BEAT THE BLAND

Invite soft tones and natural textures to jazz up neutrals for cool impact

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This limited-edition circular San D rug by Illulian is made from 100% Himalayan wool,approx £6,400, Meillart

Zephyr Just Trees mural, from £35 per sq.m Woodchip & Magnolia

Interior designers are always urging us to ‘add interest’. But what does it mean and how do you do it? Well, it generally comes up most frequently in rooms with limited colour palettes. For a lot of people, a neutral scheme is the default option, not because it makes their heart sing but because it feels sensible. (There are others, of course, whose neutrals are a very deliberate and considered choice – taupe, crisp white, pale wood and jet black can provide a bold and timeless backdrop.) But if your decor is erring a little too much on the safe side, there are techniques you can use to inject personality without sacrificing the undeniable benefits of simplicity and understatement.