It’s an interesting time to be an interior design minimalist. In light of the slow but steady comeback of traditional design influences (and the color, pattern, and hints of maximalism that comes with it), the all-white minimalist look that ruled the 2010s is starting to feel a bit dated.

Coupled with a renewed emphasis on warmth, coziness, and character at home post-pandemic, our inner minimalist is admittedly a bit color and pattern-curious. While we’ll never embrace full-on neon or even pastels, we’re down to test the waters with a little olive green (maybe).

With that particular design dilemma in mind, we present nine subtle gateway colors that bode well with neutrals, and don’t stray too far from the white-on-beige-on-tan look. Havenly designers share their top picks:

1. Warm Earth Tones

Warm nature-inspired earth tones like ochre, terra cotta, sienna, and tan are natural complements to the all-white look. Start with a warm walnut coffee table, and play off that hue with brick accent chairs and earth-toned throw pillows. Best of all? You can always swap out the pillows when you’re ready for a new look.

2. High-Contrast Black

Black is technically more of a neutral than an actual color, it does add a certain punch of drama to a space that some minimalist interiors lack. For a hint of modern edge without straying too far from your comfort zone, consider black picture frames or a statement dresser. Paired with a little rich blue, the look feels intentional and varied.

3. Sandy Hues

When in doubt, warm up a cool white-on-white color palette with subtle warm neutrals like sand, tan, beige, and cream. This is a natural extension of the cool Scandinavian look fit for 2023. Add in natural plum foliage and wicker accents for texture!

4. Sea of Blues

Blue is a neutral in our book, and it always has been a foolproof complement to white and ivory. If your minimalist style leans coastal or even preppy, consider adding in a pop of cornflower, sky, or navy blue for a hint of dimension and color. The look is just as serene as white-on-white (if not moreso!).

5. Shades of Gray

While cool charcoal paint or a dark gray area rug may feel too bold, this pop of edgy color will add depth and visual interest to any minimalist interior. Warm up the look with hints of tan and  brass, plus natural textures like jute and wicker. Finished with fresh blooms and a houseplant or two, the look feels layered and inviting.

6. Cool Earth Tones

Prefer the cooler side of the color spectrum? Earth tones like olive, evergreen, sea blue, and even bold navy are perfect complements to a neutral color palette. Add eye-catching dimension with olive upholstered dining chairs, or simply test the waters with houseplants and fresh greenery for a commitment-free trial.

7. Rich Pastels

While pastels recall the kitschy spring decor of the 1990s, saturated pastels like sorbet, olive green, and soft gray-blue feel rich and elevated. Plus, these subtle colors lean neutral while adding depth and character to a space. Consider a classic ticking stripe or a soft chinoiserie print to play up the whimsy.

8. Desert Tones

We absolutely love a desert sunset color palette comprised of cognac brown, natural ochre, terra cotta, and saturated tan. Add warm accents to an otherwise all-white space with leather furniture, light oak tables, and tonal throw pillows for an effortless warm minimalist aesthetic.

9. Pop of Print

Hear us out: animal print is a perfect pattern to consider if you subscribe to a minimalist aesthetic. It’s pulled from nature, comprised of neutral hues, and will add a pop of personality in one fell swoop. Consider a leopard, cheetah, or antelope print (used sparingly, of course) to lend personality to a white-on-white space.

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