Expert Advice

9 Tips for Mastering Tone on Tone Decorating

It’s harder than it looks.

By Jenn Rose Smith
Curate a gallery wall.

If you’ve ever tried to create a monochromatic space then you probably already know that it can be challenging: how do you keep things in a restrained palette without having a room look boring, contrived, or just plain… plain? We met up with pro decorator and Style Director of The Mine Eddie Ross to talk about his approach to tone-on-tone decorating.

According to Eddie, if you’re going to limit color variation then it’s important to pump up the variation when it comes to texture and pattern.

He also suggests mixing different styles of furniture for a more sophisticated space. We are in love with this summery blue-on-blue bedroom he created using products from The Mine. “This is the first space I designed and shot in my new role as Style Director,” says Eddie. “In master bedrooms, it can be difficult to have a space that is both masculine and feminine, but by focusing on design that is calming, modern and organic the outcome is the best of both worlds. The range of products we offer allowed me to create a layered and beautiful bedroom by using tone-on-tone blues and natural textures.” Eddie’s decor style is effortless, eclectic, and uncalculated. Scroll down to see how he created this serene space using just shades of blue and neutral tones.

Go natural underfoot.

As we continually used various shades of neutrals throughout the master bedroom, it was only fitting to use a natural woven rug, a classic style that helps to ground the space.

pictured above: safavieh natural fiber bleach and natural area rug

Paint the walls white.

I love a white wall! It may sound so simplistic but it is the best blank canvas. From there you can go to town with the art and furniture.

pictured above: temahome denso bookshelf

Curate a gallery wall.

A gallery wall is one of my favorite ways to take a blank wall and instantly elevate the design of the space. For this bedroom design, I stayed true to the tone-on-tone theme by continuing to use the same color palette of neutrals, blue and black.

Play with pattern.

I never shy away from using a wide range of patterns! Here I used plaid sheets, a stripe coverlet with gingham and geometric throw pillows. It sounds like a lot at first but in reality, the mix of patterns adds interest to the bed.

pictured above: lush décor monique 3-piece quilt and izod by westpoint home windowpane plaid 200-thread count sheet set

Choose a statement bedframe.

When you design a master bedroom, don’t forget that the bed is the largest item in the room and it will set the tone for the whole space. I always like to find a bed that makes a statement: maybe a canopy bed or a striking headboard.

pictured above: universal furniture sojourn respite bed

Exercise restraint.

When sticking to a tone-on-tone theme for the design, it is key to exercise restraint, which sounds much easier in writing than it is in actuality! Stick to your original color palette and then play with texture and materials!

Experiment with furniture styles.

Don’t only use one style of furniture, instead experiment with various styles and looks. With a mahogany nightstand and an iron bed, the style becomes more layered.

pictured above: tommy bahama home ocean club kaloa nightstand and arteriors home mariella porcelain crosshatch table lamp

Don’t forget the details.

From a bookcase to your bedside table, be sure to remember the details! From candles and picture frames to books and collected objects, all of these items add your personality to a space!

pictured above: temahome denso bookshelf

Mix materials.

The key to the design of this room is to mix materials, from a jute rug to faux fur throw. The various materials help to create layers of interest throughout the space.

Can’t get enough of Eddie’s designs? Follow him on instagram:
@eddieross
@shopthemine