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Room colour schemes


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.

20 Designer-Approved Interior Color Schemes To Try Now

Design: West of Main, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

In interior design, two colors are better than one, and three are better than two. But with thousands of colors and millions of shades to choose from, how could you possibly create a combination that works? The answer: With some professional guidance.

We tapped 20 interior designers for the tried and true color schemes they find themselves revisiting time after time. Whether you prefer rich colors with a glamorous feel or cool tones that look coastal chic, here are 20 pairings to incorporate in every room of your home. 

01 of 20

Design: Valerie Darden of Brexton Cole Interiors, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

Almost everyone loves blue, and it's easy to see why.

"One of my favorite color schemes is a simple Parisian grayish-blue paired with natural beige tones and the addition of gold hardware," Valerie Darden, head designer of Brexton Cole Interiors says. "I mixed this combo together for this master bedroom, using Sherwin Williams' Silver Grey on the walls. I was inspired by Marie Antionette! It gives the room a calm and serene atmosphere."

02 of 20

Design: Valerie Darden of Brexton Cole Interiors, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

For a bold look, try green and red. We promise it won't look like Christmas.

"I love pairing hunter green and rich reds together, especially for boys' rooms," Darden says. "I like this color combo because it can give a vintage vibe to any room when paired with the right accessories. In this boy's bedroom, we went for the old-world collegiate look. The room looks adorable paired with plaids and a gallery wall mixed with vintage style frames and toys."

03 of 20

Design: Diana Weinstein, Photo: Jane Beiles, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

Blue is extra calming, but a pop of bright colors can give it the oomph it needs.

"I love how fresh and young the bright pops of fluorescent hues make a soft blue wall color feel," designer Diana Weinstein says. "The boldness of these neons adds an edge to what is typically a more traditional design. The clients on this specific home didn't like to take risks with color, but we encouraged them to try out this rug and tweed armchairs with these fun pops of pinks and yellows and oranges in them. This is now their favorite room."

04 of 20

Design: Desiree Burns Interiors, Photo: Tamara Flanagan, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

If you're in the market for more earthy tones, green cannot be beat.

"I love incorporating pops of green as an accent color throughout a neutral home," Desiree Burns, the founder of Desiree Burns Interiors explains. "Bolder shades like forest green pack a big punch and make a beautiful impact, especially when combined with neutrals like light gray. It's a nice balance of a bold color counteracted by a neutral and works in almost any room! Whether you're going bohemian, rustic, farmhouse, contemporary, or glam, I think this color palette speaks to all different design styles."

05 of 20

Design: Latham Interiors, Photo: Mike Schirf, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

A classic color combination found everywhere from Cape Cod homes to beach California bungalows, a pairing of blue and white is never a bad idea.

"Shades of blue and white are a fan-favorite combination that people feel they can often rely on," Sarah Latham, the principal of Latham Interiors, says. "The classic pairing looks clean and fresh, and we often pair it with natural wood tones to add depth, color, and texture to any space. Our favorite blue is Newburyport Blue HC-155 by Benjamin Moore, and the best part is it can easily be translated into most décor styles from bohemian to rustic and traditional to farmhouse." 

06 of 20

Design: Michelle Gage, Photo: Rebecca McAlpin, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

For a more unexpected take on interiors, try a variation of pink and green.

"My favorite color scheme is pink and teal," Michelle Gage, the principal and founder of Michelle Gage Interior Design says. "There's something so perfect about how the pairing pops against one another. I love the soft and bright balance the combination brings to a room."

07 of 20

Design: Julia Alexander, Photo: Anna Yanovski, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

For a cooler toned room, blues and greens give off a calm and easygoing vibe.

"A color scheme of graduated blues and greens with neutral tones, natural woods, and black accents is my favorite combination," designer Julia Alexander of Julia Alexander Interiors says. "To recreate the look, take one color and repeat it in shades lighter and darker throughout your space. The pale blueish-green walls in this bedroom, paired with a rich green velvet headboard, feel classic, timeless, and serene."

08 of 20

Design: Katherine Carter, Photo: Amy Bartlam, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

Who says neutrals have to be boring? With pops of nearly cobalt blue, this space is anything but average.

"I love how elegant and chic black, blue and beige look and feel in this Venice beach home—the colors work so well together and add depth to this space," designer Katherine Carter explains. "With such versatile shades, this color scheme really works in any room in the house. However, for this project, we chose to keep it in living room, finding room, family room, and kitchen. For a modern contemporary look, make navy and black the primary colors and sprinkle in beige tones."

09 of 20

Design: Kelly Hurliman Interior Design, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

As they're both cool colors, green and blue always play well together.

"My all-time favorite color scheme is blue and green—it always works and, depending on the shades, can be super versatile," Kelly Hurliman of Kelly Hurliman Interior Design says. "Brighter tones can feel preppy and fresh, while dark shades give off a sophisticated, moody vibe. We went with Benjamin Moore's Polo Blue on the walls and added grass green art and decor into the mix in this room."

10 of 20

Design: Mindy Gayer Design Co., Photo: Vanessa Lentine, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

For a more neutral, earthy take, try gray-green and add black and white.

"My favorite color scheme at the moment is grayish-green hues combined with black and white neutrals," designer Mindy Gayer, of Mindy Gayer Design Co. "I gravitate towards green colors to bring the outside in, and sage tones are also very soothing. I love how this combination boasts plenty of contrast while still maintaining a timeless quality."

11 of 20

Design: Jonathan Rachman, Photo: Suzanna Scott, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

For an high-impact space, black and red make a bold statement.

"Any touch of color against black—preferably high-glossed black—makes for a winning combination," Jonathan Rachman of Jonathan Rachman Design says. "I love pairing it with red, because it's bold yet soft, and definitely a statement! There are so many shades of black, but for me it's blackest of the black possible that I love the most, such as Benjamin Moore Black."

12 of 20

Design: Diana Rose Design, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

Looking for more of a modern coastal vibe? Blue, tan, and gray are for you.

"One of my favorite color combinations is blue, sand, and gray, as it evokes a sense of peace and comfort and boasts a clean, modern feel," Diana Rose, the principal and creative director of Diana Rose Design says. "Although it is adaptable for many environments, I especially love it for homes situated with water views. Other nature-inspired accents such as tan driftwood, green plants, white marble work with the nature-inspired color palette to evoke a feeling of water and the beach. "

13 of 20

Design: Michelle Berwick, Photo: Larry Arnal, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

Pairing a strong shade, like black, with a lighter pastel, like blush pink, provides a great contrast.

"Ever since I was a little girl, my favorite color has always been blush pink—there's just something about it that makes me happy and calm," Michelle Berwick, the founder and principal designer of Michelle Berwick Design, says. "These days, I've found a way to use it in a way that feels fresh, modern, and not at all childlike.

Berwick suggests selecting a pink with "brown or putty undertones" like Queen Anne from Benjamin Moore.

"I love pairing this faint hue with black and mixing it with a host of other naturals, like white, tan, and putty shades," Berwick explains. "It complements many styles of interiors, including the trendy minimalist spaces we see today."

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Design: Kate Davidson, Photo: Lauren Miller, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

For those drawn to mustard shades, try pairing it with a charcoal gray.

"My favorite color scheme at the moment is yellow and gray because it's both timeless and evokes modern sensibility," Kate Davidson of Kate + Co Design says. "Yellow brings a light-hearted feel and lifts the vibe of the muted gray tones but actually blends effortlessly into a home that does not have much color. The pair works in most spaces because it's gender-neutral and surprisingly brings quite a calming feel to any space."

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Design: West of Main, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

The two most popular neutrals of the moment, gray and brown, play well together too.

"When we work with cooler tones, such as grays, we bring in balance through warmer tones and textures," designer Sascha LaFleur of West of Main says. "For instance, we love using this deep charcoal grasscloth wallcovering that boasts hints of bronze when the light hits it just right, and pairing it with organic brown textures. Through decorative elements, we can bring in that beautiful warmth to even the coolest-toned rooms. "

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Design: West of Main, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

For a high-drama space without using a ton of color, pick neutral shades and include luxe fabrics.

"We love incorporating color through texture. Injecting color through texture creates drama, even if you still want to keep a neutral palette," La Fleur explains. "We paired this almond-colored linen headboard and dark wood nightstand with a textural moss-green grasscloth wallpaper and I believe these rich, moodier tones are certainly here to stay. Pair them with crisp, creamy whites to keep a fresh and inviting feel while developing some contrast with those deeper hues."

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Design: Courtney Sempliner, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

An ever popular choice, white paired with some bright colors always delights.

"To me, the most classic color scheme of all is a clean white palette with pops of colored accents throughout with the help of artwork and accessories, designer Courtney Sempliner says.  "My go-to white paint for a blank canvas is Benjamin Moore's White Dove, which has just enough warmth to keep a space from being too stark, but still feels fresh and works with any other tones you bring into a room."

Interior Designers Have Spoken and These Are the Best White Paints

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Design: Courtney Sempliner, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

Blue works in almost any space, especially when paired with easy neutrals.

"I love using a neutral blue color scheme in almost any space," Sempliner says. "A soft blue, combined with any whites, taupes, and grays, works well to provide a calming and warm environment while still feeling dynamic and fresh. For paint colors, two of my favorite blue tones are Borrowed Light by Farrow and Ball and Van Deusen Blue by Benjamin Moore."

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Design: Mary Patton, Photo: Molly Culver, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

Greens are having a moment. To get in on the trend, try an emerald shade with a neutral.

"A medium green like this bold emerald shade paired with warm neutrals, like tan, is my current favorite color scheme," Mary Patton, the owner of Mary Patton Design says. "Calke Green by Farrow & Ball is the perfect shade to try a floor-to-ceiling paint job."

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Design: Marlaina Teich, Photo: Patrick Cline, Graphics: Sabrina Jiang for MyDomaine

A true classic, black and white will never go out of style.

"Classic black and white is a chic way of dressing up a more casual interior style, like the trendy modern farmhouse," Marlaina Teich of Marlaina Teich Designs says. "The key with making this simple color palette work is layering in texture, which you can do by varying up the paint finishes."

The 12 Interior Paint Colors Designers Can't Get Enough Of

Color schemes in the interior: 75 photos of rooms

The color scheme of the interior is no less important detail than the choice of style and materials for decoration. Colors are able to transform the room beyond recognition, not only the harmony of decoration, but also the mood of the people in the room depends on the correct selection of the range. When selecting shades, it is necessary to take into account the purpose of the room and even the location of the windows - the amount of sunlight greatly affects the perception of tone.

Room design color scheme

Combination of white and blue in the interior

Content

Color classification

Globally, the entire spectrum is divided into two large parts - warm and cold.

It's also important to know about visual effects. Objects painted in summer colors visually appear closer in contrast to objects of a cool spectrum.

Black and white bedroom interior

Bedroom in white

See alsoZoning a room into a bedroom and living room

Possible combinations

The color scheme of the interior can be chosen in contrast or vice versa, you can get by with a more calm, nuanced one. In the first case, shades that harmoniously combine, but at the same time are at opposite ends of the spectrum, predominate, for example, pink and turquoise, red and green, etc. With a nuanced combination, colors from the same group are selected, for example, several types of green.

Selected combinations can influence the perception of space. Contrasting, especially black and white, will visually make the room smaller, so they are only appropriate for large areas. In this case, there is no need to choose many colors, two or three are enough for the background. Too bright and colorful combination will quickly tire your eyesight.

Room design in light colors

See also Lining in the interior: types, photos, tips

Using shades in design

When choosing a color scheme, it is also necessary to focus on psychology - it is known that different combinations can affect mood. What effect can different colors have?

See alsoHi-tech in the interior: principle, materials, photo

Red

The first associations that come to mind are energy, passion, aggression, strength, fire. Scarlet is very strong emotionally, in large quantities it is not appropriate. It is best used as accents - in accessories. Red is good when active pastime is meant. This is an excellent choice for the living room, but it is contraindicated in the recreation area and children's rooms. Of all the styles, scarlet is the best for the avant-garde, but even then it is hardly used as the main one. It is not recommended to combine with orange.

Bright room design

Dark colors in the interior of the living room

See alsoBlack color in the interior: color combination, photo

Yellow

Associated with summer, sunny days, joy. It is most successfully combined with emerald, looks good with lilac, gray, blue, snow-white. But with scarlet or carrot, it should be used extremely carefully, such a tandem is too bright and active. Golden varieties of yellow are suitable for any style, but you should be careful when using its pure variety, the brightness will strain your eyes. In residential buildings and apartments, it is better to choose softer options - golden, ocher.

See also Futurism in the interior: secrets, accents, layout

Green

Symbolizes health, life, spring, nature as such. It has many varieties, each of which has its own characteristics. The most famous are salad (green with a clear admixture of yellow), emerald and aquamarine. Salad is most associated with lightness, early spring and carefree joy. This delicate shade is suitable for most styles, but in this case, too saturated varieties should be avoided.

Color solutions in the interior of the living room

Light bedroom design

See also Avant-garde style in the interior of a modern apartment

Emerald

Beautiful rich tone, calm and soothing. Thanks to these properties, it is well suited for areas intended for work or leisure - home office, library, bedroom. Good for almost all styles.

See also Greek style in interior design

Aquamarine

It is closer to the blue spectrum, reminiscent of the sea and cool wind. Due to the obvious admixture of blue, it can cause a drowsy mood, so it must be used very carefully in an office or hall. But the bedroom is the perfect place for blue-green.

The combination of light green and purple in the interior of the kitchen

See alsoOriental style in interior design

Blue and light blue

Calm palette, first of all, evoking associations with the sky and the sea. Blue-blue colors are suitable for a recreation area and a nursery. It goes well with white, amber, honey, gold, orange, emerald, gray.

See alsoStylish brown color combinations in the interior

Brown

It is a symbol of the earth and trees, it is considered neutral, combined with almost everything. Light brown and beige are great backdrops for any decor. Do not overdo it - such a base must be diluted with more saturated tones, otherwise it risks becoming monotonous, especially for beige.

Beige interior color

Bright room design

Creates a mystical atmosphere, but is highly discouraged for apartments due to the fact that it causes depressive moods. Violet must be chosen very carefully and only in small quantities.

See also Brick wall in the interior of living quarters

Lilac

A softer version, however, and you shouldn't get carried away with it too much. Lilac is good for bedrooms, but in the hall, nursery or kitchen, it should be used with caution.

Pink

Light and delicate, but some varieties such as fuchsia can be very aggressive. Hot pink can be chosen for the living room, but pastel varieties are suitable for the recreation area and children's rooms. Combining with orange is highly discouraged, the resulting tandem is too bright and psychedelic.

Combination of white and red in the interior

Beige color in the interior of the living room

Black and white

The most versatile yet controversial duet. Both black and snow-white are combined with any shades, but are used only as additional ones. Black in the form of the main one is too gloomy and depressing, and white will turn the dwelling into a hospital ward. You can also use them at the same time, but this is a very risky step. You should follow the proportions and avoid the 50/50 ratio, it looks too sharp.

It is important to understand that associations are purely individual. The abundance of lilac drives someone into melancholy, but on the contrary, someone will like it. Choosing the color scheme of the interior, it will be correct to be based not only on the generally accepted rules of combination, but also on your own taste and perception.

Bedroom in bright colors

Dependence on cardinal direction

As already mentioned above, the choice of combinations also depends on the cardinal direction on which the windows face. The reason is the amount of natural light, in other words, insolation. This greatly affects the physical and mental state. Dark and gloomy apartments, where the sun's rays practically do not fall, cause discomfort, fatigue, drowsiness, they overlook the west and north, this must be taken into account when choosing a color scheme.

On the north side, amber, honey, red, peach, golden beige are appropriate. These colors are associated with warmth, which is so lacking especially in winter. Turquoise, mint, lilac, gray, indigo, blue and white are not the best choice, as they will visually make the interior even cooler.

The eastern rooms are always well lit, especially in the morning. Both warm and cool colors can be used in the design, but it is important to avoid pale pastel shades. Due to the fact that in the evening there is no sun on the east side, they will look faded and dirty, acquiring a grayish appearance.

Blue bedroom interior

Dark bedroom

There is always a lot of sun on the south side, even in winter. It is always warmer and hotter here, so the cold spectrum can be a real salvation. Turquoise, aquamarine, mint in different proportions can create a feeling of coolness. At the same time, if saturated colors are more appropriate in eastern apartments, then in southern apartments, on the contrary, try to choose pastel options for decoration.

For apartments with west-facing windows, warm colors are suitable. Since there is little light in the west during the day, dark colors should be avoided, as well as pink and lilac - they will appear gray and faded in the absence of sun. As a last resort, when using such a finish, take care of high-quality artificial lighting. For finishing on the west side, you need to choose colors with great care, since the slightest miscalculation can turn a beautiful design into gray and faded.

Bright room interior

Light green color in the interior of the kitchen

Recreation area

Since this space is intended for sleeping and daytime relaxation, the color scheme of the interior must be appropriate for the task. It is best to choose calm colors, both warm and cold. Too bright tones, as well as black and purple, there is no place even as accessories. Be sure to pay attention to lighting. On the north or west side, warm colors are more appropriate, while on the south side, cool.

With the help of color, you can not only correct lighting imperfections, but also slightly change the visual perception. Light combinations visually expand the room, while dark and saturated ones make it smaller. The same effect from contrasting finishes and furniture.

Light colors in the interior of the room

Kitchen furniture

First of all, it is important to understand what function, besides cooking, is assigned to this room. How often do you go into the kitchen, cook at home, invite guests? Is the kitchen combined with the hall or is it isolated? Is she big or small? The further design of the kitchen depends on the answers to these questions.

In small kitchens, it is preferable to use light combinations - vanilla, milky, beige, light gray, mint, pale pink, etc. But in large rooms, and especially studio apartments, you can use brighter and more contrasting options. If the kitchen area is combined with the living room, it can contrast with it, or be in harmony. The contrast is convenient if you need to visually distinguish between the kitchen space and the living room.

Color combination in bedroom interior

Room interior in black and white

Hall decoration

Most often this is a room where a lot of time is spent every day. Here the family gathers in the evenings, gatherings with friends and family dinners are also arranged here. For this reason, the selection of a palette should be approached with the greatest seriousness.

  1. In spacious rooms, you can safely embody any combination. In such a room there may be more than 3 colors, a larger number is more difficult to combine with each other.
  2. The use of dark colors is appropriate for hi-tech or minimalism, but in classic interiors, light colors look much more harmonious.
  3. If light combinations are chosen as the basis, it must be diluted with bright details to refresh the decoration. It can be furniture, such as a carrot sofa against beige walls, or accessories such as curtains, vases, photos and paintings, sofa cushions, bedspreads, etc.

Hall decoration

The corridor is a windowless place, so the palette here is very limited. The hallway is also rarely impressive in size, so white or beige are most appropriate. If desired, you can choose azure, green or yellow, but then the electric lighting must be flawless. In cold white light, a bright palette will appear darker, while golden lamps hardly distort them.

Room interior in light colors

Bedroom in bright colors

Bright purple color in the interior of the kitchen

Bathroom decoration

For the bathroom, snow-white, rich turquoise, azure and light varieties of blue in different combinations are considered traditional. The nautical theme and everything connected with water fits most organically into such decoration. However, you can choose an original solution, for example, combine red with snow-white. Such a choice will look stylish and unusual.

Video: Color solutions in the interior

50 photo examples of color schemes in the interior of the apartment:

style and character of the whole house or apartment

01. 10.2019

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The living room is the most visited place in the house or apartment. The whole family rests here in the evenings, guests and unexpected visitors are received here. Therefore, the choice of color in the interior of the living room determines the whole character of the house or apartment. An ideal living room should be functional, comfortable and harmonious at the same time, not annoying with flashy colors and not be faceless.


Factors affecting color choice

The choice of colors for the living room is influenced by many factors: the size and illumination of the room, the style of the hall and the house as a whole, the taste preferences of the owners (and the designer), the colors, shapes and textures of the furniture.

Dimensions and shape of the living room

The dimensions and height of the common room directly affect the choice of colors for the walls, ceiling and floor. Traditional advice is appropriate here: for small rooms, you should use light colors that visually increase the volume. Black, chocolate, dark blue, purple, burgundy tones make the room visually smaller.

In compact and low living rooms, a glossy ceiling will be very appropriate - it adds height to the room.

Spacious rooms give more space to the imagination of homeowners - the choice of colors and shades for decorating the living room is much wider.

To choose the decoration of the living room, the location of the room in the house or apartment is no less important. An enclosed space with a door allows for a more creative finish. Open placement, when the hall is one with the dining room, hall, hallway, implies a common style and color scheme for all rooms. In open living rooms, it is usually not used to paint a large surface in one color, especially dark. A combination of several colors and / or textures would be more appropriate.

The monochrome solution of the walls visually enlarges the room. In current design solutions, a combination of several wall colors or textures in one room is very often used.


Lighting

The natural illumination of the room depends on which side of the world the windows of the living room face. North windows give a little light, so it is better to choose warm shades: beige, chocolate, peach, orange, coral, lemon, yellow, pink.

The southern windows give bright light, and you can choose cool colors in the room: blue, blue, gray, turquoise, white, mint. For a living room with western windows, a cold color scheme is also more suitable.

Colors are perceived differently in natural and artificial lighting.


Color specification

White is becoming more and more popular. Initially, neutral white blends well and effectively emphasizes any color accents, decor elements, furniture, textiles. White has many shades. A room in white tones will always look flooded with light, clean and gentle. Depending on partner colors, décor, textiles and lighting, a white living room can look warm or cool. But light or white furniture, white carpet, curtains will give the room a somewhat cold and distant look.


Black color looks very stylish and extravagant, but visually reduces and darkens the room. Sometimes it acts somewhat depressingly, requires bright lighting. It is better to use it for individual design elements or to highlight part of the wall, rather than paint over the entire room with black paint. The black gloss on the ceiling looks interesting - the reflection of the room adds volume to it, no matter how paradoxical it sounds. Black is combined with all colors, but it is better not to choose caramel, pink, beige, lilac, peach as partners.


Everything that has been said about black belongs to the noble shades of dark chocolate. But it is better to combine chocolate shades with white, beige, cocoa with milk, cherry. Brown colors - chocolate, cocoa with milk, light brown, coffee - require competent lighting, in the twilight all the charm of these colors is lost.

Green, pistachio and salad colors have a calming effect on the psyche and relax - there is an association with green vegetation and nature. For dark shades, it is necessary to provide bright lighting. The optimal partner for green and salad shades is yellow and lemon. Olive and marsh colors should be used with caution, preferably in partnership with white.


The warmest colors are yellow, peach, light orange. The living room in these colors seems warm, cozy and sunny. This is the best choice for a room with windows to the north. Yellow and peach do not go well with red, cherry, black furniture. Optimal partners are natural wood browns, beige, green, ivory, dark orange and terracotta.

Red color is the brightest, exciting, active. And aggressive - it is uncomfortable to live in it. It is better not to use it for the entire room, but to highlight individual sections of the wall with decor. It is better to muffle the brightness of red with a combination of gray, beige, white walls, furniture, textiles.


A more refined and muted shade of red is coral. But it is better to use it in doses. The same applies to dark orange, terracotta.

Cherry blossom has long been the color of luxury. Especially when combined with gold. It will warm the room and serve as a wonderful backdrop for light-colored furniture, curtains, carpets. It is possible to use furniture in "palace" styles - natural lacquered wood, carving, gilding, inlays. Requires bright lighting. It does not go well with black, orange furniture or high-tech items.

The same can be said about emerald and blue colors combined with gold.

But all shades of blue and blue (boring faded blue does not count) are gaining more and more popularity. The white and blue gamma simply does not go out of trend. To soften the contrast, bright accents are used: red, coral, yellow, orange. Blue and blue shades are great for high-tech style.


Increasingly, purple and lilac colors are used. That's right - combine purple walls with white or light-colored furniture, light purple textiles. Companion colors - white, beige, light coffee, gray, lilac, light purple. Looks great, but the purple space is not very suitable for families with small children. Purple living room requires bright lighting.


Another trend among modern designers is light gray. A discreet neutral color is not as cold and easily soiled as white, and at the same time it is combined with any color and favorably emphasizes all design delights, furniture, decor, textiles.


Family and living room color

In many ways, the color scheme of the living room is determined by the composition of the family and the characteristics of family pastime. For a couple without children or with teenage children, a creative design of the hall would be more appropriate: bright or dark colors, non-traditional catchy design, high-tech style, loft, etc.

For a family with young children, neutral warm tones and a small amount of aggressive colors are preferable. Children will be uncomfortable in a black or coffee room, and parents of children in an exciting red one. For a family of three generations, a calmer color scheme of the common room and a traditional design are more suitable. The main thing is that all family members do not feel discomfort and can fully relax.


Interior styles

The style of the living room determines the color. Some styles simply dictate the use of certain colors. So, hi-tech requires cold, soft shades (possible with bright accents): gray, white, blue. Loft - almost always white or brick (terracotta) walls, or a combination of both. Rustic style, eco-style require the use of wood, white and beige. Provence - muted beige, pistachio, olive shades.


For modern styles, more saturated colors are used, often only one wall is painted in a bright color. For a classic style, muted beige, salad, blue, lemon shades are used.


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