While neutral walls make it easier to play with different colours in accessories, they can also be boring. With some basic understanding of the colour wheel, you can confidently commit to leaving drab walls behind.
One half of the colour wheel is warm the other cool. The interplay of both with paint and décor is a sure-fire way to create natural harmony in any space.
Analagous colours, the neighboring hues on one half of the wheel, work together to create harmony. Choose one hue as the main wall colour and layer in the others with furnishings and accessories. Varying the value and intensity of each hue will establish how soothing or dynamic the mood.
Complementary colours are those opposite one another on the wheel. Combined in the same room they are invigorating. For less excitement, tone down the intensity of one or both of the hues and introduce natural materials and textures for a break.