Arguably, the biggest benefit of a neutral living room is its versatility. In my home, I enjoy white-painted walls and natural wooden floors that serve as the perfect base for accessorizing with books, pillows, and artworks. However, I'd never thought of introducing color through my sofa, until Cameron Diaz's space changed my way of thinking.
In her Beverly Hills home, The Mask actress interrupted her neutral living room with a statement rust-colored sofa, and the result is stunning. While the vanilla-toned room is soothing, the sofa introduces vibrancy without being overpowering. Despite being bold, it's somehow equally understated, and quietly luxurious: The perfect piece for such a chic living room.
In my own home, I'm (unsurprisingly) working to a more compact scale. However, Cameron's teachings ring true in even the smallest of living rooms. That includes my tiny London apartment. Like her, the majority of my space is covered in a subtle neutral, but missing a statement piece. Rust, or specifically, a rust sofa, is the answer.
Shop the look
Elevate your living space with this designer-inspired French bouclé sofa. Expertly crafted with premium materials and high-density foam, it delivers exceptional comfort while serving as a striking centerpiece for any living room. I'm almost sure Cameron would approve.
A subtle hint of fall, this piece captures Cameron's style without a big investment. The best part? It looks beautiful year-round and complements any sofa color.
With its neutral color and unique bohemian pattern, this throw blanket adds a charming aesthetic touch to any sofa. Made with high-quality fleece material, this plush throw is fluffy, soft, and shedding-resistant.
With its ability to make a statement while feeling utterly chic, it's no surprise that I'm not alone in my love for rust. Lauren Saab, the founder of Saab Studios, mirrors my sentiments.
'Rust is one of those rare colors that feels both storied and modern. In a neutral living room, a rust sofa becomes an anchor and adds a layer of richness you just cannot get from neutrals alone,' she comments.
While decorating with orange seems bold, Cameron's space reminds me just how many variations I can play with. This darker tone works in harmony with her vanilla base palette, but as Lauren explains, it's hard to go wrong with any neutral.
'It works beautifully with pale stone, light oak, and soft cream, so the color never feels heavy. The right balance of textures and neutrals lets it feel bold yet effortless, adding depth without ever overwhelming the space,' she says.
'Layer in warm metals, textured fabrics, and subtle patterns to tie the palette together and give the room a welcoming sense of style, comfort, and character throughout.'
