Leon Murphy
Timeless, sophisticated and wonderfully versatile, there is no denying the popularity of embracing a classic cream scheme in interior design. Pairing beautifully with more subtle shades such as tan, taupe and nudes, it also makes a wonderful backdrop for other brighter colors, materials and textures to shine. For a soothing and relaxed space that embodies an earthy and grounding feel, unite cream with a fellow neutral shade.
As Sherwin-Williams color expert, Sue Wadden (opens in new tab) says, 'a great way to accent a cream-colored space is by including another neutral hue. A beige shade like Touch of Sand [from Sherwin Williams] (opens in new tab) when paired with another cream color will bring a calming and laid back vibe to any room.' 'Blue married with cream can create a sophisticated, classic scheme that is great for a kitchen or "thought heavy" areas such as a home office or library,' advises Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore.
If you're exploring coastal decor ideas, swap out white for cream, as this will offer more warmth and a greater sense of balance with cooling blue tones. She says of the design, 'in this modern-day parlor room, we used harmonious tones of blue and cream to evoke an ambiance of formality while still being inviting and comfortable.'
Color expert and international marketing director, Helen and her husband Craig are founders of Shaw Paints, acquired by Benjamin Moore in 2020.
Margaret and her team specialize in designs that reflect diverse influences, modern interiors, and tailored color palettes.
Decorating with green can enhance our connection with the outside world and establish a welcoming indoor-outdoor feel in the home. These colors of nature often make us feel more relaxed and at ease – and it doesn't get more soothing than a cream and green scheme.
As shown in this living room by Ryann Swan Design (opens in new tab), the plush, green velvet sofa establishes a wonderful contrast with the neutral palette used across the rest of the room, with the overall look creating an eclectic mix of contrasting textures, styles of furniture and colors – a beautiful blend of the old and the new. Patrick works with designers in the UK and North America, helping to bring their projects alive with the iconic, F&B color palette. 'Since most cream colors tend to bring a subtle warmth into a room, I recommend pairing with other warm hues, like Reynard [from Sherwin-Williams] (opens in new tab). This clay-like color pairs amazingly well with cream to create a comforting and mellow space – but it is still a little adventurous,' says Sue Wadden from Sherwin-Williams. NYC-based interior designer, Artem Kropovinsky (opens in new tab) says, 'a bright coral or sunshine yellow is a great choice for creating a more playful and inviting atmosphere in the home.' As shown in this living room, the colorful storage and display unit has been painted in Benjamin Moore New London Burgundy (opens in new tab), a distinguished, deep red with violet undertones, with the walls painted in a complementary Sea Pearl cream, also from Benjamin Moore (opens in new tab).
While it may be intimidating to add color, as long as the undertone of your accents remain consistent, the whole scheme will work wonderfully as one,' advises Audrey Scheck. A gray, white and cream scheme can create a calming, neutral space that will feel utterly timeless.
Whether you opt for a light or dark gray, the use of brighter, lighter neutrals such as cream and white will make for an elegant contrast and color pairing.
For example, a warm white on the walls paired with cream curtains and a gray sofa will work wonderfully. 'Cream can also make a great option for ceiling paint if you are using yellows, gentle pinks or earthy reds on your walls.'
