I am not shy to admit: I was wrong about gray. Over the last five years of writing about interior design, I thought I'd formed a firm opinion that this neutral just wasn't for me.
In all its versatility, I wasn't ever overly excited to see a gray living space, and so, I was avoiding it in my home. Then I saw Billie Jean King's twist on a tradtional gray palette, and it changed everything.
The tennis legend often shares glimpses around her Chicago home via Instagram, and this time, she showed off her statement artwork: AKA the secret to gray living room sucsess.
Despite upholding a primarily gray palette (particualry seen through the painted walls, sofa, and light fixture), Billie's space is anything but dull. Her strategic artwork placement demands ensures her space feels vibrant and totally unique – proving that gray can be a beautiful base when used in the correct context.
Shop the look
These gray pillow covers (in a set of 2) are made of high-quality velvet fabric which is non-fading, ultra-durable and friendly to the skin. They're made from 100% polyester based velvet fabric, offering all-season durability and cozy experience.
By painter Mary O'Malley, this beautiful print is the statement piece any neutral living room needs. The bold colors are similar to those seen in Billie Jean King's artwork, making it a safe yet powerful choice if you're looking to bring instant vibrancy to your space.
This cluster pendant ceiling light features a bubble crystal and a round canopy in chrome plate, perfect for creating an instant talking point. The bubbles add a unique charm and individuality to each piece, showcasing its authenticity and craftsmanship.
When decorating with art in any neutral living room, whether it's gray, cream or all-white, it's better to opt for a bold piece, just as Billie Jean King has done. However, it's similarly important that your piece speaks to you and your personality, as Sara Hill, the chief creative officer at Clarendon Fine Art, explains.
'The most important thing is to choose artwork you love that reflects your style. Focus on quality pieces that feel special to you, whether they're purely traditional or blend old and new styles. Creating a collection that mixes different periods, styles, and sizes allows you to develop a space that feels both personal and curated,' she says.
You can also upgrade a neutral living room by decorating with antiques, or even antique artworks, that will demand attention in any living room.
'The secret to decorating with antique art is mixing old with new. This contrast is at the heart of what makes artists like Mr. Brainwash and Real Hackney Dave so compelling – they understand how classical elements can be transformed by contemporary intervention. Don't be afraid to pair an old painting with contemporary furniture – these unexpected combinations often create the most interesting rooms,' Sara notes.
Lastly, while Billie Jean King has opted for one single statment piece, you can also introduce pockets of color through a gallery wall. Curate it with variously hued pieces that will ensure your living room feels alive, no matter then base color.
'When creating displays, consider the power of eclectic groupings. Mix different sizes and frame styles together to create dynamic gallery walls that tell a unique story. This approach allows you to blend various periods and styles effortlessly, adding depth and character to your home,' Sara adds.
Now Wimbeldon is over, we will spend our days scouting artworks worthy of our netural living soom, knowing Billie Jean King would surely approve.
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