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Paint color for family room ideas


20 Family Room Color Ideas

By

Melissa Epifano

Melissa Epifano

Melissa is a news writer for The Spruce. She covers a wide range of topics including trends, decor ideas, and design tips.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 09/01/22

Amy Leferink of Interior Impressions

Family rooms are synonymous with the term household hub. Often used interchangeably with the term living room, a lot goes down in these warm and welcoming spaces. This area is a place for socializing, family recreation, and often for quiet relaxation, so it's understandable if you're set on nailing the perfect color scheme. The family room must meet the needs of various purposes and multiple people, all while feeling more comfortable than a more formal living room. These days, many homes only have one living space or blend these names together, so we'll refer to these terms synonymously.

Whether you're opting for bolder color schemes, two-color combinations, classic neutrals, or anything in between, your family room paint color can match the function and feel of your space. We've gathered 20 different ideas to help you choose the best color for your family room walls. The Spruce's Paint Calculator can help you determine how much paint you'll need to get started.

These Family Room Paint Colors Are Just Perfect

10 paint colors for a family room |

(Image credit: Future)

Beautiful family room paint ideas are a quick and easy way to add personality to a family room, no matter the size or style.  

Whether your family room is an oasis of calm or home to a house full of children, nothing can transform a space like carefully-chosen paint ideas. Take a look at these brilliant family room paint ideas to inspire your own decorating scheme.

Family room paint ideas

When you are looking for family room ideas, paint should be the first thing to consider. Ensure your chosen hues work well in your room by applying testers of paint onto sheets of white paper, then tacking them onto each wall you’re thinking of using that color on. 

If you’re not confident in choosing a scheme, go with a pre-selected paint ideas palette already picked out by the paint brand you’re using, or take inspiration from the color wheel on working with tonal, harmonizing and contrasting colors.

1. Build up a layered 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. Mood-lifting and warm, yellow room ideas bring confidence and optimism to a space, so it is a no-brainer for this energetic room.

In this family room scheme 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. Living room furniture ideas and accessories in similar but not quite matching tones create a warming spectrum of sunshine across the space.

2. Embrace the 'color drench' trend

(Image credit: David Butler)

Color drenching is the process of choosing one color and painting it across multiple surfaces in one space. The result is beautifully bold and thoroughly modern, though its appeal extends beyond its fearless aesthetic.  

I like painting small rooms in a dark color to make them feel cozy,’ says interior designer Amelia McNeil, who designed this scheme. ‘I even painted the window and architrave in the same blue so that the Phillip Jeffries wallpaper could be the main focus.'

Interior designer Rachel Chudley agrees: 'The trap that people fall into is that they consider dark rooms to be wrong and just paint them white. I like to lean into the darkness and explore the depths of color. Go for a very deep shade but in a high gloss paint and this will reflect the light around a family room.' 

3. Create contrast in a dynamic family room

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti)

Using an interesting paint color pairing, such and blue and orange, in a family room will alter the atmosphere in the space, explains interior decorator Nicola Harding, founder of Nicola Harding & Co. 

Orange is a color that many of us shy away from, but when paired with blue – the color diametrically opposite on the color wheel – it can create a vibrant yet welcoming scheme. Also referred to as complimentary colors, this combination is guaranteed to add drama to any room.

‘The greater the degree of contrast there is, the more drama there is in the room and when there is less contrast, the space is calmer.’ As a general rule of thumb, you want to include high contrast when you want a dynamic, high energy feeling. ‘That of course includes kids’ bedrooms and family rooms which are naturally more energetic anyway as they are filled with their toys, books, artwork and a TV,’ says Nicola.

4. Spark joy with a vibrant color scheme

(Image credit: Jonathan Bond)

Vibrant and impactful, emerald green is a joyous hue that can deliver different looks – think upbeat and modern and even classic and regal. 

‘Don’t fight a room being small and dark: often it works really well to embrace strong colors instead,' says Katharine Paravicini, founder, Katharine Paravicini Interior Design. 'A striking yet warm green on the walls will have the effect of creating an intimate and cozy family space. ’ 

Here, Katharine Paravicini embraced a strong, jewel-like hue in a small and narrow family room, broken up by a bay window to create an illusion of space.

Color specialist Annie Sloan agrees: 'Don’t overcomplicate schemes with this paint shade and let it take center stage. Purples, lilacs and pale blues would make wonderful tonal companions because it’s a true green. Pastel pinks will contrast fabulously and could be used to suggest a brilliantly Instagrammable, Wes Anderson-esque, grand millennial space.’ 

5. Take it down a notch with grey paint

(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)

Grey paint ideas that straddle the boundaries between blue, green and grey can be many things: front and center or a background to show off art and objects. Easy to live with, grey living room ideas look beautiful in west- or south-facing rooms while being suitably moody in family rooms with less light.

‘I love using this sort of color on walls in family rooms as it allows paintings and portraits to really sing out,' says Anna Haines, founder, Anna Haines Design. 'It feels both calming and quiet and also works as the ideal backdrop for a range of rich textiles, decorative antique rugs and furniture.’ 

6. Keep it simple with a calming neutral

(Image credit: Future)

In these unsettled times, embracing colors rooted in nature can be both comforting and grounding. 

‘Not to be confused with cold and bland palettes, new neutrals are warm by nature,’ says Charu Gandhi, founder and director of Elicyon. ‘Typically matt in finish, they have the ability to flex, and so it’s possible for them to suit any type of home, be it traditional or contemporary – in fact, their elasticity is the reason we’re calling them “new”.’

One vital aspect to consider when decorating with neutrals is bringing in as much texture as possible, as it creates interest and layers – important factors when strong paint colors are out of the picture.

7. Warm up with burgundy 

Wall in Nutkin Claypaint, £47 for 2.5ltr, Earthborn X Country Homes & Interior

(Image credit: Earthborn)

Rich and nuanced, an earthy pink has a depth that lends sophistication to a scheme. A verstaile hue, it can veer into burgundy or brighten into a deep coral. 

‘This tone works perfectly in a family room that is rather dark, or which suffers from a lack of natural light,' says Elizabeth Hay, founder, Elizabeth Hay Design. 'Not only does it inject a space with brightness and cheer, but it will also bring out and highlight any accent colors in the room.’ 

‘We love to use dark pink in more formal family rooms, like drawing rooms, as it can actually add quite a masculine feel, especially when paired with olive greens or earthy browns,' adds Nicole Salvesen & Mary Graham, co-founders, Salvesen Graham. 'Simple classic shapes on upholstery also stop pink from feeling too fussy and overpowering.’ 

8. Take inspiration from nature

(Image credit: Gunter & Co)

Inspired by the natural world, olive is restful with a touch of heritage. Strong yet soothing, it brings an enveloping feel but can also sit quietly and allow bold furniture to shine.  

‘This is a wonderful paint color that works well all through the year and is ideal if you are trying to bring an element of nature or a heritage feel into a more contemporary city home,' says Emma Sims-Hilditch, founder and creative director, Sims Hilditch. 'It’s a restful and calming shade which not only works well on cabinetry but also looks great on walls in a family room.’ 

Here, the warm tones in the deep olive on the walls give this family room by Gunter & Co a cosseting feel, while the absence of pattern keeps it calm. 

9. Introduce atmosphere with red

(Image credit: Sims Hilditch)

Choosing a family room paint ideas can be complicated but there are a few basic principles to help steer you in the right direction, explains Patrick O’Donnell, brand ambassador for Farrow & Ball. 

‘Red is linked with passion, energy and action. The color is also associated with increasing our metabolism, hence its popularity in dining rooms but at the darker end, especially a reddish-brown shade, it can look elegant and dramatic for a family room. Its warmth, the ability to make a room feel cocooning, and its appearance under artificial light makes it the optimum choice for this family space.

10. Be drawn to quiet sophistication with a heritage pink

(Image credit: Future)

Pink is the new decorating neutral – it has a natural ability to deliver warmth and interest without overwhelming a space. But choosing the right shade can be a thorny task when you’re faced with everything from soft rose pinks to peachy tones. The key is to pick a serene hue from your family room paint ideas. Muted pink walls are a perfect backdrop for a rich palette – introduce crisp whites for breathing space.

How do I choose a color scheme for a family room?

Getting the color right in a family room can be a tricky business. Even with all their experience, it can take time for professionals to make a decision. There is a lot to consider – the size and shape of the space, the available natural light and its direction, who it is for, etc. ‘A large space can often handle a blanket of color that works with both north- and south-facing light,’ says Tom Morris of Morrisstudio. ‘If wall colors are strong, I tone down the colors in the furnishings, or vice versa.

Decorators will often say they don’t follow rules when it comes to paint ideas but something that is helpful to bear in mind is that colors never need to match, they just need to work together.

Throwing something unexpected into an interior helps it to look considered and confident, adds Nicole Salvesen, co-founder of Salvesen Graham. ‘Choose colors that come from the same tonal family or have the same depth of color, even if they are different ends of the spectrum, this will help them work together. Also choose bolder colors such as rich greens and yellows and raspberry reds as they can be easier to work with, rather than paler candy colors that can sometimes come across as insipid if they aren’t quite right.'

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.

Family Room Paint Color Options: Choosing the Right One

Decorating one of the most popular rooms in the house, you may be wondering what colors are best for your family room. Most paints fall into three main categories: neutral, warm, and cool tones. Decide which shade is right for your family room.



Create a backdrop with neutrals

Light neutral wall colors are safe; they go with any type of furniture or decor and make a small room look bigger. They help boost your home's resale value because not everyone can appreciate a dark plum family room. Take care to choose a neutral shade; There are many more variations of white, brown and gray than you might imagine. According to Breslow.com, Benjamin Moore's best-selling family room paints are Lenox Tan, Barely Beige and Stone House.



Related Articles

Suitable for pairing, choose the right color for your room

with consideration of your wooden products and furniture. While neutrals go with everything, some neutrals go best with warm and cool colors. Look for a neutral that has a hint of color in the rest of the room. Some neutral hues that look good on family room walls include:


9000 6 Drand Nizards

The family room is often the center like watching TV, playing video games, or using a computer, as well as real-life rampage. Family rooms can also be used as a home office, gyms and guest rooms. With all these different uses, there are often many family members in the room at the same time. If you want to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that accommodates the active energy of the space, consider choosing a warm paint color.

Add dynamic colors

Warm paint colors look exactly like they sound: yellows, reds, oranges and browns give a warm and fuzzy feel. However, these colors are dynamic, so the rest of your decor scheme may need to follow suit (or become more neutral to avoid being overwhelmed by stimulus). Also keep in mind that dark, warm colors can make a small space feel even smaller; lighter warm hues like pale yellow can make a room look sunny and open. Warm rich red is always a classic choice.


Sometimes warm colors can be overwhelming; To make sure your color matches the design of your family room without overwhelming it, try finding an accent color in your furniture and dragging it onto the walls. Warm colors also work well if your furniture is neutral or dark because they brighten up the room, such as the burnt sienna wall behind the chocolate brown carriage.

Warm colors that work well in family rooms include:



9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 low-key, choose a cool color. Shades such as blue, green or gray create a calm, soothing atmosphere. This will help the kids calm down and do their homework, or at least make the room more suitable for such quiet activities. For those who don't have kids and use the family room as a place to gather, read and relax, cool colors definitely make sense. Cool colors also elude the eye and make the space feel more spacious; use them in small family rooms to make the room feel more open.



Balanced colors

Cool colors are an excellent counterbalance to more durable furniture and dark rooms. This is true for both darker cold tones and lighter ones; always balance your cool tones with the warmer ones in the room so that your room doesn't seem too cold and uninviting. Match the shade of your chosen cool-toned paint to the same weight as the rest of your furniture to create a purposeful design. 9Ol000

Choosing the Right Color

Now that you have an idea of ​​whether you want to use a neutral color or stick to the warm or cool side of the color palette, it's time to narrow down your focus to a few specific paint colors.

  1. Visit a paint shop and pick up some paint samples to narrow down your choices.
  2. Attach samples to existing furniture. Look for accent colors, complementary and tertiary colors that can work in the room.
  3. Choose two or three colors and buy samples of each.
  4. Draw a small spot on each wall of your family room and view them in any light. Consider how they fit in with your existing furniture, flooring and accessories.

Don't rush into a decision. Once you've chosen your favorite family room paint color, go ahead and get your brushes ready.

Find your perfect color

Using a color tone is a great way to help narrow down the paint color choices that are right for your family room. Remember that there are warm and cool undertones in almost every color, including neutrals. Take your time and consider both warm and cool variations of the same color as you decide. Over time, you will find the perfect color for your room.

What colors to paint the walls: tips and ideas

The choice of colors for the interior is one of the key points. It sets the mood and shapes our feelings. Therefore, the issue should be approached carefully. Our article will help, in which we give tips and ideas on what color to paint the walls in the house.

All about choosing wall paint colors

Tips

Best options

  1. White
  2. Black
  3. Brown
  4. Pastel
  5. Violet
  6. Yellow
  7. Blue
  8. Green
  9. Red

Not sure how to choose a wall paint color and afraid the end result won't match your expectations? Here are 5 tips to help you decide.

1. Trust your first instinct

It often happens that you plan to paint the walls in a certain color, but then, when you see a wide range of shades in the store, you start to doubt. In this case, designers advise not to change the original decision - a spontaneous choice is likely to be not the most successful.

It's best to have a detailed room design on paper. Color combinations will already be thought out in it, and the temptation to change your choice will become less.

Pixabay

2. Match the furniture

If we are talking about a complete renovation, it is first important to decide on most of the furniture, and only then, what color is better to paint the walls. The combination of shades in this case will be more balanced, besides, you can choose the tone, starting from the pattern on the upholstery of the sofa or chair.

Another argument in favor of this advice is that repainting the walls is cheaper than completely refurbishing the room.

3. Choose a paint with rich pigment

Regardless of the shade (it can even be very light), try to choose a paint with rich pigment. It is this finish that will ultimately give the room depth and look interesting in different lighting conditions.

This paint can be found in the assortment of foreign manufacturers Portola Paints and Farrow and Ball.

4.

Don't give up testing

Even if you fall in love with a certain tone in the store, don't buy it right away. Ask for a paint sample and test it at home under different lighting conditions. Light does wonders for color, so seeing how a particular tone looks in your room is very important.

5. Choose the right test site

When testing a paint sample, it is important to select the correct test site. Test paint next to other finishes and as far away from distracting elements in the room as possible. So you can accurately understand how the room will look after the repair.

And one last piece of advice. If you still can't wait to buy paint directly in the store, always give preference to a lighter palette. Sometimes you want to add more color to a space, but in a real room, the lightest shade will most likely look brighter than in the jar.

Pixabay

1. White

Most popular choice for painting large surfaces due to its versatility. White and its shades (beige, cream, ivory) visually increase the space, make it lighter. White is uplifting and calming, and also helps to focus.

Any furniture and floor finish can be combined with white. If it seems that the interior looks boring, feel free to add bright colors. It can be bright furniture or an accent wall.

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2. Black

It is widely believed that black and dark gray narrow the space and put pressure on the psyche. But in fact, this is one of the most stylish interior solutions, of course, with the right selection of proportions and combinations with the environment.

An interior with a black wall becomes elegant. Its depth emphasizes the details, gives expressiveness. It becomes the perfect backdrop for artwork and vintage furniture. A classic combination: black walls and light furniture or floors.

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3.

Brown

Brown is the color of stability and reliability. It is suitable for classic interiors, as it is considered quite conservative. Brown is also recommended to design a recreation area, as it soothes.

In order not to make the interior too gloomy, it is recommended to combine brown with white and other light tones such as beige. This rule works both when choosing furniture and when choosing what colors to paint the walls in a room. Another good combination is brown trim and turquoise accessories in the interior.

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Instagram freshdesign_ua

4.

Pastel

Pastel colors are very diverse and look great in any interior. Pistachio, mint, soft blue, pale yellow or pink can be the main background, making the room airy and delicate, or balance a bright and contrasting wall and furniture.

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5. Violet

Violet and its shades (lavender, mauve, lilac and violet) attract attention and set the tone for the interior. They also inspire a person and have a positive effect on brain activity.

When designing an interior, it is important not only to choose the right color, but also to determine its quantity. Violet rarely decorate large surfaces. As a rule, it is used as an accent and balanced by other elements.

Soft and calm shades of purple can be used in classic interiors. In pop art, minimalism and hi-tech, more saturated options will look good. Against a purple background, light-colored furniture looks the most advantageous.

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loosen up. It is best to use this palette in rooms where there is not enough natural light. White and blue furniture and accessories are ideally combined with yellow.

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7. Blue

Blue creates a feeling of peace and tranquility. Despite the fact that it belongs to the cold palette, the right combinations with other shades and competent lighting ensure its harmonious existence in the interior.

For small rooms, a combination of blue and white is suitable. White will visually make the room wider, and blue will bring freshness. To keep the interior from being too cold, you can use shades of blue, close to blue and turquoise, in combination with beige. Furniture in a blue interior can be neutral, wood-like or, conversely, bright contrasting colors.

The variety of green tones is so great that it can be used in any interior. Light shades will visually enlarge the room, dark ones will make the interior elegant and deep.

Green and its shades blend well with each other and wood.

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9.

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