This color combination in Lily Gladstone's living room exhibits 'classic minimalist values,' designers say

The Oscar-nominated actress discussed Killers of the Flower Moon with Cate Blanchett – but we were distracted by her backdrop

Lily Gladstone
(Image credit: JC Olivera via Getty Images)

Lily Gladstone, the name at the center of every major award ceremony, has reached new heights following her role in Killers of the Flower Moon. But what does her life look like beyond the silver screen? 

The Oscar nominee sat down with Cate Blanchett, no less, to discuss the aforementioned movie, but in true H&G style, we were slightly distracted by her backdrop. Lily's space exhibits a monochromatic color scheme – starting with a bright white base that allows the black accent pieces (and gold finishes) to take center stage. 

White living rooms have long impressed designers who use this timeless neutral to create stylish contrast juxtapositions through darker-hued pieces like Lily's cushions. Though safe, white is eternally chic, and there's even more to this base color than its versatility. 

'Primarily white schemes are a sought-after choice for those yearning for a fresh and serene space. The color white creates an illusion of spaciousness, expanding even the smallest rooms and infusing them with an airy feel,' comments James Scaife, a designer from Olson and Baker.

'Acting as a versatile blank canvas, white allows effortless coordination with any decor style. Not only this, but it also provides flexibility for future design changes.'

While it's hard to gauge the size of Lily's space, we'd hazard a guess that it's not entirely compact. However, decorating with white doesn't only benefit small living rooms. As James explains, this bright and airy hue 'optimizes natural and artificial illumination' in every sized space and consequently results in a more inviting atmosphere. 

'All-white interiors also foster a sense of tranquillity and cleanliness. They establish a serene sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation,' he adds. ' Simply, they emanate classic minimalist values and sophistication.'

White living room with grey marble fireplace

A space similar to Lily Gladstone's home.

(Image credit: Future)
James Scaife
James Scaife

James Scaife is the director of the luxury furniture company Olson and Baker. His role allows him to observe buying trends – before endorsing only the finest manufacturing practices, authentic materials, and furniture designs designed to stand the test of time. 

As mentioned, Lily brought her space to life with stark black accents and brassy/gold finishes that offer a quietly luxurious aesthetic. However, a white backdrop allows for any colored accents we may want in our home. 

'You can experiment with colorful accents and statement pieces, allowing you to add personal touches and create captivating focal points,' James says. It also serves as the perfect backdrop to living room art that showcases our individuality further. 


Shop the monochromatic living room edit

Megan Slack
Head of Celebrity Style News

Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens. She first joined Future Plc as a News Writer across their interiors titles, including Livingetc and Real Homes, before becoming H&G's News Editor in April 2022. She now leads the Celebrity/ News team. Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and an expansive collection of houseplants.