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Easy paint ideas for bedrooms


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(Image credit: Mark Bolton)

Paint gives you the power to transform any space quickly and easily, but when it comes to bedroom paint ideas, a change of wall color isn’t the only option available. Bedroom furniture and floors are easy to spruce up with a cheery coat of paint, while painting woodwork, paneling and accent features are all wonderful ways of giving a tired bedroom new focus.

When it comes to bedroom color ideas, the tone you choose can have a huge impact on the overall mood and feeling of the space - from dark, seductive tones that add atmosphere and depth, to bright, zingy shades that can refresh and revitalise.

‘Paint is the quickest and most effective way to add instant impact and change the mood and atmosphere of a room,’ says Justyna Korczynska, Senior Designer at Crown Paints . ‘The darker the color the more light it absorbs – so reds, plums and terracottas will visually bring walls inwards, making a room look warm and inviting. Or opt for soothing natural tones that create an instant feeling of tranquility and calm, if you want to create a peaceful oasis where you can relax and unwind.’

Bedroom paint ideas 

‘As a nation we are all getting braver with color and much more creative with it too, so one color on the walls just isn’t enough anymore,’ says Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director at Dulux , ‘and the wonderful thing about paint is that the results you get from it are instant.

‘If you don’t fancy a complete makeover or live in an apartment you can’t decorate, paint up some canvases in colors you love and use them to add life to the walls. It can tie all your belongings together for a harmonious look and you can change them whenever you fancy with a simple affordable tester pot.’

1. Paint the bed to add a bold pop of color

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Brown)

Whether in the bedroom, or considering paint ideas for every room, painting a focal point piece of furniture in a bold, eye-catching color is a fabulous way of refreshing a room that lacks focus and energy.

The bed is a prime candidate for a makeover in any bedroom, from a simple wooden bed frame to a statement four-poster. Choose a bright, standout paint color for best effect, but one that complements or contrasts with the rest of the bedroom decor. Bold, sunny yellow sits perfectly with fresh green floral fabrics and wallpaper and can help to refresh and revitalise the room instantly.

2. Add impact with painted panelling

(Image credit: Future PLC / Emma Lee)

Bedroom wall decor ideas can range from simple tricks to more elaborate ideas and makeovers. Paneling ideas for walls are a popular way to add character and color to walls and by focusing on the wall behind the bed, it won’t require a complete room redo if you’re after an easier update. 

Consider cladding halfway or three-quarters the height of your wall and paneling paint ideas in a bold, standout shade. With a vibrant, co-ordinating headboard and bedding, it can create a focal point in a room that's lacking in architectural details. Panelling can add a practical element too, allowing wall light wiring to be hidden away and creating a display shelf for decorative pieces.

‘Working with bold, dark colors should be all about balance,’ says Justyna Korczynska, Senior Designer at Crown Paints .  ‘Always make sure you incorporate neutral and pale features into the room, whether that’s through furniture, accessories or other paint colors, that will light up the space. And if you’re painting the walls in a deep shade, make sure you paint the ceiling a crisp white and opt for light wooden flooring or carpet to balance out the effect.’

3. Use inky tones to transform woodwork 

(Image credit: Mark Bolton)

Instead of keeping to standard whites and neutrals for furniture and trims, be braver and plump for a more colorful option on woodwork. Revamp a tired closet by painting it a more vibrant shade. And if paneled doors are looking shabby, why not consider replacing them with woven cane or hessian panels to add an on-trend look? 

Blue bedroom ideas can create a calming and restful backdrop that is perfect for a space where you want to unwind. And while blue is often regarded as a cold color, teaming it with warmer sand, caramel and tan tones, will take off the chill and add heat and warmth.

‘This inky teal is a beautiful color that instantly feels sophisticated and calming,’ says Katie Lion, an interior designer with Kitesgrove . ‘We didn’t want to take over the room, so we limited its use to the headboard, cushions and built-in cupboards, then used a paler blue for the walls and ceiling which helps the room feel light and balances the darker tones,’ perfect for bedroom ceiling ideas.

4. Try painting bedroom walls halfway

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Using all-over color in a bedroom can often be overwhelming in a space where you want to feel calm and relaxed. However a bedroom without any color or contrast can feel flat and lifeless if not done thoughtfully. Strike a happy compromise, by trying a half-and-half paint treatment that will give you the best of both worlds, a great option for bedroom accent wall paint ideas.

While red bedroom ideas are a brilliant way of bringing warmth and richness to a room, balancing red with calmer, neutral tones, will soften the effect so that red doesn’t dominate the room. Paint timber panelling or plain plastered walls halfway in a warm, earthy terracotta or red, teamed with a neutral tone on the top section of wall. Having a darker color at the bottom will help to ground the room and provides a contrast backdrop for the bed and bedding.

‘Luxurious and opulent, red tones can be used to create a scheme with real impact,’ says Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director Little Greene . ‘From our deep, muted 'Tuscan Red' used here, to more vibrant reds or sophisticated pale pinks.’ 

5. Paint alcoves a decadent shade

(Image credit: Dulux)

Dark bedrooms can feel cozy and cocooning, but if dark walls throughout feel too intense, introduce just a small hit of color by focusing on an accent area instead. Painting inside an alcove or around a recess in a dark, moody shade will add instant impact and is a clever idea for a breakaway space in which to set a dressing table or desk. A dark background will make luxe metallics and display items stand out and sparkle more too.

‘Layering colors together and allowing one color to meet another just beyond the corner of the room has an amazing effect on a space,’ says Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director at Dulux . ‘It makes a room feel less like a box and more like a gallery for the things in your life that you really care about, including your favourite colors. Use one color as a predominant backdrop and then add painted details in colors which are inspired by the things that are staying in the room.’

6. Bring balance with patterns and plains

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Try a combination of painted panelling and pretty wallpaper to add color and pattern to a plain bedroom. Adding just a few panels of a pretty floral wallpaper or jazzy geometric set into plain paintwork is a lovely way of adding visual interest without the pattern dominating or overpowering the room. And as only a few lengths of wallpaper are all that’s required, it can be a clever way of introducing a favourite pattern or costly print without having to spend a fortune.

Color match your bedroom paint and wallpaper by choosing a shade from within the wallpaper design for your paint color, which will help to link the two for a co-ordinated look.

7. Upcycle a plain piece with pearl detailing

(Image credit: Annie Sloan)

Painting bedroom furniture in a fresh new color is a lovely way of breathing life into pre-loved pieces or thrift shop buys that are looking past their best. An easy option that cuts out the prep work is to use chalk paint for the job. Chalk paint is self-levelling and self-sealing, so gives excellent coverage with minimal effort.

Painting a wardrobe, chest of drawers or bedside tables, shouldn’t be too difficult a project for a beginner. A bold color, such as black or navy on the exterior will pop with the interior painted in a vibrant contrast color such as hot pink or lipstick red.

Go one better and create a decorative pearlized treatment by painting on a stencilled or freehand design on doors, drawers and side panels. Use contrast white chalk paint to apply your pattern and then add a pearlescent glaze as a final top coat, which will give a subtle shimmer and create an inlaid pearl effect.

8. Put the focus on the floor

(Image credit: Paint & Paper Library/Isabelle Lomas)

While walls and furniture are easy to spruce up with a fresh coat of paint, floorboards are another option worth considering and can make a big impact in a small space or plain bedroom. A slightly unconventional choice, similar to ceiling paint ideas, thoughtfully focusing on your flooring can create a stylish, cohesive effect.

Timber floor boards that are worn and shabby can be revitalized with a coat of varnish or floor paint or try an eye-catching checkerboard effect combining paint and lacquered boards for a little extra time and effort. Floorboards should be cleaned and sanded lightly first, but then all that’s required is a pencil, tape measure and masking tape to ensure that you achieve neat lines. Once painted, simply protect your design with a coat of clear lacquer.

Interior designer, Isabelle Lomas , created this fun checkerboard floor for a children’s bedroom. ‘We kept the walls plain,’ says Isabelle, who used Willow V from Paint and paper library. ‘This allowed us to incorporate a checkerboard pattern on the floor – a fun element that is also hardwearing.’

9. Paint curves in a dressing room

(Image credit: Dunelm)

Boxy bedrooms or rooms that lack any original architectural details can often feel plain and featureless. A clever visual trick can be to use paint to create a ‘faux’ feature or accent detail that will then give the room a focal point.

Create a vanity area in a bedroom alcove or recess by painting an arched panel on the wall in contrast-colored paint. Position a dressing table or console against the wall, with the painted area acting as a backdrop to showcase furniture and decorative pieces. Add a circular mirror and curved chair to emphasise the shape of the archway and add a stylish finishing flourish.

Use a pencil, length of string and a thumb tack to help mark out a semicircle on the wall, before filling it in with paint.

10. Create a faux headboard with cheery paintwork

(Image credit: Habitat)

Looking for easy ways to brighten up plain white bedroom ideas? Put the focus on the bed by creating a faux headboard effect using contrast-colored paint. A simple way of giving an unfussy wooden bedstead more prominence, painting the wall behind the bed will create the effect of a super-sized headboard that will in turn become the focal point of the bedroom. 

Create headboard ideas like this by simply painting the surrounding wall area in your chosen paint color so that it frames the bed in a block effect. Adding a length of wooden trim painted a dark accent color as contrast edging will help to further emphasize the effect.

Tie in your color theme by choosing a bedroom paint color that complements your bedding and soft furnishings. Be inspired by green bedroom ideas and bring in lots of leafy plants and foliage to decorate. Green can have a calming, restorative effect, so is a perfect choice for bedrooms.

Which color paint is best for a bedroom?

Choosing a paint color for your bedroom boils down to personal preference, but there are some colors that work better than others.

‘Green is known to calm the mind and provide a restful backdrop,’ say the paint experts at Lick . ‘While calming blue is another color that will create a soothing bedroom vibe and a restful night’s sleep.

‘And far from being boring, white bedroom paint will act as an all-over base with a neutral palette that leaves you free to play about with natural woods, prints and plant life.

‘Darker purple can induce vivid dreams, while lilac is a more blissful shade. And for a more energetic color, pink is a shade that will have you bouncing out of bed.’

Should bedrooms be painted dark or light?

The paint colors used in a bedroom can depend on the size of the space and what type of lighting there is. A large bedroom with lots of natural light can benefit from either a light or dark color scheme.

And while it might be tempting to opt for light paint colors in a small, dark bedroom, that’s not always the best choice. In a light-starved space, stronger colors can often work better, helping to add depth to a room and make it feel cozier. 

‘Dark colors have become more mainstream,’ says Justyna Korczynska, Senior Designer at Crown Paints. ‘Charcoal can really give a room a feeling of luxury and sophistication and works surprisingly well in a small area to give it some grandeur.

‘People are often reserved about using dark colors in their homes but they really shouldn’t be. Bold, dark shades have an incredible power and are able to transform any room injecting character into it. A good way to start introducing a darker shade in your home is to decorate one of the smaller rooms, that are used for shorter period of time, like a hallway, bathroom or bedroom.’

Lisa is a freelance journalist who has written about interiors for more than 25 years and has worked on all the major homes titles, primarily Ideal Home, but also including Homes & Gardens, Country Homes & Interiors, Style at Home, Livingetc, Woman & Home, Easy Gardens and Good Homes magazines. Lisa writes about interior design and decor ideas for Homes & Gardens.

34 bedroom paint colors for a simple, budget-friendly refresh

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Gorgeous bedroom paint colors make for an easy and (almost) instantaneous update to your space. Whether you go soothing green, calming blue or warming red, there are bedroom colors to suit every taste.

And, if you are on a budget, we always say that painting is one of the most cost-effective and versatile ways to upgrade your space. Especially if you grab the brushes and rollers and do it yourself, instead of hiring a handyman. But how do you go about choosing the perfect bedroom color scheme? 

First, consider the mood you want to create: bright and cheerful, cozy and muted (if so, one of the best white paints might work well), or dramatic? Then, think about your bedroom's orientation: how much sunlight does it get and how will the colors you're considering look under both natural daylight and lamplight? Now think about your bedroom's size: do you want your small bedroom to feel larger or does creating a bigger-feeling space really not matter that much to you in a bedroom?

Bedroom paint colors to recreate

Get your color scheme on point and it will enhance your favorite bedroom ideas in no time at all. 

'Bedroom decor is important. Just because fewer people see it doesn’t mean it should fall down the priority list when decorating,' says Dominic Myland, CEO, Mylands .

'A personal sanctuary, let the bedroom express your favorite colors and collections. Remember to keep it cozy and warm, regardless of style, as it plays a key role in helping to recharge and reflect. '

'Use paint to turn function into beauty with in-room storage, whether that’s adding color and accessories, to built in units or upcycling favorite old pieces. Top tip! Don’t ignore the ceiling, whether keeping it light and simple or making a statement, keeping it fresh will make the room look that much better.'

34 bedroom paint colors

1. Create a botanical garden with green and pink

(Image credit: Future)

In a place where you get your shut-eye, you'll want a calm and tranquil space to rest. However, if you've ever spent the night in a tent in your backyard, you'll know gardens aren't the greatest spaces to sleep in. So get the next best thing with a botanical-inspired pink and green bedroom scheme.

Aside from sage-colored paint emulsion, beautify your bedroom walls with a leaf or floral-patterned rug to get that on-trend biophilic look.

2. Give pink a bohemian makeover

(Image credit: Future)

If there's one thing that this bedroom proves, it's that you don't have to give up using pink as a bedroom color once you hit adulthood. Full of gorgeous abstract and geometric lines, this boho bedroom is a grown-up scheme with not a garish or sickly-sweet tone in sight.

Create this seventies-inspired scheme by using a round jute rug, an airy sand-colored window treatment (think a voile or linen-textured blind) and woven materials on your bed and seating.

3. Be bold with a dark, oriental-inspired bedroom

(Image credit: Future)

You may think black bedrooms are only for goths or rock chicks, but this dark color scheme is so much more versatile when paired with the season's hottest trends.

Explore Far East fusion in your bedroom with a statement feature headboard and bright Chinoiseries-style cushions. Add an exotic entryway rug at the end of your bed to add interest to a neutral carpeted floor. And, to light the space, opt for something with fringing or a lantern-style shade.

4. Make navy feminine with floral touches

(Image credit: Future)

With powerful and authoritative connotations, a navy blue bedroom has the natural ability to show that you mean business both in and outside the home.

But rather than clad your walls in this inky hue, break up any bit of conservatism with a beautiful floral feature wall. As well as the beautiful bright colors from the petals, it will lift any harshness from the shade.

5. Look to nature for a neutral color scheme

(Image credit: Future)

A palette that works in any room, natural shades continue to grow in popularity. In a bedroom, the alluring and organic hues add warmth and homeliness to this space. 

Though the term 'neutral' can be quite vague, creams, browns and beiges are hues that dip in and out of interior trends – take Nordic styles and rustic bedrooms for example – as a color combination, this selection is second-to-none.

If you have a white bedroom, use nutty accent tones to stop a brilliant white space looking clinical. Swapping 'cold' lighting for something warm will also add to the cozy cabin atmosphere.

'Textured accessories in recycled materials, wood and natural stone marry perfectly with natural hues, enhancing and enriching a space to truly bring it to life,' says Justyna Korczynska, color consultant, Crown Paints .

'Social and environmental consciousness has become an important factor in our lives, and it influences the choices we make. Products that are locally sourced, carefully crafted and made of natural materials are becoming more sought after.'

'Those products and materials bring their own color palette with them. Those colors, mostly inspired by nature and natural materials create calm and harmonious spaces.'

6. Take teal further than your walls

(Image credit: Future)

For indecisive interior designers, teal bedroom ideas are the perfect middle ground for those who can't choose between blue and green. Whether you call it aquamarine or turquoise, you can't deny that immersing your bedroom in this ocean inspired shade will remind you of a Mediterranean vacation.

If you can't get enough of the azure aesthetic on your walls, paint your door in a similar shade too, to truly bask in the bedroom scheme.

'Blue can have a positive effect on mood as it connects us to a sky or ocean found in nature, which helps us to feel relaxed. It is known to help calm the mind and produce a feeling of tranquillity – and who isn’t looking for some of this before going to sleep at night?’ confirms Joanna Ross, general manager, product and innovation, Sheridan .

7. Break up bright yellow with pattern

(Image credit: Future)

Bedroom paint colors don't need to be too sensible, though! OK, there's no two ways about it. It takes a confident person to pull off a yellow bedroom. But, if you're staring at that person in the mirror, then this sunny shade will brighten up your mornings.

To make this shade work for you, invest in lots of affordable patterned pieces that you can switch out across the seasons. Go for Daffodil hues in the height of spring and move to spicy mustards and ochers when you need your fall fix.

8. Add a fall-inspired touch with browns and oranges

(Image credit: Future)

As the nights turn colder and the days shorter – fall is the perfect time to turn to orange, auburn and rust notes for your bedroom paint colors, as you transition into Fall/Autumn. Check into the harvest season with lots of plaid pattern, rich wooden furniture and patchwork-style pillows or cushions. Mix and match Heirloom, hand-me-down homewares with new-season finds for the perfect rustic bedroom.

Dried foliage or Autumnal blooms such as Chinese lanterns, Dahlias or Chrysanthemums are great for adding color to the bedside table.

9. Paint walls with a classic pale gray

(Image credit: Future)

You just can't go wrong with a pale gray paint, can you? It's such a classic and instantly makes a room feel elegant and airy. It works in any size bedroom and with any amount of natural light too, so it's a really easy color to work with.

You can embrace the cooler tones and pair it with deeper gray and blues for a more steely vibe or copy this gray bedroom and warm up those walls with dark woods, soft grays and blush tones.

10. Pick a bang on trend sage green 

(Image credit: Veronica Rodriguez)

Sage green paint is having a bit of a moment, isn't it? We can't scroll through Instagram for more than a few seconds without seeing some gorgeous muted green features. So naturally, we want in on this emerging trend.

It's the perfect bedroom paint color – it's bolder than a white or gray but it's still so subtle and soft and just instantly creates a very serene vibe.

'We all know green is a restful color so what better place to put this to practice than by decorating your bedroom in one of its tones.' says Patrick O’Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball . 

'Not only will green help impart the mood of relaxation, but it will create a lovely link to the outdoors. Try decorating on both the walls and the ceiling for a fully immersive experience – this will help blur the boundaries of a room with limited space too.'

Love this wall paneling idea? You could actually DIY it using wooden boards and wood glue or nails. 

11. Go bold with blue

(Image credit: Future)

A rich, vibrant blue bedroom design is instantly going to make a statement, but it's a much more liveable hue than you might think. Pair it with very simple, minimal decor and just let that blue be the focus.  

'Blue is a little difficult to use because it’s generally cool toned, and the lighter shades can almost make a space feel too big and open (first world problems eh)!' says Annie Sloan , color and paint expert.

'You have a couple of options here. One is to opt for a deep, rich blue – which has a complex balance of warm and cool pigments and will make a space feel bigger, but not exposed. Or, if you’re like me and you like to play with color, use complementaries! I’d include some orange accessories which will provide warmth, emphasize the depth of both colors and make a very stylish statement.'

12. Create texture with paint 

(Image credit: John Lewis)

We have been noticing a growing trend for bare plaster walls. You know, walls that look like you ripped all the bedroom wallpaper off, barely sanded it down, and just left it to do its thing, but in a good way. 

Since for most of us trying to get back to that bare plaster would be a massive job and probably leave our rooms looking like a not-very-cool disused warehouse, you'll be pleased to know you can recreate that distressed look simply with paint.  

Create three hues of your chosen paint shade by either adding a touch of black (to make it darker) or white (to make it lighter). Apply a thin layer of the darkest color to the whole wall, and don't worry if it looks messy or unfinished.

Then, use a textured sponge or a cloth to go on top with the lighter colors, making sure you leave sections where you can see the darker color underneath. You can interchange between using the sponge and a rag to create more texture, even turn to the darker paint again to add more depth. 

13. Add height with a painted dado rail

(Image credit: Heather Dixon)

Firstly, loving this all over pink. It's perfect for a small bedroom as it almost blurs the edges of the room and alludes to the space being bigger.

The dado rail effect helps give the room height too, and you could really easily recreate this paint idea in your own space with any bedroom color. Just use masking tape to create your line and then use a slightly darker tone of the wall color above to create the subtle color block effect.  

14. Embrace not-so-boring beige

(Image credit: Rachel Manns)

'I feel beige and greige are going to be the new gray,' says Tash Bradley, head color specialist at Lick Home . 

'The warm earthy tones make you feel stable and grounded paired with dusky pinks and warm green to bring balance and calmness to our lives.' 

We couldn't agree more. Beige had a bit of bad rep of being a somewhat 'meh' color, but it's definitely making a comeback as a very warm, elegant, cozy tone that's perfect for Scandinavian bedrooms. Keep it feeling contemporary by pairing it with white and black.

15. Pick minty shades for east-facing bedrooms

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

'East facing rooms are drenched with morning light, but cooler in the afternoon so work with nature and play to this bias using soft Aquas, (essentially blue/green shades),' says O’Donnell.

'They have a natural affinity to the lighting conditions but rarely feel too icy due to the blend of both colors. Aqua has a lovely restful quality and is super flexible depending on how you decorate your room with other furnishings, which can make the room feel either modern or traditional.'

16. Get creative with shapes

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

If you are after fun (but sophisticated) feature wall idea, check this out! So simple but so effective, and it is a great look if you have a smaller bedroom that you want to give some interest but not clutter up with a load of decor. 

We personally love the pastel pink circle, but you could go with any bedroom color or shape that you feel suits your space and style.

17. Opt for warm tones for a cozy med vibe

(Image credit: Oak Furnitureland )

Terracottas, oranges and even browns are becoming increasingly popular bedroom colors. They bring in so much warmth and instantly make a space feel inviting, and this palette is perfect for a vintage retro bedroom scheme.

'We’ve seen so many homeowners use paint to create a restorative sanctuary in their bedrooms, where they need it most,' says Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams .  

'We are seeing a lot of bedrooms incorporate colors inspired by the earth. Warm browns, deep greens and calming blues will be at the forefront as homeowners are bringing the outdoors in through design.'

'Rooted in nature, Sherwin-Williams' 2021 Color of the Year, Urbane Bronze SW 7048, creates a sense of calm, safety and security. I recommend painting it on all four walls in a bedroom for a cozy, cocoon feeling.'

18. Add a gallery wall to black walls

(Image credit: The Contented Nest)

Yes, this is quite the look. It's very dramatic, but we think it totally works and actually proves that black can be a perfect color for a bedroom. Plus, the art that makes up the gallery wall stands out even more against a dark backdrop!

'While dark colors for any room can often feel like a leap of faith, they can create surprisingly cocooning spaces, so don’t rule out using them in the bedroom, especially if the room is poorly blessed with natural light.'

'Try a color like Down Pipe from Farrow & Ball which never feels too cold or overwhelming, especially when simply dressed in off white linen for a clean contrast. ' says O’Donnell.

19. Or just paint the ceiling 

(Image credit: Katie Lee)

And if you love dark interior design ideas, but aren't quite ready to commit to an all-over look, this bedroom paint idea is for you.

Dark ceilings can make a real statement, especially when contrasted with paler walls. If you want to warm up the look just bring in some yellow and gold tones as you can see with this gorgeous bedroom color idea. 

Bring in some fun textures too to stop the monochrome scheme feeling too flat. 

20. Highlight a feature with a different shade 

(Image credit: Dulux)

Copy this bedroom paint idea and choose one strong color – then, pick a lighter accent tone of the same color to show off your room's features to add an extra touch of character.

The paler circle around the mirror and the stripe at coving height soften the effect of the deep purple paint color; a similar approach will create a bedroom paint wall design that is unusual and striking.

21. Go for deep and dramatic colors

(Image credit: John Lewis)

Darker bedroom paint colors work really well if you balance the rest of the color scheme carefully. Choosing pale colors for the bedding, furniture, flooring, ceiling and window dressing will be particularly important in a room that gets poor natural daylight, but will keep brighter spaces feeling airy in the daytime, too.

Add in a few touches of a warmer accent shade, such as pastel pink to keep the room feeling welcoming. There's no need to discount it for men's bedroom ideas, either!

Here, the pale bedding, cream rug and flooring all contrast with the beautiful deep blue wall color. For something similar try Farrow & Ball Stiffkey Blue .

22. Create a coastal feel with blue and white

(Image credit: Philip Lauterbach)

Still love the enduringly popular New England coastal decorating look? We don't blame you – it never dates and always looks fresh and clean. Plus it's a really easy look to switch up as your tastes change.

To recreate this bedroom paint idea, choose a soft white paint for the walls and ceiling, and even the floor if you have been blessed with lovely floorboards. Then bring in those touches of blue with the decor and soft furnishings. 

23. Get on-trend with painted geometric shapes

(Image credit: Fired Earth)

Geometric paint effects are very trendy – so why not add your own graphic design to your bedroom walls with little more than a roll of masking tape and a paintbrush? Use white as your canvas, and select some pretty pastel decorating ideas to complete the look. 

You may even get away with tester pots for the lesser-used accent shades. Team with bedding in similar shades to complete the look.

24. Immerse the room in earthy shades

(Image credit: Earthborn)

Don’t be afraid to try warmer, more intense shades with your bedroom paint colors, especially if yours faces north or east, has a small window or has proportions that make it feel unwelcoming.  

Picking a yellow? If citrus bedroom color ideas feel too bright, pick earthier tones instead. Team with crisp white woodwork for a fresh look and accent with black accessories to give the room a contemporary edge.

25. Bring the outdoors in with green

(Image credit: Kasia Fiszer © Future)

Another color that's on-trend is this deep, blue/green – and it's perfect for a bedroom, whatever its size or orientation. By day, it's light enough to bounce light around; by night, it will deepen to create an intimate feel. Better still, it's a great match for an abundance of the best houseplants to create your own little sanctuary.

'One thing I would always avoid is anything too saturated in a bedroom – my bedroom is painted in deep Aubusson Blue and at night-time it’s the most seductive, soporific, cozy night-sky blue,' says Sloan.

'In the morning as daylight fills the room, you can see the green nuances to it, so I’m still getting my color kick but I’m not trying to go to sleep in a room with a bright green wall shouting at me. '

26. Create a calm look with beautiful neutrals

(Image credit: Fiona Murray)

Want your bedroom to be a haven of calm? Or perhaps you like to change the look of a room on a regular basis? If you're not a fan of bold bedroom paint colors, a neutral bedroom color scheme will create a relaxed, spacious feel that's the perfect backdrop for ever-changing accessories. 

Pick white or off-white for your walls and ceiling and then bring in some warmth with terracotta hues, wooden accents and natural textures. Pick a slightly darker color to add too just to create a bit of contrast.

As the saying goes: 'Tidy space, tidy mind' so ensure your sleep space is decluttered, as minimalist bedrooms emit less 'visual noise'.

27. Liven up your bedroom with polka dots

(Image credit: Crown)

Create your own feature wall without wallpapering by painting different shapes in various colors against a pale background color; it’s a very effective and an easy way to add interest to an existing bedroom color scheme. Use an on-trend metallic for the dots, as shown in this pink room for a touch of boudoir glamour.

28. Create an elegant finish with painted panels

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Whether your walls are tongue-and-grooved or paneled, or you're creating your own DIY wall panels from lengths of MDF pinned and glued to the wall, painting it in an authentic, period shade (which also happens to be fashionable for homes right now, too), will give your bedroom an elegant, traditional appeal that's rather smart, too. 

Then all you have to do is choose contemporary furnishings and accessories for the perfect mix of old and new. 

29. Go for an all white bedroom

(Image credit: Carmine Teal)

Wow. Paint your bedroom white – how ground-breaking (said in our best Miranda Priestly voice). But seriously, an all-white bedroom looks clean, crisp and it's never going to date, so it's actually a fantastic idea for those unsure of their favorite bedroom paint colors.

Pick a really bright white and go to town – paint the ceiling, the woodwork, the walls – to create a (surprisingly) striking look. Add color and pattern with your bedroom accessories and bed linen.

30. Paint a DIY headboard

(Image credit: Alternative Flooring)

Looking for a bedroom painting hack? Literally, the cheapest alternative to a real headboard, all you need for this quick DIY bedroom paint idea is some paint, a brush (or roller) and some masking tape. 

Start by using tape to mark out a rectangle around the top of your bed. Then, take your color of choice and start painting, being careful to keep within the lines of the masking tape. Let the paint dry, giving it another coat if it needs one, and then peel away the masking tape. We have loads more where that came from in our DIY headboards feature. 

31. Split the walls with contrasting colors

(Image credit: Farrow and Ball)

Period bedrooms have dado and picture rails to divide the wall up into areas that can each be given a different treatment, but if your home is modern and without these authentic details, you can still zone your walls with different colors to create a layered look that's packed with interest.  

Fail-safe rule? Keep the darker of the colors to the lower part of the walls and the lighter above to make the ceiling feel higher and the room bigger. And, if you're picking a bold shade, opt for a non-white, or off white accent color block for a softer contrast. 

32. Paint a bedroom in a pastel pink 

(Image credit: James Balston)

Pink is still a massive trend right now, but in interiors, we have moved past the slightly brighter millennial pink, towards softer, more blush pinks which we personally think are so much easier to decorate with. 

Blush pinks are perfect for bedrooms because they instantly make a room feel more cozy and warm and just more inviting. This bedroom idea for women quickly upgrades a pretty princess space to a cool Queen scheme. 

For a great pink paint for bedrooms try Farrow & Ball's Sulking Room Pink . 

33. Add a pop of red 

(Image credit: Jo Sheldrake)

You don't see red all that often in a bedroom – it's seen to be quite a bold, almost overpowering, color. But we think used in the right quantities it can create a cozy and inviting space. 

We have seen it work so well in more traditional bedrooms, where lines are not as clean and walls not as straight, so if you have a period property (or not, actually) try painting a feature wall, or a portion of the wall in a dusky, chalky red. 

34. Play with purple

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

Lilac and other shades of purple can often get a bad rep for being granny-like and old-fashioned, but this calming color makes it an ideal bedroom paint choice for you and your partner.

To create a quick and easy romantic bedroom idea, add some candles above the mantel and style the table with a bunch of lavender. Then, just before you go to bed, add a few drops of lavender oil or spray to the pillow for a guaranteed good snooze.

What is the best color for a bedroom?

The best color for a bedroom will of course come down to your own personal style but there are practical elements to help you decide too, like the size of the room or how much natural light it gets. What kind of vibe you want to create will also decide the bedroom color scheme you choose. Do you want the space to be bright and breezy or cozy and cocooning? 

Just some general rules to follow for bedroom paint colors – if your room lacks natural light, you want to create warmth by using warmed toned colors. Think blush pinks, oranges, warm whites, beige and even soft, muted yellows would work. 

If your bedroom is on the smaller side, you could play it safe by going to very neutral, light colors like bright whites, as these are the most likely to make the room feel bigger. You could also go in the opposite direction and use darker hues like deep blues, greys and blacks to embrace the small dimensions.

What colors are on trend for bedrooms?

The color that still remains on-trend in bedrooms and is definitely the most popular hue is of course gray. 

'Over the last 10 years, gray has been a very popular color,' explains Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams .

'I think gray will always be an important neutral and a popular color for DIYers and designers alike, just like white has always been. However, over the past few years we’ve noticed people craving color in their homes, which I think is a direct response to how pervasive Scandinavian minimalism was in the previous decade.'

'This doesn’t mean we’re eschewing gray, more so that we’re looking for different versions of it. Notably, warmer greys and beiges (or ‘greiges’) are increasing in popularity.'

'Along with beige, we've also seen a rise in pinks, sage greens, and darker colors are becoming increasingly popular in bedrooms.'

While other experts say blue is the hue for you when decorating your sleep den.

‘The boldness and warmth found in blue will continue to be prominent in our homes.' says Martin Waller, Founder of Andrew Martin .

'Darker colors form a much better background for paintings and artworks than white, which art galleries and museums have discovered. Having painted a room blue, it may take time to accustom yourself to the look. You're likely to be horrified.'

'People find it difficult to cope with change. Leave it for a week and your feelings will alter. I suspect you won't hate it and if you do, repainting isn't that difficult. If you are still hesitant, start your transformation in a cloakroom or small bedroom, since richer colors work well in such spaces, despite the accepted wisdom that white paint makes a room seem larger.’

Hebe joined the Real Homes team in early 2018 as Staff Writer before moving to the Livingetc team in 2021 where she took on a role as Digital Editor. She loves boho and 70's style and is a big fan of Instagram as a source of interiors inspiration. When she isn't writing about interiors, she is renovating her own spaces – be it wallpapering a hallway, painting kitchen cupboards or converting a van.

What color to paint the walls in the bedroom

Contents:

A limited selection of wallpapers may not always meet your desires and design decisions. In such cases, the idea comes to paint the walls. You can arrange everything in one color or make a combination of several shades. Properly selected colors and original solution will meet the wildest expectations.

Ideas for painting walls instead of wallpaper

To choose the right color scheme and method of painting the walls in the bedroom, you need to take into account not only the preferences of the owners, but also the size of the room, the height of the ceilings, the number of window and door openings, the design of other surfaces of the room, combination with furniture and textiles.

There are several options for painting the walls in the bedroom:

Two-color dyeing

The main rule of combined dyeing is a reasonable combination of colors.

Available in 3 versions:

The following colors have the best combination for the bedroom:

What color to choose

The color of the bedroom walls, like the color of its interior, has a great influence on our peace of mind and mood. The wrong color can be the culprit for sleep disorders, chronic fatigue and anxiety. According to psychologists, healthy sleep and good mood are guaranteed by the following colors:

It should be noted that there are some shades in which it is not recommended to decorate the bedroom:

In pursuit of fashionable design, remember that the main purpose of the bedroom is relaxation. If the color scheme is chosen correctly and harmoniously combined with furniture and decor elements, in such a bedroom you will definitely be able to fully relax and sleep.

Interior photos:

Video: Two key rules for matching colors in the interior of the bedroom

Video: Original wall painting at home

secrets of the correct painting of the bedroom - INMYROOM

Creating bedroom interior, you write your own, very personal history. Sleep gives us the opportunity to plunge into an atmosphere of calm and serenity. There is no place for kitsch and “noisy” decor.

Tone the whole room sets the decoration and color of the walls. In the bedroom it is worth giving preference painting. Matte silky finish will create a special atmosphere in the room. The paint will envelop the space with comfort and will not take too much energy, as is often the case with flashy, heavily patterned wallpaper.

Thanks wide palette you can choose a shade that will not get bored over time. The composition of modern paints guarantees a strong and durable coating. Tikkurila recommends for bedroom deep Harmony matte paint, which gives the surface a velvety effect and has good resistance to cleaning. In addition, it is hypoallergenic and almost odorless.

Color selection

Choosing dream decor, it would be wise to give preference to pastel colors. universal classic, time-tested, it is ivory, white, light gray, beige.

However, despite the simplicity and obviousness, the choice of color for the bedroom has its own "pitfalls" and little tricks.

Neutral light shades create an elegant and discreet interior. They are fine cope with their task - visually “unfold” the space, fill its "air" and are the perfect backdrop for a modern interior. But, agree, I want to add a drop of passion to the decoration of the bedroom.

Mandatory consider the psychology of a particular color. Even classic white, alone having taken possession of space, it can cause a depressive and depressed state. It must be diluted with soft colored accents. The same goes for purple and blue, abuse which can negatively affect the mood of the room.

A green is perfect for relaxation. It relieves fatigue, disposes to peaceful and restful sleep.

It is easy to guess that red is not the best choice for bedrooms. This active alarming color in large quantities can cause rapid palpitations and even aggression. It is better to give preference to soft shades of yellow, such as light lemon pastel.

Lovely the choice for the bedroom is muted pink or delicate turquoise. bright accent can serve as the color of fresh mint or wild bells.

Color and light

Please note attention as the same shade changes depending on the lighting. These changes depends on many factors, ranging from time of day to the orientation of the bedroom to the side of the world. Let's try to understand these complex first glance, metamorphoses.

To visualize all the primary colors, use color circle. In addition to the division into warm and cold shades, the circle is divided on the sides of the world.

If your bedroom windows face north and there is little daylight in it, best will paint the walls in light warm shades of yellow, golden or pastel pink color.

A here it is preferable to cool the "southern" rooms with blue or green. Walls rooms that are filled with the rays of the rising sun in the morning will be look expressive in warm neutral tones. If the bedroom windows face west, you should give preference colder shades.

Except In addition, artificial lighting has a significant impact on the perception of color. It is cold and warm, bright and muffled. For example, soft light floor lamps and table lamps creates coziness, especially in tandem with warm shades yellow and orange.

Vo all these nuances are no wonder get confused. In order not to be mistaken, use coloring. This one exclusively a convenient and simple technique will help you see the selected color in the right light. Apply before painting several shades on the wall and watch how they change depending on time of day, in natural and artificial light. You can also make color tints in the store and take home to see how the colors will look in your environment apartments.

Optical color effects

The right color, like a professional architect, can deftly adjust the proportions of a room. A few simple rules will help you manage color to your advantage:

1. Cool light shades are a lifesaver for small cramped rooms.

2. Warm and saturated colors fill oversized rooms with coziness.

3. To correct a narrow elongated room, make a bright accent on a short wall. The room will appear wider, and the contrasting background is perfect for the head of the bed or sofa.

4. If the room opposite is inappropriately wide, darken the long walls.

5. Matte surfaces limit space and at the same time create coziness.

6. Gloss accentuates uneven walls, but at the same time visually increases the size of the room.

Getting Started

When painting the walls in the bedroom, it is very important to prepare the surface. The walls must be lined with drywall and covered with a primer. All joints, seams, holes for self-tapping screws must be puttied and sanded. Wipe off dust with a damp cloth. Only after completing the preparatory work can you start painting.

At When working on large surfaces, it is most convenient to apply paint with a roller. Brush you will need when painting joints with the ceiling, floor and touching up the corners.

Masters advise using the cross-roller technique. It will allow you to paint over the walls evenly and without joints. No need to try to paint the entire wall at once. Work slowly, painting meter by meter.

If you decide to highlight one or more surfaces with a brighter color, use masking tape to limit the transitions. You need to remove the tape immediately, without waiting for the paint to dry. If there are irregularities on the border of flowers, carefully paint over them with a thin brush.

You can use special tools to create original wall effects. Experiment with color and texture. But still the main rule for the bedroom is to remember the sense of proportion.

Expert comment

choosing the color scheme of the bedroom is not necessarily guided by rational principles, we can give free rein to our feelings and choose colors that we like. And, unlike other premises, where you need to take into account the needs all family members, we have the right to equip the bedroom only for ourselves and only for your taste.

Too colorful palette is inappropriate for the bedroom. It's best to choose one the main tone, to which the shades of one, maximum two others are selected colors. If the bedroom is a place of peace and relaxation for you, give preference to green, blue, brown, beige and sand shades. If you are a lot working in the bedroom, reading or generally enjoying colors that stimulate movement and activity, juicy yellow, orange or red colors are more suitable for you.

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