Beige. For years, it’s been the punchline of many design jokes, branded as bland, boring, and safe. But the tides have turned.
Today’s beige is anything but boring, and when used thoughtfully, it’s the backbone of warm, serene, and sophisticated interiors. We’re setting the record straight and busting the biggest beige myths to show how this neutral tone can be a powerful tool in creating calm and welcoming spaces.
Myth: Beige Accessories Blend In And Get Lost
Busted: Beige accessories don’t disappear; they unify.
The secret to great beige accessorising lies in contrast and texture. This table light from Spark & Bell offers three calming contrasts, with a hand-thrown ceramic table lamp, a glass globe and a cork base. It makes a perfect ambient light for bedside tables or cosy sitting room corners.
Myth: Beige Needs Bright Light to Shine
Busted: Beige can be used in any lighting, with the right fixtures and planning.
We can’t always guarantee wall-to-wall sunshine lit rooms, but beige can offer a calming retreat, whatever the season. Consider mixing tones of light and dark beige to create interest, such as this painted, wood-effect floor from LeoLine, which helps reflect any natural light.
Myth: Beige Only Works In Traditional Home Décor Schemes
Busted: Beige provides the perfect companion for traditional and contemporary interior themes.
Minimalist and contemporary schemes must balance the need for simplified lines and limited clutter with the need to create welcoming spaces. The soft tones of beige offer an understated warmth that supports these themes without the need to over-accessorise.
Myth: Beige Is Boring or Outdated
Busted: Beige is a timeless and classic colour that works in almost any style.
This example from Louis De Poortere shows how a traditional rug pattern can help add interest to a modern living room while supporting a beige colour palette.
Myth: Beige Is Only Suitable For Small Spaces
Busted: Whether a small or large, beige can add comfort in larger areas or a sense of space in petite rooms.
For smaller rooms, pair beige with lighter shades (such as pastels) and nature-inspired finishes to create an airy aesthetic. In larger areas, adding warm beige tones can help create a cocooning appeal that helps prevent a sterile or cold scheme.
Myth: Beige Carpets Are Difficult Colour To Keep Clean
Busted: With a little research and planning, you can confidently include beige carpets.
With a little research and planning, you can minimise the worry of spills and mishaps. Modern carpets are often created using fibres that can withstand accidents, such as this bleach-cleanable carpet from the Stainfree collection by British flooring manufacturer, Abingdon Flooring.