Ivory Color Guide: Refresh + Calm with Soothing Off-White
What Color Is Ivory?
What Is the Meaning of Ivory?
How to Style with the Color Ivory in Interior Design
Ivory Living Room Ideas
In the living room, use ivory sparingly (especially if you live with kids!). Ivory makes stains, spills and dirt easily visible, so unless you know there won't be any accidents, it's safer to incorporate ivory in small doses. Instead of ivory-white carpeting, for instance, go with a smaller ivory area rug, which takes up less floor space and is the easier to clean!
- An ivory rug to anchor the room with a touch of cozy sophistication.
- Ivory paint on the walls to enhance an open, airy feel. Flowy ivory curtains to filter natural light beautifully and add soft texture to the space.
- An ivory accent chair for extra charm and balance in the layout.
- Ivory accent pillows for layered comfort while maintaining a cohesive look.
- Incorporate an ivory sofa as the centerpiece of the room. Its timeless elegance and versatility make it the perfect foundation for your seating arrangement, effortlessly tying together the neutral tones. Pair it with complementary throws or layered textures to create a space that feels both inviting and refined.
Ivory Bedroom Ideas
Ivory linens, curtains, rugs and decor turn a regular bedroom into a calm, refreshing retreat. If you want to incorporate the color in a small space, let the focus be on the curtains; ivory linens in a thin, see-through material will cast a warm neutral color and natural glow. Tip: If you're not sure which shade of white paint to choose, take a look at the decor you have in the room, and bring one or two pieces (a decorative dish, a picture frame) with you to the paint store, so that you can compare the decor up close for a perfect match.
- Ivory bedding for luxuriously soft and inviting, ensuring a restful and peaceful night's sleep.
- Ivory bed frame for timeless and sturdy foundation that elegantly elevates the design of the room.
- Ivory accent pieces for subtle yet powerful details that unify the room with a cohesive and serene aesthetic.
Ivory Dining Room Ideas
- Ivory dining table to serve as a statement piece and set the tone for stylish entertaining.
- Ivory dining chairs add continuity and sophistication to the dining setup.
- Ivory dining room sets for an all-in-one solution for a cohesive and instantly elegant look.
- Ivory rug to enhance visual appeal and define the dining area with warmth and texture.
Colors That Go With Ivory and How to Match Undertones
If the color you want to use does not seem to have any undertones at all, feel free to style it however you wish with ivory; it is often the case that such a color features a balance of cool and warm, making it compatible with a wide array of shades.
Ivory Compared to White, Beige and Cream
Ivory vs. White
Think of ivory as more of a naturally-occuring white, and "white white" as more of a man-made white. The former is found in white seashells, pearls, sand and stones. The latter is usually only seen in manufactured items that are stained with bleach or a bright dye to obtain the hue.
Ivory vs. Beige
Ivory is a soft shade of white and beige is a soft shade of brown or tan. Together, the two make a coastal-inspired color palette, since both compose the majority of the makeup of beaches (and other nature destinations). If you want more warmth, go heavy on different shades of beige!
Ivory vs. Cream Colors
Compared to cream, ivory is more white. Cream can be thought of as closer to yellow on the spectrum, warmer and less bright. Usually, these two colors don't match.
Ivory Picks
Common Questions About Ivory Home Decor
What kind of vibe does an ivory color scheme create in a living room?
An ivory color scheme instantly evokes a sense of serene elegance and understated luxury, creating a calming and airy atmosphere perfect for relaxation. It offers a sophisticated neutral backdrop that makes other colors and textures pop, providing a versatile foundation for various decor styles. This timeless choice can make smaller spaces feel larger and brighter, contributing to an overall feeling of spaciousness and tranquility.
How can I incorporate ivory into my bedroom without it feeling too stark or cold?
To avoid a stark feel, layer different textures within your ivory palette, such as plush throws, woven rugs, and linen bedding, to add warmth and depth. Introduce natural elements like wood accents, plants, or even a touch of metallic sheen in brushed brass or gold to bring in organic warmth and visual interest. Consider softer, warmer undertones of ivory, like a cream or a very pale beige, and complement them with gentle lighting to create a cozy and inviting sanctuary.
Is ivory a good choice for furniture, especially if I have pets or children?
While ivory furniture can be stunning, it does require mindful material selection for high-traffic homes with pets and children. Opt for performance fabrics that are stain-resistant and easy to clean, or consider materials like treated leather that can withstand spills and wear. Many manufacturers now offer durable, family-friendly options in beautiful ivory shades, so you don't have to sacrifice style for practicality.
What accent colors pair best with ivory when decorating a dining room?
Ivory serves as a beautiful canvas, allowing a wide range of accent colors to shine in your dining room, from deep jewel tones like emerald or sapphire for a dramatic effect, to soft pastels like blush or sage for a gentle, sophisticated look. Metallic accents in gold, silver, or rose gold can add a touch of glamour and refinement, while natural wood tones introduce warmth and a grounded, organic feel. Consider the mood you want to create – bolder colors for a lively space, or softer hues for a more tranquil dining experience.
How does an ivory sofa contribute to the overall longevity and style of a living room's design?
An ivory sofa is a classic choice that offers incredible longevity in terms of style, effortlessly adapting to changing decor trends and seasonal updates. Its neutral base allows you to easily refresh your room's look with new throw pillows, blankets, or wall art without needing to replace your main seating piece. Investing in a high-quality ivory sofa, perhaps from Living Spaces with their focus on durable materials and timeless designs, ensures a sophisticated and enduring centerpiece for years to come.