Neutral Colors

Neutral colors are the ones that do not tend to catch our eye as much when they stand alone. In many cases, they are colors that remind us of nature. Less saturated versions of warm or cool colors can also become neutral colors.

White

White chapel
  • Innocent
  • Pure
  • Clean
  • Sterile
  • Stand-offish
  • Cold
  • Bland
  • Neutral

White is one of the least popular colors, considered bland and cold. People sometimes feel rushed or uncomfortable in an overly-white environment. On the other hand, white can increase a person’s perception of space. It can also help to reduce feelings of disappointment or unhappiness. White increases mental clarity and motivates people to de-clutter and embrace new beginnings.

Brown

Brown chair
  • Stable
  • Reliable
  • Natural
  • Wholesome
  • Practical
  • Secure
  • Comfort
  • Conventional

While brown is often considered dull and boring, it can also be a color that brings about feelings of warmth and safety. Brown can be comforting due to its connections to the earth; it is also reassuring because of its associations with being safe, stable, and grounded. This color can aid in decisiveness and concentration. Brown motivates people to stay organized.

Black

Black horse
  • Heavy
  • Serious
  • Powerful
  • Dignified
  • Evil
  • Death
  • Elegant
  • Mystery

Black has a visual weight and makes things appear heavier. Due to the mystery and heaviness associated with it, black is a color with a lot of power. In the right amount and in the right context, such as in clothing, black can appear classy and professional. Overused or used in the wrong place, such as the walls of a room, black can cause sadness or fear.