As the saturated energetic color of holiday decked halls fades with December, we’ll peek at more “clean slate” images. Inspiring us today are Whispery Neutral Zen Interiors With Sophisticated Tonal Chic. Think rooms with natural decor elements, organic, calm, mainly minimal style. Scandinavian design, California cool, Danish Hygge, slow living, modern rustic, warm minimal, and laid back warm contemporary spaces with natural woods and pale tones. Designers and sources inspiring me for today’s tone on tone aesthetic? Leanne Ford, Jersey Ice Cream Co, Remodelista and Jenni Kayne. Let’s chat about ideas to achieve this vibe in your own home.
![Jeffrey Dungan and Beth Webb designed entry with pale stained natural rustic woods and sophisticated yet laid back decor.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/001-jeffrey-dungan-beth-webb-holiday-wreath-front-door.jpg)
Whispery Neutral Zen Interiors With Sophisticated Tonal Chic
Leanne Ford’s Inspiring Pittsburgh Guest Cottage
When I think of an “undone” zen look with comforting, pale tones and a luxuriously laid-back yet sophisticated vibe, I think of Leanne Ford.
The unique, unfussy interiors in her own home may just inspire you…not because you’ll copy her rooms, but because you’ll be inspired by her techniques, design courage, and insistence on ease.
![Leanne Ford designed living room with zen feel and Ever sofab in her Pittsburgh guest cottage - photo by Erin Kelly for Pittsburgh Post Gazette. #modernrustic #vintagestyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/leanne-ford-guest-cottage-living-room-erin-kelly-pittsburghpostgazette-1440x1029.jpg)
In this guest cottage on the property of her suburban Pittsburgh home, she reworked a carriage house with classic Colonial Revival style. She wanted the place to have Old World, English garden charm, and to achieve it, she:
stained first floor walls with coffee to give them age (see their rustic beauty above!)
![Leanne Ford designed bathroom in her Pittsburgh guest cottage - photo by Erin Kelly for Pittsburgh Post Gazette. #modernrustic #vintagestyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/leanne-ford-guest-cottage-bathroom-pittsburgh-postgazette-erin-kelly.jpg)
removed low drop ceilings
painted exposed beams and wood slats bright white
![Leanne Ford designed rough luxe bedroom with exposed rafters painted white in her Pittsburgh guest cottage - photo by Erin Kelly for Pittsburgh Post Gazette. #modernrustic #vintagestyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/leanne-ford-guest-cottage-bedroom-exposed-rafters-ceiling-erin-kelly-pittsburghpostgazette-1440x1047.jpg)
removed drywall in bedrooms before “grout washing” the walls
kept plumbing where it was and just painted pipes white
![Leanne Ford designed kitchen with dusty rose range in her Pittsburgh guest cottage - photo by Erin Kelly for Pittsburgh Post Gazette. #modernrustic #vintagestyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/leanne-ford-guest-cottage-kitchen-pink-stove-skirted-cabinets-erin-kelly-pittsburghpostgazette.jpg)
used humble butcher block countertop in the kitchen
tiled the backsplash with simple terracotta tiles found in a shed on the property
![Leanne Ford designed entry and stairs in her Pittsburgh guest cottage - photo by Erin Kelly for Pittsburgh Post Gazette. #modernrustic #vintagestyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/leanne-ford-guest-cottage-living-room-stairs-pittsburgh-postgazette-erin-kelly.jpg)
patched the wood floors with clay tiles
hid a refrigerator behind vintage confessional doors
![Leanne Ford designed bathroom in her Pittsburgh guest cottage - photo by Erin Kelly for Pittsburgh Post Gazette. #modernrustic #vintagestyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/leanne-ford-guest-cottage-vintage-bathroom-pittsburgh-postgazette-erin-kelly.jpg)
As you can see, she stripped back the interiors to reveal their history and allowed the imperfect, aged, distressed and original materials to speak.
![Leanne Ford designed bedroom with rough luxe walls and exposed rafters in her Pittsburgh guest cottage - photo by Erin Kelly for Pittsburgh Post Gazette. #modernrustic #vintagestyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/leanne-ford-guest-cottage-bedroom-shabby-chic-vintage-wallpaper-erin-kelly-pittsburghpostgazette-1440x1023.jpg)
Are the wheels turning? Can you imagine uncovering layers of mystery, designing with freedom from rules, and even inventing techniques (i.e. grout-washed walls) as you go?
Need a Zen-like Bed?
The bedroom is often an optimal starting point if you’re thinking about bringing more calm to your interiors. Choosing a bed or headboard these days can be daunting since you’ll be living with your decision for such a long time. Here’s a neutral option:
![Alpine Faux Fur Quilt & Shams - Ivory](https://assets.pbimgs.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/wcm/202040/0070/alpine-faux-fur-quilt-shams-ivory-o.jpg)
![Nietzsche inspirational quote about seeing. #nietzsche #quotes #seeing #inspirationalquote #wisdomequotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/BLUE-GREY-inspirational-quote-about-seeing-nietzsche.jpg)
Bathroom Design Inspiration
Let’s face it. Most of us don’t design our bathrooms with much mindfulness.
![Modern rustic farmhouse bathroom with vessel sink, round mirror, and minimal toilet - Zenqhome.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0001-cozy-modern-zen-bathroom-rustic-farmhouse-vessel-sink-zenqhome.jpg)
Even though we know we’ll be spending a fair amount of time in the space, a bright white box is the common result. So it’s inspiring to imagine the possibilities…
![Gorgeous and luxurious minimal zen bathroom with Italian marble tile and soft grey walls - Planetedeco.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0001-cozy-neutral-swedish-apartment-grey-bathroom-italian-marble-planetedeco.jpg)
If a luxurious new marble walk-in shower is not realistic, maybe a fresh green color is. While green tile can be beautiful…
![Serene and luxurious zen shower with green tile walls - MandarainStoneOfficial.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0001-cozy-modern-zen-bathroom-green-tile-mandarinstoneofficial.jpg)
maybe green walls or a vanity will elevate the look you’re after:
![9 earthy green paint colors from Benjamin Moore to consider - Hello Lovely. #greenpaint #paintcolors #earthygreen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/9-EARTHY-GREEN-PAINT-COLORS-swatch.jpg)
![Anne Lamott inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquotes #annelamott #lifequotes #encouragementquotes #grace](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/BLUE-GREY-inspirational-quote-about-lighthouses-anne-lamott.jpg)
Living Rooms With Calm Zen Vibes
In my own home, a calm color palette sets the stage for tranquility.
![My Belgian linen arm chair in living room with white oak hardwoods - Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/00001-fall-decor-hello-lovely-living-room-belgian-linen-chair-fireplace.jpg)
Shades of white and pale stone don’t have to read cold…
![Cozy comfy zen living room with white sectional, modern floor lamp and rustic wood coffee table - @visionityourself.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0001-cozy-white-minimal-modern-swedish-living-room-interior-sectional-visionityourself.jpg)
and just look at how two completely different looks can be achieved with neutrals. The space above with its curves and sculptural elements feels Scandinavian, laid back and informal.
The interior below with its straight edges and geometry feels more urban and crisp.
![Cozy neutral beige living room in a Swedish home with modern art and calm design style - PlaneteDeco.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0001-cozy-neutral-beige-swedish-apartment-living-room-interior-planetedeco.jpg)
![Oscar Wilde inspirational quote about seeing. #oscarwilde #quotes #inspirationalquotes #seeing #humility](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/BLUE-GREY-inspirational-quote-about-seeing-oscar-wilde-loking-at-the-stars.jpg)
Inspiring Cozy Zen Kitchens & and Dining Rooms
My favorite kitchens are zen-like in that they are uncluttered, cozy, and natural.
Utilitarian kitchens can be awfully cold and industrial, and since we tend to live in our kitchens these days, why shouldn’t they be like inviting living rooms?
![Athena Calderone Brooklyn kitchen with black cabinets, marble, and floating desk in front of window. #blackkitchens #blackandwhite #inteiordesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/anthena-calderone-eyeswoon-kitchen-desk-black-cabinets-herringbone-floor.jpg)
As you can clearly see, a tranquil classic space doesn’t have one look or color story.
![Jeffrey designed timeless breakfast nook with elegant architecture. #breakfastnook #bespokekitchen #braskfastnook](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/jeffrey-dungan-breakfast-nook.jpg)
A relaxed look can be sophisticated, earthy, classic, country or casual.
![An open kitchen in Barcelona with calm, zen, natural modern style and black pendants over breakfast bar - Pia Capdevilla.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0001-cozy-neutral-open-kitchen-barcelona-home-pia-capdevilla.jpg)
![Beautiful bespoke kitchen with deep blue-gray Shaker cabinets (deVOL) and white marble counters - design by @clarenceandgraves. #Englishkitchen #shakerkitchen #bespokekitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/devolkitchens-custom-bespoke-uk-dark-kitchen-cabinets-clarenceandgraves.jpg)
![Zen dining room with white walls, modern black chairs, and natural wood farm table exuding Scandinavian style - PlaneteDeco.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0001-cozy-neutral-modern-rustic-swedish-apartment-dining-room-scandinavian-black-chairs-planetedeco.jpg)
![Anne Lamott inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquotes #annelamott #lifequotes #encouragementquotes #grace](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/BLUE-GREY-inspirational-quote-about-grace-anne-lamott.jpg)
Tranquil Bedrooms to Inspire
![Beautiful classic bedroom design by Marie Flanigan Interiors. #bedroomdesign #interiordesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/001-marie-flanigan-interiors-mountain-lodge-bedroom.jpg)
![Iron Mountain (Benjamin Moore) on bedroom walls with board and batten trim, upholstered headboard, and animal print ottomans - Sherry Hart of Design Indulgence. #ironmountain #paintcolors](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/benjamin-moore-iron-mountain-walls-bedroom-sherry-hart-design-indulgence.jpg)
![Cozy zen bedroom with white, tone on tone, beadboard, and modern minimal slow living style - JerseyIceCreamCo and BethKirby.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0001-cozy-modern-zen-slow-living-bedroom-beadboard-bethkirby-jerseyicecreamco.jpg)
![Cozy Copenhagen egg chair with Belgian linen upholstery in a bedroom with grisaille wall mural - Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/briarcliff-bedroom-egg-chair-fall-living-well-candle-005.jpg)
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
![Annie Dillard inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquotes #anniedillard #lifequotes #encouragementquotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/BLUE-GREY-inspirational-quote-about-courage-ANNIE-DILLARD.jpg)
To Inspire Sustainable & Thoughtful Decorating
If you’re seeking stylish ideas for sustainable living, this new book may be just what your soul is craving.
![Serene rustic vintage zen bathroom with clawfoot tub, pink door, and white floors - design by Clare Lattin and appearing in HOME FOR THE SOUL by Sara Bird & Dan Duchars (Ryland Peters Small, 2020).](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/rustic-vintage-bathroom-with-pink-door-and-white-floors-@lattin72-thecontentednest-home-for-the-soul.jpg)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81pWZgoTavL.jpg)
Psst. I saw so many calm, dusty, rosy pink painted doors in 2021 (scroll back up to Leanne Ford’s guest cottage!) and they’re still popping up everywhere.
![Ella Rose paint color by Magnolia](https://magnolia.com/images/res.cloudinary.com/social-upload-prod-media-cld/image/upload/w_1000,f_auto/shopify/1/0207/8508/products/JG-24ELLA-ROSE.png?v=1537557299)
Need a gorgeously gentle dusty rose paint color idea? The one above is a favorite of Joanna Gaines, and the paint below is a Leanne Ford recommended hue.
![Romeo (PPG) paintcolor is a gorgous nude blush pink](https://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2019/10/1/1/RX_PPG-Ford_Romeo.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.966.725.suffix/1569944341259.jpeg)
Decor & Furniture Ideas to Get a Cozy Zen Look
![Jenni Kayne Favorites on Hello Lovely](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/jenni-kayne-cozy-favorites-hello-lovely-studio-banner.jpg)
An amazing start to a laid-back luxe and highly livable den? Leanne Ford’s Ever Sofa:
![Ever Slipcovered Sofa by Leanne Ford (Open Larger View)](https://cb.scene7.com/is/image/Crate/EverSlipcoveredSofaWhiteSHS20_1x1/%24web_pdp_main_carousel_med%24/210226164328/ever-slipcovered-sofa.jpg)
I love Pottery Barn’s Big Sur collection since the lines are so simple, and the timelessness of the sumptuous design won’t fall from favor.
![Warm Winter Layers](https://assets.pbimgs.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/ecm/202041/2546/047/336.jpg)
Chunky, cableknit throws are hard to beat for infusing your space with cozy factor.
But there are plenty of other gorgeous beds to create a cocoon of a retreat for your master bedroom or a guest bedroom RIGHT HERE.
![Colossal Handknit Throws](https://assets.pbimgs.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/wcm/202042/0004/colossal-handknit-throws-o.jpg)
![Anne Lamott inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquotes #annelamott #lifequotes #encouragementquotes #humor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/BLUE-GREY-inspirational-quote-joy-is-best-makeup-anne-lamott.jpg)
Mediterranean Inspired Pottery & Earthenware
If you’re lucky enough to find ancient pieces (try HERE and HERE), woohoo! For more friendly priced and sourced replicas…
Add a Cozy & Timeless Throw
Both my kitchen and living room are calm spaces with soft neutral colors common to European country inspired homes.
![Luxurious, comfy and sophisticated this cashmere throw (Italic) is stylish in heather gray against the Belgian linen upholstered arm chair - Hello Lovely Studio. #cashmere #cashmerethrow](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/italic-cashmere-throw-grey-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
I love how this heather grey cashmere throw offers contrast with the light linen and the combo feels gentle, not jolting.
![My cashmere throw from Italic looks gorgeous anywhere I toss it in the living room! Hello Lovely Studio. #cashmerethrow](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/italic-cashmere-throw-grey-hello-lovely-studio-4.jpg)
I also love how natural-toned throws like THESE work with light upholstery.
For a more tonal look (and splurge on a luxurious yet timeless accent!), this alpaca throw from Jenni Kayne offers lovely whispery dove grey beauty.
![Alpaca throw - Jenni Kayne](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/image-2.png)
It seems wherever I toss this yummy luxurious yet not fancy throw, it looks just right.
![Belgian linen upholstered chaise (RH) with a heather gray cashmere throw (Italic) in my living room - Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/italic-cashmere-throw-grey-hello-lovely-studio-2.jpg)
![Inspirational quote for personal growth and self kindness - Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirational #courage #strength #selfcare #kindness](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/inspirational-quote-hello-lovely-studio-blue-green-stress-passion.jpg)
Could Your Pantry Use a Zhush of Zen?
Mine could!
Thinking of you as you recover from Christmas cheer and prepare for a promising new year. I hope to have time in my next post to update you on happenings ’round here and share more glimpses from around the house at Christmas.
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
Shop for items you already intended to buy on Amazon RIGHT HERE, and also find home decor here to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!
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