Halle Berry's anti-trend living room sofa reaffirms a crucial design lesson: This color is timeless for a reason

Every now and then, I come across a celebrity's living room that reminds me of the sheer timelessness of beloved color. My latest discovery comes in the form of Halle Berry's white sofa, featured in her cool, Californian living space, where she has painted her walls a similar hue.

While it's always a joy to observe vibrant new sofa trends (burnt orange and pistachio green come to mind as particular favorites this year), the quiet beauty of Halle Berry's sofa reminds me that some colors are truly eternal. Every part of her white living room reaffirms its versatility and style, proving that you don't need to make bold decorating choices to create a living room with longevity.

Although 'quiet luxury' is no longer a new phenomenon, Halle's living room is one of the finest examples of this look I've seen this year. Led by her muted sofa, it's a reminder to prioritize high-quality materials and craftsmanship where possible, for a result that will look just as beautiful 100 years from now.

Shop the look

If you're thinking of following Halle's example, you might be pleased to know I am not exclusive in my love for her look.

Eric Bramlett, the owner of Bramlett Real Estate, has spent many years helping clients shape living rooms that feel stylish and welcoming, and he keeps returning to white as a color that transcends more fleeting design movements. He says that people choose white for its timeless elegance that serves as the perfect base for bolder pieces, such as artwork and sculptures, as we see in Halle's space.

'The neutral background lets artwork, throw pillows, or a single bright chair make a clear statement without the need to change the whole room,' he says.

'Similarly, it allows for a focus on form and texture. When color steps back, the eye notices the curve of an armchair, the grain of a wood side table, or the weave of a rug.'

White can sometimes feel clinical, so Eric recommends incorporating interesting textures to keep the space feeling personal and warm. 'Plush rugs, smooth leather cushions, woven baskets, and leafy plants build layers that soften the sharp contrast and invite people to sit and stay,' he says.

'Wood, a natural finish, adds warmth that blends well. Pattern adds energy when used in small doses. Striped pillows, a checkerboard floor tile, or a geometric throw blanket draw the eye without cluttering the scene. A person does not need many patterns at once. One or two well-placed designs are enough to spark interest.'

When in doubt, start with a curved white sofa and neutral painted walls, then let your artwork do the talking, just as Halle demonstrates.