Style Secret: Limited PalettesIt's hard to pull off the minimalist look in a room that's bursting with color, which creates a lot of visual activity even in the absence of bric-a-brac. Instead, select restrained neutrals that are gentle on the eye. White is the quintessential minimalist color, but if it feels too stark or clinical to you, go for cream, beige and khaki, or barely-there greens, blues or lavenders. Ground the space with a touch of black or espresso brown. Softer side: If you long for a more emphatic stroke of color, find a way to bring it in without disturbing the room's serene vibe — if you overdo it, the space will feel as though it's wearing too much makeup. Hang a single painting above the fireplace, or paint one skinny accent wall or narrow hallway with a saturated hue. Even better, infuse a hint of color through accents that are easy to change if you tire of them: a few throw pillows, a bright tray, a handful of books.