Classy, elegant and versatile, ivory is a great choice of colour when it comes to wall painting. It is emerging as a much sought-after alternative to the classic white due to its muted charm, as opposed to the crispness of white. Moreover, it can be paired with various colour to create a vibe each visibly distinct from the other. Since there are so many ways to use ivory for walls, we have curated a list of the top ideas to narrow down the options and help you choose the best one for your wall.
See also: All you need to know about taupe colour
Best ivory colour combinations
Being a highly versatile shade, ivory complements most colours exceptionally well. Here is a list of some of the popular combinations you can use anywhere if you are considering ivory:
Soft grey
The muted charm of ivory goes excellently with soft hues of grey. This is perfect if you aspire for a soothing and sophisticated ambiance for your space.
Source: Pinterest @nastjak2009
Navy blue
The deep richness of navy blue creates a contrast against the mellow ivory. This combination adds a classic and refined feel to the space.
Sage green
Who doesn’t like a dash of refreshing greenery here and there? Bring home this natural vibe by incorporating sage green accents in a dominantly ivory space for a serene feel.
Source: Pinterest @etsy
Warm beige
The mellow warmth of ivory can be combined with similar warm tones if beige. This creates a cosy and inviting ambiance, perfect for living rooms and bedrooms.
Dusty rose
Dusty rose is another soft, muted tone that can be paired with ivory. Accents in this shade with a base of ivory is perfect for a touch of femininity and romance.
Source: Pinterest @ArtFacade
Charcoal grey
The depth of charcoal grey is perfect for a touch of glamour. This shade can be paired with ivory to achieve various types of effects, ranging from contemporary to gothic, depending on the proportion in which either shade is used.
Terracotta
Another option if you want a natural and rustic feel to your space is terracotta. When paired with ivory, it adds a warm earthy feel to the space for a Mediterranean feel.
Source: Pinterest @shelterness
Using ivory for different rooms
So what is the best way to use this versatile colour for rooms? Read on to find out some evergreen combinations for specific rooms you cannot go wrong with:
Living room
For your living room, consider solid or textured ivory walls paired with pops and accents of navy blue in the form of throw pillows, drapes, or rugs. Further combine it with warm wood furniture to create an atmosphere that is at the same time sophisticated and inviting.
Bedroom
Bedrooms are meant for rest and relaxation. So endow the space with a sense of serene tranquillity by pairing dominantly ivory walls with a highlight or accent of soft pastels such as blush pink or light blue. If you wish to go for a hint of glamour and luxury, you can consider pairing ivory with gold or brass accents.
Kitchen
Ivory is a top choice of colour when it comes to kitchen cabinets. For a timeless and elegant effect, pair such cabinets with stainless steel appliances and marble countertops. You can even use the same ivory of the cabinets on the walls and combine it with natural wooden elements. Additionally, throw in some potted plants here and there for a dash of greenery.
Bathroom
Along with painting your bathroom walls ivory, throw in accents in shades of blue in the form of towels or mosaic tiles. This is perfect for a relaxed and spa-like ambiance. Moreover, you can add a classic and luxurious bathroom by pairing the walls with marble countertops, gold fixtures and crystal accents.
Dining room
For your dining room, pair ivory walls with dark wood furniture and consider jewel-toned accents for decor, such as emerald green or sapphire blue. This can result in a luxurious and intimate dining space. For a more modern and sophisticated feel, combine the walls with metallic accents like silver or chrome.
Home office
The mellow and calm appeal of ivory makes it a great choice of colour for a home office. Pair ivory walls with black furniture for a sleek and stylish effect. For a touch of warmth and texture, go for natural wood furniture with woven accents of rattan or wicker.
Hallway
You can create an elegant hallway with ivory walls paired with a statement mirror and console table, preferably in metallic finishes of gold or silver. Throw in some bold artwork or wallpaper accents on the walls for a stylish first impression to your home.
Using ivory for exterior walls
If you are considering ivory for exterior walls, there are plenty of options available for you as well. Have a look at some and check if they suit your tastes:
White trim
With the main body of the house painted ivory, accentuate the architectural details with white. The crispness of white is surely brings out the details of the window frames, trim and mouldings.
Source: Pinterest @Houzz
Earthy accents
Ivory siding can be paired with earthy accents in the form of brown shutters, doors and trim. This combination brings out a warm and inviting feel and is perfect for a rustic charm in natural settings.
Grey accents
Grey accents combined with ivory siding can result in a timeless and sophisticated look. Ise grey for trim and shutters or place a contrasting front door to add visual interest and character to the exterior of your home.
Blue accents
Go for a coastal inspired home exterior by using ivory as a dominant shade and throwing in accents of blue like shutters and doors. This combination brings a sense of serenity and evokes a seaside charm.
Source: Pinterest @aolifestyleco
Stone or brick accents
Ivory, when paired with stone of brick accents, can add depth to your home’s exterior by creating an eclectic mix of textures. It creates a classic and elegant look that goes well with a range of architectural styles.
Black accents
Create a striking effect by incorporating black accents with ivory siding for a modern exterior. Black trim, doors and fixtures create a bold contrast against the soft backdrop of ivory, perfect for a statement curb appeal.
Source: Pinterest @HomeCabinetExpert
Greenery
Alongside using ivory as the dominant colour for your home’s exterior, enhance its beauty further by incorporating lush greenery. Landscape elements such as bushes, trees and climbing vines can serve this purpose.
FAQs
Why is ivory a popular choice for home interiors?
Ivory exudes warmth, elegance and versatility and its neutral hue creates a classic backdrop that goes with various decor styles.
How can I incorporate ivory in home decor without it feeling too plain?
Consider adding depth, character and visual interest with accents of bold colours. Further, create layers of textures and patterns through furniture and decor pieces.
Is ivory a good choice of exterior colour for warm climates?
The light hue of ivory reflects sunlight instead of absorbing it, making a good choice of exterior colour in warm climates.
Does ivory make small spaces feel cramped?
Ivory reflects light and makes the room feel brighter and more spacious, thereby being a great choice for compact spaces.
How can I add personality to an ivory room?
You can add character to an ivory-themed room through carefully curated decor, mix of textures and contrasting accents.
Which decor styles pair well with ivory?
Traditional, transitional, coastal and Scandinavian are some styles that go well with the tone of ivory for a cohesive look.
How can I maintain the brightness of ivory walls?
Dusting the walls with a microfiber cloth or vacuuming with a soft brush helps prevent accumulation of dirt. A mild soap solution can be used to address stains.
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