2 Key Areas That Will Benefit From Layering In A Room With A Monochromatic Colour Palette

Monochromatic colour schemes are huge in modern interior design. Monochrome refers to the technique of using a single colour in a variety of shades coupled with white. This creates an elegant, simple and calming atmosphere in a room. Most commonly, monochrome involves using black and different shades of grey, but you can also create the same effect with other colours such as reds, blues, greens and yellows. 

You may love the idea of a monochromatic colour scheme but have concerns that your room will be underwhelming and lacklustre without a variety of different colours. However, with the right styling and use of layering on key elements in your room, a monochromatic colour scheme can create an eye-catching and textural look that's anything but dull.

Layering is commonly used on beds and sofas, combining a neutral sofa cover or bed spread with a mix of throw cushions and throw rugs in different patterns, colours and textures. However, there are the two other key areas in a room that will benefit a great deal from the use of layering.

1. The windows

Windows provide you with a great opportunity to add textural layering to your monochromatic room. Start off with a white blind for a neutral backdrop and to create adequate privacy and light blockage. Traditional roller blinds or pretty Roman blinds are an ideal choice. You can then add some other details to make the window less stark.

Sheer curtains, a fabric pelmet, and curtains in a heavier fabric are all layers you can add to your windows. Opt for different shades of your primary monochrome colour to create a subtle colour gradient. You can also opt for patterned fabrics that fit in with your base colour to add more visual impact.

2. The floor

The floor in your room is a less obvious but equally effective way to use layering to enhance your monochromatic colour palette. Start off with carpet that is a neutral white or pale version of your primary colour. Create a layered look by adding one or more floor rugs to central areas of the room.

Layering with rugs can add a sumptuousness and feeling of decadence to the room and will help to break up large expanses of neutral carpet. You can play around with shading, pattern and texture by opting for rugs that contrast and complement each other. For example, mix a soft and luxurious sheepskin rug with a patterned rug that has a slightly course look.