Texture: it’s perhaps the most important ingredient in a neutral, minimalist design—without it, the room may look impersonal and dull. In this Zen-like master bedroom, designer Mia Rao used texture to great effect, layering a range of sheens and tactile elements throughout the space. “This master bedroom was designed to evoke a modern comfort and create a refuge,” she says. “The luster and natural texture on the wall behind the bed anchor the room with an organic radiance. The room has a soft glow that is inviting with the up-lit headboard and statement chandelier.” The result, says Rao, is “a peaceful vibe that really resonates. After all, we all want to feel calm at the beginning and end of each day as we rise to greet the day or fall into night's slumber.”

Design by Mia Rao and team, Mia Rao Design; www.miaraodesign.com; Photography by Adam Jablonski

For a master bathroom that’s awash with traditional elegance, architect Jeff DeGraw let the structure of the space speak for itself, facing the whirlpool tub with panels that tie it into the classic style of the home. A soft, silvery-gray wall color creates a serene look and helps keep the emphasis on the light and views admitted by the trio of windows above the tub. Decorative accents, from the gleaming marble floor tiles to the framed artwork to the lanterns play up the luxurious effect, without detracting from the soothing atmosphere.

Design by Jeff DeGraw, DeGraw & DeHaan Architects, LLP; www.degrawanddehaan.com; Photography by Laura Moss

Wondering how to keep a one-color space from looking blah? Consider this living room vignette. Working within a tight, all-gray color palette, designer Shanade McAllister-Fisher layered shades, textures, and geometric pattern to great effect. The result, as she says, is a study in Scandinavian-style chic and “an effortlessly relaxed space designed to calm and sooth the senses.”

Design by Shanade McAllister-Fisher, Shanade McAllister-Fisher Interior Design; www.shanademcallisterfisher.com; Photography by Nathalie Priem

For a kitchen addition to a San Francisco Arts & Crafts-style home, designer Suzanne Childress had a simple directive: “to create a kitchen area that flowed with the traditional house yet felt fresh.” To achieve this goal, Childress opted for traditional, yet streamlined, design elements and a pale, silvery palette. Shaker-style cabinet doors are always classic,” she says. “We added interest with a mantel-style hood for the stove area and etched glass doors over the sink. We wanted the gray color to read with some depth but too not be too dark or heavy. The color we used is Graystone by Benjamin Moore.”

Design by Suzanne Childress, Suzanne Childress Design; www.suzannechildressdesign.com; Photography by Liz Daly Photography