'I love to use color as a neutral' – Shea McGee's secret to a calming color scheme is the most on-trend take on neutrals right now

When it comes to decorating with color, neutrals have always been, and will always be, amongst the most timeless. However, while these pared-back hues are sophisticated and versatile, that's not to say they can't begin to lack interest.

In 2024, a palette of classic neutrals like white, beige, and gray can appear outdated, which can leave those of us who aren't inclined to decorate with bold and bright hues unsure of how to add more interest to pared-back rooms.

Thankfully, interior designer Shea McGee just revealed her secret to using colors instead of neutrals, and it's certainly won us over. This approach maintains all the classic elegance of decorating with neutrals and yet enlivens spaces to feel rich, earthy, and full of interest.

Taking to Instagram, Shea shared a video in which she makes the case for decorating with muted earth tones as a fresh and alternative color trend to neutrals.

'I love to use color as a neutral by selecting hues that have a muted look to them,' the designer explains. Walking through a McGee & Co. bedroom , Shea uses green and blue as examples. While these two hues can be some of the boldest to decorate with, the variations of these two shades in this relaxing bedroom – a muted olive green headboard and soft navy blue pillows – create a timeless color palette, with more interest than classic neutrals.

'We’re getting color but it still feels really calming in the space because of the shade that you’re working with,' continues Shea.

This approach to color goes hand in hand with another wider color trend we've transitioned to this year: replacing cool hues with warmer ones. While cool grays and cool-toned whites can appear stark in interiors, the shift to earthy, warm hues like sage green and rust tones create far more welcoming and soothing spaces.

'In 2024 we are seeing people celebrating color in a more contemporary way,' explains Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design at Lick and Color Psychologist. 'Gray-based neutrals are being swapped for colors with warmer, yellow undertones and long gone are the days that prescribed traditional white skirting.'

While muted colors make a great choice for decor, as demonstrated by Shea, you can also incorporate them in larger doses through your paint ideas . Consider upgrading white walls with a gentle sage green paint , bound to give warmth to the room while maintaining a calm feel.

'Decorators are becoming more confident and are their homes, from walls to ceilings, in color,' continues Tash.

Decorate with muted colors for an on-trend take on neutrals

If you favor a neutral color scheme throughout your home decor ideas , take inspiration from Shea and consider adding muted colors to provide more interest. These earthy tones work in place of neutrals and are just as timeless. Below, we've rounded up some of our favorite decor items inspired by Shea's approach to color – perfect for adding depth and warmth to your home this fall.

Branston Linen Shams (Set of 2)

As seen in the Studio McGee bedroom, these navy shams have a subtle stripe pattern and are crafted from 100% linen.

Mayon Navy Handwoven Rug

This handwoven striped rug is versatile and can work in many rooms and design styles – from bedrooms to entryways.

Brown Mohair Pillow Velvet Stripe

Perfect for fall, this mohair velvet pillow will add plenty of texture and depth to your living room couch or bedroom.

Soho Home Margeaux set of three fringed cotton-blend velvet pillows

These pillows are timeless additions to the home. While still neutral, their muted and rich tones will create an on-trend look wherever you use them.

Luella Throw by Morrow Soft Goods

This cozy throw blanket is a go-to for boosting warmth in your home this fall, while its muted green hues won't fail to add interest to neutral rooms.

Puja Handwoven Jute Rug

Looking for a new rug? This jute option is both stylish and practical: crafted from hard-wearing jute in a calming and muted shade of green.

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Looking for more color ideas? Earlier this month, we rounded up the best colors to decorate with in August , as recommended by designers. From rich shades of green to burnt oranges, these trending hues will seamlessly transition your home from summer to fall.