Art galleries are renowned for their large, blank walls - naturally giving prospective buyers the chance to see the artwork without distractions. However, over the past decade, we as a nation are getting braver with colour, and the majority of homes have undergone renovations, barely holding white walls any longer.
Paint manufacturers have evolved into inspiration hubs for even the most interior-shy, to challenge us all to feel how differently colour can impact our mood. Even property developers and house builders, such as Berkeley Homes, have long moved away from that traditional "new-build look" of plain, soulless interiors in their show homes. Instead they opted to add colour and artwork to their spaces, giving prospective homeowners a taste of what it would really feel like to live in their properties.
We believe art starts your journey of building a space that really feels like home. Art can provoke emotions, and it's the best way to express yourself and add personality to your home. As with every colour, you can add more sophisticated, neutral colours to provide balance to your space while still feeling curated- or, for those of us who love to make a statement, you can select bold artworks that really bring drama into your space, providing a backdrop for exceptional one-off pieces of fine art that will add that wow-factor every time you walk into the room.
So, if we're to move away from white walls - what colour choices are there? Pantone releases its 'Colour Of The Year' each November, with palettes stemming from an entire year of research covering everything from high-fashion on the catwalks at London, Paris and Milan. The shades also evolve around commercial and industry-wide trends identified by their team of researchers. However, let's face it, sometimes the choices reveal rather bold, garish choices (we're thinking of you Illuminating 13-0647) - and it doesn't necessarily mean they are guaranteed to work in your space or provide that aesthetic you strive for in your home.
Our experts have hand-selected timeless pieces that would compliment each paint colour - giving you the choice of finding styles that are curated in palettes that resonate with your lifestyle.
And, as always, art has the power to emotionally move you - and once you find that perfect piece, you know you'll love it forever.
1. Benjamin Moore: Cinnamon Slate
This soft mocha brown has hints of espresso and is the perfect backdrop for rich brown abstract artworks or nature paintings. It adds comfort and warmth - it's a grounded, earthy neutral with warm red and grey undertones.
What it reminds us of: The quiet luxury of a cashmere throw or the scent of old books in a panelled library.
Why we love it: Grounding, stable, secure, warm, sophisticated. It creates a 'cocooned' effect, making a room feel like the perfect safe haven to retreat from the outside world.
Art Recommendations
For the serene, layered look:
Pair it with creamy, soft greys and off-whites or muted, warm taupes. This creates a tonal palette that is incredibly chic and calming.
Art: Good Intentions, original painting on canvas. Price: £1,900
This beautiful textured minimalist painting defines the room, and whispers luxury rather than shouts it. It's about texture, depth, and quiet confidence.
Art: Figure Study Wall Art Print, fine art print. Price: From £24.99
This elusive, delicate figurative oil painting print with its cream background would be exquisite. The warm, natural wood frame elevates the organic feel.
Art: The Divine, original painting on canvas, 150x180 cm. Price: £2,650
The sepia tones in this stunning original expressionist abstract painting contrast beautifully with the purple undertones in Cinnamon Slate.
Art: Fading Time, original painting on canvas, 100x100 cm. Price: £1,100
For the maximalist, wow-factor look:
Introduce a deep, muted teal or a slate blue. The blue-green tones are a natural compliment to the orangey-red undertones in Cinnamon Slate, adding a dynamic, balanced tension.
Art: Modern Teal And Classic Blue. Price: From £158
This pairing feels intelligent and worldly. It speaks of intellectual curiosity and a well-travelled homeowner.
2. Lick: Beige 02
This rich Soho farmhouse-esque beige has all the feels - a transitional colour that sparks relaxation and home comforts. Also, a blank canvas for large, bold expressive artworks.
For the serene, relaxed look:
Art: Abstract Pastel Beige Canvas. Price: From £99
Art: Blush On Teal Framed Canvas Set Of 3. Price: From £300
For the maximalist, wow-factor look:
Art: Blush Block Out Canvas. Price: From £89
The lovely peach tones and navy blue colour block offers a stunning contrast, designed to elevate any neutral space.
Art: Abstract Green Pastel Canvas. Price: From £99
3. Little Greene: Olive
This lush olive green paint will give everyone major style-envy. One of our bolder choices, but it looks so right when paired with the right art.
For the serene, layered look:
Art: Sailing Canvas Art. Price: From £99
Art: Abstract Line Drawing Print Set Of 2. Price: From £158
Art: Abstract Blush River Tones Framed Print Set Of 2. Price: From £99
For the maximalist, wow-factor:
Art: The Riddle Of Time, Original Painting. Price: £1300
4. COAT Paint: La Torre
Copper reminds us of Spanish tiles, and it's the perfect way to bring back those special holiday moments, by introducing this colour in your home.
For the serene, layered look:
Art: Taupe Abstract Line Canvas Art. Price: From £99
For the maximalist, wow-factor:
Art: Green Wave II Art Print. Price: From £24.99
5. Farrow & Ball: Selvedge
A grown-up pale blue which really speaks volumes when painted onto walls in a room.
For the serene, layered look:
For the maximalist, wow-factor look:
Art: Teal Brushstrokes Framed Canvas Art. Price: From £99
Art: Teal Seas Canvas Price: From £99
Art: Teal Abstract Marble Art Print. Price: From £24.99
About The Author
Summer Obaid, Director and Head Of Art Consultancy at Abstract House has studied Colour Theory and Colour Psychology. Passionate about connecting art lovers with pieces they love, Summer has completed over 250 art consultations, placing art in projects for luxury residential homes, yachts, hotels and corporate offices - working for both interior designers and homeowners.
