Designing With a Monochromatic Color Palette: 3 Factors to Keep In Mind
Monochromatic designs done right make a strong statement and never go out of style. I am asked about how to create this look regularly, so I thought I’d put together a few floral and decor design tips about working with a single color palette.
When designing monochromatic event decor, there are 3 few important factors to keep in mind:
Depth of Color
You may be working with a single color, but within that color are an infinite number of shades! To create depth in your designs, create a balance of multiple shades of the same color to create a sense of depth.
Multiple Textures
Just like depth of color, texture is important in monochromatic design. It adds more character and interest to everything you create and allows your eye to take in layer after layer of detail. Make sure you’re choosing materials with varied textures, not only within your floral arrangements, but also in the furniture, accessories, linens, china and glassware within your environment.
Creativity and Intuition
There is no “perfect” way to design a monochromatic event - it’s all about being creative! Once you’ve gathered the materials you think you’ll use, simply lay them out on a table or hold them next to each other and start by looking at everything together. See where your eye goes naturally and sense how the combination feels to you. If your intuition tells you that all the components feel good, then that’s all you need to begin your designs! If there are elements that just don’t fit, don’t force it. Save them for your next project and go with the flow that feels right to your intuition.
The look I’ve been getting the most requests for lately is monochromatic decor in a warm, creamy, neutral palette. For a client’s recent party, I designed this luxurious table decor with a pale color story of ivory, cream, blush and beige. The florals were a combination of tinted chocolate orchids, quicksand roses, and various dried and bleached botanicals like amaranthus, ruscus, lunaria and pampas grass. I loved the juxtaposition of the sleek rectangular tables and modern chairs with the soft textures of the florals, linens and velvet upholstery.
Photos by Melody Melikian Photography