depot, which adds texture through the use of leather and a pop of color. This can help to elevate the space without becoming an overwhelming focal point.