Home » Misc » Colour schemes for rooms

Colour schemes for rooms


45 Best Bedroom Paint Colors 2023

1

Deep Red

Heidi Caillier

In this warm yet polished bedroom designed by Heidi Caillier, bewitching red walls set a romantic mood. The accent pillow features a more neon shade of red that brightens up the space while still keeping it calm, cozy, and just a touch mysterious.

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Cascabel Chile, $99

2

Red Lacquer

FRITZ VON DERSCHULENBURG

High-energy yet calming, bold yet timeless, this jaw-dropping bedroom designed by Brian J. McCarthy is serious goals. For a similar effect, stick to a tight two-color story with the walls in a show-stopping super high gloss paint and your ceiling in a flat white paint. "This finish feels fresh for a guest room, and the surprising pop of color is both warm and chic," he says.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Blazer, $110

3

Bright Red Accents

ALISON GOOTEE

Or, reverse the look and opt for bright white walls and bold red bedding, artwork, and floors. The high-impact combo in this bedroom by Anthony Baratta is all the convincing we need.

BUY NOW Backdrop Negroni, $45

4

Bubble Gum Pink

Anna Spiro Design

Too outrageous? No such thing. Bright bubblegum pink is a fearless choice. In this bedroom by Anna Spiro, it asserts a youthful spirit to balance out the traditional pieces, like the dresser and tight floral patterns.

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Deep Carnation, $47

5

Blush Pink

Francesco Lagnese

If this whimsical bedroom doesn't make you blush, we don't know what will. "Exuberantly feminine, yet resolutely chic" was designer Jonathan Berger's motto for decorating this Brooklyn townhouse. Berger found the suzani on eBay, while and the curvy Venetian-inspired headboard is covered in Nouvelle Orleans, a cut velvet from Clarence House that resembles ironwork but, of course, is much softer to the touch. The antique Napoleon III rope ottoman covered in an Aubusson tapestry adds a French country chic feel to seal the deal.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Pink Ground, $110

6

Petal Pink

Gaines

Here's another beautiful bedroom making a strong case for blush. Designed by Chip and Joanna Gaines, one of the primary goals of this home renovation was to honor its historical significance. One of the ways they did so was by preserving the existing fireplaces. In this bedroom, the original fireplace remains, but the room gets a fresh update with pretty petal pink paint. A classic oil painting and antique decor nod to the past while the flower sconce embraces the present.

BUY NOW Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines for KILZ Rosy Pink

7

Peach

Stephen Paul

"The bedroom gets great light throughout the day, so we wanted to go for a peachy color on the walls that would give it a nice glow with the sunlight," Ring explains. The bedroom "feels layered in a comfortable way but not too busy—[you] feel very serene when you’re in the room," Ring says. She also wove some of the client's existing pieces into the design. The pillow, for example, was custom-made out of one of her old vintage quilts and the plexiglass butterfly artwork brings a tough of whimsy.

BUY NOW Behr Premium Plus Serene Peach, $28

8

Salmon

Avery Cox

The missing piece for this room was the rug, designer Avery Cox says. It helps tie together the paint colors, a light blue for the walls, and a sort of star-fish orange tone for the moldings and door. Deeper and more saturated shades of blue and yellow as well as ruddier shades of pink help contrast, too.

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Salmone Run, $99

9

Coral

Amy Neunsinger

Nothing quite radiates like joy like coral (as far as paint colors are concerned, at least). In this bedroom by Nicky Kehoe, it picks up the bright tones featured in the gallery wall while the trimming, which is a darker gray color, reflects the cooler neutrals in the bedding and accents. Under direct light, it appears brighter, while it mimics the more muted shade of terra cotta in dimmer or less direct light.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Red Earth, $110

10

Cream

Matthew Millman

Who says beige and cream are boring? Dependable, versatile, warm, and subtle, these neutrals are some of the best paint colors for a bedroom. A super light taupe shade will contrast just enough with crisp bright interiors while also injecting some warmth into the space. It also brings to mind long walks on a sandy beach. Add pops of cheerful colors with decor and throw pillows or keep it classic, as designer Richard Beard did here.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Dimity, $110

11

Caramel

Danielle Colding Design

Take a cue from this bedroom designed by Danielle Colding and match your upholstered headboard to the walls. Here, the studded boarder adds a touch of intrigue but blends right into the beige color behind it for a timeless look.

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Gingerbread Man, $43

12

Terracotta

Paul Raeside

A Canadian townhouse's guest bedroom exudes warmth with terracotta walls. A large, statement piece of art helps break up the dark color. Though brown isn't exactly the most obvious paint color when decorating a bedroom, this warm nook makes a strong case for it. The fact that it's unexpected makes it perfect for anyone who likes to experiment with color but doesn't love bright neons and playful pastels.

BUY NOW PPG Timeless Deep Russet, $39

13

Chocolate Brown

Amelia Stanwix

With slightly less of the red clay undertone than the brown paint in the previous room, this color is more calming than it is energizing. Designer Fiona Lynch felt it was perfect for a bedroom. She used Rich Biscuit by Dulux and then mixed in some offbeat accents for an eclectic elegance.

BUY NOW Dulux Rich Biscuit Sample, $6

14

Ochre and Teal

SIMON WATSON

Designer Peter Dunham created a custom curtain wall and installed bedside sconces to give this small bedroom a regal feel. The mustard accent wall mirrors the upholstered headboard and warms up the room.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball India Yellow, $110

15

Cornsilk

Heidi Caillier

A pale yellow door sets the tone for the warm and neutral bedroom designed by Heidi Caillier. The other door is painted a light sage green tone, while the moldings are given a coat of chocolate brown. Because the colors are kept contained to smaller surface areas, they work together instead of clashing.

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Cornsilk, $99

16

Marigold

Joshua McHugh

This bedroom proves just how beautiful marigold can look with navy blue and olive green. This sunny shade also works nicely when you incorporate accent pieces with metallic finishes for a glamorous aesthetic. Think bronze pendant lights and stools with interesting frames. These finishes accentuate yellow's shining personality.

BUY NOW Portola Paints & Glazes Roma, $10

17

Lemon Yellow

STEPHEN KENT JOHNSON

It's always a good idea to consult the color wheel at every step of the decorating process. Knowing which colors complement one another will make everything easier, from ideating to shopping, and, of course, living within the final result. A good example of a job well done? This gray and yellow bedroom designed by Juan Carretero. There's no doubt that yellow represents cheer, so if you want to spread warmth and energy, this is the color for you. You'll love how the bright striped ceiling brings in a more playful element to the more traditional guest room.

BUY NOW Behr Premium Plus Ultra Bicycle Yellow, $36

18

Butter Yellow

James Merrell

Designed by Kathryn M. Ireland, these white-painted wicker twin beds are topped with mosquito net canopies for an ethereal touch. The rose-printed canopy toppers offer a slight contrast in pattern but keep the color story consistent, and the yellow walls anchor the entire space.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Farrow's Cream, $110

19

Green and Gold

Roland Bello

Instead of paint, consider lush green upholstery and illustrious wallpaper. Miles Redd makes a strong case for the design combo in this breathtaking and colorful bedroom. De Gournay's hand-painted silk Sans Souci wallcovering lays the foundation for a bright green paradise to come alive.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Verdigris Green, $110

20

Sage Green

2LG Studio

Instead of painting your walls, add a statement ceiling in the bedroom, as the design duo at 2LG Studio did here. It draws the eye up and keeps things interesting. This shade of sage green is also a lovely color that's at once grounding, calming, and fun.

BUY NOW Behr Marquee Fern Leaf, $46

21

Light Gray-Green

Shade Degges

"I wanted to create a bedroom full of personality," designer Jae Joo says of the main bedroom in this Boston Rowhouse. Though classic and understated, the room brims with character thanks to a shrunken photo gallery, curved furniture, and colorful accents. The light gray walls look blue in some lighting and green in others; either way, they're a welcome departure from the go-to white canvas most bedrooms feature.

BUY NOW Backdrop Lawn Party, $45

22

Khaki Green

Heidi Caillier Design

In this cabin designed by Heidi Caillier, the guest bedroom is painted a soothing, nature-inspired shade of green. It's fitting for the environment, and speaks to all the other accent colors used throughout the space for a nice cohesive whole.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Calke Green, $110

23

Deep Earthy Green

Gieves Anderson

David Frazier took a moody and earthy approach in his New York City apartment bedroom. While the color (Studio Green from Farrow & Ball) is worth praising, it's also the texture-rich finish that elevates the walls. "We wanted to showcase the movement in the plaster, so we had the walls painted in a satin finish it gives a certain depth that we wouldn’t have been able to achieve with a flat paint.”

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Studio Green, $115

24

Matte Marine

Stephen Kent Johnson

A matte version of that moody marine hue is also a great option and creates a softer atmosphere. Studio Shamshiri enveloped the entire room in the color, including the ceiling.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Stiffkey Blue, $115

25

Dark Teal

Landed Interiors

A calming and rich shade of paint inspires rest in this San Francisco bedroom designed by Landed Interiors. If you're looking for a warmer shade of blue or wondering how to warm up cooler blue, look no further.

BUY NOW Backdrop Surf Camp

26

Deep Navy

STEPHEN KENT JOHNSON

Paint your walls a nice deep shade of navy and then punctuate the depth with crisp white accents and vibrant bedding for a balanced bedroom. In this space designed by Mally Skok, the playful patterns contrast nicely with the deep blue walls, giving the room a touch of levity.

BUY NOW Valspar Salty Dog, $44

27

Steel Blue

Read McKendree

In a room by Elizabeth Cooper, this steel blue gray paint color brings a posh sensibility to the more whimsical floral details for a nice balance. The color will flatter a variety of styles and designs as bedding and decor are swapped out over the years, too. she used Farrow & Ball's Hauge Blue.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Hague Blue, $115

28

Cobalt Blue

PHOTO: Bjorn Wallander; DESIGN: Alisa Bloom

High gloss paints are a surefire way to make a bold statement. In this bedroom designed by decorator Alisa Bloom, the rich, liquidy sheen of the finish bounces light around a dark room. She used Fine Paints of Europe’s Delft Blue 4003 in Hollandlac Brilliant to illuminate the entire bedroom.

BUY NOW Fine Paints of Europe Hollandlac Brilliant, $45

29

Crisp Light Blue

Eric Piasecki

Here's definitive proof that primary colors go together nicely. This bedroom designed by Robin Henry is a breath of fresh air, thanks to the invigorating blue paint—the varying shades of blue throughout the room make it look like it's glowing.

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Crisp Morning Air, $50

30

Mint Green

Trevor Tondro

Paired with a slightly more pistachio-hued upholstered headboard and a retro-style crocheted coverlet, this bedroom designed by J. P. Horton belongs in the summer getaway home of our dreams. The traditional landscape painting and warm wood side chair ground the space and work beautifully with the mint green paint.

BUY NOW Behr Premium Plus Ultra Soft Mint, $35

31

Sky Blue

Eric Piasecki

Though this shade of blue in a bedroom by Ellie Cullman definitely makes a statement, it doesn't overpower the space nor overwhelm the eye—that's because it's consistent and surrounded by classic accents and refined furnishings. We love how it mimics the sky applied ina high gloss on the ceiling.

BUY NOW Behr Marquee Skylark, $58

32

Baby Gray Blue

Mikael Axelsson for Fantastic Frank

A soothing soft blue is a key ingredient for a peaceful bedroom. It adds an ethereal, dreamy quality to every space but also offers a ton of versatility, making it particularly well-suited for the bedroom. The linen bedding and makeshift side table accent chair contribute to that easy, undone elegance.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Lulworth Blue, $110

33

Crisp White

Tamsin Johnson Interiors

This bedroom is a showstopper, but it's also simple and timeless. And though some may say white is the absence of all colors, we'd argue this one is making quite a statement. In fact, sometimes neutral hues give the space a more timeless and open feel while also allowing other design highlights to stand out more. This bedroom by Tamsin Johnson marries classic architecture with contemporary style and the walls are painted in a pure, cool shade of white that really energizes the entire space.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball All White, $110

34

Greige

David Mitchell

If you think crisp all-white interiors look too stark but still like the look and feel of light neutrals, opt for warm oat-y creams or layers of soft, smoky grays. The results are edgy and industrial yet gentle and understated. Take note of this beautiful neutral bedroom designed by Rupp Studios.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Skimming Stone, $110

35

Light Lilac

Annie Schlechter

This lavender oasis designed by Cathy Chapman is proof that you can decorate with color while still being understated. Though it's bursting with shades of lavender, this little nook also exudes a calm, serene energy. The key is to stick to a color story of muted pastels. In this case, the designer worked within a purple spectrum while keeping things interesting with contrasting textures, shapes, and finishes.

BUY NOW Farrow & Wall Great White, $110

36

Deep Beige

WERNER STRAUBE

To warm up a bright bedroom without painting all the surfaces something other than classic white, cover one wall in a printed covering and another in a warm, neutral color. In this versatile bedroom designed by Corey Damen Jenkins, the far wall is painted in a light sandy beige hue, marrying the cooler blues, whites, and grays with the warmer wood and cream tones as well as the brass accents.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Mouse's Back, $110

37

Dusty Purple

Kingston Lafferty Design

Though purple and black don't seem like the most obvious pair for a grownup, calming bedroom, they actually work together brilliantly here. Kingston Lafferty Design accentuated the purple details in the shelf and bedding with a dusty, gray purple tone and then played up the cooler undertones with sharper black metal accents.

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Raspberry Ice, $47

38

Royal Purple

Bjorn Wallander

Window treatments will make a bedroom more comfortable for lazy morning sleep-ins, but if your room is super bright, a deep shade of royal purple on an accent wall like Krsnaa Mehta did here will help absorb light while still adding vibrant personality.

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Mystical Grape, $43

39

Violet

Courtesy of Nicole Franzen

If you want to keep color from overpowering your space or you simply want to give your room a little more shape, color blocking is your solution. There are plenty of ways to play with this design trend, from more subtle and simple toning treatments to full on murals. This bedroom designed by GRT Architects is somewhere in between. If you like what you see, try painting your paneling and leaving the walls light. Then opt for a low-to-the-ground bed to show it off even more.

BUY NOW Behr Premium Plus Purple Potion, $33

40

Light Pink and Lavender

Ngoc Minh Ngo

A sweet lavender hallway frames the pink floral bedroom beyond for a sweet foundation while the black and white floors, dark mahogany table, and red bedding polish and ground the space by decorator David Kaihoi.

41

Deep, Dark Purple

Thijs de Leeuw/Space Content/Living Inside

For a thoroughly special bedroom paint color, look no further than this bedroom designed by Atelier ND, where the walls are painted in Pontefract by Paint & Paper Library. The unique hue defies definition (but if we had to try, we'd say it's a purplish-reddish black)—which is one of the many reasons the design team chose it. The pendants were sourced from an old church and a Vispring bed is upholstered in pink Pierre Frey mohair.

BUY NOW Paint & Paper Library Pontefract $42

42

Gray

Mali Azima

The blue ombre curtains embolden the romantic ceiling paint and emphasize the purple undertones of the gray base color in this bedroom designed by Janie Molster.

BUY NOW Bejanmin Moore Adagio, $50

43

Light Gray

Stephen Karlisch

An ultra pale shade of gray flatters the green and indigo tones in this bedroom designed by Jean Liu. Opt for a similar shade if you're looking for a subtle neutral that'll be a little less jarring on the eyes than a bright white.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Dimpse, $110

44

Grayscale

Tim Street-Porter

And for our final stop on this tour of bedroom colors, we're presenting you with a whole new world of options: Wallpaper. This bedroom isn't just a living space, it's a work of art. Our eyes are immediately drawn to the hypnotizing black painted stripes that trace the architectural DNA of the house itself, beautifully modernizing the bones of the Victorian home decorated by Martyn Lawrence Bullard. The moody, lush throw pillow and end blanket add just a splash of color, which is really all you need in a space like this.

BUY NOW Graham & Brown Indian Ink Striped Wallpaper, $98

45

Soft Black

Farrow & Ball

While we often think of bright whites and crisp, light hues when trying to open up a smaller space, there's also a strong case for going darker. In fact, inkier tones are known to amplify smaller spaces. Not to mention, it sets the right mood in the bedroom. The soft black paint color in this bedroom makes it feel special and intimate in ways you'd never be able to achieve with a lighter hue.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Railings, $110

Hadley Mendelsohn Senior Editor Hadley Mendelsohn is House Beautiful's senior design editor and the co-host and executive producer of the podcast Dark House.

25 best living room color schemes |

(Image credit: Future)

Choosing the right living room color ideas is one of most important decisions you can make for your space. Getting the color choice spot on is vital, because this is the room where we spend most of our time. These inspiring living room color schemes and ideas are guaranteed to add vibrancy to your interiors.

Choosing which colors to decorate your living room ideas with can be daunting – partly because there are so many options available. But knowing which color combinations are guaranteed to look beautiful together and being able to select the best hues are not mysterious secret arts – they are simple skills that we can all learn in just a few steps.

Start off room color ideas by building a complementary palette of timeless tones and classic shades, then add accent hues to create bold effects on a mood board. Think of it like cooking, with colors representing ingredients and flavors. 

Collate images, swatches, fabric and photographs to paint a picture of your desired scheme. This allows you to marry finishes together to ensure all your living room paint ideas work as one.

Living room color ideas – the best color schemes for your lounge

Becoming your own color consultant is easier than you think, once you’ve mastered the basics of the color wheel – a tool professional interior designers use to put together stunning schemes that never fail to impress. 

It’s time to brush up your skills, get creative with color and transform your living room with the help of our collection of inspiring living room color ideas.

1. Go for a variety of soothing green tones

(Image credit: Future )

Is there any color more suited to 2022 than green? At at time where our happiness and health have seemed more important than ever, it's only right that we'd want to surround ourselves in shades that symbolize growth and renewal. What's more, it has been named one of the best colors to paint a living room by color experts.

Green living room ideas promise to renew your connection to nature, and the color green is said to evoke feelings of serenity, vibrancy and good fortune. When decorating with green, you'll find the color available in a whole host of shades, it’s easy to find decor and living room color ideas that will suit your look and give your scheme a seasonal lift.

2. Instil calm with a neutral color scheme

(Image credit: James Merrell / Future)

'I love the calmness that you create when you have a neutral living room palette in a room,' says interior designer Tamsin Johnson . But this choice definitely doesn’t have to mean boring: you can create an interesting and exciting space by layering different tones, such as off-whites and beige, then introducing a range of caramels and even accents of black.'

'Natural textures, whether they are stone or wood or linen, can help to anchor a beige living room color scheme. It means that the overall look doesn’t feel too contrived or uptight or overly designed. They bring a laid-back quality that always works well.'

3. Build up a layered color palette

(Image credit: Tim Salisbury)

When you typically consider using paint to create impact in a room, the first thought tends to be drenching the walls in a bright hue. While this is a tried and tested way of creating a statement, there are more delicate ways to achieve just as much of an impact. 

In this yellow living room from interior designer Anna Spiro , a high-gloss white paint on the walls bounces around light, making the surfaces nearly appear liquid with shine. Architectural details have been picked out in a beautiful deep yellow, adding not only color but an excellent grounding element. Furniture and accessories in similar but not quite matching tones create a warming spectrum of sunshine across the space.

3. Mix up colors

(Image credit: Jonathan Bond Photography)

For a living room that sings with joy try colorful living room ideas full of clashing combinations. This is a space for both socializing and retreat, so you want shades that both enliven and comfort you. 

‘Pink and green is one of my favorite color combinations – they play really well off each other and it’s a great way to cheer up a room,’ says Lucy Barlow, founder, Barlow & Barlow . 

Balance is key, especially as many people are still working from home. Integrating more neutral tones to offset your bold hues can help bring calm when you need to focus, but then you can turn around and be energized when it’s time to switch off for the day and allow the room to return to its primary function.

5. Amplify with intense hues

(Image credit: Annie Sloan)

Tone-on-tone is an easy, effective way to add impact to your pink living room. This scheme, based around the standout Capri Pink by Annie Sloan on the walls, demonstrates how layering with one color creates a bold, bright and unexpected decorative look.

6. Go for full color in a small space

(Image credit: David Butler)

Use sophisticated color schemes to add interest and intrigue to dark living rooms. ‘I like painting a small living room layout in a dark color to make them feel cozy,’ says interior designer Amelia McNeil , who designed this cozy corner. ‘I even painted the window and architrave in the same blue so that the Phillip Jeffries wallpaper could be the main focus.

7. Embrace the warmth of red

(Image credit: Paul Raeside)

Contemplating red living room ideas? While the color might sound like a dramatic choice, it’s actually a hue that’s easy to live with. Its warmth, the ability to make the room feel cocooning, and its appearance under artificial light makes it a wonderful choice for many living spaces. 

One of the leading reasons why you might prefer a red living room is because of the color’s heat, and in cold climate areas, it can create a sought-after atmosphere, perfect for cozy living room ideas.  

8. Enliven a neutral scheme with pops of primaries

(Image credit: Future / Emma Lee / Sally Denning)

For a sophisticated room full of fun and energy, create a living room color scheme that hinges on the decorating with primary colors – but bear in mind that even in small doses, such as in the neutral scheme above, they can have real impact. 

Feeling braver? Bold blue walls instantly add a cosseting effect to a space, making the room feel more inviting yet spacious. 

Look to design movements of other eras, such as Bauhaus, from which you could choose from primary colors such as blue and mustard yellow, or lavender purple and tomato orange.

The colors need to be bold but not bright, so choose hues that are pared back to give them a more authentic tone.

9. Warm up a cool spaces with hot shades

(Image credit: Annie Sloan)

In a cool living room or one that you want to feel incredibly warm and welcoming, red is a great choice.

'Red is more and more popular lately and is a very stimulating shade. In this palette, it also represents the moment during exercising when you are at the top of your game,' according to trend forecasters, TrendBook . 

This living room color idea was inspired by the already evident success of orange and bright red. It is the extroverted color for the season, and when paired with gray – the color of sustainability – it represents the full cycle of a routine. 'This color is the quiet one and represents the end of the journey, the warming down after an exercise,' say TrendBook.

10. Pick punchy pastels for a family room

(Image credit: Geraldine Tan )

Pale shades of rose are becoming firmly established as the new neutral of choice in the most stylish of schemes. Yet it is in combination with bolder pastels – as in this family living room by Little Big Bell influencer, Geraldine Tan – that its delicate allure really comes to the fore. 

Geraldine predicts that more muted pastels such as the shade below will be popular moving forwards, and at H&G, we love to mix pastels with soft green, muted gray, black and accents of gold to give them a sophisticated edge.

'Neutral pink is best in living rooms; it’s surprising yet subdued,' says Annie Sloan. Pairing with deep burnt reds it will create a sophisticated tonal palette with a lot of warmth; alternatively, bright oranges and turquoises with neutral pinks give more of a tropical, jungle intensity. 

'There’s a reason we see this color combination all over our Instagram feeds. It’s highly emotive, it shows confidence in color, and a certain joie de vivre,' says Annie.

11. Match soft pastels with earthy tones

(Image credit: Future/Emma Lee)

Inject a playful summer vibe into your living room color ideas scheme. Use a palette of raspberry and citron to create a fresh, stylish look. Washed linens and the eye-catching open design of the rattan sofa brings a relaxing mood to this inviting space – inspired by bohemian living room ideas – which is enhanced by unlined curtains that gently filter the sunlight.

This confident mix of rose shades evokes a sense of luxury, femininity and sass. Pink has grown up, trading its sweet reputation for a more muted, sophisticated and earthy look. 

‘There is an exciting duality to grown-up pink – it’s soft and delicate, yet strong and composed,’ says Paula Taylor, color and trend specialist at Graham & Brown . 

It’s best to avoid clean whites with this pink, as they may wash out the space. Stick to warmer neutrals, such as tones of gray that will add depth, or dial up the drama with touches or charcoal, emerald green or black.

12. Pick on-trend powdery pastels

(Image credit: Crown Paints)

Chalky tones have always been an attractive choice for interiors, giving rise to delicate, light rooms that are easy to live in. Create relaxed, grown-up schemes by pairing these hues with bold accent colors, or opt for impact with one sugary shade, like in the minimalist living room above, decorated in Cocoon by Crown Paints . 

Decorating with pastel shades needn’t mean going entirely pale. Create an accent wall in a darker color, such as a deep blue, to balance lighter tones. To add depth, introduce subtle textures with wool upholstery, drapes and rugs in patterned weaves.

13. Create a traditional feel with berry shades

(Image credit: Future/Dan Duchars)

Aubergine, heather and indigo have a lasting appeal that makes them decorating favorites, but used on their own, they can feel a little cold. Warm them up instantly with earthy tones or a hit of flame orange – it works really well with colors that have a blue base, like purple or teal. 

Purple is all about power and passion. Its strong and versatile hues are associated with creativity, individualism and inventiveness. When choosing purple, always select a color several shades lighter than the one you are aiming for, as they are more powerful when applied.  

Lavender reflects light really well, even in the depths of winter, making it a clever choice when planning small living room ideas. Living rooms always look smart bathed in or accented by purple and pink, which creates serene and interesting living spaces, appearing quiet or bold depending on the setting. 

14. Warm up neutral schemes with earthy shades

(Image credit: Future/Mark Bolton)

Sandy shades are very usable living room color ideas and work well as part of an earthy palette, coupled with terracottas or warm cinnamon, or even splashes of bright teal and zesty orange. 

They can stand alone, providing a calm, neutral backdrop onto which you can layer accent colors like sunflower. Or use harmonious tones of sandstone, beige or taupe for multi-layered beige living room ideas that bring in other off-white or neutral tones.

15. Pick a neutral color scheme for a laid back look

(Image credit: Rikki Snyder)

Reinvigorate your living room with a fresh and soothing color palette of limestone, lichen and sage. Choose a subtle shade of limestone for walls, then layer different but tonal shades of creams or greens on furnishings to create a restful scheme. 

A patterned couch will add a punchy highlight to neutral living room ideas; layer it with cushions depicting foliage and forest scenery. 

Finally, bring the garden indoors: mix plants and cacti with fresh spring blooms and accessorize with striking botanical prints, faux coral and crystal geodes for a scheme that is at one with nature.

16. Pick an earthy yellow for a bright but elegant finish

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

Yellow’s reputation as a fresh and lively sunny color means it is often overlooked for living room color ideas, but paler shades can work nicely and become especially inviting when used in harmonizing or contrasting tones. 

Yellow’s complementary shade on the color wheel is blue, and if both are used in a muted combination, like cornflower yellow and pale blue-gray, it will look stunning.

Use tones of muted yellow in your living room to provide a clever mix of brightness and warmth. Mix warm ochre with egg-yolk shades for a yellow living room that will lift your mood. 

Yellow inspires optimism, creating a summery feel; team it with charcoal and black for modern look that follows the latest living room trends. This color is also fantastic when mixed with crisp white or warm wood furniture, and the spectrum of sunny shades look great with an additional contrast color such as gray or duck egg blue.

17. Use a cool combination of black and white

(Image credit: Future/Michael Sinclair)

Striking, cool, and confident, black and white is always a winning combination and will make a dramatic statement in a living room. Create a perfect balance of the two neutrals, by using equal amounts of each. It will give a bright and fresh look for the day, together with a dramatic and tailored look for night – especially when paired with living room lighting ideas that feature both directional and ambient lighting.

Introduce pattern and character with a statement rug or cushions and some sophisticated framed artwork, and keep the rest of your furniture and accessories plain and more color blocked.

Recreate the refined elegance of grand Parisian apartments by decorating with soft muted grays, whites and black living room shades. 

Paneled walls painted soft gray provide a sophisticated backdrop for this scheme, which artfully balances black and white upholstered furniture. Blocks of pattern, in the form of tailored cushions and artwork, add interest and personality to the modern look.

18. Go for a timeless gray living room color scheme

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

Gray living room ideas are enduringly popular, and it's easy to see why – this neutral shade suits most spaces, although it is important to choose the right tone.

'Gray isn't a tricky living room color to get right,' says H&G's Editor in Chief Lucy Searle. 'However, it is important to pick a gray that suits your room's natural daylight.  

'A cool, North- or East-facing room will really benefit from a gray – however light or dark – with a hint of yellow pigment; a South- or West-facing space can take a cooler shade that has a hint of blue – although I would always advise a warmer shade for a living room, which is intended to feel inviting.'

19. Create a coastal appeal with red, white and blue

(Image credit: Future/Emma Lee)

Create a blue scheme with tones taken straight from a sea view. The easiest way to create a space with a coastal feel is by adding cool shades of ocean blues. 

Whether it’s with paint, fabrics or your choice of living room furniture ideas, choose a living room color that both reflects the tones of the sea and the sky so that it isn’t too bright or too pale. The room won’t feel cold if you team it up with sandy beiges and cream colors.

20. Pick a classic blue and white living room color scheme

(Image credit: Future/Jake Curtis)

Decorate with a palette of blue and white. This combination is often described as the new monochrome, and it is easy to see why. From indigo to navy and cobalt, blue hues sit particularly well together, so offer great scope for pattern mixing. 

In this white living room, cushions with small-scale motifs are successfully combined with robust striped blinds and bold indigo geometric on the screen. 

Beloved by ancient Chinese dynasties, the Moors and the Greeks, this enduring color combination takes a fresh, modern feel with the latest indigo textiles, shibori patterns and denim tones.

Are your living room color ideas dependent on warmth? You can still use blue and white if you're after cozy living room ideas – keeping blues warm is a matter of applying a shade with warm tones in it and teaming it with rich sandy shades that echo the seashore, or else crisp whites, cool grays and palest yellows. 

White is the perfect foil for this color as it copies the skyline. Pale clear blue often looks fabulous combined with oak or chestnut furniture, which serves to keep the atmosphere warm.  These colors and combinations work best in spaces that benefit from generous natural light.

21. Bring the outdoors in with fresh green and naturals

(Image credit: Rapture & Wright)

Use arboretum-inspired motifs, hothouse plant life and foliage for a fresh green living room look this season. Working geometric motifs into the scheme gives the finished look a modern edge. It’s time to welcome all things green and pleasant into the home.

'Sage green works wonderfully in a living room, or somewhere south-facing where the nuances of the color will be visible in the bright light,' advises color and paint expert Annie Sloan . 

'Pairing sage green with a vivid orange will give more energy to a space; contrasting complementary colors emphasizes the qualities of each and creates a bold statement look. 

'I’d use a strong black, too, to give a solidly masculine mid-century modern living room scheme. It’s calming because it’s strong and looks very put together. '

22. Go for a dramatic inky shade

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)

Combine saturated shades of cobalt, malachite and verdigris with botanical motifs to bring natural depth and earthiness to dark living spaces. 

Pale cane furniture provides a lighter note in a scheme featuring luxurious textures, such as velvet and silk, in rich moody shades – or choose deep woody tones, as in the room above, with antique pieces that only enhance the drama.

23. Opt for a Cape Cod-worthy color scheme

(Image credit: Chris Everard)

This classic pairing has enduring appeal and is a sure-fire way to create a fresh and elegant scheme. The use of two blue tones, one on the walls and a paler hue on the ceiling, combined with white woodwork, draws your eye upwards, creating the feeling of being surrounded by clear skies, great for living room ceiling ideas.

24. Introduce an earthy tobacco shade

(Image credit: Nicola Harding)

‘Tobacco yellow is often used with greys and neutrals; I love the idea of going the other way and allowing it to be a backdrop for much brighter saturated tones,' says Genevieve Bennett, head of design interiors, Liberty .  

'We have used this shade as a fantastic backdrop color for the vibrant fresh jewel-like greens. This muted yet rich color allows the jade greens to sing, which a brighter yellow would clash with. It has a surprising, fresh and contemporary feel which is suited to modern living rooms.’ 

25. Use a timeless blue-green to best effect

(Image credit: Ben Stevens)

‘If nervous about using a bold hue, painting woodwork adds a color shot without overwhelming,’ advises designer Kate Guinness , who used turquoise accents in this chic boot room.

‘This is a guaranteed crowd-pleasing color with lots of positive associations,' says Annie Sloan , color and paint expert. 'It embodies both the recessive quality of blue and the calming quality of green, making it very easy to work with. I’d be inclined to dress it with heavily textured accents to give a cozier finish, but a 1960s palette of turquoise and orange also works fabulously with mid-century modern silhouettes, glass decor and metallic fittings. ’  

What is the best color scheme for a living room?

'The best color scheme for a living room will always be a color that you simply love and want to look at all day, every day,' says Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands . 

'It is one of the rooms in your house that you’re likely to spend the most time in, so deciding the final scheme shouldn’t be rushed. 

'Research living room pictures for inspiration, then paint large sample areas that will catch different light throughout the day and live with it for a few days or weeks before going ahead and painting the whole room. 

'That way you can be sure that no matter what you go for, be it dark and moody, bright and light, or calm and sophisticated, you’ll be making the right decision for your space. 

'As a general guide, rooms with a cool North-facing light benefit from warmer colors, but rooms with warm South-facing light can take most colors.'

What are good living room color combinations?

Good living room color combinations can be achieved in various ways.

‘Combining color is a perfect and affordable way to create an impressive design statement, achieved by applying a modest amount of color for maximum impact. It’s an easy trend to assimilate but does require bravery.  

'We all experience color differently from one another and each will have an energy that appeals. Work with your instincts. Assert your whims, and look at the clothes in your wardrobe for color inspiration,' advises interior designer Andrea Maflin .

How do you combine colors in a living room?

For anyone designing a living room, it's tempting to play it safe when it comes to injecting color. However, interiors that experiment with bold tones are often the most striking. The key is to do your research, testing contrasting palettes out before decorating, and using color and fabric with confidence.

Color can have a profound effect on mood, and a bright scheme can uplift the senses as well as adding depth to your interiors. Unexpected color combinations, such as blues and reds or oranges and pinks, can work well, but try to provide relief with some neutral touches, like white woodwork, or introducing pattern to break up the look and add texture.

Before decorating walls, try painting the inside of a shoebox with your preferred hue. That way, you’ll see how the light falls into the corners too, which will give a truer representation of how the color will look in a room. 

If you prefer to keep walls more neutral, a large living room rug is a great way to inject vibrancy, complemented by colorful accessories such as cushions and fabrics, whether a single throw or a brightly upholstered ottoman.

Consult a color wheel to find daring hues that will work well together. Remember that color changes with its surroundings. The tone is never quite the same depending on the surface material you choose. 

The right paint finish will also transform the final look. Matt and eggshell produce a soft sheen, and gloss and oil are both shiny finishes that reflect light. Test paints first using sample pots to see how they will look before you decorate. Inspiration can be found in the latest trends.

What colors make a living room feel bigger?

When decorating small spaces, the colors that make areas feel larger are pale shades that reflect light. However, making a small living room feel bigger is slightly more nuanced than color scheming alone. 

Lean towards off-white shades when working with neutrals, over stark whites: off-whites will deliver more character than a pure white, distracting the eye from the size and more towards to the color.

'Another trick is to carry the wall color onto all of your woodwork, avoiding all the horizontal framing and creating the illusion of more space,' advises brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball , Patrick O’ Donnell.

'Finally, be aware of your ceiling color – most people default to a generic white, but if you choose an off-white that shares similar tones to your wall color, you will become less aware of where your wall height stops and the ceiling starts,' he says. This is also a great tip for apartment living room ideas that sometimes have lower ceilings.

'Traditionally, wisdom has been that rooms in bright tones of white or off-whites will give the best feeling space,' says Dominic Myland.  

'However we’re increasingly seeing customers take much bolder steps with bright colors, such as yellow, which, when paired with contrasting trims, mouldings and ceilings in lighter colors, will trick the eye into thinking the walls are spaced further apart to make the room feel bigger.' You can even use paint to play with proportions when planning long living room ideas.

'White and neutral shades are always the go-to color as they make a room look bigger, airier, and more open,' explains David Harris, design director at Andrew Martin . 

'However, for small space living, you can be more daring. Don’t be afraid of dark and rich colors, like coffee or dark gray, or try teal or even orange for a braver burst of color. These hues bring richness, intimacy and extra depth whilst allowing you to show personality and flair. 

'Layering deep rich colors with artwork also adds fantastic texture and interest.' Be sure to incorporate small living room lighting ideas into your scheme too, to make the most of your chosen color schemes.

What are the new colors for living rooms?

Yellow is set to make a comeback for 2022. It’s the shade of confidence and joy, so after the global turbulence of the past year it comes as little surprise that yellow is decorating’s color du jour. Yellow room ideas inspire optimism, creating a summery feel; team it with charcoal and black from a modern look in the living. ‘Current trends show a real shift towards brighter colors with a clean-cut finish – and are a great way to feel happier at home,’ says Sue Kim, senior color designer at Valspar. 

Gentle pastel tones have also been making a big appearance in the fashion world, so it makes sense that they are a burgeoning interior design trend. What you see on the catwalk ends up on the cushions, as the old saying goes.

However, all the trends and color experts we have spoken to predict that this desire for comfort will evolve into a more optimistic excitement, which will translate into brighter, bolder color choices being introduced into our homes, with living room color schemes no exception.

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

10 expert tips - INMYROOM

The bedroom is one of the most private rooms in the apartment. Here a person is immersed in an atmosphere of relaxation and peace. Nothing should distract, annoy or create discomfort.

Achieve The right choice of colors will help to create an ideal relaxing effect. We were told how to choose it and what you should pay special attention to experts - architect Filipp Kitsenko and designer Tatyana Kostryukova.

Architect. Born and grew up in Belgorod. Graduated from BSTU. Shukhov with a degree in architecture. AT 2011 was an internship at the design studio "Nabito Architects" (Barcelona). She has over 7 years of experience in design and architecture. nine0003

In 2010 he founded a design studio "AuRoom". Philip Kitsenko  successfully implemented more than 70 projects in various fields: interior, architecture, landscape.

Probably no secret that bedrooms are best decorated in soft, soothing colors. It creates comfort and relaxed atmosphere. All this is true, but do not forget that in the bedrooms we should not only fall asleep peacefully, but also wake up cheerfully, features, we will consider the tricks and nuances of design for bedrooms with an unusual approach to design. nine0003

Tip #1: bright elements

Don't be afraid of bright colors at all elements. It can be as large wall surfaces, for example, in the form photo wallpapers, frescoes or panels, as well as very slight accents in the form of textiles or decor. It all depends on the size of the bedroom.

Small spaces up to 12 square meters meters, it is better to use accents in small quantities, otherwise you can go too far with a large bright element and then your resting place will turn into additional hangout space. Therefore, one or two paintings in bright colors, on against the backdrop of an unpretentious pastel-colored wallpaper pattern, quite enough for maintaining the right mood. nine0003

Tip #2: Don't be afraid of dark shades

Don't be afraid to use it dark and dull colors in the interior, for example, dark brown or even dark coal, preferably not glossy surfaces, but as dense as possible and deep pattern. Later, this dark side of your bright ideas can be beat with directional light and you will have intimate in the room at the same time muffled, but not so much as to lose completely in a fit of passion partner.

Tip #3: Personal preference

Again, it all depends on the guest. room, his way of life and character. A bachelor rogue will almost certainly want use authentic materials in the form of leather on walls or brick in dark colors to give your bedroom a secret allure.

A granny in her 70s is probably not disdain silk light wallpaper and soft, for example, light green textiles to make the bedroom more pompous and graceful, although all this is exclusively a matter of individuals.

To match colors those that suit you the most, it is worth, first of all, to carry out a small analysis of yourself today and in the future for 7 years. Consider the nuances your wishes in style, the total area of ​​​​the bedroom and orientation rooms on the cardinal points (this is an important factor that cannot be take into account).

Tip #4: cardinal directions

You can safely take a pencil in your hand and paper and write down the points according to the style that you like best. By flowers try to print several combinations that would suit you and immediately to exclude a combination of greenish-yellow, burgundy and gray tones from the project, if you have windows facing north or west and bluish, pink and brown if the windows face east or south. nine0003

The point is that these shades most often in the rays of sunset / sunrise are less attractive and can create unpleasant atmosphere of pollution and premises. They can oppress you so much that you every evening you will delay the moment of falling asleep until the full sunset or on the contrary, waking up in the morning, to see your bedroom not in the most attractive form. All because of the ascending rays, combined with the chosen colors of the walls. Because of what, stress, fatigue and chronic lack of sleep.

All these shades are better of course not apply on large wall surfaces, small inserts may well have place and even favorably emphasize the details of the interior.

Tip #5: How to quickly fix deficiencies

If the bedroom already has combinations flowers, because of which you feel out of your element, can be small cost to try to organize decorative lighting. Direct her right on those areas that have dirty shades in the light of the rays, thereby you can "interrupt" with artificial lighting, natural lighting. nine0003

The eye can also be distracted from disadvantageous light with bright accents in the form of textiles, pillows, decor, or simply beautiful girl (buff guy if you're a girl) with a glass of champagne on the bed, in the petals of white roses, which will certainly distract your eye from incongruous shades, and from wallpaper with an inorganic pattern, and, of course, from orientation relative to the cardinal directions.

Artist, interior designer. Tatyana - Graduate of the International School of Design. Also has a building technical education. She has been working in the field of design for two years. Engaged in design and realization of interiors. Currently working on a residential project room. nine0003

Tip #1: Calm palette

Best for the bedroom the solution is to use pastel colors, a neutral palette of shades as a general background of the room. But, at the same time, neutral colors should be warm. They will give a feeling of warmth and comfort in winter, and by increasing the predominance bleached and white textiles, and lighter in texture, you can to achieve the effect of airiness for the summer and warm seasons.

Tip #2: attention to detail

As for pure colors and loved ones shades to them, it is better to avoid them or use them as bright accents bedroom interior, in the form of oversized accessories and details. them, at necessary, can be hidden or replaced based on the current season, time year, mood and color preferences.

Tip #3: invoices and materials

Don't forget about texture. materials and furniture. For example, the bright color of plastic in the bedroom will look too contrasting and somewhat alien. If it's a bright velvet upholstery armchairs or pillows, then the situation will change and such bold color schemes only add solemnity and luxury to the bedroom. nine0003

Tip #4: Patterns

Use of patterns and ornaments is better use in textiles and upholstery.

Tip #5: Harmony of color and light

Separately, I would like to say about the behavior of colors, depending on the lighting, both artificial and natural. Well-chosen pastel, neutral palettes can work on awakening in the morning, revealing all your color light, and create enveloping atmosphere, revealing in more subdued lighting, in evening and night time. nine0003

The conclusion follows from this: this palette is the most versatile and able to cope with the main task - to arrange to state of rest and relaxation.

6 Best Colors for a Small Bedroom

Intimacy is best for a bedroom. A small room creates the effect of a nest or a cocoon, helps to relax, get cozy and feel in warm comfort. It is easier to create a cozy interior for sleeping in a small area than in a large one.

Despite the popular belief that small spaces should be bright, there is no universal color that suits everyone. Different people will suit their shades, depending on perception or temperament.

1 Pure white

White expands the space, making it clean and airy. A room in white seems untouched, serene, filled with light. But we advise you to add a few furnishings to it in your favorite moderate shade to smooth out the innocence and sterility. nine0003 16

photo

wrede. se

Instagram @lifeoncedarlane

wrede.se

Instagram @thelifestyledhome

wrede.se

unsplash

Instagram @the_edgeofstyle

Instagram @adairs

Instagram @homebuyerswa

Instagram @oh.eight. oh.nine

Instagram @indiasaka

Instagram @hygge_wabisabi_interiors

Instagram @taylorwmurphy

Instagram @vk_idea

wrede.se

Instagram @interiorsgem

2 Pastels

Warm undertones are also traditional for sleeping rooms. They create comfort and relaxation. Dusty, whitened pastel shades blend well with each other, can be easily replaced by others in the same tone and saturation. Just like the white color, they expand the space.

In a well-lit room they look bright, and in the twilight they acquire density and density. Pastel colors include complex combined paints: gray-blue, light gray, creamy mint, dusty turquoise, light pistachio, pale peach, powdery pink, creamy lavender. nine0003 eighteen

photo

Instagram @arca_designspb

Instagram @propia_home

wrede.se

Instagram @planaspb_com

wrede.se

Instagram @homefor3_

Instagram @artdepartmentstyling

wrede.se

Instagram @alexey_volkov_ab

Instagram @cathodonnellstyling

wrede.se

photo

Instagram @planaspb_com

Instagram @dizain_interior_ufa

Instagram @overatno18

Instagram @the.pink.dream

Instagram @tonekrok

Instagram @classicwhite_by_rebeccawhite

Instagram @sandradeco__sweet_home

Instagram @rosenude_homedeco

Instagram @thedecordiet

Instagram @liketoknow.it

Instagram @lilierosedeco

Instagram @enjoy_home

Instagram @designdevotee

Instagram @homebyinel

3 Natural Colors

For those who don't like color but don't like sterile white, decorating with coatings of natural elements or their imitations is suitable. Wood and all its shades are well suited for the bedroom, creating a calming effect. Textured plaster for concrete or cement in combination with warm wood will create a contrast of sensations, but eliminate the need to make a color accent. Such bedrooms are suitable for lovers of eco-direction, loft, minimalism. nine0003 fifteen

photo

simple-interiors.com

Instagram @alexey_volkov_ab

Instagram @thaisqueiroz.interiores

Instagram @alexey_volkov_ab

Instagram @tanyalesukova

Instagram @alexey_volkov_ab

Instagram @zibellino_design

Instagram @alexey_volkov_ab

Instagram @pro_interior_designe

10
photo

Instagram @highqrenders

Instagram @sistersdesign_moscow

Instagram @highqrenders

Instagram @marchenko. asya

wrede.se

Instagram @annea.interior

Instagram @cartelledesign

wrede.se

Instagram @fayes_homestyle

Instagram @timberrailshomes

5 Bright accents

If you like active accents, decorate the room with bright details: decorative pillows, a rich color throw, colorful curtains, colored decor on bedside tables. For relaxation, provide plain bed linen without bright patches. After waking up, when you make your bed, bright colors will cheer you up and set you up for a productive day.

nine nine0078 photo

Instagram @enjoy_home

Instagram @natalya_golubovich

Instagram @pro_interior_designe

Instagram @the.squiffy.mill

Instagram @decohygge

Instagram @marelledecodesign

Instagram @homeat12

Instagram @hau5au

Instagram @the_organized_nest

6 Contrasting combinations

People who like brightness will like saturated rooms that will set you up for colorful dreams.

Learn more