A Pop of Color That Made a Change

If you know me and personal style, you know I’m all about neutrals. Soft, toned-down, natural hues are what make me feel grounded and at peace. There’s something about a calm, harmonious palette that makes a home feel like a retreat from the noise of everyday life.

But a while ago, a cow made a change.

I was at a fundraising event for Red Dog Farm — an amazing animal rescue organization founded by a truly amazing lady who I get to call my friend, do check them out! — when a painting stopped me in my tracks. It was a bold, super colorful cow’s head, and it instantly transported me back to our time in Switzerland, where cows with bells dotted the hillsides. I knew right away I wanted to take it home.

Fast-forward a few days, and there it was, hanging above our bed. But here’s the thing: when you add one colorful piece to an otherwise neutral space, it can look… off. Like it’s shouting when everything else is whispering.

But instead of doing a full-scale makeover, I made a couple of small, thoughtful changes. I added a few colorful decorative pillows to the bed and placed a vase with a bright, cheerful bouquet nearby. That was it. Nothing else changed. Yet suddenly, the painting felt like it belonged there—like it had been waiting for that very spot all along.

What I love about this little refresh is that it didn’t require a full change of style away from neutrals. It’s still the same calm, peaceful bedroom, but with a splash of vibrance that makes it feel fresh, personal, and alive.

It’s a great reminder that you don’t have to go all out to transform a space. A single statement piece—whether it’s art, a rug, or even a colorful chair—paired with a few echoing accents can create a sense of cohesion and excitement without overwhelming the room. Sometimes, the smallest tweaks make the biggest impact.

And even better? Every time I see that painting, I’m reminded not just of Switzerland, but of the moment I found it, and the wonderful cause it supported.