When working with a palette devoid of color, texture is key to creating interest. Here, Christina Anstead fills her oversized sectional with a mix of pillows in knit, shaggy and linen textiles. Woven baskets and trays, as well as the layered area rugs, add tactile appeal.

Ground your neutral design with black. The shade may bring depth and dimension to any room, but it's especially needed in a space where soft shades can blend together. The black hardware and fixtures forge a striking contrast against the pale woods and bright whites of this bathroom.

Metallics give the same juxtaposition to a neutral palette as black does. And yes, you can integrate both at the same time. Natural wood tones reign supreme in this farmhouse kitchen. An oversized copper pendant and galvanized range hood, as well as black fixtures and window trim, deliver the right amount of contrast to the space.

Neutrals allow furnishings to stand on their own. Christina Anstead's open dining room and kitchen sticks with pale woods, blacks and whites to allow the design elements, from the dramatic woven pendant to the belt-strapped bench and horseshoe dining chairs, to speak for themselves. Of course, in this space, the real showstopper is the glass wine cellar, which also gets a boost from the hushed palette. Cheers!