A practical handbook for maximizing the decorative effect of neutral colors. This is an easy-to-use guide to working with neutrals in home decorating. Once limited to whites and beiges, today's neutrals come in an overwhelming range of whispery pinks and yellows, organic grays, greens and browns, and even blacks. Each of the 150+ color palettes and combinations includes notes on where the color is best used; for example, on furniture or as trim. Mood boards, scrapbooks and beautiful images provide added inspiration. Topics include: Why neutrals are popular How neutrals work with other colors How to use neutrals to create spaciousness How to decide which color scheme to use Understanding the effect of light on color How to layer neutrals Using neutrals and bright colors. The "Color Directory" has more than 220 pages of palettes and their variations. As well, Alice Buckley tells the stories behind such schemes as northern lights, Parisian elegance, ice cream, white heat and desert beauty. For home decorators and interior designers, Neutral Color Schemes is an essential handbook.