Lupita Nyong'o's 'strategic' paint choices create a 'timeless' and 'versatile' living space

In recent years, cool neutrals like light blue and gray have been fading in favor of warmer colors. Tones like beige, tan, wood, and cream are becoming the new neutrals – and no space makes a case for these hues quite like Lupita Nyong'o's living room.

The actress took to Instagram to share a video of her year in review, with a clip of her living space at the beginning of the footage. It reveals her tan rug, beige walls, brown stairs, and gray brown seating choices. The overall effect is cozy and calming.

'Lupita effectively incorporates warm neutral colors through strategic choices in paint, furniture, textiles, and accessories to create a harmonious, inviting, and timeless atmosphere in her home,' says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein of Nyong'o's living room color choice.

Nina Lichtenstein

Nina Lichtenstein is the founder and principal home designer at her eponymous design studio, based in Westchester, NY. Nina believes that home design should capture a family’s unique spirit by how it serves the family's daily needs while nourishing the soul. 

Though Nyongo's interior look has been a huge living room trend over the past few years, it's also a classic look that doesn't show any signs of fading. Lichtenstein tells Homes & Gardens, 'Warm neutral colors, such as beige, taupe, and soft whites, exude a timeless and classic elegance. This ensures that her room remains stylish and relevant over an extended period.'

Jennifer Ebert, Digital Editor at H&G, adds: 'Because of their inviting nature and multiplicity of uses, warm neutrals are more than a passing fad.' She continues, 'These shades highlight a connection to nature, match beautifully with white, and can be easily altered by adding or taking away contrast. Especially in a living room, there is nothing more classic than tan, beige, and taupe.'

Jennifer Ebert

Jen is the Editor (Digital) of Homes & Gardens. Before starting this position, she had completed various interior design courses at KLC Design School, as well as working across Ideal Home, LivingEtc, 25 Beautiful Homes and Country Homes & Interiors as an interiors writer.

In addition to their timeless appeal, these colors have gained popularity because they can be used in so many different spaces. Lichtenstein says: 'Warm neutrals serve as a versatile backdrop, allowing for easy integration of various textures, patterns, and styles. This versatility facilitates effortless updates to her decor without requiring a complete color overhaul.'

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If you're looking for a color scheme that will never fade, that can be used in several different design schemes, look no further than Lupita Nyongo's living room.