Design Vibe

Monochromatic glam:
A look that’s bold and eye-catching  

By Edilka Anderson

Described by some as the good kind of “matchy matchy,” making the choice to go with monochrome basics promises to give you a timeless, almost never go out of style look that remains both pleasing and charmingly versatile. 

While Monochrome is often considered calming, it isn’t restricted to greys, blacks, and whites. Though monochromatic translates into meaning ‘one colour’, with interior design, its common practice to be afforded a little artistic license as ‘one colour’ doesn’t mean such a strict approach.

The Mono design approach not only gives you a lot more ways to change the mood and style of your space but it encourages the use of a wide range of accessory and textile options that can be dramatic and statement making, soft and elegant or everything in between. 

Whether you have a sudden urge to change things up with a complementary paint colour, bold new statement pieces, accessories, or seasonal decorations, starting with “one plain and simple” colour palate will offer you and your interior designer plenty of practical short and long-term options.

Depending on your goals using the same shades and tones of your colour can be classy, timeless and surprisingly versatile. If you can pull it off, this approach can give you subtle or substantial…. a rich, deep and glam feel or a lighter, laid back casual vibe. And, variations of the same colour, can make a room look even bigger—a great option for a small space.

To get your best monochromatic look, designers suggest starting small space—bathroom or spare bedroom and start from the ground up. Go where your heart takes you. Adding and layering various and unique textures and patterns in monochromatic style gives you the ability to add an interesting dimension using the same colour palette with a twist and options to change things up as you see fit. Consider draperies, pictures, pillows, chair and floor coverings and even lighting as additional design elements as well as walls.

It’s all about you. Whether you’re playing it safe and picking neutrals to work with, or you’re taking a risk and being more adventures with bright colours, going mono can be a fabulous and fun way to let your personality shine though. 

karetoronto.ca

Get our newsletter

Get monthly updates with unique HomeFront updates and stay up to date with tips and trends

The joy of play

Often framed as the territory of childhood, the magic of play doesn’t have to expire when adulthood comes around. At any age, play can foster new energy, new interests and new connections. Especially true in a world of deadlines, work

The art of letting go

There are places in the world that impress more than the eyes—they soften the shoulders, quiet the mind, and slow everything down to a kinder pace. Villa d’Este, resting gracefully on the shores of Lake Como, is one of those

Bella Cucina turns up the heat

A kitchen marriage In a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition, Florense, Brazil’s premier high-end furniture brand and Pininfarina, the legendary Italian design studio come together in the kitchen. arcokitchen.com Too many cooks may spoil the broth so stake your

Bella Cucina turns up the heat

Best of Italy Kitchen designs that bridge old and new worlds with innovation and timeless quality thanks to Renzo Rastelli. rastelli.com Too many cooks may spoil the broth so stake your claim and make sure the kitchen is your most

The Dylan

Housed in what was the city’s first stone theatre, designed in 1638 by Jacob van Campen, The Dylan Amsterdam is a 41-room canal district boutique hotel nestled along the Keizersgracht. Led by Amsterdam-based Studio Linse and Format Furniture, the Dylan’s

The fine art of “Grilling and Chilling”

There’s something timeless about the sound of a grill sizzling on a warm afternoon. The smell of the barbecue drifting through the air, stylishly-iced cold drinks and laughter bouncing across a patio spells summer. Whether, it’s a long weekend, a