Mark Ruffalo’s Rustic Catskills Living Room Is a Triumph of 'Anti-Trend' Limewashed Neutrals and Calming Earth Tones
In Mark's upstate retreat, limewashed plaster, raw brick, and timber combine – proving natural textures make the ultimate sanctuary
If you’re feeling fatigued by ever-changing color trends, Mark Ruffalo’s Catskills home may be the antidote. Set in the quiet landscape of Upstate New York, the retreat takes a different approach to the bold palettes dominating many conversations right now.
Rather than leaning into saturated shades or statement colors, it is built around limewashed plaster, white walls, natural materials, and a built-in masonry daybed, featuring cushions that look very similar to these subtly striped pieces from CB2. Together, they show how a restrained palette can create a space that feels calm and lasting without relying on trends. That is exactly what makes this classic palette such a beautiful design choice.
‘White living rooms remain timeless because they create a sense of calm, space and light that isn’t tied to any particular trend or period,’ says designer Simon Abela of Studio Abela. ‘While we’re currently seeing a move towards bolder colors and more expressive interiors, white has an enduring quality that allows a space to evolve without ever feeling dated.’
Shop the Ruffalo-Inspired Edit
To soften hard plaster or masonry seating, look for high-texture, natural fibers. This wool pillow adds instant warmth and tactile contrast to a limewashed alcove while maintaining an understated cream and ivory palette.
To soften the hard edges of a built-in plaster daybed, layering is key. Draping a tactile, lightweight piece, like this textured white throw, adds instant organic warmth without overpowering the space.
Mark’s nook avoids bold prints in favor of raw, touchable surfaces. The subtle woven texture of this pillow cover adds dimension against smooth plaster without disrupting the calm, 'anti-trend' vibe.
Another way to add texture to a single color scheme is through decor pieces such as ceramics. The subtle finish of this table vase mirrors the organic feel of Mark's limewashed plaster, bringing dimension to a hearth or reading nook.
Minimal yet interesting, this sculptural ceramic bowl introduces a designer touch to an all-white living room. Abstract in form, it's a truly beautiful piece that is sure to spark conversation.
Mark’s living room swaps busy prints for grounded, organic shapes. Finished in a soft white glaze, the Thessaly Vase brings quiet architectural interest to a hearth or open shelf without overpowering the serene neutral palette.
Mark’s living room reflects that approach through low, linen-covered seating that feels relaxed rather than formal. The pale upholstery allows the room’s architecture and materials to stand out, while providing a flexible foundation that can change over time.
As Simon explains, ‘A white living room sofa is a great example of this. It creates a strong but neutral foundation for a room and gives you the freedom to introduce personality through artwork, furniture, cushions, rugs and accessories. These elements can easily be changed over time without having to rethink the entire scheme.’
The room’s warmth comes from its materials. Plaster walls are paired with a brick fireplace, open timber shelving, and dark wood floors, giving the space depth without adding more color. ‘For me, the key to designing successfully with white is layering,’ Simon explains.
‘Combining different shades and tones of white with tactile fabrics, natural materials such as timber and stone, and warmer accents prevents a room from feeling cold or clinical. Texture becomes particularly important when the color palette is restrained.’
That balance is what makes the room work. The white palette feels simple rather than stark, while the wood and brick add contrast and character. It's a masterclass in decorating with neutrals, in the most soothing way possible.
‘Ultimately, I think white remains so popular because of its versatility and longevity,’ Simon comments. ‘It can feel contemporary, traditional, minimal or luxurious depending on how it is styled, and it provides a sense of visual calm that can be particularly appealing in our increasingly busy lives.’
Mark’s home is a reminder that a white room does not have to feel vanilla. When it is layered with natural materials and texture, it can feel just as considered as a more colorful interior, with the added advantage of lasting well beyond any single trend.
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