Neutral bedroom ideas for an elevated look

A neutral bedroom offers the ultimate blank canvas for decorating. But sometimes, neutrals can leave a space feeling a little flat or uninspiring. Enter: elevated neutrals. 

By introducing elevated neutrals into your bedroom design, you can transform an otherwise lacklustre room into a serene, dreamy sleep space – one that feels refined and effortlessly chic. 

In this article, we’ll explore how to elevate your neutrals and create a sophisticated bedroom that’s straight out of a showroom.  

If you think neutrals are boring, you’d be wrong! Elevated neutrals are the perfect way to keep your space fresh and interesting, stopping a neutral bedroom from looking dull or tired. Whilst classic neutrals like white and beige can be a little uninspiring, elevated neutrals are the new way to create a calming background that’s super chic.

Elevated neutrals are still rooted in the calming, understated aesthetic that you see with your typical neutrals, such as white and beige, but they’re far more complex. They’re more refined, with richer undertones. We’re talking creamy off-whites, warm tans and taupe, complex greige and moody earthy colours. The difference is subtle, but super effective.  

Let’s look at some of our favourite elevated neutrals to incorporate into your next bedroom makeover…

1. Embrace serenity with layered greys

There’s a reason so many people turn to grey for a bedroom colour scheme. It’s a timeless neutral that suits endless styles and spaces. To elevate the colour, choose a layered grey that’s full of cool and calm tones to create a serene oasis in your bedroom.   

We love creating a tone-on-tone design using grey by layering various shades of grey to add a plethora of depth and textures to your room. Just look how we’ve styled our Francesca Upholstered Ottoman Bed Frame in light grey, set against charcoal grey walls and a mix-match of silver and grey bedding. By using multiple shades of a single neutral colour, you can create a cohesive bedroom aesthetic that looks put together – even when it’s messy!

Or why not consider a ‘greige’? This shade is, as you might have guessed, halfway between grey and beige. It combines the cool undertones of grey and the warmth of beige to create a complex neutral that can work in pretty much any bedroom.  

Credit: @homebyholli

Speaking of beige, how about something a little warmer? This popular neutral is essentially a mix of brown, yellow and white, meaning it’s steeped in warmth and richness. Beige is an excellent choice for a bedroom colour palette if you’re looking to create a cosy haven to snuggle down in.  

To elevate your beige, look to the darker end of the spectrum, like a creamy oatmeal or champagne shade for a touch of luxury. Alternatively, you could use a beige-infused taupe or stone. All of these colours have beige at their core, but are slightly more nuanced, either bringing extra depth and warmth or lightness to the palette.  

Our Hopkins Fabric Upholstered Ottoman Bed Frame is a prime example of taking a beige neutral and elevating it. Take a closer look at the soft woven fabric. It may look beige on first glance, but it’s actually a rich oatmeal full of cool and warm tones, that pairs beautifully with other textures and colours.  

3. Dip into a cool Nordic Lagoon hue

Another one of our favourite elevated neutrals is Nordic Lagoon. This icy blue green has super cool undertones. Consider it a muted aqua colour that’s almost teal. If you fancy an upgrade from your typical baby blue shade, switch to Nordic Lagoon and time spent in your bedroom will feel like escaping to a relaxing, Scandinavian hot spring! 

Nordic Lagoon pairs perfectly with white, offering a fresh yet soothing environment for you to wake up feeling energised and ready to take on the day.  

4. Indulge in moody earthbound shades

How about something a little moodier? Earthy tones are a top trending colour this year, and it’s clear to see why. Warm, inviting, and even a little dramatic (if you want it to be!), embracing earthbound shades is an excellent way to elevate a neutral colour scheme.  

Also, because of the obvious connection to nature, earthy tones are great for feeling more grounded and creating a retreat-like ambience for a bedroom. So, if you’re somebody that’s inspired by the natural world, an earthbound shade is the way to go. 

Look to rich hues like rust, reddish clay and muted terracotta. Complex browns like mushroom, mahogany and even Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2025, Mocha Mousse, all fall under this category, too.  

Don’t forget about accessories! Now you’ve got your foundations, take your space from basic to breathtaking with our carefully curated artwork, fancy furnishings and clever lighting ideas. 

1. Look to natural textures to create depth

One thing that goes hand-in-hand with neutral colours is natural textures. They bring depth, intrigue and even warmth to a bedroom design. Plus, they can create a fabulous boho chic vibe. Think organic rattan, wicker and bamboo materials, and add pieces like a wooden wardrobe, woven baskets, and a room divider. 

You could also look to natural materials for your decor, such as macramé wall hangings or handmade ceramic pottery. You could even try your hand at making your own accessories for a bit of fun DIY!   

2. Industrial accents for neutral intrigue

Credit: @ourpadonthemews

How about something a little more contemporary? Industrial accents are a great way to add some edge and contrast to your neutral space. Whether it’s a statement metal bed, a pendant light, black metal fixtures or an upcycled mirror, there are plenty of ways to add some modern touches to your bedroom.  

3. Bedroom plants and florals as subtle decoration

If you don’t want to spend a fortune on new decor, bedroom plants are an inexpensive and super easy way to breathe life into a space. Choose from cute cacti and succulents to large, Monstera leaves and tropical palms to create an indoor jungle – whatever your preference, house plants can bring peace and tranquillity to your bedroom.  

4. Lanterns and bedside lamps for a cosy glow

Don’t forget about your lights! Choosing the right lighting can make all the difference in elevating your neutral bedroom. We love adding paper lanterns or wicker lamp shades to create interesting, warm glows from corners of the room. Experiment with different sizes, shapes and locations for your lamps and watch how the light changes around your space.  

5. Go light and laid-back with Scandi design principles

More of a minimalist? No worries! Embrace the iconic paired-back style of Scandinavian design and keep things light and airy. Use soft, lightweight materials like white bed linens, muslin blankets, and sheer curtains. Keep your decor to a minimum by decluttering your space and hiding any bits and bobs in a handy ottoman bed. Any accessories you do have should be thoughtful and refined, like a single vase on your nightstand or a statement curvy mirror.    

Elevated neutrals take traditional neutrals to the next level, upgrading your bland space to sophisticated serenity. By embracing richer tones, layering shades and adding complementary textures, you can bring bags of character and class to your neutral bedroom design – because who said neutrals had to be boring?!