If you've ever wondered how to make a room look more expensive, decorating with paint is a good place to start. Indeed, it's all in the details when it comes to effective paintwork, and it can go a long way in making your home feel refined.

But how exactly can you use paint to elevate a room? We consulted various color experts from paint brands, who share below their favorite paint tricks and tips to make a room look more expensive.

From small details such as painting the trim and woodwork the right hue, to the more general color scheme you opt for, these tips will help your home feel polished, giving each of your rooms a 'finished' look.

7 paint tips and tricks to make a room look more expensive

Paint ideas come in many forms, and can either be used set set a calming backdrop to a room or make a loud statement with vibrant shades. Either way, these tips and tricks can be adapted depending on the colors you love and your own interior design style.

1. Use paint to accentuate the ceiling height

One of the great things about decorating with paint is that it can impact how large a room feels, especially how high the ceiling appears. Below, Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar shares two paint tricks that can make your room feel more generously proportioned:

'Taller or larger rooms are associated with the luxe life because they are often found in roomier houses or luxury apartments. To accentuate the height of a room, treat the ceiling like a focal point by painting architectural details like crown molding and the ceiling the same hue. Visually, the ceiling will appear to start where the crown molding begins and the focal point will draw the eye upward.

'For rooms that receive plenty of natural light, the color drenching technique will work wonders for tricking the eye into thinking ceilings are taller or rooms are larger than they are. The color drenching technique coats the walls, ceiling, and any architectural details – including baseboards, crown molding, and any paneling – in the same color. With everything in a space drenched in the same hue, there is no visual stopping point and the room appears larger. As an added benefit, the color gives an immersive experience connecting the full personality of color.'

2. Bring color into hallways, and don't forget the details

When we think about our room color ideas, it can be a common mistake to focus solely on the main social spaces such as living rooms and kitchens while overlooking connecting rooms such as hallways. Using a flattering paint color in these rooms, and not forgetting about details such as doors and trims, can elevate your home, as Sue Kim suggests below:

'Pay attention to details in every space in a home for a truly refined and polished look. Professionally designed spaces leave no detail spared. If you’ve spent a lot of time and attention perfecting specific rooms, then look at hallways and pass-through areas to give them a little color and shine. As a homeowner, this attention to detail is easily achieved by using Valspar Door & Trim in a semi-gloss sheen to show that you haven’t overlooked any spaces. Consider injecting a dose of happiness to hallways by painting doors and trim Subtle Peach 2003-8C or lean into classic, rich colors, such as the ultra-luxe black hue Tuxedo 8006-8G.'

3. Paint trim a contrasting color

Focusing on the details is key to creating a more polished-looking room when decorating with paint, and another trick recommended by experts is to paint the trim a contrasting color to your walls, as Erika Woelfel, VP of color and creative services at BEHR explains below:

'To elevate a room with paint, focus on strategic details like contrasting trim and woodwork, which creates a refined, architectural effect. Pair soft wall colors like Swiss Coffee with crisp whites such as Ultra Pure White for trim, or go bold with deep hues like Midnight Blue on walls and Graphic Charcoal for accents.'

It's also worth thinking about your paint finishes. Erika recommends a gloss finish for details such as woodwork for added interest: 'High gloss finishes on doors or trim can add a polished, luxurious touch when balanced with matte or eggshell walls.'

4. Color drench with dark paint colors

Color drenching remains a popular way to decorate with paint right now, and for good reason – it feels design-led and makes a statement. Below, Erika Woelfel suggests this paint technique works especially well with dark paints to achieve a cohesive and sophisticated space:

'For a more immersive approach, consider color drenching: using the same color on walls, ceilings, and trim for a cohesive, enveloping effect. A recent evolution, double drenching, pushes this concept further by harmonizing furniture and decor in the same or similar color families. This technique often works beautifully with darker or bolder hues, like Rumors, to achieve a moody sophistication. The key to success lies in mixing textures, finishes, shapes, and patterns – think metallic finishes, tactile fabrics, and uniquely shaped furniture to maintain visual interest.'

5. Go for a monochromatic scheme

Another way to use paint to make your room feel more expensive and refined is to opt for a monochromatic color scheme, where different shades of one color are layered throughout the space.

'Monochromatic palettes using varying shades, such as Boreal and Frosted Jade, create a seamless, harmonious look,' advises Erika Woelfel.

Alyson Ferrari, PPG color expert, Glidden brand, also recommends a monochromatic color scheme when decorating with paint for a refined look:

'Consider using multiple shades from the same color family (Pine Forest PPG1134-7 and Farm Fresh PPG1129-5) to create depth and dimension. This technique can give the illusion of a more custom and high-end look. Using a simplified color palette allows you to combine various materials, finishes, and fabrics, which adds richness and complexity to the overall design.'

6. Choose timeless paint colors

More simply, the right paint color choice can go a long way when aiming to create a luxe feel. 'Opt for paint colors that exude elegance and luxury. Neutral shades like warm whites (Antique White PPG1024-2), grays (Flagstone PPG1001-4), and beiges (Sauteed Mushroom PPG1085-5) can create a refined and upscale atmosphere,' says Alyson Ferrari.

While neutral paints are known to be some of the most timeless and sophisticated, Alyson also recommends richer colors for a moodier look: 'Deep, rich colors like navy blue (Cavalry PPG1041-7), emerald (Night Watch PPG1145-7), or burgundy wine (Gooseberry PPG1048-7) can also add a touch of opulence. Combine these shades with metallic accents on hardware, furniture, or accessories to further enhance the luxe vibe.'

7. Paint interior doors

When decorating with paint throughout a room, make sure to remember the doors, which can elevate the room when painted in a contrasting hue or different paint finish, says Alyson Ferrari:

'Painting interior doors in a contrasting color or a glossy finish can elevate the overall look of the room. This small detail can have a big impact on the perceived value of the space by highlighting the craftsmanship and quality of the doors themselves. This attention to detail and emphasis on well-crafted elements adds a sense of luxury and refinement to the space.'

Whether your aim is to make your room appear larger or just generally more cohesive, these paint tips and tricks can help give your space more of a luxurious feel. If you're introducing new paint colors into a room for the first time, try them out as swatches to see how they look in different lighting conditions throughout the day.

If you’re obsessed with interiors, it’s likely you’ll already be au fait with the 2025 paint colors of the year, recently announced by leading US paint brands including Sherwin-Williams and Behr. Colors range from rich, earthy red tones to serene shades of sage and beige.

You might be just as eager to keep up with the latest color trends in your outside space, so what better way to complement these shades than with matching plants? Plant breeder Terra Nova Nurseries, based in Canby, OR, has curated a list of flowering plants and shrubs tipped to be in demand next year thanks to their on-trend hues.

It has selected plant pairings to match with Behr’s Rumors; HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ Quietude; Minwax’s Violet; and Valspar’s Encore. So, if you’re looking for ways of harmonizing your garden with the hottest new shades, here's how to pair plants with on-trend paint colors in 2025.

How to pair plants with on-trend paint colors

These plants were chosen for their flower shades, foliage hues, subtle accents within leaf textures, and overall tonal harmony with the selected paint color trends.

‘The 2025 colors of the year present a diverse spectrum of hues that are both adaptable and expressive,’ says Chuck Pavlich, director of new product development at Terra Nova Nurseries.

‘Our curated plant list not only aligns with these trending shades but also serves as a source of creative inspiration for gardeners and landscapers looking to incorporate stylish colors into their garden and landscape aesthetics for the upcoming year.’

Plants to pair with Behr’s Rumors

Rumors is a rich, ruby red that offers a modern yet warm interpretation of a timeless classic. H&G’s Paint & Color Editor, Emily Moorman, says this is a sophisticated shade, which ‘coincides with the general appeal we've seen in the design world for decorating with red, thanks to the unexpected red theory.’

The standout plant to reflect the deep-red undertones of Rumors is undoubtedly heuchera, also known as coral bells. The rich, velvet-like foliage of heuchera plants matches the warm feel of this deep red tone.

In particular, the Terra Nova experts cite heuchera varieties such as ‘Berry Marmalade’, ‘Northern Exposure’™, and ‘Fire Alarm’, as well as Heucherella ‘Peach Tea’.

Heucherella ‘Redstone Falls’ is also singled out for its ruby-splashed, butterfly-like foliage, which complements the richness of the Rumors palette.

If you want to try growing heuchera, choose a shaded spot as these perennials will thrive in darker corners of your yard. They don't enjoy being waterlogged, so plant them in containers or ensure good drainage by adding some grit or vermiculite, available from Amazon, and well rotted manure or compost to your soil. They are hardy to USDA zone 4.

For more rich, earthy tones, try:

Coreopsis ‘Ruby Frost’

Sedum ‘Dark Magic’

Coreopsis ‘Bengal Tiger’

Plants to pair with HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ Quietude

HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ Quietude shade is a softened sage green, that evokes feelings of calmness and serenity. The brand describes it as a 'cool sage green with a slight blue undertone'.

It’s an elegant and relaxing shade, and lends itself effortlessly to calming plants, which could be handy if you’re interested in mindful gardening and the best plants for mental health.

Terra Nova has identified two varieties of Pulmonaria (also known as lungwort) - ‘Silver Scimitar’ and ‘Raspberry Frost’ - which beautifully manifest the tranquil effect of this shade with their soft, green foliage.

Like heuchera, pulmonaria is another plant that adores being in the shade. It is also bee friendly, and likes moist, well draining soil. It will grow best in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.

For more cool, soothing undertones, try:

Brunnera ‘Jack Frost

Centaurea ‘Snowy Owl’

Sedum ‘Marina'

Plants to pair with Minmax’s Violet

Violet from Minwax delivers a unique shade of purple that strikes a balance between bold and modern, and classic elegance. Its jewel-toned hues are quite playful, and as Emily Moorman says it is 'designed to bring joy to the home'.

If decorating with purple is for you in 2025, this shade and feel is wonderfully reflected in Terra Nova’s Nepeta ‘Blue Dragon’.

Nepeta, also known as catmint, is simple to grow and a beautifully fragrant cottage garden perennial. Pollinators love it, and it will delight with elegant violet flowers for much of spring and summer. It is drought tolerant, and prefers a rockier soil to heavy clay. It will thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3-8.

For more bold, elegant hues, try:

Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’

Thalictrum ‘Black Stockings’

Plants to pair with Valspar’s Encore

Valspar’s color of the year is Encore - a rich, luxurious shade of deep blue that is distinctive and bold, yet versatile.

There are not very many true blue flowers, but when it comes to knowing how to pair plants with on-trend paint colors, these ones emulate the luxury and sophistication found in the Encore shade.

Corydalis ‘Blue Heron’ is a perfect example - a plant with showstopping, opulent color and a playful undertone. Another great-value perennial that will grow well in part-shade, corydalis will benefit from a slow-release fertilizer, such as the organic Plant Magic fertilizer from Amazon, applied in spring to prolong the flowering period. Hardy in zones 5-9

Also try for timeless, bold color:

Pulmonaria Nova® ‘Cobalt’

Lithodora ‘Gold ‘n Sapphires’

If you're interested in even more planting and garden trends, we've got the low down on outdated front yard trends, and what's replacing them for 2025. You might also want to check out the latest winter garden trends - to bring your backyard up to date even in the colder seasons.

With the fall months very nearly upon us, it's that time of year again when paint brands announce their Color of the Year: standout paint colors set to define the color trends for the year ahead.

While so far, only a few paint brands have unveiled their 2025 color of the year, and we're eagerly awaiting the rest to come, we're turning to designers to get their predictions.

Below, we've rounded up eight colors that designers predict will crop up in the coming weeks as more 2025 color trends are officially announced. If you're looking for some steer with the latest trending colors to garner some fresh inspiration, read on.

Interior designers' Color of the Year predictions for 2025

While we're still anticipating plenty of color trends to be announced by leading paint brands, so far, we've seen the color blue dominate. Valspar's Color of the Year is Encore, a dark navy blue; and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams 2025 Color of the Year was named Quietude, a cool blue-green.

Whether the blue trend is set to continue is still to be made known, but designers' predictions below venture out into plenty of exciting shades. From terracotta to sage green, we certainly won't be surprised to see upcoming color trends akin to the below shades.

1. Dusty hues

'I'm predicting there will be more dusty hues in the mix,' shares interior designer Kelsey Haywood of Chicago-based Haywoodmade Interiors.

Since color drenching is most likely going to continue to be a key interior design trend in 2025, Kelsey notes that these soft and liveable hues lend themselves perfectly to this style of decorating with paint.

'It's an approachable way to color drench a room without it becoming overly saturated. The parlor in our historical Evanston project is a perfect example. Farrow & Ball's Brassica truly captivates.'

2. Gray-green

Secondly, interior designer Margarita Bravo predicts to see more muted gray-green paints come to prominence over the coming months.

'We predict a rich, muted green like Sherwin Williams' Acacia Haze SW 9132. The hue is expected to gain prominence due to its association with wellness, nature, and tranquility, reflecting a growing desire for spaces and environments that promote a sense of calm.'

'As people increasingly seek to create serene, restorative spaces at home, muted green provides a sense of balance and connection to nature without being overwhelming. This color also pairs well with various materials and textures, making it versatile for modern and traditional interior styles.'

3. Warm yellow-gold

Turning towards elevated neutrals, designer Camila Gonzalez, senior designer at Natural Instincts suggests warm yellow-golds as a standout for 2025.

'Just as butter yellow has impacted the fashion industry, I believe we'll be seeing more yellow in interiors, like Summerdale Gold by Benjamin Moore,' says Camila. 'The shade is a honey gold with green undertones and it can work well in a mudroom, powder bath, or even in the kitchen.'

Summerdale Gold features in the recently launched Benjamin Moore fall lookbook, and provides homeowners with all the calming appeal of decorating with neutrals but with more depth and interest.

4. Bright yellow

Similarly, designers also predict bolder and brighter yellows coming to center stage for 2025.

'Yellow is a color often associated with warmth, positivity, and creativity,' says interior designer Hanna Li of Hanna Li Interiors. 'In 2025, this vibrant hue is set to take on even greater significance, emerging as a symbol of hope and renewal amid the current economic climate. Yellow, in its many shades from soft pastels to bold neons will be embraced for its ability to uplift spirits.'

'It’s a perfect accent for a mid-century wood cabin, a trend that’s making a strong comeback, or as a striking choice for modern and traditional kitchen cabinets, one that hasn’t had its moment as of late and where it can make a refreshing impact.'

5. Smokey blue

It's no surprise to see shades of blue in the mix, since so far, variations of blue have featured heavily in the already-announced color of the years. Interior designer Valerie Helgeson, lead designer and founder at Design Directions, predicts smokey blues as a standout for the year ahead.

'In general, blue is a calming color that picks up color cues from nature but getting the right shade is absolutely critical,' says Valerie. 'Some blues can turn purple which will make a space feel too bright and jarring. Smokey blue can read either feminine or masculine and is almost like a neutral in the way that you can bring in so many other colors and it will play nicely with them.'

6. Sage green

Sage green is another much-loved color that has a similarly calming effect. Interior designer Julia Lauve of WORKSHOP | studio predicts sage green paints to continue their popularity into the new year.

'It’s the most calming shade of green that can actually root a room in a soothing tone,' Julia tells us. 'Sage both embraces nature and wellness, so it’s ideal for retreat-y spaces: bathrooms, bedrooms, and home gyms. It’s also amazing for color washing: you can use it on the walls, window treatments, and accessories to give an invited saturated and fresh feeling in a way that pastel tones can never do.'

7. Burgundy

Turning toward moodier paint colors, designer Rosanna Bassford, founder and principal at Memmo Interiors predicts burgundy as a standout color for 2025.

'We’ve experienced so many years of bright, white rooms that we are reacting to that with a desire for warmer, more inviting rooms,' explains Rosanna. 'Rich burgundy is going to be big in 2025. This isn’t primary red but a deeper, more wine-toned color that is warm, and rich and pairs well with black and brass tones. Especially for rooms that don’t have a lot of windows or light – powder rooms, studies, a formal dining room – burgundy can give an instant warm and enveloping feel.'

8. Terracotta

Lastly, designers are predicting that earthy terracotta will feature in the coming year's color trends. 'This hue blends rich burnt orange with clay tones, offering a versatile and inviting atmosphere,' says designer Swati Goorha of Swati Goorha Designs.

'The trend aligns with a growing desire for natural, grounded spaces as people seek comfort and a connection with nature in their homes,' adds Swati. 'Its warmth and versatility make it easy to pair with neutrals and vibrant colors alike, enhancing the coziness of any room.'

Jacqueline Norrise, founder of ADL Interiors also predicts terracotta hues for the year ahead: 'Deep terracotta will be prominent in 2025. The hue focuses on natural materials, well-being, and enduring design, and terracotta's warmth and adaptability suit homes with a grounded, refined ambiance.'

Over the coming weeks and months, as paint brands unveil their colors of the year for 2025, we'll have a much better idea of the individual shades set to dominate. But for now, we think these predictions from designers are no doubt going to be some of the most significant colors next year.

While 2025 is still many months away, we'd be safe to assume that decorating with blue will be one of the biggest color trends throughout interior spaces.

We're seeing endless love for blues of all shades, and paint and coatings company Valspar is the latest to embrace this color for the year ahead, choosing a rich, dark blue paint as its 2025 Color of the Year.

A much richer and darker hue than its previous 2024 Color of the Year: a bright and playful blue-green paint, Encore is a timeless shade that feels sophisticated and transitional to suit many homes and decorating styles.

Here, we've explained all you need to know about this latest color trend and the best ways to decorate with it to ensure an on-trend look as we approach 2025.

What color is Encore 8002-45G?

Encore 8002-45G is a cool-toned, rich navy blue paint with a subtle muted quality that makes it soothing. While it's undoubtedly a bold paint color, it maintains an uplifting look that feels welcoming.

Sue Kim, Director of Color Marketing at Valspar, says that Encore was chosen as its 2025 Color of the Year due to its calming appeal and ability to create inspiring atmospheres within our homes:

'With everyday stress reaching a crescendo, we are often compelled to build peace and restoration into our routines, lifestyles, and surroundings.'

'Encore allows us to reach for more as we reclaim our imaginations and embrace a more joyful version of adulthood. From form to function to color, our home is a place where we rejuvenate and find happiness with our family, friends, and community.'

Whether you're looking to use this on-trend paint color indoors or for your home's exterior, almost every Valspar paint product can be tinted in this shade, from furniture-specific formulas to exterior paints for decks and sheds.

How to decorate with Encore

'Encore is a color for any space or application. Its atmospheric deep blue tones emulate both the elusive luxury of Old World design and the futuristic blending of our physical and digital world, making it a color that feels familiar and unexpected at the same time,' says Sue.

'This makes it an ideal backdrop to ground a room, leaving space for spirited pops of complementary colors. Encore’s versatility means it also can shine on its own through playful applications inside and out, such as on wood, decks, or concrete pavers.'

To lean into a calming look, Valspar recommends pairing Encore with any of the following paint colors: Lavender Escape, Sprig of Sage, Gosling, or Graceful Gray. Each of these shades is soft and earthy, helping to achieve a balanced and restful interior space.

If you want to make more of a statement with Encore, read on to learn two decorating with blue ideas as recommended by Valspar color experts.

Create a tonal scheme with complementary blues

Layering Encore with other shades of blue will create a monochromatic color scheme; embracing the soothing quality of blues while ensuring the room feels dynamic and layered.

In this living room, Palisade Blue 4006-3B is used across the walls, with Encore used across the ceiling, trim details, and door. This makes a far more flattering alternative to pairing this statement paint color with white, which would create a high-contrast scheme. By sticking to a palette of blues of varying hues, a cohesive and tied-together look is achieved.

Go bold with color drenching

For a much bolder and more dramatic look, Valspar also recommends using Encore as a single paint color in a room for color-drenching ideas. Much like the color scheme of this bedroom, color drenching will see all the walls, ceiling, and any woodwork painted in the same shade to create a modern and on-trend look.

Although bold, using this rich paint color in this way will help create a cozy and cocooning space, which is ideal for transitioning into fall and an especially good decorating idea for bedrooms that aim to feel restful.

Encore can be purchased exclusively at Lowe's stores nationwide and on Lowes.com, and you can find out more about the 2025 Color of the Year at Valspar.com.

The color green has taken 2024 by storm, with moody, nature-inspired shades appearing in abundance across the world of interior design. From jewel box powder rooms to calming, cozy living rooms, homeowners and designers alike are admiring the color's powerful impact on design schemes.

Though green has proven quite versatile, it's not the first hue that springs to mind when it comes to the bedroom – light shades can appear juvenile, while darker shades often feel jarring. But as English actor Dominic West's cocooning castle bedroom proves, the right shade of green is the perfect choice for a stately, stylish escape. Clad in forest green and featuring a statement chaise in a lighter shade, this Georgian-inspired green bedroom in Ireland's Glin Castle is the perfect blend of elegance and serenity.

'Green is an excellent choice for a bedroom color due to its calming and rejuvenating properties. It promotes relaxation and a sense of balance, which are essential for a restful night's sleep. When combined with other green and blue hues, as seen in this space, the effect is magnified, creating a cohesive, friendly, and harmonious ambiance,' says Nina Lichtenstein, founder and principal designer at her eponymous firm.

Aside from green's aesthetic appeal, experts say that it's one of the best bedroom colors for a restful night's sleep. Drawing from the great outdoors and ever-associated with growth and nature, dark green – think forest or sage hues – makes for a comfort-forward, calming environment. And if there's any room of the house where peaceful design should be a top priority, it's the bedroom. Classic and timeless, this bedroom's take on green is a perfect example of the color's enduring impact.

'The harmonious blend of green and blue hues evokes a feeling of tranquility, making it an ideal retreat for rest and relaxation. Floral patterns on the headboard and throw pillows bring the beauty of the outdoors inside, while vases, decorative plates, and artwork further enhance the room's natural theme,' says Nina Lichtenstein, founder and principal designer at her eponymous firm.

'The graceful shapes of the furniture and decor elegantly elevate the space, ensuring it remains visually stimulating yet soothing. This well-curated environment demonstrates how color and design elements can work together to create a serene and inviting bedroom... The space feels lovingly curated and personal, making it a perfect sanctuary,' she continues.

Though mixing different shades within the same color family can feel daunting, it's often a fast track to design success. And in this space, the pairing of a light green chaise and deep, moody paint on the walls makes for a cohesive, eye-catching aesthetic. Without leaning too far traditional, the bedroom feels nostalgic thanks to the design's understated elegance.

'The mix of greens in this space feels so bright and lively, but also very sophisticated and polished. Green is a somewhat unexpected color for a bedroom, but it feels really charming and intentional in this space. I love the fact there's just the right amount of floral print mixed in to add visual interest and contrast. The plates mounted on the wall are also a really unique way of adding visual touchpoints in a whimsical, yet upscale, way,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

Helen Shaw, international director of marketing for Benjamin Moore, adds that 'bedrooms lend themselves to deep tones.' She adds that 'they look beautiful when dimly lit with lamps and candles, as is the case with this space.' For an even darker green shade, she recommends the brand's Regent Green, 'the perfect example of a gripping hue that will add depth and comfort to any bedroom scheme.'

'The green undertones create a richness that offers a softer alternative to black and a more modern substitute to dark grey. This darker shade will envelope a space and works beautifully when paired with crisp white woodwork and natural materials to achieve an organic, fresh look,' says Helen.

Shop the Look

Dark green provides a soothing foundation for this timeless Georgian bedroom, and when paired with vintage frames and floral patterns, it can't help but impress. If you were waiting for a sign to go for a green bedroom design, Dominic West's castle retreat just might be it.

May is a joyous month. Spring is now in full swing, and the colors of flora and fauna are alive and abundant, so finding the perfect paint colors to decorate with in May should replicate the beauty of nature. 

We are nearly halfway through the year, and with summer on the horizon, May is a wonderful time to welcome in colors that reflect this period of transition. Unsurprisingly, this month is all about nature with hues of emerald green, zingy yellow, and sparkling teal.  

To make the paint-selection process easier, we spoke to color experts and interior designers to get their best room color ideas to approach choosing color and paint trends for May with confidence. 

5 paint colors to decorate with in May – to reflect the bounty of nature

If you wish to decorate your home with the latest spring color ideas with a hint of summer, you're in luck. 

I've rounded up the most beautiful colors set to dominate color trends in May 2024, along with helpful guidance from the experts in the know on how to use them in your home.

1. Pale blue

Conjuring endless skies and infinite seas, pale blue is the color of the moment. Embrace myriad shades to create uplifting and optimistic spaces that soothe the soul. Fresh, airy and imbued with the restorative power of nature, light sky blues have this year been tipped by interiors experts as the perfect backdrop to modern living this month. 

‘Whether we are working or relaxing, creating or exercising, it is essential to have a space that reflects the optimism and desire for a fresh, new start that is top of the agenda for the year ahead,’ says Marianne Shillingford, creative director of Dulux. 

Naturally soothing, but equally energizing and hopeful, decorating with blue promises to bring the outside in to enhance well-being. Pair it with neutrals such as white and cream for classic calm or with stronger mustard, olive, sienna and navy tones for a unique, head-turning scheme.

2. Emerald green

Vibrant and impactful, emerald green is a joyous hue that can deliver different looks – think upbeat and modern and even classic and regal. Decorating with green will always be a popular choice, but this particular hue is also the birthstone for May, so it is known to bring luck and good fortune if this is your birth month. 

Emerald green packs a full but at the same time an understated punch. It can transport you to the cool tiled floors of Marrakech or the traditional drawing room of a late 18th-century Georgian mansion in England, and it’s being used more and more in interiors today. This color works with anything and is bang up-to-date.

‘When decorating with this bright shade recently, I was after a very specific kind of green,' explains Luke Edward Hall, founder, of Luke Edward Hall. 'You know how in the early days of spring, after a long winter, fields of grass can look so vivid they appear almost artificial? That’s the shade I was after! It works well with a subdued brown or pale blue.’ 

‘I adore this vibrant green,' says Jasmine bible, founder, of Jasmine Bible Design. 'When using a color this bold, up the impact by painting the walls, doors and trim all the same hue to create an intense, enveloping feeling, as if you were inside a jeweled box.’ 

3. Lemon yellow

Embraced in a big way or used in small doses, this sunny shade is rich, and confident and exudes positivity and warmth. Be inspired to decorate with lemon yellow – the most cheerful color, guaranteed to inject warmth and creativity into any space. As one of the most uplifting colors it is not surprising that it is having a renaissance for the month of May.

The versatility of yellow makes it a favorite element in decorating schemes for interior designers. When it comes to deciding where and how much yellow to use, consider the light in the space. ‘As with any pigment, natural light will affect how your color choice looks in a room so I’d always recommend painting a sample onto the different walls in a room so you can see how it will look in different lights throughout the day,’ says Dominic Myland, owner of Myland Paints. 

Yellow is a great accent color for those that are less bold – use it as piping, fringing on cushions and through your pictures. 'It always looks great with beige, browns and greys, giving them a real pop,' explains Emma Deterding, founder, of Kelling Designs. 'Put a yellow into a stack of anything from plates to cushions and it will give it all a lift. A dash of zingy lemon yellow will always cheer up any scheme.’ 

4. Dusky pink

Warm. gentle and effortlessly elegant, this soft hue is a pretty alternative to the usual neutrals. A barely-there dusky pink, this irresistible shade is proof that our love for pale plaster hues endures. Such a delicate, unabashedly feminine hue will happily envelop most rooms, but would undoubtedly feel perfect in a bedroom or bathroom.

When planning the decoration of tiny rooms, the instinct is often to paint them white to give the impression of space, but there are other options. Perfectly suited to cramped spaces that don’t have natural light, the addition of plaster or dusky pink warms up an area and prevents stark shadows. Using the same color paint on walls and cupboards can also create the impression the room is larger than it is. It pairs beautifully with many shades, including ochre, blue, grey and green. Most importantly, it’s a color that makes a house feel like a home.

5. Teal

The uplifting yet serene teal is an interesting contradiction, blurring the boundaries between blue and green, and equally between fun and sophisticated when added to an interior scheme.

Teal appears on the color wheel between blue and green, so its boundaries are blurred, and numerous interpretations of it exist, from light to dark. ‘Teal is a member of the cyan, or green-blue group, and is widely associated with positivity, happiness, and stability,’ explains Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore.

Decorating with teal is currently riding a renaissance, according to Charlotte Cosby, head of creative at Farrow & Ball. ‘Teal is a very balanced, versatile shade that can be used to create a subtle or dramatic space, as it shifts between blue and green in varying levels of light.

But why does teal uplift and calm in equal measure? Tobias Lewis, head of brand at Valspar, has a theory that links to the shades found in the natural world and the recent global pandemic. ‘Colors that have a biophilic nature, such as blue and green, evoke a stress-relieving and mood-boosting atmosphere. This makes teal – a deep, cyan-green shade – ideal for rooms to wind down in, including the bedroom and living room.

When it comes to updating your home's exterior, few projects have the same potential as giving your house a fresh lick of paint, especially when your aluminum siding is starting to crack, peel, or chip. 

Whether you are painting to freshen up your facade, add curb appeal and increase value, or simply to protect your aluminum siding against the elements, painting a house exterior is tiresome but important work. Luckily, you can often do it yourself so long as you have the right tools and brush up on your technique.  

In this expert guide, contractors and professional painters share detailed step-by-step instructions for painting aluminum siding that will leave your home looking like new. 

How to paint aluminum siding

Before painting your aluminum siding, it is best to check when the best time to paint the house exterior is where you live. Everything from the weather to the humidity can have an effect on the final results. Generally speaking, you want to work during a dry spell, with minimal wind and low humidity for the paint to adhere and dry properly. 

With your project planned out, this is how to paint aluminum siding. 

What you will need:

•  Aluminum patching compound – such as DAP Platinum Patch Advanced Exterior Filler, from Walmart
• A power washer or long-handled cleaning brush 
• Heavy-duty painter tape – like Scotch heavy-duty masking tape, at Walmart
• A self-etching primer – such as Custom Shop Premium Self Etching Primer, at Amazon
• Acrylic outdoor paint
• A long-handled roller or paint sprayer
• Paint thinner to clean tools 
• A damp cleaning cloth to wipe up mess quickly 

How to paint aluminum siding: Step-by-step

1. Repair the siding

Before you start work on painting, you need to ensure that your aluminum siding is in good enough condition to take the paint, begins Andriy Boyko, handyman and seasoned masonry expert at A.O. Handy Inc. You should be on the lookout for any signs of damage, including dents, scratches, or corrosion, he shares. 

‘Address any structural issues before proceeding. Utilize body filler or aluminum patching compound to fill in any dents, scratches, or holes. Once dry, sand the repaired areas until smooth using fine-grit sandpaper.’

If the siding is too badly damaged, however, you might need to replace it entirely, warns Shlomo Cherniak, professional handyman and owner of Cherniak Home Services:

‘Replace severely damaged panels if necessary. This might require removing the damaged piece and replacing it with a new one, ensuring it locks into place securely. Replacement panels can cost between $100 to $300 depending on the size and brand.’

2. Clean away dirt and dry

As with preparing walls for painting, you will need to clean the exterior of your house before you start priming and painting for a smooth surface to work on, continues Shlomo Cherniak, professional handyman. There are a few ways you can do this: 

‘Mix a cleaning solution of water, mild detergent, and a little bleach to handle any mildew. Ensure a ratio of 10:1 water to bleach for effective mildew removal without damaging the siding,’ he recommends. ‘Then, use either a soft, long-handled brush or a pressure washer on a low setting to clean the siding. Start from the top and work your way down to prevent streaking. Keep the pressure washer below 1500 PSI to avoid denting the aluminum.’ 

Remember that there are several things you should never clean with a pressure washer, such as your window, to avoid damage. With the siding cleaned, rinse off any soap residue and allow it to dry completely before priming. This is where it is helpful to work on a warm, sunny day. 

3. Mask off areas you aren’t painting

No matter if you are using a brush, roller, or paint sprayer, you should mask off areas you don't plan on painting (such as window and door frames, or external AC units or pipework). This will make the painting and clean-up process a lot smoother.  

4. Always start by priming

One of the biggest house exterior painting mistakes you can make is not using a good primer designed both for outdoor use and the surface you are applying it to, warns Andre Kazimierski, painting expert and CEO of Improovy Painters of La Grange:

‘Your first step when you are painting bare aluminum where the coating has worn away will be to prime it, usually using a self-etching primer which will help the paint adhere to the metal surface. After allowing the primer to dry, you can begin painting.’

If you do not use a self-etching primer, you will need to sand down the siding to create a good surface for it to adhere to, adds Brandon Walker, superintendent at ASAP Restoration. You can use a scotch bright pad or abrasive of some sort to scratch up the surface of the siding. ‘Make sure to always go in the same direction with the scuffing to ensure that the scratch marks aren’t cross-directional in appearance,’ he recommends. ‘Then, use the same cleaning agent as before, and go over the siding once again to absorb any more dust, and all of the shavings and debris from the scuffing process. You may need to do this step twice to ensure that all of the sanding remnants are absorbed completely.’

5. Paint with two coats

You don’t need any special painting tricks if you want a truly spotless finish. All you need is two coats of paint, and to opt for a high-quality acrylic outdoor paint, says Shlomo Cherniak, professional handyman.

‘100% acrylic exterior latex paint is ideal for aluminum siding. It's durable and provides a good finish,’ he explains. ‘Acrylic latex paint expands and contracts with the aluminum, reducing the risk of cracking.’

While you can then use a roller to apply the paint, you will get a better finish if you use a paint sprayer, he adds. ‘An airless sprayer can give you a smooth, professional finish. If you're using a brush or roller, make sure to apply evenly and cover all areas.’ 

6. Inspect and clean up

Once the final coat is dry, you can finally inspect your work and patch up any missed areas to prolong the life of your paint job, Andriy Boyko, seasoned masonry expert, says. 

‘Once the final coat is dry, thoroughly inspect the aluminum siding for any missed spots or imperfections, and touch up as necessary. Ensure the painted siding cures fully according to the paint manufacturer's instructions before subjecting it to weather or heavy use

‘Then, clean tools and equipment thoroughly using water or paint thinner, depending on the type of paint used.’

How much it costs to paint aluminum siding

How much it costs to paint a house with aluminum siding will depend largely on the paint you choose, the size of your home, and whether you do it yourself or hire professionals, points out Ornella Bianco, home improvement specialist at Fixr: 

‘Most people pay around $1,500 for painting 1,500 sq. ft. of unoxidized siding,’ they share. ‘Material costs can range from $30 to $80 per gallon, depending on the brand, but particularly if you choose trusted brands like Behr, Valspar, Sherwin-Williams, or Benjamin Moore.’

FAQs

What happens if you paint aluminum siding without a primer? 

Applying paint directly to aluminum siding without a primer will cause the paint to chip, crack, or peel more quickly than if you had used a primer, meaning it will need redoing far sooner and will not look as good. 

Washing the siding, allowing it to dry, and priming first will render the best results with arguably far less effort than having to do it all again. 

How long will paint on aluminum siding last? 

So long as the paint was applied properly, using the right paints and primers, then you can expect your paintwork to last around four to six years, depending on the weather in your area. After this time, the protection is likely to wear off and your home might start to look a little worse for wear.  

When painting aluminum siding, there are some important safety concerns you need to consider before you start. If you are repainting the siding for the first time in a long time, it is a good idea to check the existing paint for lead before you strip it away. This will need to be removed by experts before you can start to protect your health and the environment. 

Then, when working at heights, ensure that you are not working alone and you are using the correct equipment, such as a trust ladder that is not showing any signs of wear or decay. Finally, always ensure to wear gloves, eye protection, and a face mask when sanding, spraying paint, or patching to protect your health. 

White paint may seem like the simplest of colors to decorate with, after all, it is the most popular color to use in the home, but it can actually be one of the most complex, as there are hundreds of different shades to choose from.

From whites with cool and warm undertones, to picking a shade that works with the light levels and the other colors present in the rest of the room, there is a range of different factors to consider before you start decorating with white.

So, we have spoken with a collection of designers and paint experts who have shared their advice on how you can choose the best white paint for your white room ideas.

How to choose the best white paint 

White is one of the most timeless and popular colors to use for paint ideas in interior design, and judging exactly the right shade that you need requires careful consideration, so our paint experts are on hand to help you with your journey to find the best white paint for your home.

1. Always check your white paint against a true white

Joa Studholme, color curator at Farrow & Ball shares her expertise on the nuances of sourcing the right white paint shade, with Farrow & Ball white paints in mind.

‘Choose your white depending on whether you want a subtle, muted feel or a fresh, graphic scheme. The best way to "read" a white is by putting a pure white behind it so you see the underlying color. It is impossible to judge the color bias without this contrast.'

'White can indeed be dramatic if it is used in a very single-minded way on both walls and woodwork or if it is contrasted with a really dark tone. White full gloss on walls or ceilings creates a really strong statement that is right on trend.'

'The cooler whites like our  Wevet, Blackened, and Strong White pack more of a punch than the warmer tones which are designed to soften spaces. Red- and yellow-based whites like Dimity and White Tie are always deemed to be gentler and pretty, so are often popular in bedrooms, while simple Pointing and Wimborne White never fail in kitchens, which most people want to be the lightest space in their house.’

2. Test the white paint in all different lights

‘The wrong white can look stark, drab or can have undertones that simply don't work with your chosen wall color,’ says Helen Shaw, director at Benjamin Moore. ‘It’s also important to understand how the appearance of colors tends to shift throughout the day with the changing tones in natural daylight, as well as with different artificial light sources.'

'White paints are especially prone to taking on different tonalities from morning to evening. Be sure to test your color before taking the plunge. Our US pint-size tester pots are deliberately large – it means you can paint a large area out on several walls (or on some lining paper) and check the color at different times of day, in different weather conditions and with your particular artificial lighting, too,' explains Helen.

'Choosing a warmer hue works particularly well in a dark shaded space, thanks to the pink undertones, especially when layered with natural colors and textures in throws, pillows and fabrics. In rooms with a lot of natural light, any underlying warm tones in white paint - like yellow, red, or brown - will be amplified to create a creating a soft, calming feel.'

3. Don't assume one white paint suits all your rooms

Marianne Shillingford, creative director at Dulux shares her expert advice, explaining that ‘White is one of the most popular colors in the world and so it’s no wonder there are so many to choose from. The simplest white of all is just called White and you can buy it at all DIY stores. If you want your simple white crisp and zingy, opt for Pure Brilliant White or Absolute White.'

'The best advice on finding the perfect white paint is to remember that the same white will look different in other rooms and so you may have to choose more than one if you want white throughout your home.’

4. Check the room's orientation to judge its warmth

‘There are no rules when it comes to white paint,’ counters Jane Ryder, European marketing director at Valspar. ‘White is an incredibly versatile color, perfect for any room – you can pair it with literally any other color for a fresh but striking aesthetic.'

'When you think of white paint you probably think of a brilliant, bright shade, but the truth is there are so many different hues that you’ll be spoilt for choice. 

'For lighter, south-facing rooms, cooler white hues such as Fresh Beginning and Spring Respite are perfect to reflect the sunlit environment and enhance an airy feel. Alternatively, soft whites with hints of pink and gold like our shade Milk and Honey are brilliant for adding warmth, and depth and opening up smaller rooms, particularly in white bedrooms. For larger spaces, I’d recommend opting for a neutral white like Seven Sisters to help to lift the space without making it feel too sterile.’

5. Understand the importance of undertones

Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene advises, 'When selecting a white shade, firstly, consider the undertones within the color as this may not be immediately obvious and yet will have an impact on the overall finish. 

'A blue-based white will make a room feel brighter and cooler, a brown-based white or a white with a hint of yellow will bring warmth and coziness to a space, a green-based white will bring a fresh feel to a room and an off-white will provide a more subtle, muted tone.'

6. Take into consideration the other colors and materials in the space

Andy Greenhall, head of design at Paint & Paper Library says, 'Always take into account other colors you will be using within the room and of course existing tones, you can then choose a complementary white.'

'For example, if you are looking for a warm scheme to sit in a room with existing pinks and dark woods then a white with a pink, and red oxide base will be most suitable. If the room has natural materials such as oak floors or sisal, then a warm white would be most appropriate. If a room has concrete floors, a warmer white also will ensure the room does not feel too harsh.'

Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams also supports this and says, ‘If your accessories are on the warm side of the spectrum, choose a white with warm undertones like creamy buttery or beige shades.'

'White paints also work well with other neutrals. Cool whites have blue or gray overtones and pair well with shades like blue, gray and violet. Pure whites have little to no undertones meaning they can work well with all colors but are usually reserved for trims, doors, shelves and other architectural elements.’

Shop our picks of the best white paint below

Choosing the best white paint for your space depends very much on how much natural light your room gets, the tone of the natural light (warm or cool), and the other colors you will be introducing into the room. 

It also depends on the effect you want to create when you paint a wall, for example, warm whites will make a space feel cozier than cooler whites which look more formal. If in doubt, pick a Pure White, such as the shade by Sherwin Williams; or a shade such as White Dove by Benjamin Moore, which is a warm white that suits both cool and warm daylight.

Coastal interiors, defined by earthy materials and calming colors, are on the rise once again, and for good reason – even when miles from the nearest coast, bright and beachy spaces instantly transport us to a state of relaxation. 

When curating a coastal-inspired home, the entryway is an important place to get the look down, setting the tone for the entire space. But coastal decor isn't always as simple as it sounds. Too many ocean motifs can send a space into a kitschy spiral, but you'll need a bit of beach to channel the coastal aesthetic. 

We spoke with interior designers to get their top tips for finding a tasteful balance within coastal decor, creating entryways that feel fresh and inviting. This is how the experts create glowy, gorgeous coastal entryways, letting the beachy atmosphere in at the front door.

7 chic but cozy coastal entryway ideas

Embracing the coastal aesthetic will leave you with an airy, alluring entryway that's both beautiful and functional. A lovely welcome back after a beach adventure, or (more likely) a day out at work, your entryway will be sure to instantly calm with soothing shades and natural textures.

1. Evoke the great outdoors

Coastal style draws from the great outdoors, so centering natural elements in the entryway is key. Elizabeth Drake, principal designer of her eponymous design studio, says the entryway should complement outdoor scenery – even when it's not quite beach weather.

'A good "coastal entry" leads the eye out to the view of the water – I find an arched entry framing the water view to be a compelling design element. Even winter snow on the lake is worthy of framing,' she says.

Elizabeth adds that design elements should 'harmonize with the water views' instead of 'taking over with peppy colors.' She brings the outdoors into the space by using sunrise-inspired hues and organic, natural materials like grasscloth and slate tile.

Kathy Kuo, interior designer and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, says coastal-style entryways that integrate environmental elements 'echo the calm feeling of spending time by the ocean' – a feeling that truly can't be beat. She suggests introducing entryway furniture like console tables and benches in textural, organic materials like 'jute, rattan, seagrass and driftwood.'

'These natural materials will make the entryway feel instantly coastal-chic, and you can go even further by styling your entry console with items like oversized seashells and coral and woven trays or baskets,' says Kathy.

2. Embrace a coastal color scheme

Along with natural elements, designers suggest bringing in color schemes that draw from the outdoors. Though the coastal color palette can quickly become a bit over-the-top with bright blues and harsh whites, pulling tones straight from nature can ease the overwhelm. Lauren Kavanagh, art director at wallpaper brand Hovia, says that shades 'reminiscent of a coastal environment' work best for entryways.

'Blues, greens, soft neutrals, sandy yellows and warm white paints all contribute to the theme effectively. Incorporate color subtly with abstract wallpaper designs, especially those featuring gentle, washy watercolor brushstrokes reflecting the changing tones and forms of the tide,' says Lauren.

Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Minwax and Valspar, says she expects coastal style will continue to top the interior design trends in 2024. She adds that the aesthetic 'draws upon natural, recycled materials,' leading people to desire more subtle, gentle hues. This also aligns with a trending desire for spaces that feel calm and tranquil.

'For many people, recycled materials have come to be associated with a distressed, mulchy surface effect which, when translated to color, is very desaturated and soft. These desaturated colors fit the attitude of being one with nature and sit well next to a variety of other colors,' says Sue.

Sue suggests Minwax's Oyster Gray, Gentle Olive, Silvered Gray, Vintage Blue and White Wash finishes for classic hues that will make a coastal entryway shine. If you're after a 'white wash look,' she notes that a 'barely-there wood stain' makes a room feel more beachy, adding rustic charm and character in an instant.

3. Let in natural lighting

Embrace the sun-drenched, airy coastal atmosphere in your entryway by letting all the natural light in. Lauren suggests leaving windows and doors unobstructed so as to facilitate natural lighting, and to 'add cleverly positioned entryway mirrors to maximize feelings of space and openness.'

Emily LaMarque, owner of Emily LaMarque Design Studio, agrees, saying the 'trick to designing a coastal entryway is to keep the space feeling light and airy.' She suggests a comfortable bench with basket storage, or a console table that fits the aesthetic. For the rest of the room, she tries to channel lightness and levity in the patterns and materials she chooses.

'When selecting furnishings, think neutral and natural materials like wood, wicker, seagrass and jute, and opt for slightly weathered materials over anything too refined or polished. Bring in textiles with a casual pattern – a pale stripe or a subtle neutral print can be both subtle and elevated – and go for lightweight linen fabrics on window treatments and upholstery rather than anything too heavy or that will block too much light,' says Emily.

4. Ensure your space is weather-resistant

A coastal space won't last long if it's not equipped for its natural environment, so designing with this in mind is paramount. Elizabeth Drake says she likes integrating entryway rugs with intricate patterns to 'camouflage and grab the sand and debris that tracks in from the lake' – an experience that's all too familiar for her clients living on the coast of Lake Michigan.

'I especially like using vintage Persian rugs for their heavy weight and durability, providing that no-stress feeling as the children come inside all wet and sandy. A quick shake of the rug outside cleans it up,' she says.

In this coastal entryway, Elizabeth also opted for a durable floor tile to double down on the space's long-lasting appeal. 'The blue-green slate floor provides the harmonious color palette, and can’t be scratched up from sand or stained by water,' she adds.

5. Leave room for imperfection

Part of a coastal home's beauty is the slightly rustic look that comes with taking inspiration from the outdoors. Lauren suggests leaning into imperfection when designing an entryway space in this style.

'When styling a coastal entryway, look for natural materials full of beautiful imperfections; pale or white-washed woods on furniture, seagrass or jute runner rugs, and linen fabrics all work well. Dried reeds, grasses and flowers in hand-crafted ceramic vases are also a modern take on the style. Driftwood and shells are a more direct interpretation of the style and work when used sparingly,' she says.

Lauren adds that biophilic- and artisanal-inspired styles are on trend, and says coastal design offers 'a refreshing way to incorporate natural tones, textures and materials into the home.'

6. Introduce modern accents

Coastal style has been around for quite some time, so it's no surprise that some of its spaces feel dated. Rayana Schmitz, founder and principal designer of Florida-based Firefinish Interiors, says she makes the coastal look more contemporary by introducing clean lines and sculptural elements into the space.

'To modernize the coastal vibe, I add sculptural pieces that serve as focal points, blending art with functionality. A hint of blue brings in the tranquility of the sea, completing the look. It's about creating a space that's inviting and evokes a sense of calm the moment you step through the door,' says Rayana.

In this entryway, Firefinish Interiors mastered a modern take on coastal decor by incorporating streamlined seating and a unique, textured mirror.

7. Steer clear of kitsch

When it comes to this style of decor a sleek and sophisticated style can succumb to coastal decor mistakes and veer into kitschy territory. Literal interpretations of the beach – think seashells and palm tree-themed accessories – feel over the top, and it's important to remember you're designing an entryway, not a themed celebration. If you're inclined to bring in some coastal motifs, Emily suggests bringing in just 'a couple subtle touches.'

'Keep in mind that less is more. Ultimately, the space should feature subtle coastal touches, so that the atmosphere feels inspired rather than kitschy beach or nautical-themed,' says Emily.

Caroline Brackett, principal designer of Caroline Brackett Studio of Design, also says no to 'anchors and other similar kitschy items.' Instead, she suggests focusing on texture, bringing in 'wicker accents, raffia-wrapped consoles, grasscloth wall coverings or sculptural mirrors.' 

Along with a durable rug and an 'airy' color palette, your coastal entry will convey the beachy appeal without becoming overkill. In this entryway, pictured above, Caroline paired a dark wood set of drawers with an intricate gold mirror and pops of blue in the form of throw pillows for a contemporary coastal look.

'A lot of times, the coastal theme is translated into colors – sky blue predominantly – or images and objects such as sea shells and fish. I'm a big believer that space is more than the objects it houses,' says Hafsa Burt, founder and lead architect at hb+a Architects.

Hafsa says to focus on the light and setting of a space rather than representations of the ocean or beach. By keeping the space full to the brim with natural light and making sure the room is resilient enough for outdoor activities that trail inside, she says it's much more likely your entryway will remain inviting and serene.

First impressions are important, and your entryway says quite a bit about your style. For a considered and elevated take on coastal decor, make sure you're putting the outdoors first – your environment will never steer you wrong.

Emma Hernan, reality star and high-end real estate broker at the famed Oppenheim Group in Los Angeles, is all about simple changes that make a big difference. Homes & Gardens sat down with Emma to discuss her tips for selling a home, and they're much easier than we expected. 

Her favorite renovation idea for the best return on investment when selling is simply adding a fresh coat of paint. 'I think that fresh paint inside and outside always pays off. I think it's the best return on the investment that you could have,' Emma says.'It honestly makes the home feel brand new.' 

Emma continues, 'Imagine walking to a house that smells like fresh paint; even if the home is not brand new, you think [that it's new] in your head.' If you're looking to sell your house, this feeling of newness for prospective buyers is a huge plus. First impressions are important, and Emma's tip is a great place to start. For the same reason, Emma always recommends 'switching out the light fixtures in the entryway if they're old.'

Furthermore, Emma says that many home improvements don't add value. She says, 'When I have clients looking to sell, I don't recommend a massive remodel. I honestly think it's about updating cosmetics and freshening the home up so that it's ready to hit the market.' 

She adds, 'Because someone's going to come in, and they're probably going to want to do their little fixtures and do their little home touches themselves anyways.' In Emma's opinion, as a real estate agent, it's about making the home as appealing to the broadest range of buyers possible, which personalization can work against.

If you are looking to make a quick and affordable renovation that will add value to your home and only have the budget to make one room, Emma recommends the kitchen. She says, 'I think it's the lowest hanging fruit, and you know, it's the heart of the home. Some fresh paint and some fresh hardware can go a long way.'

Shop Some of Our Favorite Paints

No matter the style or architecture of your home, a fresh coat of paint can go a long way in getting the home ready to sell.

Color is a powerful tool in interior design, capable of setting the mood of an entire home. While primary and secondary colors are most likely firmly on your radar, have you ever considered including intermediate colors in your decor?

Intermediate colors, otherwise known as tertiary colors, are born from the mix of neighboring primary colors and secondary shades on the color wheel. The result is subtle yet vibrant and brings a subtle burst of color into any space. Tertiary colors are often used in complementary color schemes to accent and make the main, more vibrant tones in your scheme stand out. However, the experts think intermediate colors can (and should) also take center stage.

From creating a harmonious palette to infusing warmth into a room, intermediate colors might just prove to be the unsung heroes of the color wheel. Here, we've spoken to color experts to help us unlock the secrets of decorating with these in-between hues.

What Are Intermediate Colors?

Intermediate colors are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color that sits adjacent to it on the color wheel. The color wheel includes the three primary colors: red, yellow, and blue, and the three secondary colors, green, orange, and purple (which are formed by combining equal parts of two primary colors). 

Finally, you have the six intermediate (or tertiary) colors, a mix of primary and secondary tones. These are:

- Red-Orange (Coral)

- Yellow-Orange (Mango)

- Yellow-Green (Lime)

- Blue-Green (Aqua/Turquoise)

- Blue-Purple (Iris)

- Red-Purple (Magenta)

Charlotte Cosby, creative director at Farrow & Ball, says: 'Bold intermediate colors are an incredible accent for every space. The combination of pigments creates a more nuanced version of the primary color, with more depth and a beautiful reaction to changing light.' They boast a combination of the vibrancy of the primaries with the depth of the secondaries, offering a rich spectrum to decorate with.

'When choosing an accent paint color for the home, you may not want something as expected as primary hue,' says Erika Woelfel, VP of color and creative services at Behr. 'Tertiary colors are great options to add pop and depth to walls as they often feel like they have more personality.'

How To Use Intermediate Colors In Interior Design

Intermediate colors are exceptional tools in color trends due to their ability to bring depth, sophistication, and versatility to a scheme – without overbearing. They offer a nuanced palette that strikes a balance between vibrant and subtle, making them ideal for those who shy away from neon brights but want something a little more than a muted color scheme.

Playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between primaries and neutrals, by bringing intermediate colors into your home you can start to establish a more cohesive palette. Or introduce subtle color pops without overwhelming the space (or you), allowing for a harmonious and refined aesthetic. 

'Intermediate colors provide a diverse range of hues that can add depth and complexity to interior spaces,' explains Ashley McCollum, GLIDDEN® paint by PPG color expert. 'Their harmonious qualities create a sense of unity and offer the opportunity to strike a balance between warm and cool tones. Additionally, layering different shades of intermediate colors through furniture, textiles, and decor can create visual interest and richness.' 

'Since these are a mixture of different colors, keep in mind the potential undertones that come through in different artificial lighting settings and with changing natural light conditions throughout the day,' she advises.

Designers will often leverage these tones as accents. Start by considering your room's purpose, lighting – both natural and artificial – and existing features, flooring, and furnishings and decide whether you want to create focal points by highlighting specific areas, or go bigger and bolder.

With these considerations in mind, you can start to navigate the spectrum of intermediate colors with confidence.

Decide on the look and feel you want to achieve

If your home’s color scheme is feeling a little flat, using intermediate colors can add depth and warmth. For example, incorporating red-orange or yellow-orange tones can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere without the vibrancy of their primary counterparts.

'Keep in mind the mood you want to create in each room when decorating with tertiary colors,' advises Behr's Erika Woelfel. 'Warm hues like red-orange and yellow-orange can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cool hues like blue-green and blue-purple can evoke a sense of calm and relaxation.'

'Paint an accent wall in a tertiary color like Desert Coral to create a focal point in a home's entryway area.  Alternatively, you can use a cool tertiary color like Caribe or Sophisticated Teal for a bedroom accent wall behind the bed,' Erika adds. Really consider the look and feel you want your rooms to have.

‘Energetic and social spaces such as kitchens and dining rooms work fantastically well with uplifting, warm, and energized colors,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 'Intense and rich yellow-oranges will lift the mood, creating a joyful, positive atmosphere.’  

Embrace the power of contrast and don't be afraid to experiment, allowing your personality to shine through, like in fashion designer Pearl Lowe's kitchen seen above, designed by deVOL Kitchens and featuring a mustard yellow statement kitchen island. 'India Yellow is a perfect moody yellow-orange shade, this deep mustard will bring buckets of cheer for a pop of color or in a scheme with a gentle neutral such as Shadow White,' advises Farrow & Balls' Charlotte Cosby.

On the other hand, the blue-green shades can create a sense of calm and connection to nature.  'The beauty of blue-green, even in its brightest of tones, is that it combines wonderfully with other greens, just as in nature, hues of green sit alongside each other harmoniously,' explains Ruth. 'Pair with soft whites for a fresh, uplifting finish.’  

'Yeabridge Green from Farrow & Ball is a fresh, clean green with a yellow undertone that can be used in period and contemporary spaces alike for an energizing and surprisingly cozy atmosphere,' adds Charlotte.

Pair intermediate colors with neutrals for a softer color pop

Intermediate colors will add depth and character to your space, while creating focal points allows you to highlight specific areas for visual interest. Create a palette that balances dominant tones with accents and apply these hues strategically, whether through wood trims, furniture, or decorative elements like rugs and cushions.

'Intermediate colors are the unsung heroes of interior design, seamlessly bridging the gap between bold statements and subtle accents,' explains Tobie Lewis, head of marketing at Valspar. 'Mood-uplifting tones are trending this year – they possess the versatility to elevate any space, offering a harmonious balance that effortlessly ties together diverse elements.'

'Use these colors in your home as accents and pair them with a neutral scheme to create contrast for a harmonious ambience,' advises Tobie. 'Embrace these nuanced hues in your decorating journey, allowing them to whisper sophistication and depth into every corner of your home.'

These subtle tones are ideal for accentuating specific areas or elements in a room and help can draw attention to architectural features, furniture, or decor items.

Combine intermediate colors with complimentary hues

Pairing intermediate colors with complementary colors is a foolproof way to ensure harmony in your scheme. For instance, if you're working with a blue-green intermediate color like in the space by Arteriors seen above, its complementary color, a red-orange, can be incorporated to create a striking contrast. 

'The lovely thing about using an intermediate color is it gives you a ready-made palette which you can use for your accessories and other furniture,' says Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'For example, if you use a teal color such as North Sea Green from Benjamin Moore, you can pair it with both blues and greens for a natural partnership that will work beautifully to give your space a watery, outdoor effect.'

'You can also layer complementary colors (those that sit opposite one another on the color wheel) to add a dash of invigoration,' advises Helen. 'These will bring out the warmer undertones of teal and add visual interest to the room.'

The key is to use complementary colors judiciously, ensuring they complement rather than clash. 'Red walls are a bold choice but can be brought to life with hints of orange,' suggests Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands. 'The orange neutralizes the intense redness, making it a great choice to accent door and window frames, as well as entire walls.'

'Blue Maize is a rich blue-violet, and with its sophisticated red undertone, it brings a dash of unexpected warmth to a room, particularly when paired with gentle off-whites and a pop of bold red Romesco from Farrow & Ball,' adds Charlotte Cosby.

Intermediate colors offer the palette for those who seek vibrancy and color, without the brightness of neons and primary hues. From the careful selection of tones to the strategic placement of complementary colors, embracing intermediate colors allows you to go bolder. So, whether you're embarking on an all-out transformation or seeking subtle refinements, let the spectrum of intermediate colors be your starting point.

While design is an art, it is also an investment. If you are making massive changes to your home, there is an expectation that they will help garner a higher price when it comes time to sell. You can't guarantee returns, but you can do your best to choose timeless looks that raise the value. 

Luckily, Emma Hernan, a high-end real estate agent at the acclaimed Oppenheim Group and star of Netflix's Selling Sunset, told Homes & Gardens the kitchen colors she swears by. 

'I think you can't go wrong with white kitchens, big and small. They all look great with a crisp white cabinet and a crisp white countertop,' the agent explains.

Emma's advice doesn't stop with a coat of white paint. She continues:, 'I really, really like incorporating some type of wood into a white kitchen. Wood helps to warm up the property and brings that balance. Because you don't want it too stark with white. I don't think neutral wood mixed with white ever going to go out of style.' 

With the rising popularity of wood kitchen cabinets, we're sure to see more of this look in the coming year.

When asked if there is any particular shade of wood she prefers, Emma responded that it's all about light wood for her.  

'A light wood mixed with white is like the perfect recipe. It's like a chocolate chip cookie. It's like a perfect combination of gooey goodness.' The combination results in a very classic Scandinavian kitchen look that will never be off-trend.

However, don't get the idea that Emma is anti-color. She claims there are ways to incorporate color into a kitchen, with one important caveat. Emma told H&G: 'For those who are looking for a little bit more color, I always recommend staying neutral. So earth tones, olives, something calm. Just grounding colors, colors that are timeless, timeless, and calm.' These relaxed, neutral kitchens are still beautiful when it comes time to sell.

'That's what I would recommend to any of my clients. And that's personally what I would do. I own properties across the US, and that's all I would do. Anything neutral, whites and neutrals,' Emma adds.

Though light neutrals are fine, Emma categorically advises against dark kitchen cabinets for those planning to sell. She said: 'I think that back in the day, probably like 10, 15 years ago, you saw a lot of those dark colors, and those went out of style so, so quickly. And all of the houses that stayed neutral, they stayed white, they stayed with some kind of earth tones and wood, they never went out of style.'

She continued on the shades that date your home, stating: 'I see that a lot with my clients who are looking to either do a remodel or a little freshen-up before they sell. Not everyone is going to gravitate towards black. I think it can just be a touch much. Anyone who went with those darker tones all have to give their house a little bit of love before putting it on the market.'

Our White Paint Picks

With white, wood, and neutrals in your kitchen, you're on the right track to sell your home.

It's no secret that color plays an important role in our homes. The right color palette not only enhances the design appeal of the space but contributes to the overall harmony and, in turn, your mood too. 

From color trends to consulting the color wheel, there is a lot of advice out there when it comes to choosing a scheme for each and every room of your home. But what about considering the whole house as one?

Curating a color palette that flows throughout your entire home is one of the most important tools in an interior designer's toolkit. And, whether you're an expert or just starting out with a project, choosing a cohesive color scheme for your entire home is a process that requires a thoughtful approach.

Here, we speak to color experts and interior designers to share their process of executing a whole home color scheme in a way that flows seamlessly, giving you the tools and confidence to go forth and decorate. Let's get into it.

How to choose a color scheme for your home

So why do you need to consider a color palette for your entire home, as opposed to going room-by-room? There are many reasons, from creating continuity to flow and ending with the consideration of how color makes us feel.

Imagine you're moving through a home filled with calming neutrals, a muted color scheme is the thread that connects and grounds each room, and you suddenly enter a space filled with bright, highlighter shades. It's going to feel rather jarring, right? 

In order to achieve that sense of harmony in your home, and avoid a feeling of uneasiness, we've consulted design and color experts for the tips and tricks they use when choosing a color palette. 

One final note? So much of color selection is personal to you, and don't forget it's your home and there's is no right or wrong answer here. Take a moment to consider your preferences – whether you're drawn to decorating with neutrals, bold patterns, or a mix of vibrant brights – your color choices should align with your style, creating a space that truly feels like 'you.'

1. Consider your surroundings

The first place to start is thinking about what's staying. This goes for existing wall colors, wallpaper, furnishings, and even character features of your home like fireplaces, tiles, and trims.

As Patrick O’Donnell, color consultant and brand ambassador for Farrow & Ball says, 'First think about all the elements that are going to exist in your chosen room- from fabrics, furniture, flooring and of course, your wall and woodwork colors. Order samples where possible and create a mood board, either physically or digitally. This will really help you to understand the cohesion of a scheme and see how all the elements will sit together.'

Erika Woelfel, VP of color at Behr, agrees that considering what is already around you is the best place to start. 'There are a few factors to consider when choosing a color scheme for your entire home. Consider the furnishings and hard surfaces that are already in the space. Will flooring, cabinetry, or window treatments stay the same or are they changing out? This plays an important role in selecting wall colors for an overall scheme,' she advises. 

From here, you can start to consider the foundations of your scheme as a whole, rather than thinking room-by-room.

2. Shed some light on the situation

Before even taking out your color charts or paint swatches, you need to get to know the lighting in each room, and, crucially, how it behaves and at what time of day.

'Lighting is another important factor. Colors can transform based on the light exposure in your home throughout the day. For example, a warm white paint like Swiss Coffee from Behr can appear warmer in bright natural lighting while dimmer lighting creates a cooler, muted look,' says Erika Woelfel.

Different colors can present differently depending on the lighting in a given space. Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands, also urges you to consider lighting – particularly when working with an off-white palette. 'South-facing rooms with plenty of light can take cooler whites with their undertones of blue or green, but we always recommend warmer whites for darker, north-facing rooms,' says Dominic. 'We always advise testing paint choices in situ first to see how they appear in different lights throughout the day,' he adds.

Sarah Lloyd, senior brand manager at Valspar, agrees. 'Lighting can have a big impact on the way color looks. As natural light changes throughout the day, so will the appearance of color. Light can be so influential that one color can look different in each room.' This is why swatching on every wall of the space, and checking it throughout the day, is vital.

Patrick O’Donnell maintains that the best way to decide on paint colors is by looking at what aspect the room is facing, as the natural light will have a significant impact the appearance of a color.

'In south-facing rooms, pretty much anything goes, which is thoroughly liberating!' he says. 'Although it is sometimes best to keep these rooms light to enhance the all-day sun. For east-facing rooms, you get the natural morning light which reacts beautifully to soft blues and greens. West-facing rooms have the afternoon and evening sun, which is lovely and warm, so again most colors will work here.'

'Finally, the one everyone worries about is the north-facing rooms. Here, you have two options, either use warm-based colors with elements of red or yellow or embrace the limitations and use dark, moody inky tones,' Patrick adds.

3. Get to know your personal style

Seeking out inspiration should always be a high priority. It can be daunting scrolling through Pinterest when you have several rooms or an entire home to plan, but this is the time to get your mind working on your favorite colors and how to incorporate a touch of them into every space.

Ruth Mottershead, creative director Little Greene, advises taking the time to research schemes that you would like to recreate by browsing magazines, Instagram, and Pinterest or requesting color cards to get your creative cogs turning.  'If you are a hands-on decorator, mood boards are a great way to edit and add to ideas. The key is deciding what sort of style or atmosphere you want to create,' says Ruth. 'Consider the whole property and how rooms flow into one another, which areas can you see through an open door or along a hallway, and create a color scheme that feels considered and coherent.'

Interior designer Tama Bell says that one of her favorite elements of the design process is creating a palette for a home as it sets the tone for the project.

First of all, she advises you to consider the vibe. 'I always start by thinking about what aesthetic or interior design style we are trying to evoke. Is it skewed modern or more traditional? Starting with the style allows me to funnel the choices in terms of a direction with paint.'

'Do we want to use one color, saturated throughout the house or are we wanting to add color and contrast and create a more complex palette? Are we using any additional layers such as wall treatments like paneling or wainscot, plaster, or wallpaper to add color and/or texture to the spaces? These questions and the choices are the basis for starting the search for the perfect color scheme,' notes Tama.

Once she has this direction, Tama turns to the floor plan to begin laying out where she will be using color. 'I like the bird's eye view so that I can understand the relationship between the adjoining spaces and think about how they will work with one another,' she adds.

4. Decide on your foundation colors

A simple way of creating a natural harmony throughout your property is to decide on your foundation or hero colors, and then build the palette around that. 

'I think once you have two or three main colors in the primary rooms in your home, you can really begin to have fun in the spaces that lead off from these, perhaps taking one of the colors along the woodwork throughout to retain some sense of cohesion if you are lacking in decision confidence,' says UK-based designer Alice Gaskell, founder of Alice Grace Interiors. 

But be sure to have some flexibility in that palette, assessing the purpose and needs of each room, and how light affects the space. 'Whilst choosing the same colors throughout gives you a good base to start from, you might find that certain rooms will always need added warmth or dimension through the help of paint – be that due to the direction they face, available natural light source, etc.,' Alice adds. 

A simple way to create color uniformity is to limit your paint palette to a maximum of 3-4 colors to use throughout your home, advises Behr's Erika Woelfel. 'When choosing the color scheme, we typically recommend starting with a versatile neutral in the cream or white color family as the base color. By choosing a neutral as the backdrop, it allows for the furniture to still have some of the spotlight and a pop of color can easily be incorporated as an accent within the rooms.'

5. Work with the color wheel

To truly create a cohesive feel you need to consult the color wheel to ensure you're working with tones all within the same color family. Or instead, consult paint experts who know the color wheel inside and out.

'Deciphering what colors go well together depends on where on the color wheel they sit. Consider creating a monochromatic scheme that uses varying levels of saturation of one color,' says Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'This can be a great way to take your room from bland to bold by instantly shifting the dimensions,' she adds.

'Alternatively, an analogous scheme uses adjacent colors on the wheel. Due to their proximity, they work incredibly well with one another to create a harmonious scheme that’s easy to live with.'

'Using two colors that sit opposite one another can add a dash of invigoration, this is called a complementary scheme and is a sure-fire way to create a beautifully vibrant look; try a paler shade of one and a darker hue of another which will instill energy into your room without being too overpowering,' adds Helen.

Once you know what colors you are drawn to and how best to make them work in each room by considering the existing fixtures and fittings and the natural light, there are a few color theory principles that will help marry it all together.

Susie Atkinson, founder & creative director of Studio Atkinson, looks to the undertones of paint shades to create a cohesive color scheme. 

'I always aim to include both warm and cool tones, offsetting one against the other so there is a harmony,' advises Susie. 'Warm tones bring coziness and a welcoming feel, while cool tones offer a sense of calm. For instance, warm-toned furniture or accents can pop against cool-toned walls or vice versa. Whether it's through wall colors, patterned textiles, or decor choices, the interaction of these tones can create a space that is both inviting and visually interesting,' says Susie.

6. Finally, create a thread

As you start to plan the color palette for your first few rooms, you're going to want to think about ways to thread that color throughout the home. This can be as simple as with accessories like vases, soft furnishings, or accent furniture, or by painting woodwork and trims. 

'To make the colors flow room to room, it is important to incorporate touches of the same color throughout your home whether it's through paint colors or materials,' says Behr's Erika Woelfel. 'An easy way to do this through paint is by using the same trim color in each room. Also, it is important to use the base color on connected spaces to ensure cohesion such as the hallway, entryway, etc,' she adds.

Always have your mood board to hand and as decorating room-by-room, remember to keep that thread of color going.

'When redecorating your entire home, it’s important to consider the mood or atmosphere you’re looking to create as well as establishing your signature style,' says Benjamin Moore's Helen Shaw who also advises creating a flow of color via your hall stairs and landing, to connect one space to the next.

For Patrick O’Donnell, considering the undertones and weight of colors, as well as assessing lighting helps to create a flow from room to room. 'Using the same woodwork shade throughout the home is another way to create flow, particularly if colors of different weight, and tone are desired,' he advises.

Think of your home as a story; each room is a chapter that seamlessly connects to the next. While colors can of course vary, maintaining a consistent undertone or theme helps establish a smooth transition throughout.

The key, according to Sarah Lloyd, lies in testing. 'Generously apply paint to the wall or an old cut-off piece of wallpaper. Keep looking at it throughout the day to see how natural – and synthetic – light changes it. This kind of testing can also be useful to try color schemes side by side to get a feel for the color flow from room to room.'

Establishing a cohesive color scheme for your entire home is no mean feat. But by understanding your style, embracing natural light, harmonizing with existing fixtures, considering the color wheel, and establishing flow, you can create a home that reflects your personality and feels coordinated as you move throughout it. 

Remember that the right color palette is the one that resonates with you and enhances the way you feel in the space, not the one dictated by interior design trends. One final tip? 'Always check your color choices in the space. Paint can be tricky and undertones and light change how paint looks in different homes. So, always double-check before pulling the trigger on the final color scheme,' adds Tama Bell.

When painting wooden furniture, it's important to avoid certain mistakes to ensure long-lasting and professional-looking results.

Painted furniture can rejuvenate worn-out items and allow you to update your pieces in line with color trends and changing design preferences without purchasing new furniture. So, it's definitely a project worth considering and can be pretty straightforward as long as you steer clear of any common mistakes.

By identifying potential problems and knowing how to correctly paint wood furniture, you can mitigate any issues when attempting this do-it-yourself job, helping save time, money, and effort.

Mistakes to avoid when painting wooden furniture 

Proper preparation, suitable product selection, and using correct techniques before, during, and after painting are key to achieving good results when painting furniture, say painting experts. 

Before painting

'All projects should start with good preparation – this will ensure that your endeavors pay off,' says Patrick O'Donnell, international brand ambassador of Farrow & Ball. 

'Follow the manufacturer's preparation and painting instructions, and this can be achieved easily over a weekend. It’s a lovely way to introduce color into your home.'

1. Ignoring wood acclimatization

One common error when painting wooden furniture is to do so without giving it enough time to acclimate. 

Wood typically expands or contracts in response to changes in humidity, so neglecting this vital step can make it more likely that the wood may crack or peel as the paint dries.

When painting furniture that will be in a new climate (such as bringing an item inside or placing a new piece of furniture outdoors), give the furniture time to adjust to its new surroundings before painting.

2. Failing to prepare the furniture

'One of the most common mistakes is skipping the preparation process,' warns Shlomo Cherniak, owner of Cherniak Handyman Services. 'It's important to properly prepare the furniture before painting to ensure good adhesion and a smooth finish. 

'Before applying paint, it's crucial to ensure that the surface is clean and free of dust, oil, or any other substances. Failure to do so can prevent the primer or paint from adhering properly.'

This will involve deep cleaning the wooden furniture, especially the surface, removing any existing coatings or oils, repairing damage, and filling any holes.

While this initial step can be labor-intensive, skipping furniture preparation will lead to an ineffective paint job, so it will be worth it in the long run. It's particularly important when painting IKEA furniture, which typically comes with a laminate finish.

3. Overlooking the sanding process

Sanding is the foundation of a successful paint job, and it is a significant mistake not to get this step right. 

It's important not to overlook sanding between coats since this helps the new coat of paint adhere better to the surface, and it also smooths out any imperfections or bumps in the previous later. Skipping the sanding steps can lead to paint not adhering well, resulting in a less-than-smooth finish.

Additionally, insufficient or rushed sanding can lead to imperfections such as scratches or uneven surfaces. 

Sand lightly but thoroughly before each new coat of paint using a fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) or this sanding sponge from Amazon, taking your time for a smoother, more polished finish.

4. Not properly priming the surface

Some people forget the importance of priming before painting and underestimate the significance of a high-quality primer. Paint that chips or peels readily could be the result of selecting the incorrect primer.

'Applying a primer before painting can create a smoother finish and help improve adhesion, especially if you're painting over a darker or previously painted piece,' explains Shlomo Cherniak. 'It's important to choose a primer that is compatible with the type of paint you're using and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.'

'Try a 750ml tin of Dead Flat and a 750ml tin of interior wood primer/undercoat in the appropriate shade,' recommends Patrick O'Donnell. 'With a little bit of effort, you can transform something such as a dingy and old wooden chest of drawers into something smart!' '

5. Choosing the wrong type of paint

'Selecting paint that is not suitable for wood surfaces can lead to disappointing results and issues such as chipping, peeling, or an uneven finish,' warns Jonathan Warshaw, founder of Simple Woodworker. 'Choose the right paint for the type of furniture you're painting. 

'Acrylic, oil-based, or latex paints are commonly used for wood projects. Consider the finish you want (matte, satin, glossy) and the type of wood you're working with when choosing the paint.'

'Choosing the right product for your project is key, and since Chalk Paint applies to wood, metal, glass, linoleum, vinyl, plastic, concrete, terracotta, and even fabrics, there’s a lot of wiggle room,' recommends paint and color expert, Annie Sloan.

'I recommend doing a little research - I have a trove of furniture painting videos on YouTube. This way, you’ll be prepared for the texture and behavior of the paint and this will help hugely with application and how much you enjoy the process.'

One great way to test which types of paint will yield good results is to test paint samples on a discrete area of your furniture before splashing out on a pot of paint. Each paint brand and finish can behave differently on various surfaces, so it's important to test samples before attempting a full paint job.

6. Ignoring hardware removal

Failure to remove hardware prior to painting can result in a finish that is less professional-looking. This may lead to uneven painting around handles, knobs, or hinges, or it could result in damage to the accessories themselves.

For a smoother and more even paint job, remove all hardware carefully from the wooden furniture before painting.

During painting

When painting furniture, using the proper painting techniques to sidestep common pitfalls for a flawless finish is just as important as proper prepping. 

7. Overloading the paintbrush

'I have seen many beginners apply thick coats thinking it will speed up the process,' says Jonathan Warshaw, professional woodworker. 'However, this results in drips, uneven coverage, and cracking. 

'Instead, apply thin layers and let each layer dry before adding the next.' A sufficient amount of paint must be loaded onto the brush in order to provide a smoother finish and improved control.

8. Ignoring grain direction on raw wood

Be sure not to make the mistake of overlooking the grain direction while working with raw wood furniture. Paint that is applied against the natural grain may highlight the wood's texture unevenly, making the finish less desirable.

For an appealing outcome, paint in the direction of the grain at all times. Painting slowly with thin, smooth coats in the direction of the grain will make a big difference.

After painting

Finally, once the painting is done, it is essential to follow a few final steps to protect the painted surface and ensure its longevity. Ignoring these steps can mean a perfectly good paint job goes to waste.

9. Ignoring the drying process

'Rushing the drying process can lead to smudges, smears, or damage to the paint finish,' warns Shlomo Cherniak, professional handyman. 'It's important to allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next coat or handling the furniture.'

'Trust the process. Drying paint goes through an ugly, patchy stage which will resolve once the whole piece is evenly dried. Don’t panic, and definitely don’t try to paint it out or paint over it as this will cause actual problems (such as overworking, dragging the paint, and removing it completely).'

This patience will result in a smooth and durable finish that won't easily chip or peel.

10. Not sealing properly

'Applying a clear topcoat or sealant can help protect the paint from scratches, stains, and other damage,' says Shlomo Cherniak.

A clear coat, usually polyurethane, will protect your painted furniture, just be sure to allow the paint and clear coat to dry completely before applying the next layer, or it will still peel.

FAQs

Finally, Frances Bradley, owner of Lelloliving says: 'Just because a piece is old, doesn't mean you need to cling to the old hardware or pay homage to parts that don't serve you now. 

'A piece can be given a completely new lease of life if you couple the paint with a good quality hardware upgrade.'

If you a fan of the Hollywood movie star and director, Bryce Dallas Howard, as we are, you may have noticed the interior backdrops in her social media feed have a running color theme. 

Decorating a pink room seems to come naturally to the daughter of Oscar-winning director, Ron Howard. 

As we've documented previously, Bryce Dallas Howard's kitchen is a soft and delicate success while her pink guest house bathroom is a huge hit and pays homage to old Hollywood glamour.

So, it is no surprise to find the Jurassic World actor has created a soothing sleep sanctuary by painting the walls of her bedroom a warming, rosy hue.  

After the movie success of Barbie The Movie a saturation of fuchsia pink Barbiecore filled us with a colossal dopamine hit. However, it seems that 'Hubba Bubba' bubble has burst as quickly as it was blown, and we are left with a gentler rosy hue that is so much easier to live with.

'This was a very ‘flash in the pan’ trend. Hot pink interiors aren’t great generally unless you’re going for a very artistic maximalism trend. Having the occasional hot pink item or wall doesn’t flow in a normal house.' explains Sarah Lloyd, Paint & Interiors Expert from Valspar. 

Instead, go for muted, saturated and soft pinks, leaning more into the ballet core trend. These tones are visually beautiful.'

If you are looking for pink bedroom ideas it will be wise to consider softer petal pink tones as these induce warming and romantic notes ideal for inducing a relaxing atmosphere to unwind in. 

Similar to Bryce Howard's pink bedroom, two 'colors of the year 2024' confirm just how alluring soft tones of pink can become.

The Dulux color of the year 2024 was named 'Sweet Embrace™' which is described as a kind, delicate tone that brings a feeling of positivity to our lives. 

'Sweet Embrace is a versatile hue because it can look different depending on the time of day – crisp in the morning, a light glow in the afternoon and more vivid in the evening', says Rebecca Snowden, Interior Style Advisor at Furniture And Choice.

'Take inspiration from Dulux’s calming color story with a Sweet Embrace on the walls to create a comforting atmosphere. Pair it with soothing neutrals such as a grey fabric bed and cozy white sheets as the base. Layer with pops of pastels by accessorizing with cushions and throws for a playful mix. '

Infused with orange pigments the Pantone Color of the Year 2024, named 'Peach Fuzz', is arguably within the pink color palette. However, the delicate shade does bear a strong resemblance to the color choice of the Twilight Saga star's paint choice.

'A cozy peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz brings belonging, inspires recalibration, and an opportunity for nurturing, conjuring up an air of calm, offering us a space to be, feel, and heal and to flourish from whether spending time with others or taking the time to enjoy a moment by ourselves', describes Leatrice Eiseman, executive director at the Pantone Color Institute. 

Collaborating a softer alluring pink hue with natural elements such as warm wood panels, bamboo or macramé wall hangings, or an oversized mohair wool dreamcatcher, will offer a relaxed boho slant to the pretty hue that is just as feminine but includes a bohemian edge. The combination offers an extra layer of strength that simply inspires. 

Shop the pink bedroom edit

White is the simplest of colors but, as anyone who has set off on the quest for the perfect white can attest, also one of the trickiest to get right. This is especially true for one of the most important rooms in the home – the bedroom.

Whether you have a second bedroom ready-prepared for surprise drop-ins, or a multifunctional space that doubles as a guest room, having a welcoming space to host friends and family is a wonderful addition if you love to entertain. With this in mind, choosing a bedroom color scheme is vital to getting it right.

Color theory in its entirety 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. ‘White represents purity, calm, and new beginnings, as well as cleanliness and clarity,' he says. 'It can be used everywhere in the home but is very successful in the bathroom and any room where you want to create order and with little distraction. It is also an ideal foil for a well-curated room of art, furniture, and bold furnishings.’

This versatile neutral is one of the most popular paint ideas for interiors, and it is easy to see why designer Ray Booth of Ray Booth Interior Design, chose this decorator-favorite hue in Faith Hill and Tim McGraw's guest bedroom in the Bahamas.

Decorating with white offers a blank canvas that illuminates dark spaces and can make even small guest bedrooms feel spacious, light and bright. 

Despite its cold and clinical attributes, white bedroom ideas can still be inspiring and have depth. It’s important to consider texture, whether it’s a pattern, such as a jacquard fabric, or through mixing finishes, like a matt wall with gloss paint on the ceiling. These elements create interest that will make the monochromatic white room sing.

'If someone wants a bedroom that’s very calming, I would say stay completely in the neutral world with a more monochromatic look,' says interior designer Kelly Wearstler. 'However, if you want a splash of energy, then include one incredible piece of art or a colorful rug to create interest and personality.'

In Faith Hill and Tim McGraw's Bahamian home, designer Ray Booth has used colors, such as cyan and teal, that represent the Caribbean Sea to beautifully enhance the space. 

The uplifting yet serene teal is an interesting contradiction, blurring the boundaries between blue and green, and equally between fun and sophisticated when added as an accent color to a predominantly white interior scheme.

‘Teal is a member of the cyan, or green-blue group, and is widely associated with positivity, happiness, and stability,’ explains Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore.

But why does teal uplift and calm in equal measure? Tobias Lewis, head of brand at Valspar, has a theory that links to the shades found in the natural world and the recent global pandemic. ‘Colors that have a biophilic nature, such as blue and green, evoke a stress-relieving and mood-boosting atmosphere. This makes teal – a deep, cyan-green shade – ideal for rooms to wind down in, including the bedroom.

One month into 2025, paint brands' Color of the Year standout shades have been revealed, giving us insight into the shades expected to dominate the world of interiors this year.

Amongst them, we've seen dark browns come to the fore as a rich and moody neutral, while nostalgic shades of purple are proving to be one of the biggest color trends for 2025.

Here, we've rounded up all of the main Color of the Year reveals from leading interior paint brands, from Benjamin Moore to Valspar. Read on to get the lowdown on the need-to-know-about shades for creating your room color ideas this year.

2025 paint colors of the year

Mocha Mousse, Pantone

For 2025, the highly-anticipated Pantone Color of the Year was named Mocha Mousse, a gentle shade of brown that oozes comfort. This unassuming, liveable hue proves that warm neutrals and decorating with brown are set to endure into 2025, allowing our homes to become calming and comforting spaces.

While some were underwhelmed by the pared-back nature of this standout color – given the lively appeal of its 2024 Peach Fuzz – here at Homes & Gardens we think that Mocha Mousse speaks to creating liveable and timeless interior spaces that aren't too trend-led.

Mapped Blue, Dutch Boy

Mapped Blue was named Dutch Boy's Color of the Year for 2025, a mid-tone blue that feels warming thanks to its yellow undertones. This blue paint pairs well with many interior design styles for a timeless approach to decorating.

'Our 2025 Color of the Year, Mapped Blue, is more than just a trend: it’s a reflection of changing consumer values,' says Lisbeth Parada, Color Marketing Manager at Dutch Boy Paints. 'We’re seeing a significant shift, particularly among millennials and Gen Zs, toward products that offer durability, functionality and timeless aesthetics. Mapped Blue answers this call, providing a classic yet modern charm that can adapt to various design styles and stand the test of time.'

Truffle, STAINMASTER

Decorating with dark brown continues to be a major trend in the world of interior design, and STAINMASTER has confirmed that with its 2025 Color of the Year, Truffle.

A rich, dark brown paint, Truffle serves as a moody neutral color for the year ahead, adding more depth and drama than light neutrals. As seen in this living room, it would work seamlessly with color-drenching for a cozy and cocooning feel.

Encore, Valspar

Valspar's 2025 Color of the Year is called Encore, a rich navy blue that's simultaneously dramatic and timeless. Inspired to help make our homes feel welcoming and restful, Encore is a timeless shade that transcends design trends and can be tinted in a wide range of paint finishes, for all your interior and exterior projects.

Quietude, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams

HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams 2025 Color of the Year has been revealed as Quietude, a 'cool sage green with a slight blue undertone'. A calming color that sits somewhere between blue and green, this in-between hue is a more adventurous replacement for neutrals in 2025, designed to complement traditional and modern homes alike.

In addition to Quietude, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams also launched a color palette for 2025, called Naturally Refined. Spanning 10 hues, this color palette is inspired by a slow and sustainable pace to life, with neutral and earthy shades leading the way.

Rumors, Behr

Marking a shift away from decorating with blue, Behr's 2025 Color of the Year is a rich ruby red called Rumors. Coinciding with the general appeal we've seen in the design world for decorating with red, thanks to the unexpected red theory, this paint color is a sophisticated hue that isn't too vibrant.

Enabling homeowners to bring warmth and cozy appeal to their homes, this red paint can be used boldly with color-drenching, or more sparingly in smaller doses. Either way, we expect to see lots of love for this shade since it's so timeless.

Elderton, Graham & Brown

Continuing the theme of dark paints, Graham & Brown's Color of the Year for 2025 is Elderton, a rich brown paint that boasts plenty of timeless appeal. Inspired by nature, this rich and alluring hue is all about an elevated take on decorating with neutrals in 2025, filling our homes with warmth and sophistication.

In addition to this standout hue, the interior brand also launched its 2025 Design of the Year, Rivington Folly. An intricate, whimsical print that takes its inspiration from British heritage, this intriguing design is bound to add plenty of character to our homes.

Raku, C2 Paint

Similarly, C2 Paint recently revealed Raku as its standout shade for the year ahead, a deep brown color with warm red undertones. While there's no denying the drama of this hue, it's also said to have restful qualities:

'Raku is an expression of balance, comfort, and timeless elegance,' explains Philippa Radon, C2 Paint Color Director. 'In a world where polarizing views can divide and isolate, Raku offers a palette that returns us to simple, grounding pleasures. This rich hue, with its deep cordovan earthy brown hue and sanguine undertones, embodies the art of revitalizing the old with the succession of its renewal – an echo of a timeless classic flourishing in a modern world.'

Violet, Minwax

Adding decorating with purple to the 2025 mix, Minwax named Violet as its Color of the Year. Designed to add joy to our homes, this intriguing hue is available in different paint finishes designed specifically for wood tones.

'Violet redefines interior wood finishing by blending timeless elegance with contemporary boldness,' says Lisbeth Parada, Minwax Color and Design Lead. 'Whether adding character to a cherished heirloom, revitalizing furniture, or creating inviting spaces like home coffee bars or reading nooks, Minwax Violet interior stain adds a touch of joy to any room. It inspires creativity and encourages homeowners to embrace their personal style, making everyday spaces extraordinary.'

Cinnamon Slate, Benjamin Moore

Yet another brand to secure purple as a key player for the year ahead, Benjamin Moore's 2025 Color of the Year was revealed as Cinnamon Slate. An 'in-between' hue that includes both plum and warm brown tones, this is an incredibly liveable way to decorate with this typically bold color.

Cinnamon Slate boasts a cozy and restful quality. Since it's not too saturated, it allows homeowners to incorporate a rich, grounding color without making too much of a statement.

In addition to this singular hue, Benjamin Moore also revealed its 2025 Color Trends palette, comprising nine earthy shades that serve as a new way to do neutrals.

Color Capsule, Sherwin-Williams

Instead of announcing one color for the year ahead, Sherwin-Williams' 2025 Color Capsule of the Year is a selection of nine standout shades. A whole range of colors ranging from white paints to bolder hues feature within the palette, celebrating color for the year ahead in a unique way. While the mix is varied, inspiration comes from vintage color palettes typical of '70s design.

Some of our favorites from the palette are Bosc Pear SW 6390, a rich, gold-yellow hue seen in this home office; Rain Cloud SW 9639, a deep shade of teal; and Chartreuse SW 0073, an uplifting yellow-green.

Purple Basil, Glidden

Glidden's Color of the Year 2025 is Purple Basil, a warm purple hue that feels instantly retro. Further proving to us all that purple really is set to be the standout shade for 2025, this paint color is bold and daring.

We can imagine this shade elevating maximalist color ideas, adding a nostalgic feel that's both unexpected and comforting. Since this paint color is guaranteed to make a statement, it's best to lean in and fully embrace it with color-drenching for the ultimate cozy, dramatic space.

True Joy, Dulux

Adding yellow room ideas into the mix, Dulux's 2025 Color of the Year is True Joy, a saturated and uplifting yellow paint.

Perhaps one of the most mood-boosting colors yet, this vibrant shade feels reminiscent of the summer months, allowing homeowners to embrace the dopamine decor trend. If you're somebody who loves the liveliest shades, this one may be for you. Used sparingly or boldly, we're looking forward to seeing how yellow crops up in interior spaces this year.

Caramelized, Dunn-Edwards

Serving up more of a neutral shade, Dunn-Edwards' Color of the Year for 2025 is Caramelized, an earthy terracotta with hints of brown so it's not too saturated.

Incredibly flattering and liveable, this color essentially works in place of neutrals, providing rooms with an earthy quality and subtle warmth. This is an ideal paint color choice for those who don't want to go too bold or lively with color choices, but want to switch things up from colors like beige.

Whether used in bathrooms or living rooms, Caramelized is versatile for many rooms throughout the home, and we expect to see lots of this shade this year.

New Nostalgia, Lick

New Nostalgia is a collection of on-trend colors, named Lick's 2025 color palette. Spanning eight shades, New Nostalgia is all about nostalgic colors that take inspiration from retro design but with a contemporary twist for modern homes.

Including a real mix of shades, from cool-toned to warm-toned, this palette works for many interior styles and can be either subtle or statement. Perhaps our favorite from the palette is Lick Red 01, a slightly muted and earthy red; a liveable spin on this daring paint color.

From bold and colorful hues that add personality to rooms to rich neutrals, there's plenty of inspiration to take from this year's key shades. But what do 2025's Color of the Years say about trends across home decor? Read all about it in our dedicated feature.

With over 300 renovated homes to their name, we could do far worse than follow advice from Jenny and Dave Marrs when it comes to a redesign.  

The Fixer to Fabulous duo may be known for their large-scale renos – but their experience naturally covers more toned-down projects, many of which we can hope to replicate, no matter the size of our space. And this is certainly the case with their most recent space-enhancing tip.

'Paint is the most impactful way to elevate a room because it's budget, it's quick and makes a huge change,' Dave says in an exclusive conversation with H&G. 'The great thing about paint is that it makes a room feel happy, it can make a room feel light, or it can make a room dark and moody. It sets the tone for the entire room, and it only costs $50.'

The question of how best to elevate a room inevitably covers impactful renovation ideas – in this case, the indisputable power of paint. However, Jenny explains that we can also accentuate our homes by filling our spaces with personal possessions with a deeper meaning.  

'I agree with Dave on paint, and I also think that bringing personality to a space doesn't have to involve a renovation. Instead, it comes down to the things you love and the pieces holding stories,' Jenny explains. These pieces can be anything from family heirloom antiques to vacation souvenirs, as is the case in the Marrs' farmhouse.

'We're sitting in our room right now, where we have a bookshelf and an old wooden bowl full of rocks,' Jenny says.

'Every time we travel, we collect a rock as a family, and we always inscribe the date and the place. Every time I look at that bowl, I smile. It makes me happy, it brings me joy, and it costs absolutely nothing. It makes the space personal, and it's a story of our family and our life.'

While we may sometimes consider hiding our personal possessions away in the name of minimalism, Jenny reminds us that these pieces will not hinder our space's style. Instead, they will only accentuate them further.

'Often, if people have a collection similar to that, they may put it in the closet in a box – but I say, if it’s something you love, then bring it out and display it,' she says.

'If you've got a painting, hang it up on the wall. Don’t be afraid to decorate with art or bring out your things and tell your story in your home – these pieces really do change the feel of a space. And if your home doesn't feel like you, this is your cue to add more character and some life.'

For more advice from Jenny, we're picking up a copy of her new book, available via Amazon below.

Renowned paint and coatings brand Valspar has launched its Color of the Year for 2024: Renew Blue. Described as a 'balanced blue with a touch of grayed sea-green’, the hue hones in on the importance of using color trends for well-being in the home, inspiring homeowners to create calming and restorative spaces. 

‘Renew Blue is an incredibly versatile and all-season shade that anyone can envision in their space. Inspired by fleeting elements like fog, mist, clouds, and glacier lakes, Renew Blue elevates the everyday mood, encourages self-expression, and evokes a feeling of balance and calm, with a twist of unique spontaneity,’ explains Sue Kim, Valspar Director of Color Marketing.

Marking the brand’s 15th anniversary of its annual Color of the Year, the 2024 announcement signifies a simplified approach with one singular color, in contrast to the historical selection of 12 Colors of the Year.‘

The 2024 Color of the Year kicks off a simplified approach in color inspiration,’ said Kim. ‘Our home is a space where we are creating a sense of comfort and slowing down. Having one color adaptable enough to lead any design project helps consumers feel in control of their space and their vision.’

The Inspiration Behind 2024's Color Of The Year

When forecasting color to mark the year ahead, it’s essential to not only respond to references from the world around us but to translate that into a usable shade that can be seamlessly integrated into the home. I sat down with Sue Kim to discuss how Valspar crafted this balance for its 2024 offering.

Renew Blue is a nature-inspired color to boost well-being, which Kim defines as a ‘poetic and idealistic’ approach. Instead of mimicking the very colors that we associate with nature, it has been referenced in Renew Blue for its momentary and fleeting qualities, inspiring homeowners to take solace in nature to create a steadfast sanctuary at home shaped by the most relaxing colors.

Thanks to this softer approach, the end result is a highly versatile shade that can be integrated into a number of different spaces. ‘The versatility comes with a balance of both warm and cool: Renew Blue has both green and blue but with a warm undertone.’ 

Described as a ‘new neutral’, Kim predicts that color will take on more of a leading role in the home in the year ahead, marking a change from decorating with neutrals. Whilst classic neutral tones play a key role in establishing familiarity in the home – colors that were used heavily during the pandemic thanks to their reassuring qualities – Kim is hopeful for a shift to more adventurous backdrop colors: ‘Starting with Renew Blue next year, I can see the colors coming into more conversation in the next couple of years.’

How To Use The 2024 Color Of The Year

‘Blue is a classic shade that has become the new neutral for today’s home and can be mixed and matched to fit a variety of design styles and applications,’ says Kim. Renew Blue has not just been created for use inside the home, but as a strong color choice for exteriors, too. Kim remarks that shades akin to Renew Blue are ‘very familiar in North America, as Southern homes often have their front porch, ceilings, shutters adorned with this lighter color.’

Nodding to the cottage-core trend, it’s a sentimental color that has been refreshed for modern use. If using the shade in an outdoor space, Kim advises keeping decking to a lighter-toned natural wood to best complement the color.

Inside the home, Renew Blue can be used as an ‘anchoring’ color that grounds busy rooms which attract lots of activity day-to-day, such as the kitchen, to bring a sense of calmness. Kim also references color drenching as a design style that works well with Renew Blue, acting as a dominant color to create an enclosed and cozy space, such as in a cozy living room. 

By contrast, the color can also work well in a quieter, less-focal room in the home, such as for nursery ideas: ‘It works as more of a harmonizer to the rest of the environment,’ explains Kim, who points out its ability to provide a seasonless feel that favors a shift from gray tones that have been commonly opted for in quieter rooms. 

Whilst using Renew Blue as a backdrop in the home may be too daring for some, Kim notes that the color can instead be integrated in more subtle ways, such as by opting to paint the doors and trims in a room as shown above.

‘Doors and trims are definitely last things that we think about and we often leave as a manufacturer white,’ she explains whilst anticipating the use of brighter accent colors, such as Renew Blue as a successful design choice to elevate a room.

However you choose to utilize 2024's Color of the Year, Kim is hopeful that homeowners and interior designers alike will embrace decorating with blue across projects to reap the benefits of its grounding and restorative qualities that bring harmony to the home.

FAQs

The most popular kitchen paint colors come and go, some stick around for decades before being replaced and some are gone in less than a season. And while we always say to follow trends with caution, when it comes to your kitchen color you do want to pay some attention to what's in style to ensure your space doesn't look dated. 

So what kitchen paint colors are on trend for 2024? And which kitchen colors are out of style this year? We asked the experts for the color trends to avoid in your kitchen this year and which shades you should be using instead. 

Kitchen paint colors to leave behind in 2024

Color, especially kitchen color, is one of the most fundamental design decisions you can make in this functional space. Finding the right painted kitchen ideas can help you avoid making disastrous color mistakes. 

Here decorators and designers reveal what kitchen paint colors are going out of style for 2024, and how to approach choosing paint ideas for kitchens using the color wheel, the latest kitchen trends, and paint trends.

1. Cool neutrals – try experimenting with earthy tones

'In more recent years, neutrals with colder undertones have been replaced with warmer shades of the hue alongside altogether bolder color choices. Kitchens are the perfect place to introduce more saturated colors, particularly if the rest of your home’s palette leans more toward light neutrals,' explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore.

'Opting for a bold color on walls or cabinetry is a great way to renew the whole room and make the space pop. Deep earthy tones like burgundy and terracotta shades enhance the rustic warmth of a wooden kitchen look, where deep greens and navy walls will perfectly contrast a cool marble surface.'

2. One tone schemes – incorporate pops of color

'Say goodbye to bland and tone-on-tone palettes in 2024,'  says designer Julie Anne Burch.' Kitchens will embrace fresh, clean designs with pops of intriguing colors. Alternatively, bold and unique color palettes will take center stage, offering a departure from the ordinary. The key to kitchen design in 2024 lies in creating sharp contrasts – either embracing timeless traditional elements or venturing into uncharted territories with innovative ideas.'

Bringing in accent colors into a kitchen color scheme does have a bit of a knack to it however, in order to nail this trend you don't want it to look overly considered. Avoid pops of color that perfectly match because it can look staged and flat, instead opt for a tonal approach adding in different shades of the same color throughout the room to ensure there's depth. 

3. Super vivid reds – pick pinks or rusty tones instead

Red is a strong and bold color for the kitchen – the workhorse of the home – but lately we've been witnessing a color shift to a softer, subtle hue – enter pink. 

Rich, elegant, and nuanced pink is undisputedly the color trend of the moment. A warm pink, like the one above, lends sophistication to a scheme. A versatile hue, it can veer into a playful pastel or brighten into deep coral. 

‘This tone works perfectly in a small kitchen that is rather dark, or which suffers from a lack of natural light,' says Elizabeth Hay, founder, of 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.’ 

With its clear ties to the natural world, warm pink is used for painting accent walls and brightening a kitchen or dining area with splashes of color that symbolize and promote health and vitality. 

‘Due to its close relationship with pink and orange shades, the color is mood-boosting and energy-stimulating without becoming overwhelming like many red kitchen shades. On the other hand, with more muted and subtle tones, pastel pink can become a good choice to enhance quiet confidence and serenity,’ enthuses Sarah Lloyd, senior brand manager at Valspar.

4. Grays – opt for warm beige shades

Once a tried-and-trusted neutral, gray has since fallen out of favor when it comes to kitchen cabinet colors. Instead, more designers and decorators are reaching for beige – the new neutral in interior design. 

The power of a beige kitchen color palette to add warmth and elegance to the heart of our home should not be underestimated. A soft scheme of harmonious neutrals creates a reflective backdrop to the ever-changing light of the seasons.

The broad spectrum of neutral, earthy shades they conjure up offers rich inspiration for creating a soothing scheme. From creamy limestone shades and the oaty tones of untreated linen to the grayish-browns of weathered oak and warm earthenware ochres, neutral shades can be as captivating as color.

5. White – try using yellow as a neutral alternative

Another former favorite, white kitchens are no longer the desirable kitchen trend they once were. These days, designers and clients are reaching for mood-boosting hues to add a touch of joie de vivre to their kitchens.

'We are specifying and seeing fewer pure white and gray kitchens lately,' explains Jennifer Walter, founder of Folding Chair Design. 'The bright white and gray trend saw its day, and kitchen cabinetry is seeing a resurgence of light woods and deep colors.  People aren’t as afraid to use color in their kitchens, and with the popularity of the English kitchen, deep blues, yellows, and even cranberry palettes are becoming wildly popular.'

6. Navy blue – switch for softer aquamarine hues

Navy blue will always be popular, but lately, designers have been considering softer, subtler, serene variations in the modern kitchen. A shade that's always been popular in the world of interiors, ocean blue is set to be 2024's kitchen paint color du jour. 

From the alluring aquamarine hues of sandy Caribbean shores and the glistening teal tones of pebbled Mediterranean beaches to the inky blues and midnight notes of deep Atlantic waters, the colors of the ocean are as serene as they are striking and offer a versatile spectrum for decorating a contemporary and country kitchen alike.

‘Ocean blues, like lapis and cerulean, are the most wonderfully gender-neutral paint colors,' says Nicole Salvesen, co-founder, of Salvesen Graham. However, avoid using cold blues in north-facing rooms. Instead, find those that have some warm tones in them and they will be a brilliant backdrop for artwork, texture and timber.’ 

7. Dark colors – instead lift the space with grown up pastels

Dark kitchen cabinet colors were once considered the best paint palettes for kitchens. They were bold, strong and hid a multitude of decorating sins. However, we've gone full circle, like most trends, and are now welcoming back the pastel hues that previously graced 1950s kitchens up and down the country. 

From peaceful pinks to blissful blues, pale sugary shades will give the illusion of space and create a restful atmosphere in the home.

'Pastel colors offer a charming alternative to neutrals or dark shades; they are calm but embracing, soothing but uplifting, and can give added life to a room without being overpowering', says Ruth Mottershead of Little Greene.

What all of these shades indicate is that while 2023 was the year of bold and bright colors, 2024 is more about warmer, softer, more liveable colors. That's not to say these kitchen colors are bland, they are just easier on the eye – pinks and rust red instead of primary shades, grown-up pastel blues instead of the ever-popular navy, and warm beiges instead of cooler grays. 

Adding color with paint is a quick and easy way to add style and personality to a living room, but getting it wrong by using living room paint colors that are going out of style, could risk ruining one of the most important spaces in the home. 

Much like with any outdated decorating trend, one of the biggest mistakes is to eschew living room paint ideas and color altogether for fear that your space will age badly. 

Here, interior designers, decorators, and color psychologists reveal what living room paint colors are going out of style, and how best to avoid outdated paint colors for a perfect living space that truly sings.

Experts share the 5 living room paint colors going out of style for 2024

Color (even if you’re using neutrals) should be the first thing to consider when you are looking for living room ideas, and it's time to remove gray, white, yellow, cyan and orange from your living room color ideas list.

Whether you're looking to refresh your space for the new year ahead, or are moving into a new home and are in need of expert advice on the latest paint trends, we explore the five living room paint colors going out of style – and expert advice on which shades are replacing them.

1. Choose beige in favor of dark gray

Where once decorating with gray was the versatile neutral of choice for designers and homeowners alike, it has since fallen out of fashion. That is not to say we've done away with neutral color schemes for good. Warming, beige rooms are the new gray in interior design, and it isn't too difficult to see why. The beauty of a neutral scheme is that it provides a wonderful scaffold upon which to hang accents of color.

Subtle nuances of color are why James Thurstan Waterworth, founder of Thurstan, favors neutral colors, like beige, ivory and sand, in his living room schemes because they create a soft springboard from which antiques, art and other embellishments are able to sing. 

‘You can then build out from here with tactile surfaces, patterned textiles, eclectic furnishings and more modern flourishes to create layers of interest, while still allowing all the individual elements of the interior to breathe. I gravitate towards natural palettes, and materials too, as for me they bring a certain timelessness and longevity to design.' In fact, beige, and its many variations, is also one of the colors replacing white, too.

2. Swap pure white for taupe and sepia tones

Decorating with white will always play a pivotal role in interior design, but it is fair to say that we have grown tired of this no-decision color, and, similarly to gray, it is one of the cooler living room paint colors going out of style for 2024.

White, when used as a standalone paint color, can be too harsh, cold, and clinical. The living room is usually the space that we retire to at the end of the day, so this should be a room that aids calm, relaxation, coziness and warmth.

‘When working with neutral room ideas, my only rule is to steer clear of white walls,’ says interior designer, Rachel Chudley. ‘They work well in galleries for the very reason that they create a blank canvas, which is perfect for focusing on one piece of art, uninterrupted by anything. However, in a living space, you need a touch of color to add a bit more depth and reflect the light around the room.’

That is not to say you shouldn't decorate with white in its entirety. ‘The color pairing I keep returning to is multiple shades of brown and white,' says Paolo Moschino, co-owner, Nicholas Haslam. 'It is very important to use layers of the same combination to create contrast, depth and the feel of a well-lived-in space. I admire the American designer Bill Blass, and his brown and white apartment in New York has been my number one inspiration for many years.’

3. Skip unforgiving yellow for a dramatic red

Decorating with red can transform interiors, adding a sophisticated, fun aesthetic to modern living rooms. While red is often considered to be one of the the most stressful colors for some, for others it can provide a burst of optimism, and in the last year, we've seen a big rise in the use of rich red shades for warm color schemes, instead of an outdated mellow-yellow.

‘When using red in a living room, it’s best to choose shades that are rich and warm rather than loud and insistent. Maroon, burgundy, and rosehip work brilliantly with shades of green, while deep pinky-reds are very adaptable and blend well with khaki or stone. Dark reds pair best with gold metallic touches and carry a degree of heritage, especially when mixed with dark wood,’ says Simon Temprell, head of interior design at Neptune.

With bold colors, it is time well spent to consider how you react to the color and how it makes you feel. There is often a clue in our closets as to which colors we lean towards. However, while we can change our outfits, we can’t so easily make that change with our interiors. Avoid expensive mistakes by getting two or three sample pots of different shades to compare.

4. Ditch teal for sage green

The attention-grabbing teal, also known as cyan, has been used in our interiors for centuries, but it can sometimes leave us feeling cold – another cooler living room paint color going out of style. Teal appears on the color wheel between blue and green, so its boundaries are blurred, and numerous interpretations of it exist, from light to dark. 

If you want to use a nature-inspired hue, more earthy, deeper shades such as sage green are proving popular instead. With their graceful hues, sage greens can be the perfect color for living rooms but work best in spaces with certain orientations. Bluer-tinged tones can feel chilly in north-facing rooms, while south-facing areas make the greener traces appear more yellow.

The color also acts as an effective bridge between the outdoors and inside when used in threshold spaces. When seen in enclosed rooms, the color brings relief and reassurance and elegantly reminds us of the living world beyond our four walls. 

Sage has enormous scope as a mindful décor mainstay and is also seen as an effective backdrop for other organic shades. ‘We are noticing a change to the use of softer hues, such as sage, being used all over as a base color, just how neutrals have been used traditionally,’ says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 

‘These are very calming, positive shades with a timeless quality, that are muted but not enough that they fade into the background, so they work beautifully as a foil for similar earthy tones and richer colors such as browns and ochre, which can give a more dynamic effect.’

5. Switch out orange in favor of peach and salmon pink

Shades of pink are extremely versatile and pink living room ideas have been a popular choice in interiors for centuries. Of all the variations, salmon pink and peach have the edge over others as they share orange undertones and warm characteristics, making it an ideal choice for those that still love decorating with orange.

‘The salmon is called the king of fish for good reason. In all its forms, salmon is a color we have enjoyed on the walls of our homes, just as much as we have on our plates for centuries. The distinctive blush orange color was first described as salmon pink in the late 1700s, and appeared on the walls of the finest houses until the 1940s, where it became widely available to the masses through affordable modern emulsion paints,’ says Marianne Shillingford, Dulux creative director. Peach, on the other hand, saw great popularity in later decades. ‘Its warm candlelight glow makes living rooms and snugs feel cozy and welcoming,’ adds Marianne.

With its clear ties to the natural world, salmon pink is used for painting living room accent walls and brightening living rooms with splashes of color that symbolize and promote health and vitality.

‘Due to its close relationship with pink and orange shades, the color is mood-boosting and energy-stimulating without becoming overwhelming like many richer, louder orange shades. On the other hand, with more muted and subtle tones, salmon pink can become a good choice to enhance quiet confidence and serenity,’ enthuses Sarah Lloyd, senior brand manager at Valspar. 

‘Peach also has a clear connection with nature and represents a set of shades ranging from a light orange pink to a yellow-hued orange,’ Sarah expands. ‘It is often used as a neutral shade instead of beige and warm whites. Encouraging light into a space, enriching it with calming yet refreshing energy, peach pink is great for a living space.’

When choosing the right paint color for your living room, we always recommend applying testers of paint onto sheets of white paper, then tacking them onto each wall you’re thinking of using that color on. Leave them up for a few days before making any final decisions, noticing how the light affects the color at different times of day, as well as checking they work well next to other elements, such as curtains or couches.

If you’re not confident in choosing room color ideas, go with a pre-selected paint palette already picked out by the paint brand you’re using.

Whether it's a brown leather sofa or armchair in a living room, or a wooden table in a dining room or kitchen, there is no denying the enduring popularity of brown furniture – and when paired with the right wall color, it can be beautifully elevated to a whole new level.

So, which wall colors work best? Our design experts reveal that both warm and cool shades can work wonderfully for room color ideas with brown furniture; as brown is such an adaptable neutral, it can be perfectly paired with a whole host of different colors.

From fellow earthy neutrals such as cream and beige to contrasting colors of nature such as green and blue, we present 6 wall colors to use with brown furniture.

The top 6 wall colors to pair with brown furniture

Using materials such as wood and leather will always establish a timeless, elegant feel in interior design – and not only are they beautiful, they can be incredibly practical and long-lasting, too.

Whether you're exploring brown couch living room ideas, or are looking for some fresh new color inspiration for paint ideas, our designers share their favorite wall colors to use with brown furniture.

Choose complementary warming tones for a soothing scheme

Decorating with brown can establish an incredibly cozy and cocooning space, as its connection with the outside world can help us feel more relaxed and grounded. To enhance on this effect, embrace calming neutrals rich with warming undertones for your wall color ideas.

1. Cream

Brown furniture is renowned to work well with white room ideas, but for an enhanced feeling of warmth, opt for a shade such as cream, instead; perfect for neutral room ideas.

Dana Feagles, interior designer at Revelry Interior Design says, 'for light brown furniture, like bleached oak, ash, or poplar, I love creamy whites or taupes to create a serene, bright, modern space. Benjamin Moore's Revere Pewter is a classic taupe that doesn't lean green or yellow, while their White Dove is my go-to for a warm white.'

We love the relaxed, natural aesthetic of this dining room above, designed by Lucie Ayres of 22 Interiors, and how the soft furnishings and accessories, such as the oversized pendant lamps, seat cushions, and rug, unite the brown furniture and cream walls together as one.

2. Pink

As brown has reddish undertones, it can work well when combined with a palette of pretty pinks and rich reds.

For a more colorful and contemporary, 'new neutral' for your wall color, opt for a dusky, muted pink, as shown in this traditional kitchen, painted Sulking Room Pink by Farrow & Ball.

The pink used on the upper half of the walls elegantly mirrors and complements the rustic wooden flooring and table, with the Paean Black cabinetry adding a striking note of stylish color contrast.

A beautiful kitchen design that embodies the perfect balance of warm and cool tones, we explore a collection of further pink kitchen ideas in our dedicated feature.

3. Beige

This year's color trends have marked a move away from classic neutrals, such as white and cool gray, to warmer, more earthy tones, such as beige and brown – as we explore in, what color is replacing gray.

Beige is often considered a light shade of brown, so can provide the perfect, complementary backdrop for your brown furniture; creating a rich, tonal look that feels beautifully coordinated.

As Samantha Struck of StruckSured Interiors says, 'if you have brown furniture, I would stick to warm tones to compliment them and anchor them to each other. Our default warm beige is Edgecomb Grey by Benjamin Moore. It is far warmer than the name and will go with almost any color.'

Establish a stylish element of contrast with cooler shades

To uplift a room with brown furniture with a little more color and contrast, then cooler shades, both soft and moody, can establish a wonderfully harmonious scheme – as the old saying goes, opposites always attract – especially when it comes to color theory.

4. Blue

'The mix of warm and cool with brown and blue makes for an excellent color combination, with both colors sitting together nicely to establish a sophisticated and elegant ambiance,' says NYC-based interior designer, Artem Kropovinsky.

When exploring what colors go together, it pays to understand color theory, and interior designers will often plan a color scheme with the help of the color wheel. Complementary colors, also known as accent colors, are those that contrast and sit opposite each other on the wheel, with brown being the opposite of blue.

As interior designer, Dana Feagles says, 'for medium to dark brown furniture, like cherrywood, alder, walnut, and mahogany, which are traditionally used in more classic furniture and settings, I love pairing with a shade of blue. In this primary bedroom, with both medium and dark wood furniture, I used Benjamin Moore's Normandy, a soft, moody blue tone.'

5. Gray

When done in the right way, a brown and gray color scheme can be incredibly sophisticated, as Spectrum Design Group interior designer, Dawn Bane, explains.

'Brown and gray are hues that we often see paired beautifully together in a space. The answer to pairing these together lies in their undertones. A warm gray will read more taupe and will work nicely with browns. However, a cooler gray will read blue and can work in a space with darker shades of brown. 

There are also many other players that will change the overall appearance and aesthetic of the color pairing, such as natural light and the color temperature of artificial lighting in the space. A great tip to mixing brown and gray together is to find a common denominator that has both hues in it. A rug, throw, pillows, and even flowers and decor, can help tie a space nicely together.'

We explore, what color should I paint my walls if my furniture is gray, in our dedicated piece.

6. Green

For a soothing, indoor-outdoor feel, a brown and green color combination can beautifully celebrate the colors of nature, and establish a relaxed, natural feel that can complement spaces both classic and contemporary. 

'The warm hues of brown paired with a glorious green harmonize well to evoke a sense of restfulness and tranquility, ideal for creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for bedroom color ideas,' says interior designer, Artem Kropovinsky.

As shown in this inviting green bedroom, the walls have been painted in Valspar's rich Pressed Olives green, with the warming, rustic headboard and wooden bedside table beautifully adding to the serene natural scheme.

FAQs

Interior designer, Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors, concludes with her advice on creating a stand-out color scheme with brown furniture.

'My favorite color to pair with richly stained browns are colors with deep levels of saturation – navy blue, rust, jade, and mauve to name just a few. But, I wouldn’t stop with paint!  

There are so many gorgeous floral wallpaper ideas available that can add a fresh, modern perspective in a room dominated by heavier, weightier stains such as brown. Zak + Fox is one of my favorite designers when working with darker palettes. Their papers evoke personality, while still remaining incredibly sophisticated and conversation-starting.'

As anyone who has been through the process of searching for room colors will attest, choosing the right color for a home can be a minefield with endless choices and subtle nuances to understand and overcome. But that doesn't mean that finding the right room color ideas shouldn't be fun...

That’s right, your Zodiac sign can actually point you toward the colors that are perfectly suited to you and your interior. And today, we’ve consulted the stars to find the right shades for every sign.

To figure out which room color ideas to focus on, we spoke to the renowned AstroTwins, Ophira and Tali Edut. Below, the world-famous astrologers, who have read the charts of celebrities from Beyoncé and Sting to Avril Lavigne and LeAnn Rimes, share their personalized tips on how to decorate your home according to your Zodiac sign.

How to choose a room color based on your Zodiac sign

If you like to read your weekly horoscope to know when love and fortune might be headed your way, why not let your sign dictate your chosen home decor ideas, and color choices, too?

The individual attributes of each sign make it a great indicator of color – and how it can enhance and brighten your interiors. So get ready to discover the hue that is just right for you.

Aries – Red (March 21 – April 19)

For this larger-than-life fire sign, red room ideas can transform interiors, adding a playful and bold aesthetic to an Aries home. Mars rules this sign, so bold bursts of crimson and carmine will conjure up warmth and welcome as well as fun and frivolity. 

Decorating with red has the ability to grab attention, and evoke passion and sensuality – and has also been known to stimulate the production of melatonin and help with memory. 

Be daring and decadent with your color combinations for rooms when red is involved. Pure primary reds are still a bit 1990s; instead, this trend steers us towards muddier tones with tints of nature-led orange and brown. 

‘When using red in a color scheme, it’s best to choose shades that are rich and warm rather than loud and insistent. Maroon, burgundy, and rosehip work brilliantly with shades of green, while deep pinky-reds are very adaptable and blend well with khaki or stone. Dark reds pair best with gold metallic touches and carry a degree of heritage, especially when mixed with dark wood,’ says Simon Temprell, head of interior design at Neptune.

Taurus – Green (April 20 – May 20)

Elegant, spiritual, and headstrong a Taurus can be deeply sensitive to their surroundings and need to live in a congenial, well-appointed space that is reminiscent of nature. 

Use sage green in your home if you truly wish to feel at ease. Uplifting and tranquil, this nature-inspired shade of green has its herbal origins to thank for its soothing properties, making it the perfect choice for a restful room scheme.

The kitchen-garden-borne shade inspired by its namesake herb, sage green is a perennial favorite for classic and timeless décor. One of the cleverest greens in the spectrum, this color-shifting hue shares subtle blue and grey tones, making it a sophisticated and soulful choice for a Taurean as well as bringing biophilic benefits with its organic origins.

 ‘Sage green is a comforting color. Even by name alone, it evokes the thought of foraging and nourishment in the natural world, growth, renewal, and life as a whole,’ says Alice Hood, senior design consultant at Roundhouse.

Gemini – Yellow (May 21 – June 20)

Mood-lifting and warm, yellow brings energy, confidence and optimism to a Gemini household. Imaginative, fun, and full of life, a true Gemini desires variety, so a playful meets traditional style is a go-to when designing a home for a Gemini.

From pretty primrose to zesty lemon, yellow brings warmth and sunshine to every surface it touches. ‘This cheery color imbues the room with optimism and is perfect for bringing a sense of positivity into the home,’ says Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown. ‘Yellow is also very soothing, particularly when paired with cool, calming tones such as greys and pale, muted blues. The color creates a sense of calm with a feeling of well-being and restfulness.’

As well as considering the style of the room you wish to decorate, you should also think about how you use the space and the energy you wish to evoke. Paler, gentler shades will create a calming atmosphere while stronger sunnier hues offer a more high-octane energy.

Cancer – Earthy neutrals (June 21 – July 22)

Ruled by the moon, Cancer is a creative and romantic type and may feel pulled to reflect their innermost self with a cocooning, tranquil haven at home. As cancer is the water sign, focus your decorative energy on planning a home that is cool, calm, and collected. 

Earthy neutrals are, therefore, a wonderful option in a Cancerean household. An earthy neutral, whether it's stone, putty, plaster or sand, will remind this sign of summer days all year round. 

The secret to neutrals is to pick the right tones for the type of light coming into your room. Cool light works well with warmer neutrals while south-facing light has a yellow hue, so cooler neutral colors are best. 

If you want a room that’s very calming, stay completely in a neutral palette with a more monochromatic look. However, if you want a splash of energy, then include one incredible piece of art, a colorful rug, or blue or green accents to create interest and personality.

Leo – Orange (July 23 – August 22)

A Leo's home should be loud and proud. The creative sign, a Leo loves to work and lounge in stimulating environments, so curating a home that stimulates the senses is of utmost importance to this larger-than-life, fire sign. 

Sophisticated and versatile, the new burnt oranges gracing interiors are rich and radiant. When decorating in a single hue it's important to factor in plenty of variations in tone and texture to ensure the scheme has life and depth, otherwise orange rooms can run the risk of feeling flat.

'Orange is the new black,’ says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director, of Kelling Designs. ‘It brings in warmth, brightness, and an uplifting energy whether you use it on a whole wall or bring in splashes of orange through your accessories if you are feeling less daring.’

Virgo – White (August 23 – September 22)

As the Zodiac’s perfectionist, a Virgo's home color scheme should mirror their penchant for minimalist, serene schemes. White room ideas are the simplest of colors but, as anyone who has set off on the quest for the perfect white can attest, also one of the trickiest to get right. 

Decorating with white offers a blank canvas that illuminates dark spaces and can make even small rooms feel spacious, light, and bright. 

A white room looks elegant and smart decorated with wood accents, but if you are sticking religiously to a white-on-white color scheme, it's really important to ensure that you add plenty of texture into the room to ensure it feels warm and welcoming. Texture in interior design is vital, especially if you want to avoid a stark or clinical aesthetic. Quite simply, without texture, a white room will fall flat.

Libra – Pink (September 23 – October 22)

As great admirers of physical beauty, Libras need to be surrounded by beauty and art. Their homes are decadent yet soothing, which is why soft pinks are prevalent in some of the most glamorous Libra homes.

Warm and inviting, rosy shades make a versatile and beautiful backdrop for bolder colors. Shades of pink are extremely versatile and have been a popular choice in interiors for centuries. Of all the variations, salmon pink and peach have the edge over others as they share orange undertones and warm characteristics.

With its clear ties to the natural world, pink is used for painting accent walls and brightening a living space with splashes of color that symbolize and promote health and vitality. ‘Due to its close relationship with pink and orange shades, the color is mood-boosting and energy-stimulating without becoming overwhelming like many red shades. On the other hand, with more muted and subtle tones, pale pink can become a good choice to enhance quiet confidence and serenity,’ enthuses Sarah Lloyd, senior brand manager at Valspar.

The key to a timeless interior is to ensure they are neither too sugary, blue, babyish, or garish. Emma Bulmer, head of the color consultancy at Edward Bulmer Natural Paint, recommends pairing dusky pinks with deeper hues for dramatic effect. 

Scorpio – Black (October 23 – November 21)

A Scorpio needs a sanctuary where they can unwind mentally and physically, with decor that communicates power, perhaps using an intense color that exudes creativity and strength. This sign is certainly not the shy and retiring type, so decorating with black is a good option for this intense and mysterious sign. 

Daring and decadent, black room ideas can be difficult to get right, but once mastered, they can add elegant confidence to your space like no other color.

'Black can be an incredibly glamorous and sophisticated choice for a contemporary home' says Patrick O’Donnell, Farrow & Ball's brand ambassador. 'Something as dark as this can create a cozy and intimate space through to full-blown elegance.' However, If an all-black scheme is too daunting, then incorporating blonde wood is a brilliant way to stop a predominantly black scheme from looking too clinical – and in fact, can create that serene Scandinavian finish that is so enduringly popular.

Sagittarius – Purple (November 22 – December 21)

A spiritual, adventurous sign at heart, Sagittarians will adore a whimsical, otherworldly lilac color scheme. An empath, this sign prefers to take the road less traveled and purple room ideas will truly make a Sagittarius sing. 

Conjuring scenes of trailing wisteria and swathes of moorland heather, the myriad variations of this delicate pastel shade can inspire the most elegant and restful interiors.

While vivid violets and royal purples can be seen as daring choices, their softer-toned cousin lilac lends a soothing, gentle feel to a space, and can feel like a breath of fresh air. ‘Soft lilac has an inviting, friendly energy and is great for creating a relaxed feel within a home,’ says Francesca Wezel, founder of Francesca’s Paints. ‘Associated with sociability and open-mindedness, it helps make people feel at ease – perfect for communal areas. Lilac also has a slight feminine edge, which reinforces the feeling of comfortability.’

Capricorn – Gray (December 22 – January 19)

Of all the neutrals, gray is the one that instantly brings gravitas, so it comes as no surprise that gray room ideas are a firm favorite with Capricorns. 

Capricorns are known to prioritize style over comfort, which is why many choose to decorate with gray for a contemporary yet cosseting aesthetic. A calm and beautiful gray is often the answer when white is too white. Deeply pigmented, a pale gray is warm and welcoming and changes subtly with the direction of life. For a nuanced scheme, team it with other variations from the same palette for pure perfection.

Gray harmonizes well with almost every other hue, making it a most adaptable neutral and giving good reason for its popularity, says Helen Shaw, director at Benjamin Moore. 

‘I love using gray on walls as it allows paintings and portraits to really sing out,' says Anna Haines, founder, of 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.’ 

Aquarius – Blue (January 20 – February 18)

An Aquarian home should be tranquil, and promote stillness and modern sophistication. Therefore, the calming feel of a blue color scheme will keep this dreamy sign grounded and focused. This timeless color is cool and calm and works well in both classical and contemporary schemes.

Blue runs the whole gamut of shades from delicate eau de Nil to the deepest, darkest, inky blues – they are easily the palette of choice for many, from amateur decorators to interior designers as they’re incredibly easy to live with and perfect for layering, believes Patrick O’Donnell of Farrow & Ball.

‘Blue also comes with positive attributes in color psychology, such as enthusiasm, sympathy, warmth, encouragement, spirituality, loyalty, and thoughtfulness.’

Pisces – Teal (February 19 – March 20)

A water sign, sensitive Pisces likes to live to be beside the seaside, which is why teal is a perfect color choice for this soulful sign. 

Teal is in general a calming and relaxing color. Being the color that represents nature, it’s one that a Pisces feel good and positive. The uplifting yet serene teal is an interesting contradiction, blurring the boundaries between blue and green, and equally between fun and sophisticated when added to an interior scheme. 

‘Teal is a member of the cyan, or green-blue group, and is widely associated with positivity, happiness, and stability,’ explains Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore.

The color continues to be part of the public’s consciousness in more ways than one, according to Helen Shaw. ‘In 1987, teal cemented its place in design history by becoming one of the first 16 original web colors. In terms of interior design, it is one of those “perfect” colors: said to heighten both creativity and sensitivity, it has a reliable and calm appeal, making it ever popular.’

Your Zodiac sign is said to confer personality traits and lifestyle preferences, as well as influence your home interior choices. So could choosing a color scheme according to your zodiac sign make you happier at home? We certainly think it is worth a try, especially when there are a plethora of colors to choose from. 

Quick and easy paint projects can be a simple and satisfying way to uplift areas of your home with a colorful, unique and bespoke look – and they can be great fun, too.

Whether you have a collection of sample paint cans that you don't know what to do with, or leftover paint from another decorating project, getting creative with paint ideas can help put that leftover paint to good use.

From colorful paint tricks on woodwork, to painted picture frames, fireplaces and more, these small paint projects will inspire you to pick up a paint brush this weekend.

8 quick and easy paint projects to spruce up your space

'Not every paint job needs to be a daunting four wall, ceiling and woodwork repaint. Sometimes smaller projects can create the biggest difference to refresh a space without costing the world. These "mini projects" have become increasingly popular to add interest by injecting pops of color into a room,' says Benjamin Moore paint expert, Helen Shaw.

So if you're looking for a creative DIY project that doesn't cost the earth or take too long, let us show you how you can refresh your home with the power of paint.

1. Transform your trim

'The addition of an accent color is a quick and easy way to transform a space, define an area, or highlight architectural elements. If you’re lucky enough to have wonderful architectural details such as archways, deep skirting or picture rails in your home, paint is the perfect way to highlight them to create a design detail,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene.

Gone are the days of standard white trims and architectural details; one of the biggest paint trends seen across interior design over the last few years is painted trim and woodwork. This use of paint can create a beautiful design feature and a stylish injection of color into a room, as shown by the eye-catching, green-painted arch window frames in this modern kitchen by Naked Kitchens.

2. Use paint to zone and divide spaces

A development to the idea of painting trim around windows, painting trim that sits at the division between two rooms is the perfect way to zone a space subtly, while adding a bright, sunny hint of color that can act as an accent to unite the two spaces.

It's been achieved masterfully by interior designer Suzy Hoodless, above.

3. Uplift your furniture with color

One of the easiest and most popular paint projects to embrace in the home is painted furniture ideas.

A great way to upcycle a tired, old piece of furniture, the addition of paint can give it a new lease of life.

UK-based interior designer, Birdie Fortescue says, 'This striking blue dining room makes the most of the dramatic potential of paint; using matte and gloss paint finishes to great effect. The unexpected addition of the contemporary painted pedestal table and mid-century polished chairs make this scheme sing. The most visually appealing interior designs mix painted and polished furniture from different eras with balance and flair.'

We love the eclectic contrast that is formed between the bright blue painted dining table and traditional wooden dining chairs, and how the space establishes a stylish blend of the old and new.

We explore how to paint wood furniture in more depth in our dedicated feature.

4. Paint a nook

Looking for fresh alcove ideas? Here, designer and hotelier Kit Kemp's simple adjustment in the tone of the green used picks out the architecture and highlights the artwork within it. It's a great way to make awkward features feel purposeful. 

5. Decorate a headboard or bed frame

Headboard ideas do not always have to revolve around plush fabric upholstery or investing in a completely new design. Why not get creative with an existing, plain wooden headboard and let your artistic flair run wild?

This cozy nook bed has been adorned with a beautiful painted design inspired by the Bloomsbury Set and the Arts & Crafts movement. A sleep space layered with a stylish medley of color and texture, the artistic use of paint gives the bed frame a truly luxurious, almost regal feel.

If an intricate painted design feels too far out of your comfort zone, simply refreshing a bedframe with a wash of one color will do; a great way to add a striking, colorful accent to the space for your bedroom color ideas.

6. Add pretty painted detail to a fireplace

British printmaker and designer, Molly Mahon is renowned for her vibrant and playful use of color and pattern across her wallpaper and fabric designs. 

She says of her design process, 'I find a room full of textures, layers and colors exciting and uplifting. I am inspired by nature, my travels to India and things that I notice in my daily life, I then turn these images into repeat designs and carve them into a block.'

This colorful style is prevalent throughout her own home – with her signature, hand-block patterned designs making it all the way to her fireplace. Hand-painted by Molly herself, this stone surround (above) has been embellished with a joyful pattern, adding beautiful detail and contrasting color – a whole new, colorful take on fireplace ideas. 

7. Get creative with a colorful accent wall

'If you don’t have anything to upcycle then painting a single wall or updating all the woodwork in your room is a perfect technique for creating zones or highlighting a specific area,' says Helen Shaw from Benjamin Moore. 

Instead of painting a whole room, bring in a new, colorful aspect through a painted accent wall. Living room feature wall ideas are most common, but this dining room has been effectively decorated with a colorful panels of Shepherd's Green paint by Valspar, creating a more modern take on wall paneling ideas that introduces striking shape and contemporary character to the space. 

We love the bold and bright use of color in this dining room, and how the painted furniture beckons you to be seated in the space.

8. Freshen up your picture frames

'When it comes to artwork, we love a wonderful unique frame. Throughout our hotels you will spot thousands of different ways to frame and display artwork, from a simple Perspex box, to driftwood, or just painted in a wacky form,' says interior designer and founder of Firmdale Hotels, Kit Kemp.

'Our clever framer has reinvented the art of framing and makes the frame an art form in itself. I like to frame things in such a way that the artwork looks more striking and stands its ground in a room. Not only would you be creating something vibrant for your house, you will be making something completely unique.'

Take the lead from the palette of a painting and decorate the frame with a unique patterned design. From abstract shapes to checks and stripes, enhancing artwork with a hand-painted frame will only make the view more special.

9. Add color to a bathroom with a painted bathtub

Looking to refresh your bathroom color ideas? Adding a coat of paint to your bathtub can be a quick and easy paint job – with a beautiful end result.

'From walls to floors to the tub itself, repainting is the quickest, most cost-effective way to refresh your bathroom. Layering color and texture is key to keeping pale rooms interesting – particularly so bathrooms, which can look cold and unwelcoming with the prevalence of white sanitaryware and tiles,' says artist and paint expert, Annie Sloan.

A bathtub often sits at the center of a bathroom's design, so enriching it with color and character will make a more attractive focal point of this fixture for your bathroom ideas.

Annie shares more tips in her dedicated piece, 5 ways to transform your home with paint in a weekend.

10. Dress up your doors

Don't forget your doors! Many of us embrace colorful front door ideas so why not spruce up your internal doors with color, too.

Similar to trim, our doors are often left white or the natural color of wood. Of course, these finishes fit in seamlessly with the majority of interior designs, but if you're looking into how you can add color to a room, then painting the door can add an uplifting decoration.

In this colorful bedroom, rather than painting the whole door, a sleek, stripe of Coral Gables paint by Benjamin Moore creates a colorful surprise and stylish design detail on the door edge; a simple yet luxurious touch.

We also love the Blue Danube circle painted around the wall light, grounding the fixture to the space and adding a playful, unique design detail to the space.

FAQs

Getting creative with paint in your home doesn't always have to revolve around painting a whole room. Our collection of paint projects show that even small and simple paint updates can have a truly transformative effect; enriching spaces with unique character and beautiful decorative detail.

There is so much to consider when painting a room, from color, finish and paint placement, and when it comes down to deciding whether your trim should match your wall color, are there any specific rules to follow?

We have spoken with a collection of paint experts who share their advice on choosing the right colors for your trim, and how enhancing this often-overlooked architectural detail with paint ideas, can create a more unique and stylish design. 

Overall, our experts are in agreement that trims can both match and contrast with your wall color, it all depends on the overall look you are wanting to create. From color-drenching to bringing in a beautiful accent color, explore how best to enhance the trim in your chosen design scheme.

Should your trim match your wall color?

Andy Greenall, creative director at Paint & Paper Library says, 'architectural features are a fantastic host for making a statement with color, be that skirting, trim, paneling, doors cornicing and ceiling. Yet these elements are so often – by default – painted white, without consideration for how that affects the space. But whites aren't the only option for woodwork and trim...'

We have curated a collection of inspiring design ideas and helpful advice from our paint experts to help you make the right decision for the trim in your home, and whether it should match or contrast with your wall color.

Yes, for a coordinated and unified look

Create a color drenched effect

'For a bolder approach to painting woodwork, create an enveloping and intimate feel by embracing ‘color drenching’ and paint your doors, woodwork, walls, and ceiling in a single color. The color drenching approach is particularly well suited to living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways, delivering a contemporary and cocooning finish,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 

International director at Benjamin Moore, Helen Shaw, also supports this and says, 'an all-encompassing floor-to-ceiling color is one way to go, creating a strong statement look and providing the perfect foundation for your favorite furnishings and accessories. This effect can also make the space seem larger due to the seamless lines and edges.'

As shown in this beautiful blue dining room, the bright Spectra Blue finish by Benjamin Moore used across the walls, trim and ceiling creates a truly immersive and mesmerizingly modern effect and establishes a stylish contrast with the traditional antique furniture and chandelier.

No, create a stylish element of contrast

Use your trim to bring in a strong accent color

'The addition of an accent color is a quick and easy way to transform a space, define an area, or highlight architectural elements. If you’re lucky enough to have wonderful architectural details such as archways, deep skirting, or picture rails in your home, paint is the perfect way to highlight them to create a design detail,' says Ruth Mottershead from Little Greene.

Using your trims to create a colorful accent can establish a stylish element of contrast and eye-catching visual interest in a space. In this kid's room, the trim details have been elevated by the Cedar Green shade by Benjamin Moore. A brilliant example of how to enhance a room with color and character without painting the walls, the white and green work in perfect harmony to create a fun, vibrant, and inviting space.

Turn to shades in the same color family

For a more subtle element of color contrast between your walls and trim, stick to using different shades that sit in the same color family – explore our guidance on using the color wheel for further inspiration.

'Consider using a lighter version of a color within your interior palette, this will highlight your architectural detailing whilst creating a more nuanced and tranquil atmosphere,' says Andy Greenall from Paint & Paper Library.

Ruth Mottershead from Little Greene also adds, 'a light neutral hue or a lighter version of your wall color will create contrast, but deliver a more harmonious scheme, making the space feel more considered,' as demonstrated in this green living room above, which has Paint & Paper Library Kigali on the walls and Squid Ink on the trim.

Choose white for a clean finish

Keep things simple and traditional

If you're looking to keep things more traditional and simple, then, of course, you can't go wrong with a classic, white painted trim, as interior and paint expert, Sarah Lloyd, from Valspar says, 'white is the most common colored trim in homes as it universally goes with everything and creates a sleek, clean look.'

However, this year's color trends are influencing a whole new wave of color confidence, and many of us are taking bigger and bolder risks when it comes to the room color ideas in our homes – and colorfully painted trims are definitely on the rise in 2023.

Ruth Mottershead from Little Greene shares, 'many opt to use bright white on skirting and woodwork out of habit. The use of a smart and simple white creates a traditional feel, however, a very bright white can create a high contrast with a wall color or wallpaper which can make it feel stark and less considered.'

Coordinate with your ceiling color

Use your trim to enhance ceiling paint ideas

'Most of us default to a white ceiling, but this can be a hugely missed opportunity to add another layer of design to a room. Looking at ceiling paint ideas in a considered way can enhance the room design, such as the scale, lowering the height, or softening awkward angles in an attic space,' says Patrick O’Donnell, color consultant and brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball.

'Use one color all over the ceiling and trims – this is one of the most useful paint tricks, especially if your ceiling height feels low. It will remove the visual contrast where the wall stops, and the ceiling begins and accentuate a seamless flow in your room.'

Embrace a collection of different colors

Mix and match for a contemporary look

For a truly modern and unique design, why not embrace a collection of different colors across your walls and trim areas? 

'For a stronger scheme, use contrasting colors across the walls, paneling and woodwork to highlight structural architectural details,' says Andy Greenall from Paint & Paper Library.

Whether you create a tonal color scheme and choose shades in the same color family, or opt for white walls and a different bright color on each separate trim, highlighting these classic architectural details through a beautiful color palette will only serve to create a beautiful, one of a kind interior design.

FAQs

Whether you decide to match or contrast, painting your ceiling trim can dramatically alter the appearance of a room, and help to celebrate and bring to the forefront these beautiful architectural details that for so long have remained in the background.

Should doors be painted the same color as walls? If you're learning how to paint a wall or embarking on a house renovation, it's a question you're sure to ask yourself or your interior designer.

The short answer is: yes, you can certainly paint doors the same color as walls for a seamless, modern, and restful aesthetic. In fact, we encourage you to try this space-boosting paint idea.

'Enveloping your space in a single color is a wonderful way to create rich, engaging interiors,' says Andy Greenall, creative director of Paint & Paper Library. 'This on-trend approach to decorating incorporates doors, along with all other architectural features into your design scheme.’

Of course, there are other ways you can approach painting a room, with white doors and trims, or, of course, you can contrast the color of the door to the walls instead. There's no wrong answer. But painting doors the same color as walls is a contemporary option that will create an elegant aesthetic. 

Should doors be painted the same color as walls?

'There are a variety of different approaches to painting doors and woodwork, each creating a different atmosphere in a space,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director of Little Greene. 'For an enveloping and intimate feel, embrace the color-drenching trend and paint your doors, woodwork, walls, and ceiling in a single color.'

Not sure where to start? Belove we share five expert-approved ways to paint your doors the same color as your walls. 

Paint doors the same color as walls to make the space look bigger

Small room ideas often involve creative ways to increase the sense of space through clever interior design ideas. And utilizing paint tricks is an ideal strategy to make a small room look bigger.

Patrick O’Donnell, international brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball says: 'Whilst the default setting for most woodwork in our homes tends to be a multitude of whites and off-whites, considering alternatives, especially on doors, can sometimes offer interesting options and can actually help the perception of space. 

'Especially in smaller spaces, where carrying the wall color over your woodwork in a suitable wood finish can help elongate a wall. You will still get a gentle contrast due to how light responds to the sheen, between an emulsion and eggshell. 

'Secondly, it can be just a case of aesthetics, for the love of ‘color drenching’ ie. painting all surfaces in one space the same color, but the appropriate finish for each substrate.'

Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International), Benjamin Moore, adds: 'Creating an all-encompassing floor-to-ceiling finish in one color, including trims, skirting boards, and doors, cleverly create the illusion of a larger space as it blurs the edges. This color drenching effect can be especially useful when working with a small space.'

Color drench for a modern aesthetic

Depending on what look you want to achieve for your living room ideas, painting the doors and walls in the same color can look particularly striking, while also being inviting and cozy.

When color drenching is combined with other architectural features, like wall paneling, the final effect is an elevated space with a high-end feel.

'Going full-out color drenching adds a feeling of grandeur and creates a bold look that provides the perfect backdrop for your favorite furnishings and accessories,' says Helen Shaw. 'This seamlessness throughout the space is ideal when working with a particularly small space as it feels more expansive.'

Little Greene's Ruth Mottershead adds: 'The color drenching approach to decorating, incorporating all elements of including doors into a space, and is well suited to living rooms, bedrooms, and entryways, delivering a contemporary and cocooning finish.'

Disguise a less favorable door

Painting doors the same color as the walls is an interior design trick that can be used to hide a door that might not be your favorite part of the room.

'If you are looking to hide a door, simply incorporate it fully into your design scheme in a tonal color or by painting it the same color as your walls, which will camouflage the door, integrating it into the space,' explains Ruth Mottershead.

'Mid-tone and darker colors work particularly well in this situation, harnessing the character and depth of a space, creating intimacy and warmth.' 

Farrow & Ball's Patrick O'Donnell adds: 'Whilst a door will never disappear completely, you can soften its presence within a room by painting it the same color as your wall.'

Make a good first impression in an entrance

The entryway is the ideal place to paint doors the same color as walls and start experimenting with color drenching.

'The entrance is the room that not only greets guests entering the home but is also what usually connects one room to another,' says Benjamin Moore's Helen Shaw.

'It is also often a fairly small and sometimes irregularly shaped room, so keeping the same color throughout on the walls and doors, like a white or neutral color, creates harmony, continuity, and a sense of space.'

And Paint & Paper Library's Andy Greenall explains why entryways are a good place to begin, commenting: 'Halls and entrances are often visible through open doorways from multiple rooms, so are a great space for using a single color across all elements, including doors. This will also make it easier to choose a palette that interacts well with multiple rooms and colors throughout the home.'

As hallways are often small spaces, color drenching is a clever trick to employ to make the room look bigger.

Ruth Mottershead adds: 'This approach can be used to create the illusion of space, simply paint the doors, walls, and ceiling in the same shade to extend the walls upwards. This works particularly well as a narrow hallway idea, as these spaces are often also lacking in natural light.'

Create a sense of calm

Color drenching creates a seamless aesthetic and removes any visual jarring that can occur when contrasting shades are used. This makes painting doors the same color as walls a particularly good idea for spaces where tranquility is key, like bathrooms, bedrooms, and nurseries.

Pam Gruhn, founder, of Frenchic, says: 'Smaller bedrooms and nurseries in particular, where you may well be looking for ways to create a tranquil environment to promote relaxation and sleep, benefit greatly from a single color for trims, doors, and walls.'

She adds: 'Having doors painted the same as the walls is a simple trick for a pared-down look that makes the whole space look effortlessly sleek and chic.'

When faced with a big blank wall, it can sometimes be daunting knowing where to start with your decoration, so we are here to address the question, what can I put on my living room wall?

The living room wall is one of the main areas in the home where you can really get creative with your wall decor ideas. A multipurpose space used for relaxing, entertaining, and socializing, it is a chance to truly celebrate your style and create a design that fills you with joy every time you step foot into the room.

A key element to consider when planning your living room ideas, your chosen wall decor can help bring a living room scheme to life through eye-catching visual interest and beautiful decoration.

What can I put on my living room wall?

From the power of paint to plants, living room art, mirrors, and more browse our collection of ideas to ensure that you are making the most out of the walls in your living room.

1. Decorate with eye-catching artwork

Decorating with art can be a beautiful expression of our style and personality in the home. A piece of art not only evokes conversation and engagement but can also enrich a space with elegant texture, color and unique design.

Artwork is often the final finishing touch that can bring a whole scheme together in a room, however, a favored piece of art can also be a great starting point for a design, as you can let the palette of the painting inspire the overall look for your living room color ideas.

Beautifully shown in this modern living room, we love how the two pieces of art in each alcove have been enhanced by a bespoke frame with an integrated light, giving each piece the recognition and lighting it deserves, just like in a gallery.

This living room is also a great example of how to use symmetry in interior design, which can be a helpful rule to follow when styling not only artwork in your living room, but lighting, furniture and accessories, too.

2. Enhance the space with mirrors

A mirror can not only act as a lovely decoration and focal point in a room but decorating with mirrors can help to make a small living room look bigger and brighter – so what have you go to lose?

Living room mirror ideas can be as small or as grand as you like, and there really are so many different designs to choose from. From eye-catching colored glass to unique geometric shapes and intricately detailed frames, the possibilities are endless. 

This living room, designed by Alice Lane Interior Design, shows one of the most popular living room fireplace ideas, mounting a mirror on the wall above the mantel. The round, convex mirror adds eye-catching texture and depth to the wall and reflects the entire room upon its surface. A simple and clean design, we love how this modern mirror creates a stylish juxtaposition with the more classic styling present in the rest of the room.

3. Create a colorful feature wall with paint

The power of paint will never cease in being able to transform and rejuvenate our homes. Helping a room appear more colorful, vibrant, warm and bright (the list goes on), exploring living room paint ideas can be a great way to liven up your walls.

Emma Bestley, creative director and co-founder of YesColours, shares her advice when choosing paint colors for the home.

'We all have such different emotional reactions to hues and tones of color. The first question is what colors are you drawn to? This is the color you need to surround yourself with, a color you feel comfortable with and that makes you smile.

For a real boost, it’s often a saturated shade of color that will give you that burst of energy. For example, deeper yellow, lush green, oceanic teal, or a warm orange – but you have to be mindful of whether your walls can handle that depth of saturation, maybe tone it down with a lighter or more muted version of that color instead.'

From using paint for living room accent wall ideas to painting a stand-out wall mural, picking up a paintbrush can have a truly transformative effect.

4. Choose both beautiful and practical wall lights

As the living room is such a versatile and multi-functional space, your chosen living room lighting ideas need to be able to cater to a whole host of different functions, moods and scenarios. 

Using layered lighting and establishing welcoming pools of light in different zones of the room is key, along with choosing fixtures that bring style and character to the space; a delicate balance of form and function.

Living room wall lighting can enhance your walls with beautiful decoration and both practical and ambient spots of lighting – what is there not to love? Ideal for positioning above a sofa or armchair to help create a cozy reading nook, or for use in groups beside a fireplace or shelving unit, there are so many artful wall lights to choose from.

Above shows the Arcs Wall Sconce from Danish brand HAY, designed by Belgian design duo, Muller Van Severen.

5. Style your shelves to perfection

Peter Erlandsson, co-owner at String Furniture says, 'we believe that our shelves should be a reflection of our personalities and exhibit the objects that we have collected throughout our lives. When it comes to styling shelves, I have found that selecting just a few beautiful pieces to display can make the most decorative impact and be the most sentimental. 

Coordinating different colors on your shelves is another simple and effortless way of making these pieces stand out and decoratively tie a room together. Many forget that living room storage can be part of the interior design scheme, and by displaying and styling our objects, we can merge function with decoration.'

As Erlandsson explains, shelving is so much more than practical storage. Through objects such as ornaments, books and photographs, a shelf can fill a wall with stories and memories; helping a room feel more personal and unique.

Camilla Clarke, creative director at Albion Nord, also supports this and says, 'if there is a nook or niche, use it. Make awkward corners a point of interest by adding open shelving and filling them with books and accessories.’ 

Ideal for filling a large living room wall, from bookshelf ideas to beautiful displays of ornaments collected from travels around the world, shelving can bring both organization and decoration to your living room.

6. Make an impact with a wallpapered wall

Beautifully chosen living room wallpaper ideas are one of the most popular ways to enhance the room with impactful patterns, color, and texture, 

Whether you choose to wallpaper the whole room (including ceiling wallpaper ideas), or opt for just one wallpapered wall for a living room feature wall, there are so many designs and prints to choose from; from flowers to animals, stars to stripes, wallpaper ideas are constantly evolving, so you will never be short of inspiring designs.

When choosing the right wallpaper for your living room, Tara Miller from The Heartland Interior Design shares her advice.

'If your living room has tons of natural light, I believe you can go as dark as you want when choosing a wallpaper color, if it is limited in lighting, stay on the lighter side so as to not draw attention to the lack of light.

Depending on the flooring in the room, I would suggest someone choose a contrasting color for the wallpaper. For example, if you have beige carpet, go for a color, or if you have hardwood flooring with an orange undertone, keep that in mind when you are choosing a color scheme as they will have to live in the same space.'

7. Add classic character with paneling

Whether you have a traditional living room that features original paneling or simply want to add a tactile, textural element to the walls in a more modern space, there is something incredibly sophisticated and elegant about paneling. 

Helen Shaw, director at Benjamin Moore says, 'an inexpensive way to make a space feel luxurious, wall paneling is a great way to add texture and depth in a room.

Picking the right color to decorate with is key; if you prefer a subtle and elegant aesthetic, consider a tonal scheme by matching the wall color with the panel décor, or for a more impactful finish, pick out a complimentary or feature color to draw the eye.'

Paneling paint ideas can really make an eye-catching feature out of your wall paneling and transform it from the simple to the sublime. As shown in the colorful living room above, the wall paneling and bold painted design unite together as one to establish a unique design that embodies an eclectic mix of the old and the new.

8. Decorate with hanging plants

'Over the past few years, we have emerged with a refreshed motivation to connect ourselves more deeply to nature and the world around us. This biophilic shift to rebalance ourselves has seen us create spaces that bring the outside, inside, and dress the spaces around us with life and living things,' says Jo Littlefair, co-founder and director of Goddard Littlefair. 

Most of us have ever-growing collections of houseplants in our homes, and these natural accents can not only enrich our indoor spaces with the beauty of the natural world but can also be used as stylish decorating tools, too.

Plant hangers, such as these available to buy on Amazon, can be hung from a hook on a wall or ceiling to create a beautiful, botanical hanging display. A great way to both show off your plants and cover a blank wall, why not take your indoor jungle to the next level with a wonderful wall of greenery?

9. Mount decorative ornaments

It can be as simple as that! From decorative plates to hanging decorations and even musical instruments, ideal for a wall in a music room also, creating a unique, artistic wall display with objects such as these can make for a stylish design feature in the space.

We think these Burst Round Hanging baskets from Anthropologie would work wonderfully on a wall in a blue living room.

10. Make it personal with family photos

Where better to create a lovely gallery wall of photos than in a living room?

In this minimalist living room, designed by Lucie Ayres of 22 Interiors, the family picture wall really takes center stage, with the different styles and shapes of frames making for a welcoming focal point in the space. 

Framed photographs can not only create a talking point when guests arrive in the room, they can make your space feel more homey, inviting, and connected to you.

What kind of art should I hang in living room?

There are no rules when it comes to the art you want to hang in your living room, ultimately, you should choose enduring pieces that will bring you joy for years to come.

Picking artwork that can enhance the overall color palette used in the room can make for a stylish and cohesive look, however, artwork is also a great tool for establishing an accent and sense of contrast in the space – for further insight into color combinations for rooms, explore how to use a color wheel for interior design.

The living room is often one of the biggest rooms in the home, so it is also a chance to go all out with bigger, large-scale art pieces that may not fit elsewhere.

Should every wall have something on it?

This depends on many factors, including the size and layout of a room, window placements and the overall look you want to achieve in a space. 

If simple minimalism is more your style, a mirror or a piece of artwork on one wall may be all you need – or maybe you prefer nothing at all! However, decorating your walls can help to make a room feel more balanced and, ultimately, 'finished'.

As we have explored in this piece, you can be as bold or as subtle as you like with your chosen decorations. Your wall decor ideas should be viewed as an ever-evolving project, from fresh new paint colors to different pieces of artwork and plants, it is always worth freshening things up over time to make your space feel brand new.

Our bathroom ceiling ideas provide beautiful inspiration for a surface that is often painted white and simply fitted with functional lighting.

Bathrooms are now much more than clean and clinical spaces, they are rooms to relax and unwind in and help you feel refreshed at the start and at the end of each day; with bathroom ideas becoming more adventurous, unique and exciting to establish a calming retreat in the home.

Exploring ceiling ideas and how you can add character, style and visual interest to this fifth wall will only help to achieve a more unique, personal and memorable space.

Re-thinking your bathroom ceiling and how it can become fully integrated into your bathroom scheme, whether that be through paint, wallpaper, tiles or lighting, can make for stand-out design.

Bathroom ceiling ideas

From the use of beautiful natural materials, to striking painted and wallpaper designs, we have curated an inspiring collection of bathroom ceiling ideas to help you with this often forgotten about surface in the home.

1. Appreciate the warmth of wood

Spending time outdoors and being surrounded by nature is renowned to help us feel more relaxed and calm. 

Natural materials have been used in construction and interior design for centuries, with many traditional bathrooms defined by unique architectural features and historic materials. 

Whether you uncover original wooden features for your bathroom ceiling ideas, or get creative with ceiling paneling ideas, appreciating the warmth of wood and the raw beauty of this natural material will make for timeless design. 

In this bathroom by Lucinda Loya Interiors, the exposed wooden planks on the ceiling create an elegant focal point, embodying an inviting rustic texture and establishing a stylish contrast with the smooth marble and modern, geometric rug, a great look for rustic bathroom ideas.

An innovative mix of the old and new, this bathroom pays homage to the original structure of the house through wood ceiling ideas, balanced by a fresh and contemporary design in the surrounding space.

2. Use the ceiling as a canvas for color

Bathroom color ideas have far progressed from classic blue and white, with bathrooms proving popular areas in the home to be more adventurous and experimental with color combinations that you may not have tried elsewhere in the home.

A ceiling can be a great way to make a statement with color, with many ceiling paint ideas showcasing just how impactful and uplifting painting this surface can be. 

In this bathroom, a deep cherry red has been used on the ceiling, beautifully contrasting with the dark gray painted walls and darker palette used throughout the rest of the space. A fun and playful use of color, the overall design still remains smart and sophisticated, with the cherry red paint making a stylish statement on the ceiling.

3. Create a luxurious design with wallpaper

Wallpaper can inject color, pattern and personality into a room, adding a unique element of texture and visual interest. 

Barrie Cutchie, Design Director at BC Designs explains, 'you don’t have to stick to traditional wallpaper that can be quite bland, in fact, bathrooms are the one room where you can really have some fun. Playful patterns and colors can add much needed definition to your walls'.

However, not all wallpaper designs need to be big and bold, as shown in this beautiful bathroom by Creative Tonic Design. A stunning example of luxury bathroom ideas, the use of wallpaper throughout may embody a simple, neutral color palette, but the mix of patterns and use of wallpaper on the ceiling complement the grand scale and size of the room, establishing a truly impressive design.

Finished with opulent details such as the chandelier, inviting seating areas and a walk in shower, this bathroom highlights how ceiling wallpaper ideas can still add impact without the need for a bold color palette.

4. Establish a tranquil spa space

Spa bathroom ideas focus on bringing the essence of a tranquil spa space into the home, focusing on natural materials, simple and serene color palettes and the importance of relaxation. 

In this artistic, modern bathroom, the sleek, wooden paneled ceiling adds warmth, structure and style to the space. Complementing the wooden flooring to create a cohesive, balanced effect, this impressive bathroom is finished with stunning details such as the sculptural bath and decorative mirror and lighting designs, beautifully elevating the whole look. 

An elegant example of more modern wooden ceiling ideas, the smooth wooden ceiling in this bathroom, in an almost fluted effect, helps to achieve a contemporary design that is both cozy and luxurious.

5. Enhance your wallpaper design

Ceiling wallpaper ideas are not for everyone, but if you want to use bathroom wallpaper ideas in other area of the space, why not enhance and complement the design with a painted ceiling instead.

As shown in this colorful bathroom by Creative Tonic Design, the vivid, blue and green zig-zag wallpaper design has been elevated, not only by the matching cupboards and accessories, but by the use of paint on the ceiling and throughout. 

Tobie Lewis, senior brand manager at Valspar Paint, says,  ‘the colors in our surrounding environment have a big impact on our mood. Blue and green shades have a biophilic nature, which evokes a stress-relieving and mood-boosting atmosphere, making teal tones ideal for rooms of relaxation.'

This bathroom celebrates how a simple blue and green color palette can establish a truly impactful and immersive design, and is both bold and relaxing simultaneously. 

6. Take your tiles to the ceiling

Whether you want to cleverly zone the space in your bathroom, or ensure for a practical as well a stylish design for your shower room ideas, using tiles for your bathroom ceiling ideas can add beautiful texture and material to your space. 

Andrew Bendall, marketing manager at Craven Dunnill Jackfield states, 'bringing texture up onto the walls and ceiling through tiles adds tactility and allows light to beautifully reflect off the glazes, bringing vitality to a space'.

In this modern bathroom by Kimberly Harrison Interiors, patterned marble tiles have been used on the ceiling in the large shower and bath space, contrasting to the tiles used on the walls and flooring, but united through the same restful white and gray color palette.

She states of the design, 'Bianco carrara marble with a distinct, etched tree bark like pattern designed by Lori Weitzner for Artistic Tile covers the vanity and shower walls, with the gun metal plumbing fixtures creating a stark contrast to the marble.'

7. Let the light in with a skylight

Being exposed to lots of natural light in the home has been proven to make a space feel more comfortable and relaxing, with skylights used throughout the home to maximize on light coming into a room.

A space where we often start the day, ensuring you have plenty of natural light is very important for a bathroom. If you have an attic style bathroom with slanted ceilings, installing a skylight can not only enhance the natural light in the space, but add a beautiful window to the outdoors, adding color, texture and interest to this area on the ceiling.

8. Add glamor and grandeur with a chandelier

'People are increasingly dedicating more space to their bathroom, often turning a spare bedroom into an ensuite or family bathroom. This means that larger, more dramatic pieces can be incorporated as part of the design,' says James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds.

Progressively being used to transform a bathroom from functional to beautiful, bathroom chandelier ideas can bring opulent glamor and decadence to your bathroom and truly make a statement for your bathroom ceiling ideas. 

This design shows just how creative and innovative you can be when deciding on how to plan a bathroom. Establishing a unique, multipurpose space that is both a bathroom and dressing room, the glistening glass chandelier is perfectly fitting for this hybrid environment, adding a luxurious touch to a space dedicated to relaxation and beauty.

9. Add depth with a recessed ceiling

A simple design feature that can make a subtle statement of elegance and grandeur, why not plan for a recessed ceiling for your bathroom ceiling ideas. 

Adding depth and texture to your ceiling space, recessed ceilings – also known as tray ceilings, can come in all different shapes and sizes, great for large bathroom ideas or bathrooms with high ceilings. 

Barrie Cutchie says, 'we usually think of texture as being a tactile element: something we can touch and feel. In the context of interior design, texture is also about adding visual interest and balance to a space.'

As shown in this bathroom by Benjamin Johnston Design, the simple dip in the ceiling adds great texture to the space, beautifully elevating the white ceiling.

10. Use your bathroom to celebrate your favorite color

As we have discussed, bathrooms are a great place to be adventurous with color and pattern, so choosing one of your favorite colors to adorn the walls and ceiling will only help to make this practical space feel more personal and stylish. 

Pink room ideas can be truly versatile option, from soft neutrals to bright candy shades, pink can be fitting for both classic and contemporary designs, making it a timeless choice. 

In this bathroom, the walls and ceilings have been painted an elegant blush pink, adding warmth and softness to space. Complemented by the beautiful green glass mirror, unique artwork and decorative objects, this pink bathroom has been thoughtfully curated to establish a welcoming and relaxing space rich with character. 

11. Keep things serene and simple

Embracing the principles of Scandinavian decor and establishing an uncomplicated, relaxed aesthetic through a clean and simple design can create a wonderfully relaxing retreat for your bathroom. 

With a huge focus on natural materials in Scandi-inspired designs, using sleek wooden panels for your bathroom ceiling ideas can bring a charming, cabin decor feel to the space. 

In this bathroom, the smooth, wooden paneled ceiling in a calming light gray finish is complemented by the textured, painted gray walls and other rustic and natural materials used throughout. Creating a relaxing surface to gaze upon when relaxing in the bath, this bathroom shows how your bathroom ceiling ideas can help to bring a whole scheme together, enhancing a design to its full effect.

12. Embrace the unexpected 

Whether you create a contrast through colors, materials or designs from the past and present, your bathroom ceiling ideas can create a platform for a range of innovative and unexpected designs. 

This bathroom is defined by a beautiful mix of materials, objects and styles, establishing an eclectic look that feels original and unique. 

Niki Wright and Scarlett Hampton, founders of lights & lamps say, 'people are becoming more adventurous in the design of their bathrooms and so designing lighting that complements those schemes and pushes the boundaries of what is “normally” seen in these spaces is another trend we will continue to fulfil.’

The sleek, modern pendant lights from Louis Poulsen form an elegant contrast with the exposed wooden beam in this bathroom, creating a beautiful union of the old and new. With pendant designs like this often used in clusters in a dining room, kitchen or bedroom, seeing them in a bathroom setting for bathroom ceiling light ideas creates a stylish and unexpected look. 

Helping to make the bathroom feel like its truly integrated into the overall design and feel of the home, additions such as the leather butterfly chair and rug only enhance this homey feeling even further.

How do you decorate a bathroom ceiling?

When deciding on how to decorate your bathroom ceiling, it depends on what effect and style you want for your bathroom space. 

If you are gravitating towards a more bold and colorful design, transforming a white ceiling through paint and wallpaper can really elevate the overall look, adding vibrancy and impact to your ceiling.

For a space of heightened relaxation and tranquility, natural materials such as wood can add inviting warmth and texture, with other options such as ceiling tiles establishing a luxurious design for a wet room.

Decorating your bathroom ceiling is all about making it feel integrated into your overall scheme and pushing the boundaries of what is expected in traditional bathroom design. Elevating the room from purely practical to personal and unique through bathroom ceiling ideas, will make for a unified and thoughtfully considered space.

Whether transforming a room with paint or adding an accent through textiles or accessories – the power of color is strong. It can transform any space instantly, making rooms feel bigger, brighter, cozier, more inviting. But did you know that color is an important element of staging a house? 

So it is unsurprising that many real estate agents suggest a change in room color ideas to help their sellers shift their homes from the market more quickly, and potentially get a better price, too. But as color is so impactful, it's essential to choose the right ones for your home. 

Here realtors share the five top quirks that potential buyers notice when touring a home – from statement paint ideas to small touches that may just make all the difference. Here's how to stage your home with color, the real estate agent-approved way. 

5 ways to stage your home with color – according to real estate experts

What do buyers really think of photos and artworks? And is there a neutral paint trick that will sell your home faster? Here's what you need to know. 

1. Stick to a neutral color scheme

Neutral room ideas are timeless for many reasons – but few love their versatility quite like realtors. 

'The biggest advice when selling a home is to stay relatively neutral and have warm and inviting colors,' says Carolyn Gagnon, a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson with Compass in NYC. 'You want buyers to feel the warmth of your home while being able to envision themselves living in it – soon.'

Therefore, if you're debating a bold or neutral color scheme when selling, the agent recommends the latter – adding that your wall is one of the most impactful areas of a room. 

'Wall color is huge – if you have a color that doesn't make sense for a potential buyer, they simply can't imagine themselves in the space,' she adds. 'Also, when color is light and bright, spaces often appear larger, so stick with the white, grey, or beige walls.' 

So, when choosing your paint, it is important to consider the different light levels in your home than those in the paint store – whether you are selling or not. 

2. Add accent colors through artwork

If you're keeping things neutral, it can be easy to neglect color altogether. However, it is important to add pockets of vibrancy to ensure your home doesn't feel too clinical. Jeff Lichtenstein, the President and Founder of ECHO Fine Properties, suggests doing this through art and accent color ideas.

'Accents and pictures are the best way to add colors while keeping things neutral,' he says. 'Homes that are too stark need to paint more of a grey or neutral with some warmth. Too stark white can come off as cold and hard to visualize if it's over white.'

3. Colorize your appliances

When looking for a new toaster or the best electric kettle for your space, it can be hard to believe that this appliance may impact the sale of your home. However, Jeff Lichtenstein suggests this is the case. 

Just as the agent suggests injecting bright tones through artwork, he recommends adding color to your kitchen through your appliances. 'Little accents like a bright yellow tea kettle and inexpensive swivel chairs by an island can brighten up a room,' he says. 

4. Opt for a blue bedroom

Thinking of flirting with blue bedroom ideas?  Jasen Edwards, Chair of the Agent Editorial Board at Agent Advice, gives you full permission to make the investment. 'The blue color signifies serenity and calmness,' he explains. This therapeutic hue attracts people who crave a space that is well set up for sleep – so if you prefer blue to neutral, this tip is for you.

5. Avoid a dark exterior  

'A blanket advice I would give to anyone out there is to avoid standalone dark colors, especially on the exterior of the house,' warns Eyal Pasternak, the Founder of Liberty House Buying Group. 'These look unappealing and often end up needing more cleaning.'

And while Eyal's advice is relevant to all sellers, the expert warns that it is particularly important in a state that is extremely hot during summer. 'It will work against you because darker colors will make the house hotter,' he says. 

If you want to experiment with dark colors, he suggests saving the tones for accents that can stand out against a more neutral hue. This will give your home a monochromatic look that will impress buyers – and may move your home from the market faster. 

Which colors sell a house fastest?

The colors that sell house fastest agree real estate agents is off-white. White is their second choice, and it's a great one, but off-white adds that extra touch of warmth that buyers will find welcoming. Other safe shades include grey, blue, beige and yellow, but always go for the palest shade possible to boost light levels and enhance space.

Our bedroom art ideas can add that crucial finishing touch to your beloved bedroom.

Adding color, character and style, choosing to display artwork for your bedroom wall decor ideas can add beautiful visual interest to the space, as well as make the room feel more inviting, personal and creative.

When planning your bedroom ideas, elements such as artwork can bring your whole scheme together, whether that's through mirroring the color palette used throughout the rest of the room, or creating a unique element of contrast, decorating with art can be a truly versatile visual tool in interior design.

Bedroom art ideas

From striking gallery walls to advice on where is best to put art in the bedroom, we have curated a range ideas, as well as spoken to the experts, to provide you with some beautiful inspiration for your bedroom art ideas.

1. Coordinate with your scheme

Choosing art that coordinates with your scheme, whether you take the lead from the art and pick out certain colors from the piece to use for paint, fabric and furnishings, or choose a new piece that fits in with your existing design, can create an enhanced feeling of cohesion.

In this bright and colorful bedroom, the abstract painting works perfectly with the bright colors used for the furniture, accessories and bedroom paint ideas.

When it comes to decorating with bright colors in the home, Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown Paints states, 'we have found that people are experimenting with abstract paint effects, and unexpected colors. Gone are the days are opting for greys, beiges and creams. Nowadays there are no colors should be avoided for specific rooms.' 

As shown in this bedroom, the use of bright color throughout creates a truly inviting space, with the abstract artwork uniting all the separate colors together as one, a great look for modern bedroom ideas.

2. Place artwork above the bed

Jen & Mar, co-founders of Interior Fox state, 'the bed is the focal point of any bedroom, and the area above is the perfect spot for artwork. For maximum impact in a smaller room, opt for larger pieces of art over the bed to bring the scheme together. If you’re stuck for what color or design to opt for, take this opportunity to pull in an accent color. Whether that’s black used in the furniture or a color from the soft furnishings, sticking to this rule will make the room flow and feel cohesive.'

In this bedroom by Ginny Macdonald Design the Willem de Kooning artwork placed above the bed creates an attractive focal point in the space, as well as creating a bright element of contrast compared to the deep blue painted walls.

3. Embrace a theme

Choosing a collection of artwork that shares the same theme, design focus or color palette can make for an attractive visual statement in the bedroom. 

As shown in this space, an elegant example of blue bedroom ideas, delicate flowers have been pressed and framed to create a beautiful above the bed decor idea that celebrates the beauty of the natural world. 

With references to nature often creating a calming, relaxed space in interior design, this botanical display is ideal for the bedroom, coordinating perfectly with the natural wicker and rattan.

4. Create a gallery wall

A popular design feature used across the home, gallery wall ideas are great for showcasing a range of unique artistic designs, maximizing the impact and focus on artwork in a room.

Not just for living room art ideas, creating a gallery wall in your bedroom can establish an eye-catching feature wall that celebrates your favorites artists, colors and designs, as shown in this elegant bedroom by Neptune, a charming look for country bedroom ideas.

Great for adding texture and interest above the bed or for an empty wall space in a large bedroom, a gallery wall is a beautiful option for bedroom art ideas.

5. Choose an eclectic mix of designs 

In this pretty pastel bedroom, bedroom art ideas have been taken quite literally, with a traditional wooden paint palette mounted above the bed. With the framed pressed flower stem creating an elegant contrast with the organic shape of the palette, the mix of materials, shapes and designs creating an eye-catching decorative display. 

When planning wall decor ideas, using an eclectic mix of designs can not only create talking points when people walk into a room, it can help to add character and identity to your space.

6. Zone the space and curate a collection

Great for small bedroom ideas, creating a zoned area in the room for your artwork and other decorative designs, such as on top of a cabinet or on a shelf, can not only establish an eye-catching decorative display, it can help to make space for more practical items such as wardrobes, mirrors and shelving.

In this calming bedroom space by Jessica Bennett of Alice Lane Interior Design, the contemporary artwork, ornaments and accessories all embody the same 'sophisticated palette of colors' which was one of the focuses for the room. With the abstract artwork taking center stage, the other, layered items add depth, texture and personality, establishing an attractive, artistic zone in the bedroom.

7. Incorporate a beautiful mural

Tobie Lewis, senior brand manager at Valspar Paint says, 'a large, colorful mural is an excellent way to create a unique and impactful space in your home. Our bedrooms are an essential part of our home for relaxation and choosing the right color is important, when it comes to sleep and enhancing our sleep environment. Darker blues, purples and warming neutrals are great colors to use for your bedroom. It is also a place to have fun and using a large mural with these colors in mind is an excellent way to create a unique and peaceful space in your home.'

As shown in this bedroom, the tropical mural, defined by palm trees, turrets and monkeys on beautiful blue background, is both calming and compelling simultaneously. Working wonderfully with the pink bed, the colors and artistic mural design create a stunning bedroom space that is truly unique, a great example of wall mural ideas.

8. Keep it simple

In this inviting bedroom, decorated in beautiful wallpaper and fabrics by Morris & Co, a lovely design fitting for traditional bedroom ideas, a very small framed painting has been placed beside the bed and below the wall light. 

Even though this artwork is small in size, it creates an eye-catching contrast with the bright color palette used in the rest of the room, coordinating with the more natural, neutral palette of the wooden chair and carpet.

Your bedroom art ideas do not always have to be big and bold, smaller designs like this can still add visual interest and intrigue to the space.

9. Use artwork to create contrast

Using artwork in a bedroom is a great way to bring in an accent color and an element of contrast to the space.

As shown in this bedroom by Susie Novak Interiors, the characterful, vivid yellow artwork adds a dynamic element of vibrancy and color to the monochrome scheme, uniting a mix of styles and contrasts to create a stylish, contemporary sleep space.

Using artwork is a versatile option for bedroom accent wall ideas, and if your style or taste changes over time, you can easily freshen up the space and swap at old designs for new pieces.

10. Pick a pretty pair

In this bedroom by Neptune, painted in a gorgeous saffron yellow, the two framed floral artworks add a simple yet stylish statement above the bed. 

Looking to symmetry in interior design can help you decide on how and where is best to place the artwork in your bedroom.

As shown in this space, the pretty pair of designs mirror the size of the double bed and the matching bedside tables and lamps. Creating a balanced, aesthetically pleasing design, this bedroom feels thoughtfully styled, cozy and relaxing.

11. Make a feature of your wallpaper

If you've chosen a stand-out wallpaper for your bedroom wallpaper ideas, for a unique artwork idea, why not get creative with some paneling to frame the design, letting it truly take center stage in the space.

As shown in this bedroom decorated by Sanderson Design, a stunning example of maximalist decor ideas, golden paneling has been created to frame the beautiful Golden Lily wallpaper. 

An innovative wall feature and focal point in the room, great for wall paneling ideas, these framed wallpaper panels are a simple and easy way to elevate the wallpaper design in your bedroom, as after all, wallpaper is a stunning medium of artwork in its own right.

What kind of art is good for the bedroom?

Your bedroom is a deeply personal retreat away from the busyness of the rest of the home, so the main thing to remember when planning on how to choose art for this space is picking designs that are reflective of your identity and that can integrate into the space.

Nic Shacklock, head of marketing at Online Bedrooms states, 'finishing touches can upscale an average bedroom to a breath-taking place. Making simple changes such as having a selection of books angled on the bed side table, or art pieces on walls which help influence the resting place of your dreams.'

For many of us, working with a calming color palette and choosing restful designs to enhance the feeling of tranquility is a good option for the bedroom. However, colorful, impactful designs can work just as well if this is more your style, as these designs can still be calming and inviting. Ultimately, it is completely up to you what artwork to put in your bedroom, as whatever design you choose will make the space feel more personal and unique to you.

What should I hang on my bedroom wall?

Whether you opt for large artwork for above the bed, or create a stunning gallery wall of a mixture of sized pieces and designs, there are options to suit all styles and spaces. 

Nature inspired designs are becoming increasingly popular throughout the home, and can work wonderfully in a bedroom, with beautiful floral and botanical displays a versatile choice for both calming and bold designs.

Establishing a mix of both practical and decorative designs on the wall space in your bedroom will ensure the room remains beautiful as well as functional.

Choosing paint colors correctly can make or break a room. Paint colors can transform a space, whatever its size, shape or aspect. It can set a mood, from calm serenity to warmth and joy, and make all the difference to the success of your interior project.

While it always makes sense to choose paint colors that appeal to you personally, there are factors that will affect your view of a particular hue. Natural light, for example, varies according to the way your room faces, and to the time of day. Some areas of your room will be brighter, others dimmer, while your furniture, rugs and other soft furnishings can also affect how you see the shade. 

If you are finding it difficult to choose a paint color because you can't imagine how the color will look in your space, use a tester pot to create a swatch, preferably on a large sheet of lining paper, moving it around your room over a few days to see if you like its look.

Here, interiors experts advise on how to choose paint colors, so that your paint ideas come to life in the way you want them to.

How to choose paint colors

Whether you are looking for living room paint ideas or bathroom paint ideas, your dilemmas and solutions will be the same. Whether you are looking to paint a room in its entirety or just to paint a wall, or simply want to create interest with paint tricks, choosing the right paint colors will be key to success. Bear in mind, though, that different paint finishes will change how paint colors look, so always experiment carefully first.

1. Choose the right white paint color

Ever popular for creating a fresh, light feel, there are a surprising number of shades which can create a subtly different effect, from space-boosting cooler tones to warm whites than can be used to introduce a softer feel. ‘A combination of whites creates a gentle contrast within a room, while keeping the design classic and timeless,’ says interior designer Emma Sims-Hilditch, founder and creative director of Sims Hilditch, who uses Farrow & Ball white paint.

‘We like to use a darker white, such as Farrow & Ball Shaded White, on the walls or a chimney breast and a fresher, brighter shade on the mantelpiece and woodwork. A good option here might be Farrow & Ball’s School House or All White.’

2. Pick bold paint colors with confidence

‘Bold tones can make a space feel warmer and cozier, but only if you use the right lighting,’ advises interior designer Stephanie Barba Mendoza, who particularly likes to use such colors in living rooms, hallways and powder rooms for the sense of atmosphere that they can create. 

‘I lean towards using low-level and candle lighting when using a rich tone, which helps create an intimate ambience in the evening. But bold tones also have a wonderful way of transitioning throughout the day: if you have a good source of natural light, they feel energetic during the day and then they melt into the evening when paired with clever lighting.’

3. Choose paint colors to suit a room's temperature

Colors are classified by their temperature, from warm to cool. Warm colors include reds, oranges and yellows on one side of the color wheel, while cool colors run from green to blue to violet. 

‘Warmer colors work really well when you want to create a cozier feeling and to draw people into a room,’ advises interior designer Annabel Grimshaw. ‘Cooler colors can be more restful, so blues and greens, for example, work well in bedrooms. They also give more of a feeling of space.’

4. Find cool-toned paint colors that won't feel cold

Known for their calming qualities, cool colors tend to recede, making rooms feel more spacious – so adding to their serene feel. Here, Myland's Walpole, an off-white with soft blue-green tones, is teamed with woodwork in Long Acre, a deeper grey blue, to create a gentle scheme. 

Cool colors can be used in rooms with plenty of natural light, like this one, to add character without overwhelming the space. Pops of warm red, in the armchair and rug, add a touch of warmth.

5. Pick the right bright paint colors as accents

Accent color ideas can be limited in the area they cover, but boundless in their effect. Painting one wall in a contrasting color can add impact and interest to a room scheme and draw the eye to a focal point, as interior designer Sarah Fox of Fox Interior Design explains. 

‘Here we used a vivid color – Farrow & Ball’s Yellowcake – to frame the internal window, drawing light and a ray of sunshine into the room,’ she says. ‘It is an unexpected, zingy hue that brightens the scheme and draws your eye to the atrium beyond.’

6. Discover how to prepare a color palette

The color wheel can help you select hues for your scheme. Contrasting or ‘complementary’ colors (those that are opposite each other on the wheel) will energise each other, while harmonious ones (adjacent on the wheel) are aesthetically pleasing. Tonal colors are lighter and darker variants of the same color. 

Here, bright yellow Paint & Paper Library Parasol walls are combined with leafy greens for natural harmony.

7. Create balance with paint colors

While joyous color can be uplifting and add plenty of personality to a room, too much can be overwhelming. One way to ensure success is to balance the bold color with soft hues, as interior designer Katie Ridder reveals in this elegant scheme. 

‘A neutral ceiling and carpet are important calming factors that draw our eye to strong color elsewhere,’ she says.

8. Enliven ceilings with toning paint colors

‘If you are painting the walls in an off white, then we suggest painting the ceiling in the same color as this will make the ceilings feel higher,’ explains interior designer Taline Findlater of Olivine Design. 

‘If you have chosen a deeper color for the walls, such as Farrow & Ball Oval Room Blue or Green Smoke, then we suggest a warmer tone of white, such as White Tie, rather than a cool white, to soften the contrast between the walls and ceiling.’ 

In this pretty bedroom scheme, Olivine Design used Old Ochre from Fired Earth to create eye-catching ceiling ideas, echoing the pink of the striped wallpaper. 

‘Of all the pinks available, this is an absolute favorite because it has a warm undertone from a tiny dose of yellow, rather than some with too much lilac.’

9. Choose paint colors to create contrast

‘Red is a color with great joy and passion, the boldest of all the shades,’ says Annie Sloan, paint color expert and founder of Annie Sloan. ‘It brings great warmth, dynamism and personality to a space, so it’s a great choice for active areas, such as hallways.’ 

Here, walls in Primer Red are contrasted with Cambrian Blue for warm versus cool contrast, with border in Pemberley Blue, and a checkerboard floor in Chalk Paint Primer Red and Original for added impact.

10. Work with modern neutrals

Neutral paint colors, from shades of white to creams, grays and taupes, can be easy to live with and make a soft backdrop to bolder colors – or be layered with other neutrals to create a sophisticated blend of texture and shade. 

If you are finding it tricky to identify whether a particular color has a cool or warm base for your neutral room ideas, it may help to compare it with a chip of true (bright) white. 

Here, walls painted in a soft cream, Valspar Biscuit Crumbs, are teamed with a warm white ceiling and trim, teamed with wooden furniture for added warmth. To avoid a bland result, a dark coffee table and sculpture add definition.

How do I pick the right paint color?

From the colors that naturally appeal to you, decide on the effect that you want to create, from cool restful to warm dynamic shades. Consider how the color will work with the room’s furnishings, and whether you want to create a simple backdrop to bold paintings, for example, or use vibrant color to create impact. Create a mood board (a collage of images and samples) to develop a contrasting scheme, if you wish, or do you prefer something more harmonious with layers of texture? Then paint a swatch and test your scheme to see that you like the result.

Blue hallway ideas can create a calming and cool entrance into the home. 

With its connection to the outside world, from deep waters to vast skies, decorating with blue is renowned to make us feel more relaxed and content, having been named one of the best colors to make a room feel happy by paint experts, creating a peaceful and relaxing indoor-outdoor atmosphere for your hallway ideas.

Enduring and versatile, using blue for your hallway color ideas means you can experiment with both bold and neutral shades. From deep midnight blue to bright turquoise and cyan, this adaptable color can integrate into hallway spaces of all sizes and styles.

Blue hallway ideas

Blue room ideas are an incredibly popular choice for throughout the home. 

From paint to wallpaper, to artwork and colorful accessories, there are an array of options to choose from for blue hallway ideas, and we have gathered our favorite looks to provide you with some stylish inspiration.

1. Create a calming point of entry into the home

Creating a calming point of entry into the home can help make you feel welcomed and instantly at ease when you step through the door.

This hallway space embraces beautiful Japanese influences and furniture designs and a cool, blue color palette to create a serene, minimalist space. The use of different blue shades, patterns and textures make this monochromatic color scheme come to life, creating a restful hallway where you just want to sit and relax. 

2. Combine a mix of styles and colors

A hallway is a great place to make a statement; the first room your guests are greeted by, creating a unique, eclectic design will make a long-lasting impression.

This hallway elegantly combines classic and contemporary design elements to great effect. The bright, blue painted feature wall on the textured brickwork adds color and vibrancy to this traditional feature. The soft Medici blue broadloom carpet by Brintons adds comforting texture and grandeur to the space, with the blue and cream pattern inspired by Renaissance antique artwork and design. 

The use of blue in this hallway is defined by a beautiful fusion of the old and new, and how a mix of styles and colors can work in perfect harmony.

3. Be bold with your accent colors

The beauty of working with blue in interior design is that it can pretty much work with any other color out there, allowing you to be both bold and subtle with your accent colors.

In this hallway, the deep blue color palette works in perfect harmony with the bright red bench and colorful abstract artwork, establishing an uplifting, modern design full of character. When choosing contrasting colors for your blue hallway ideas, look to the color wheel for guidance and inspiration.

Martin Waller, founder of Andrew Martin states when decorating with art and planning your paint ideas, 'the boldness and warmth found in Blue will continue to be prominent in our homes. Darker colors such as blue form a much better background for paintings and artworks than white, which art galleries and museums have discovered.'

4. Get creative with paint

Instead of painting the whole room for your hallway paint ideas, highlighting certain features through paint, such as doors, skirting boards and paneling, can make for a colorful and cohesive design. 

The blue paint used for the woodwork in this hallway has been color matched to a shade used in the beautiful, Fawn Orleans wallpaper by Dado Atelier. A sophisticated design that lets color and pattern take center-stage, getting creative with your paint ideas in the hallway can make for a stylish and unique design.

5. Make a statement with wallpaper

Hallway wallpaper ideas are great for making a colorful and characterful first impression, with there being a range of understated and dramatic blue designs to choose from.

The color blue is truly celebrated in this hallway space, with the bold, dark blue wallpaper with contemporary floral patterns making a real statement. The wallpaper design is enhanced by the use of matching blue paint on the woodwork, creating a striking, immersive affect. With furniture pieces such as the bench coordinating with the accent colors in the wallpaper design, the overall look makes for striking welcome into the home.

6. Uplift a traditional space

Blue is a great color for both classic and modern styled spaces, and as shown in this hallway, it can be used to uplift a traditional space with an enhanced feeling of color and contemporary charm, one to remember for traditional hallway ideas.

The bright blue paint works wonderfully with the dark wooden furniture, with the smooth stone flooring adding lightness to the overall space. With elements such as the two patterned rugs uniting the whole scheme of different colors, materials and textures together, this blue hallway design feels both eclectic and refreshing.

7. Create a fresh and inviting atmosphere

With the color blue referencing memories of being by the sea and outdoors in the fresh air, choosing a light and bright shade for your blue hallway ideas can create an inviting atmosphere that transports us to the outside world.

Aptly named, this hallway has been painted in By the Seashore by Valspar Paint. The natural, textured chair and muted color palette on the comforting rug work with the calming blue paint to create a relaxed, cozy corner in this hallway, with finishing touches such as decorating with plants elevating that feeling of being outdoors and amongst nature.

8. Embrace a coastal style

Decorating with blue and white will always create a timeless and elegant scheme, and for many of us, this classic color combination is synonymous with coastal decor ideas.

As we have discussed, working with blue often evokes feelings of being by water, so why not elevate this one step further and create a charming coastal design for your blue hallway ideas.

Coastal decor does not always have to be centered around nautical prints and beach accessories, it can be as simple as working with colors and natural textures that remind us of the seaside.

In this hallway, designed by Leah Atkins Interior Design, the blue and white patterned wallpaper creates a beautiful backdrop for the sleek metal and glass shelf, decorated with objects and accessories in calming colors and textures. Finished with a large, statement mirror, the overall design is a great example of styling a shelf, and how to create an elegant, coastal look in a hallway.

9. Find the perfect shade to use throughout

This hallway by Zulufish has used a relaxing shade of cool blue throughout, creating a striking yet calming entrance into the home. 

Caroline Milns, head of interior Design at Zulufish states, 'when washed across the walls and doorways, blue can create a sense of rhythm and a feeling of flow that leads you through the heart of the home. In addition, it’s also a color that is easy to combine with other shades, as well as natural materials. For areas such as hallways which see high traffic, introducing color across paneling is an easy way to ensure scuffs are easily wiped away, it will also add a sophisticated finish bringing an extra layer of architectural detail.'

10. Keep things simple

Great for small hallway ideas where you want to keep the overall space light and bright, injecting small bursts of color through artwork and accessories can create an adaptable scheme that can be easily changed over time.

With light wooden flooring and off-white painted walls, this hallway incorporates the color blue through it's finishing touches. The soft, blue and white rug creates a cozy and grounding environment, with the colorful blue artwork and bright blue console shelf adding depth and character to the neutral space.

A simple and easy way to add color and personality to a room, getting creative with your accessories and furniture can be just as effective as paint or wallpaper for blue hallway ideas.

Is blue a good color for a hallway?

An incredibly versatile color to work with in interior design, there are so many beautiful blue shades to choose from to make a great first impression in your hallway. 

With its references to the ocean and the beauty of the natural world, working with blue in your hallway can create a timeless and sophisticated scheme. 

Caroline Milns states, 'there is a translucent quality to certain shades of blue that is very evocative of the expanse of the sky, or water, giving an instant connection to nature and feeling of serenity, perfect for creating a calming refuge and welcome to your home.'

Blue can work as a restful backdrop as well as creating a vibrant statement in a hallway, so whatever your style, there will be a blue hallway ideas to suit.

Our green hallway ideas can help you to create a timeless design that takes inspiration from the color palette of the natural world. 

A color that is wonderfully versatile in interior design, decorating with green can establish a calming, balanced and harmonious atmosphere - ideal for a hallway where you first step foot into the home.

Green can work with an array of different colors, from bright pinks and purples to more subtle neutrals such as cream and brown. So whether you want to create a vibrant scheme or a relaxed space for your hallway color ideas, green can effortlessly cater to both.

Green hallway ideas – evoke feelings of calm and serenity

From stunning wallpaper designs to the clever use of furniture pieces and accessories, we have curated a collection of green hallway ideas to provide you with some beautiful inspiration.

1. Use green wallpaper

In this hallway, the walls have been covered in an Karun Thakar - Arabesque Wallpaper in Hart Green by Soane Britain.

The intricate, floral design takes inspiration from an 18th century block printed textile, with the arabesque design containing vine scrolls, leaves and palmettes.

A beautiful example of hallway wallpaper ideas that celebrates not only the color green, but the different plants and shapes found within nature, the design adds an inviting layer of pattern and texture to this traditional hallway space.

2. Complement your green design with natural materials

When many of us think of the color green, we think of elements found in the outside world, such as trees, grass, plants and flowers. 

For an enriched, organic design where nature takes center-stage, why not complement your green scheme with the use of natural materials. 

In this relaxed hallway space, the use of rustic wooden wall paneling, and the custom, built in wooden bench, beautifully complements the textured, painted green walls. The wood is softened by the light green color, as well as the comforting cushions and patterned rug. Finished with plants for inviting texture and color, the overall design creates a connection with the outdoors in the room that leads us outside.

3. Bring in accent colors 

A key element to remember for green room ideas, incorporating accent colors will enrich and enhance your green hallway design to create a stylish and well-thought out space. 

An accent color can help to break up a scheme that mainly focuses on one color. Used in interior design to create an appealing element of contrast, your accent colors can be both bold or subtle. For more advice on color pairings, see our guide on the color wheel. 

In this contemporary hallway space, the use of colorful, abstract artwork and soft accessories such as the daybed bolster cushion and patterned rug, perfectly complement the green painted walls and matching green daybed, whilst injecting a playful element of color and contrast.

4. Get creative with your paint ideas

Renowned to be one of the easiest and quickest ways to transform and add color to a room, getting creative with your hallway paint ideas can create a unique and eye-catching design.

In this hallway, the green painted feature, in colors Soft Lime and Emerald Vision by Crown Paints, uses a simple, striped paint technique to create a colorful, modern focal point in the hallway space. 

When using multiple colors for your green hallway ideas and deciding on where to use them in the space, Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown Paints states, 'a good way to introduce a dark shade in your home is by painting just a section of a wall to create a zone within a room. Use natural breaks like corners, alcoves, shelving, dado or picture rails to start and stop your different color choices. If you don't have a picture or dado rail, try painting up to that height in one color, mask with tape, and then paint above in the other. Simple and very effective.'

5. Incorporate green furniture

Whether you give a new lease of life to a piece of furniture with painted furniture ideas, or incorporate new, colorful pieces, using green furniture in your hallway is an easy way to establish a green theme.

In this colorful hallway, rich with pattern and texture, the green wicker chair is a stand out piece, with the green color adding a modern feel to the traditional chair design. Finished with accessories such as the green decorative plates on the wall and carpet runner, the overall look feels fresh and well-considered.

6. Keep things simple

Your hallway does not have to be decorated floor to ceiling in green to achieve green hallway ideas, working the color subtly into a neutral scheme can create just as a striking effect.

In this hallway, the room's foundation is defined by a calming, all-white design, allowing for the green carpet runner and colorful artwork to truly take center-stage.  

Green and white will always be a winning color combination, especially in a hallway. The use of white paint in this space makes the room feel open, bright and light, with the pops of green adding a characterful element of color and depth.

7. Create a unique indoor outdoor effect 

'Our hallways are one of the main rooms in the home that connect us with the outdoors, so enhancing this connection through green hallway ideas can create a unique indoor outdoor effect,' says Homes & Gardens' editorial director Sarah Spiteri.

As shown here through a range of paint colors by Benjamin Moore, the outdoor space, painted in Great Barrington Green, beautifully blends in with the natural environment, whilst making a stylish feature of the entrance. This use of color leads us into the hallway that has been painted in a complementary shade of soothing Elemental, creating a warming and inviting hallway space. 

These indoor-outdoor paint ideas create a cohesive, contemporary design where green hallway ideas are extended that little bit further for a unique welcome into the home.

8. Paint a striking mural

For a truly impressive and striking feature in your hallway, why not paint a unique green mural. 

Wall mural ideas can add a beautiful, artistic statement to your space, and are great for larger hallways if you want to add colorful decoration to the wall.

This wall mural not only uses a palette of deep, dark greens, but turns to the natural world for inspiration to create a picturesque woodland scene. Finished with furniture pieces and accessories in the same color palette, this calming mural design effortlessly transports you to the outdoors.

9. Enhance your green scheme with accessories

'Often in interior design, finishing touches through accessories and lighting can bring a whole scheme together, so do not forget this for your hallway ideas,' says Jennifer Ebert, Homes & Gardens' digital editor.

The green leaf wallpaper design used in this hallway is enhanced by the lighting and decorative accessories used. The lamp shade's modern, abstract design creates a dynamic contrast with the traditional wallpaper, whilst the buttercups and grasses in the vase establish an elegant, botanical connection with the wallpaper print, a beautiful showcase of yellow and green room ideas.

A pretty, decorative corner in a hallway, this use of accessories and decorative designs elevate a green and yellow theme through color, texture and pattern.

10. Create a bold design with a bright green

Green comes in many different shades, from deep forest to vivid lime. 

To make more of a statement for your green hallway ideas, choose a bright green shade for maximum impact - great for modern hallway ideas.

In this contemporary hallway, two different shades of bright green have been used for the comforting daybed and textured rug. Beautifully complementing and enhancing the busy, abstract wallpaper, this use of color creates a vibrant, cohesive design that dramatically welcomes you into the home.

Is green a good color for the hallway?

A versatile color that can make you feel restful and grounded, green is great a color to use in a hallway. Reminding us of nature and the outdoors, using green in interior design is renowned to make a space feel more calming and relaxing, ideal for use in a hallway where you first enter the home. 

For small hallway ideas, using a light green can make the room feel more spacious and bright, as Helen Shaw, director at Benjamin Moore states, 'hallways can often lack natural light. If you want to introduce color without going too dark on the walls, consider pale warm greens or yellows.'

Darker greens can create a luxurious and elegant atmosphere, and are a great choice for a more bold design, Tobie Lewis, senior brand manager at Valspar Paint states, 'if you are looking to create a statement in your hallway, color drenching the space in a bold tone of green will add playful dynamics and fun energy, creating a central point of the house.'

Whether you opt for a light or dark shade, embracing green hallway ideas can create a stylish and secure space.

What is the best color to paint a hallway?

As discussed, hallways can occasionally lack natural light, so choosing light, neutral shades often works well to open up the space and make it feel bigger and brighter. 

However, dark colors can make a hallway feel more cozy and luxurious, so it really depends on your chosen style and how you want the space to feel when you walk through the door.

Your hallway sets the tone for the rest of the design in your home, so creating an inviting scheme that is rich with character and charm will only make the space feel more inviting and personal to you.

For a fast update or a total renovation, new paint is surely the best way to change the atmosphere and look of a living room. At the same time as you browse the paint charts to select the perfect color for your space, it’s worth considering the choice of finish. 

There are practical benefits to choosing the best paint finishes for your project, in terms of resilience and longevity. As a general guide, the more sheen that a paint has, the more durable it will be. It is also worth noting that different paint sheen levels may alter your perception of hue, because more color is reflected in glossier finishes. 

Which finish is most popular for living rooms?

‘As deeper tones have become more popular living room paint ideas, such as sage greens and Nordic navies, matte paint finishes have been favored for achieving that chalkier, deeper impression to paint finishes,’ explains Tobie Lewis, senior brand manager, Valspar. 

‘Matte finishes are by essence, smooth and less shiny in their light reflection, working well for these deeper toned feature walls and color drenching.’ Flat (no sheen) and matte (very low sheen) finishes are also better for decorating uneven walls and hiding imperfections with their smooth application and lower levels of reflectivity, while gloss paint finishes tend to highlight surface dents and bumps. 

Which is the best paint finish to boost light in your living room?

‘Eggshell paint finishes are also great for living rooms as they reflect a subtle and delicate amount of light, enhancing the natural and warming light coming into your space,’ continues Tobie. 

Although eggshell finishes typically have lower sheen levels than satin paint (if you’re thinking satin vs eggshell), milk paint, silk and gloss finishes, they have higher levels than flat and matte in the run off of eggshell vs matte, so offer more durability. While eggshell offers a gentle luster, glossier finishes can be used to add drama and high impact, if you prefer. Their higher sheen levels reflect more light and provide more durability, but their high shine appearance is not to every taste in living room settings, where some prefer the visual softness of more matte texture. 

Which is the best paint finish for households with children and pets?

Ideally, a finish that is more able to withstand the scuffs of daily life is the best choice, especially if it is wipeable and washable. Some manufacturers now offer interior wall paints with low sheen levels specifically designed as robust options for busy households. Patrick O’Donnell, brand ambassador for Farrow & Ball, recommends the brand’s washable and scuff resistant Modern emulsion, formulated as a super tough finish for interior walls and as a paint finish for ceilings. It has a 7 per cent sheen level (as compared to its classic product, Estate emulsion, which has a chalky, very flat matte finish at 2 per cent sheen level in the comparison of the brand’s Estate emulsion vs Modern emulsion). 

Kristin Sparks, director of product marketing at Behr, also recommends the latest formulations, such as Behr’s new Dynasty paint line which has advanced durability, stain blocking and cleanability. ‘For busy spaces, performance features such as scuff defence and stain repellence are best,’ she says. For added benefits, Kristin recommends Behr’s Copper Force Paint, which is designed to kill 99.9 per cent of harmful bacteria and viruses on the painted surface. ‘It offers an extra layer of protection in addition to other hygiene efforts taken to protect your high-touch interior spaces,’ she says. 

Which is the best paint finish for trim in living rooms?

‘Typically, semi-gloss is utilized on doors and as a paint finish for trim,’ says Kristin. The higher sheen level provides more durability, useful if trim, such as baseboards (skirting), is likely to be frequently scuffed. Other options include eggshell (lower sheen). Make sure the paint is specified as suitable for the material used for your trim, which could be wood, plaster or a synthetic material such as PVC.

Here we round up some of the best paint brands, known for their reliable formulas, ease of application and tempting palette of shades, from timeless neutrals to moody hues and bold brights. 

Good quality paint finishes can make all the difference to the success of your decorating project, delivering depth of color and a durable finish; investment in the product is what will bring you a professional finish, whether you are painting a room yourself, or having a painter do the job for you.

Best paint brands

If you are planning an interiors project, you will want to invest in the highest quality products. This includes everything from hard-wearing fabrics to durable paint colors. It is a false economy to buy cheap products, and particularly cheap paint. You will not get the coverage a quality product will offer, nor the durability nor depth of color. To make the most of your paint ideas, you need to invest in the best paint brands on the market. This is our list of where to shop.

Benjamin Moore

Irish-born brothers Benjamin and Robert Moore established their business in Brooklyn, New York in 1883. Today, Benjamin Moore & Co is a Berkshire Hathaway company, known as one of North America’s leading manufacturers of premium quality paints with an extensive choice of formulations and colors – more than 3,500.

‘Our bestselling interior wall finish is Aura Matte,’ says Helen Shaw, Benjamin Moore director, who notes that its popularity derives from its application characteristics and depth and richness of color. 

‘It is also a very durable finish, even in the darkest shades where other brands struggle to stand up to daily domestic wear and tear, so the color looks pristine for longer,’ she adds.

Valspar

This Sherwin-Williams brand has been in the paints, stains and coatings business for over 200 years. Valspar offers a wide range of interior and exterior paints, on multiple surfaces including walls, ceiling, wood, metal and masonry, designed to require fewer coats than some of its competitors. It also offers color-matching technology to scan, match and mix any color the eye can see – said to be over 2.2 million shades.

Sherwin-Williams

As we said above, Sherwin-Williams has been around for over 200 years, when it was founded in Cleveland, Ohio. 

The brand is known for its quality paints and stains for interiors and exteriors, which are sold through its own stores in the USA. It also has its own branded products, including Valspar (as mentioned above), Minwax, Thompson's Water Seal and Krylon.

Farrow & Ball

Known for highly-pigmented paint with a particular depth of color and quality of finish, this company’s roots can be traced back to 1946 in Dorset, England, where it was founded by John Farrow and Richard Ball. 

After a revival in the 1990s, Farrow & Ball has become internationally renowned for its intriguingly named collection of timeless colors. Its bestselling shades include the soft neutral Wimborne White, as well as mid-tones and dirty pastels such as Setting Plaster, French Gray and Slipper Satin. 

'There has also been a renaissance in darker shades over the last two years,’ says brand ambassador Patrick O’Donnell. ‘People have been feeling more confident about color choice and how it can create a “mood” – so we have seen increased interest in Down Pipe, Hague Blue, Green Smoke and Railings.’

Behr

Sold at The Home Depot, Behr was founded in 1947 in Santa Ana, California. Now sold across the United States, Canada and into Mexico, it is known for its primers, stains, interior paints and exterior paints, plus surface preparation products. 

Backdrop

After finding it tricky to purchase paint with success, Natalie and Caleb Ebel founded their brand, Backdrop, ‘for everyone and anyone who wants to transform their space without unnecessary pain’. 

The online offer includes self-priming paints in interior, exterior and cabinet options, in standard and semi-gloss finishes, plus a new range of wallpapers, now that the brand is part of heritage design house F. Schumacher & Co. 

Since its launch in 2018, each Backdrop sale has contributed to the International Rescue Committee, which helps displaced families in some of the most challenging places in the world.

Clare

Interior designer Nicole Gibbons set out to change the traditional paint shopping experience when she launched delivered-to-your-door supplier Clare in summer 2018. Her designer-curated colors now number more than sixty and samples are available as peel and stick Perfect Color Swatches, so you can easily see if the shade suits your space. The interactive Clare Color Genius is designed to help guide you to the right color choice for your room with a quick questionnaire. 

ECOS Paints

One of the first companies to focus on manufacturing paint formulations without harsh chemicals and VOCs, ECOS Paints was founded over 35 years ago. (In the UK, it is sold under Lakeland Paints.) 

Today, the paints are made with the same principles – plus an emphasis on performance – in South Carolina and sold throughout North America and around the world, and are to be found in Westminster Abbey in London and the Louvre in Paris.

‘Our commitment to ingredient transparency sets us apart from other paint companies, says Emma Pugliares, ECOS Paints’ marketing director. ‘We were the first North American paint manufacturer to adopt the International Living Future Institute’s Declare labels, in which product ingredients are made publicly available and compared against an 800 worst-in-class chemicals “Red List”.’

Which is the best paint brand?

Nominating the best paint brand isn't as easy as just choosing one front-runner; choosing the right product for the right job is the most important way to ensure durability and good-looking results. However, most professional painters would cite Sherwin-Williams' or Benjamin Moore's products as the best paints. 

Which paint brand to professional painters recommend?

According to Painters Inc, both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams offer the best quality paints, with zero-VOC paint options, good coverage and durability. They do highlight that these paint brands come at a cost but our experience is that cheap paints do not offer value for money. 

Decorating with teal is a fabulous way to bring personality to your interiors. Sitting between green and blue, teal is a versatile shade that pairs well with a wide range of other colors and can be used in both contemporary and traditional schemes.

With a spectrum stretching from cyan tones through to vivid turquoise and deep ocean blues, teal can be used to evoke an array of different moods and styles.

Whether you’re looking to create a fresh new scheme or to breathe new life into an existing room, there are many ways to use teal as a warmer option when decorating with blue. To help inspire you to get it right, we’ve rounded up an array of beautiful teal rooms along with some tips from the experts.

Not sure what color teal is? Our guide will help you get the right shade in the right place.

Decorating with teal – what to consider

Decorating with teal is a popular room color idea with interior designers and homeowners alike, thanks to its versatility.

'A color that is beautiful, bold and sits so well with almost all other colors, using teal in interiors is always a great idea as it can be so dynamic,' says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director, Kelling Designs. 'Whether you go for a bright teal or opt for a moodier, deeper shade, it's versatile enough to add life and energy, whilst creating drama and atmosphere in any living space.'

Andy Greenall, head of design at Paint & Paper Library, also highlights how teal can be used to create a range of different blue room ideas suitable for any season. 'A perfectly balanced hue, it’s neither too warm or too cool. It will create a sumptuous cocooning feeling in winter and an uplifting, almost Mediterranean decor feel when bathed in light on sunny summer days.'

For those confident with color, teal can look stunning used wall-to-wall and is great for bringing a sense of drama to living rooms and dining rooms. Alternatively, for a more pared-back approach to decorating, teal can make a fabulous accent color for bringing extra depth to neutral schemes and for livening up restful spaces such as bedrooms.

Make an impact with an all teal scheme

A bold, captivating shade, teal can make a stunning statement when used wall-to-wall. ‘Super strong tones like teal are lively and exciting and add energy to a room, to make it pop,’ explains Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown. 

When choosing teal paint ideas it’s important to take into account the tone as this can have a big impact on the look and feel of the space. While bright teals can create a fresh, vibrant feel, darker teals with black in them can create a more moody, dramatic feel. 

Deep teals can make a great dining room color ideas, as they will create an intimate atmosphere which is perfect for entertaining. To enhance effect, consider using teal on the ceiling and across all skirting and woodwork, too – this is known as color drenching and can look beautifully contemporary.

Think about the lighting of the room

If you're thinking of decorating with teal it's important to take into account the orientation of the room and the light it receives as this will impact how the color looks and feels and what warmth of shade you choose, explains Andy
Greenall, head of design for Paint & Paper Library.

'As teals span the color spectrum from bright turquoise tones to luxurious cyan hues, the base tone varies from green to blue, so consider selecting a bluer hue in south-facing spaces and a greener teal in a north-facing room, where the cooler light will emphasize the blue within the color.'

Use teal with white to create a feeling of serenity

Conjuring the alluring turquoise and cyan tones of the Mediterranean sea, decorating with teal together with white is a fabulous way to bring a restful feel to interiors. With its soothing, watery connotations, the shade makes a great bathroom color idea – after all, if there's anywhere that deserves to feel relaxing it's the bathroom. 

If you're considering teal for your bathroom paneling ideas, as demonstrated here, then 'opt for a satin finish,' suggests Andy Greenall head of design at Paper & Paint Library. 'As well as being practical and durable, it offers a 30-35 percent sheen level, this will highlight the paneling and create a beautiful light reflecting surface.'

Combine different tones of teal

Decorating in a single hue, or with cool tones like blue, can sometimes leave rooms feeling cold or lacking in atmosphere. If you're thinking of an all-teal room then consider using a variation of tones to create layers of depth. 

This is also a useful tactic for those cautious with using block color, explains Ruth Mottershead, creative director of Little Greene. 'If painting all elements in one shade feels a little overwhelming, select a group of tonally coordinating colors and utilize across the room,' she advises.

Team teal with natural wood

Conjuring the beautiful tones of sea and sky, teal works fabulously with natural materials and stands out beautifully when set next to the honeyed and blonde tones of natural wood as demonstrated in this dining space. 

When decorating with teal, 'draw on the organic tones of the shade and include plenty of botanicals and raw woods to create a fresh and enlivening space,' says Helen Shaw, UK director at Benjamin Moore. 'Alternatively earthy and warm accents such as mustard or paprika will create a mid-century and dramatic feel,' she adds.

Pair teal with pink accents and navy

If you're looking for colors to pair with teal, consider pink. Sitting opposite green on the color wheel, pink works particularly well for balancing greenish-blue tones. 'Teal and pink is a winning combination as the colors sit so beautifully together and it is a pairing that can be seen used across many of our design schemes,' says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director, Kelling Designs.

'Whether you go bold with bright teals and fuchsia pinks in big pops on your walls, joinery and furniture, or whether you introduce it to a neutral space through accessories and soft furnishings, you can add an uplifting burst of color and pattern that's as easy on the eye as it is beautiful.'

Introduce teal accents

For a gentler approach to decorating with teal try introducing it through accessories such as throws, cushions and lampshades. For those that prefer pared-back neutral room ideas, adding colorful accessories in vibrant shea blues are a brilliant way to liven up the space whilst maintaining a feeling of calm. 

Paint furniture in teal

For a playful approach to decorating with teal why not paint the inside of a cabinet or pantry for an unexpected color pop? Painting a glazed cabinet in a bold hue can make a brilliant backdrop for displaying china as it will allow pieces to really pop.

Use teal to highlight period features

If you love bold colors like teal, but are cautious of using them in abundance, then why not introduce them over woodwork or other architectural features such as fireplaces?

'Architectural features are a fantastic host for making a statement with color, be that skirting and doors, or if you’re lucky enough, traditional window shutters which look resplendent in a statement color,' explains Andy Greenall head of design, Paint & Paper Library.

Pair teal with black and white 

If you're planning on decorating with black and white then teal can make a beautiful complimentary color. Used in their pure form, black and white can look stark and flat so can really benefit from being tempered by another color and teal is the ideal candidate. 

Bold and vibrant, teal has the ability to stand up to two-tone schemes as this bathroom proves. In this scheme teal bathroom wall tiles provide visual balance to the striking checkered floor while also creating a beautiful backdrop for this luxurious roll top.

Use teal to bring energy to a kitchen

Kitchens are spaces in which we spend lots of time, so it makes sense that they feel happy and uplifting and teal is a brilliant way to achieve this. According to the experts, teal has become an increasingly popular as a kitchen color idea, providing a fresh take on the classic blue kitchen. 

'In kitchens we often see tones of blue or green being used to draw the eye to the center island, however more recently we have seen a trend for more vibrant hues coming through such as shades of teal or verdigris,' says Helen Shaw, UK director at Benjamin Moore.

What colors go well with teal?

Teal goes well with a host of other colors. Sitting between green and blue, it is a versatile shade which fits easily with many color schemes. 

With orange sitting opposite blue on the color wheel, and green sitting opposite pink, as a mixture of the two, teal is a natural partner to both shades but also looks fabulous with other warm tones like yellow and red.

'I love it using teal in designs with reds, charcoals and saffron especially. It works wonderfully well as a back ground to these vibrant colors so great for walls as well,' explains Susie Watson, founder of Susie Watson Designs. 'Deep colors are now so fashionable on walls again and they do make an amazing back drop to the reds, pinks and saffron we love using.'

When thinking about colors to pair with teal Tobie Lewis, Senior Brand Manager at Valspar Paint suggests using it 'with a cleansing white to maximize natural light in a room, or in contrast with an earthy mustard yellow or burnt orange to add more depth to your color palette.'

How do you use teal in a living room?

There are many ways to use teal in a living room, in fact, being a hugely versatile shade, it can be used in most rooms.

If you love teal and a confident with color, 'go bold by painting an entire room or add a pop of it with a statement feature wall,' says Sam Hood, chief creative officer at luxury home store Amara. Alternatively, for a more subtle approach, 'a beautiful teal vase or decorative objet can bring depth and interest to any surface,' she adds.

'For furniture, teal velvet works well and adds a sumptuous texture to your living space.'

When deciding what tone of teal to use be sure to think about lighting explains  Annie Sloan. 

'In bright natural daylight, this color will lean more green whilst at night, under artificial light, the blue pigment will be more noticeable,' says the paint and color expert. 'This depth of shade will create a wonderful, snug, cozy feeling even in larger rooms,' she adds, however in smaller spaces she suggests to, 'use it on just one wall.' 

When painting our homes, it’s all too easy to forget the hallway; after all, it’s not as if we spend much time in this particular room. 

There are a range of hallway ideas out there, but painting the hallway is a great way to transform the space.

The hallway is the first space any guest sees in the home, as well as being an important connecting point between rooms. The hallway deserves some serious design attention, especially when it comes to clever color choices. Besides often being overlooked, they’re also cursed with limited light and no natural focal point, so you need some solid color know-how to transform them into artful spaces. 

As well as looking inviting in its own right, a hallway color scheme should set the tone for the rest of your home. Move it up on your decorating agenda: it’s a place to be bold and show your personality. Winning hallway paint ideas pay attention to the mood, size and natural light, so whether you go for something playful or serene, here are some hallway paint ideas to get you started.

Hallway paint ideas – 15 clever color and paint ideas for your home's entrance

Paint is a remarkable decorating medium. What could be easier – or more impactful than paint? Explore our top hallway paint ideas below for some beautiful inspiration for updating your hallway space.

1. Create a striking feature wall

Using paint to create a striking feature wall is a great way to add drama and impact to your hallway space. No matter the size of your hallway, adding a splash of bright color to a wall adds personality and charm. In this hallway, the warming red-orange paint creates a cheerful, inviting atmosphere, with the rug perfectly coordinating with the paint color to elevate the scheme, a great example of red hallway ideas.

2. Embrace neutrals

For a calming, relaxed style, opt for a muted, neutral color palette, with shades of cream, grey and brown working well for neutral room ideas. These colors can coordinate with an array of accent colors, so are great if you would rather use brighter colors through accessories and furniture, allowing a subtle introduction to other colors used throughout the rest of the home.

3. Pick a pale pink

Pink room ideas and decorating a pink room will always be guaranteed to lift spirits and create an inviting, welcoming space - perfect for hallway paint ideas. If your hallway is on the smaller side or lacks natural light, picking a light shade like pale pink will make the space feel bigger and brighter.

4. Paint the front door

If you would rather your hallway were painted a more neutral color but still want to inject a pop of color, painting your front door is a great way to add character and charm to the space. Pick a contrasting color to the rest of your scheme for an impact, or opt for a tonal color for a more coordinated look. 

5. Use a warm yellow

In color theory, yellow is known for creating feelings of happiness and creativity, with yellow room ideas becoming increasingly popular for the modern home. When decorating with yellow, the color is the perfect choice for the hallway, as being greeted by this stimulating color creates a positive and welcoming mood, ideal for that first entry point into the home. 

Psychologist and wellbeing consultant Lee Chambers states, ‘entering a yellow hallway is likely to make you feel happy and vibrant…yellow is perfect in a hallway for creating a sunny welcome – and a creative burst as you leave’. See our yellow hallway ideas for more inspiration.

6. Create a harmonious color scheme 

When there are clear views from a hallway into neighboring rooms, think carefully about your choice of paint ideas to ensure that the eye is drawn naturally from one space to the next. Don’t think you have to stick to one hue: instead create a palette out of complementary hues, such as taupe, greige and off-white. One way of linking rooms is through common flooring, while using different papers or paint colors to create separation. Vice versa works too.

7. Paint your hallway in a single color palette

The design possibilities with paint are endless. And, thankfully, there is much to be said for decorating in a single color palette, especially when considering small hallway ideas.

'If introducing color in a hall, monogamy serves well and the bold choice of one hue for floor and wall treatments can be very powerful,' says interior designer Tara Bernerd.

Keeping the floor within the same color palette as the walls also helps to blend the room together – if nothing stands out, then your eye will flow around a space and in a narrow hallway this can be key to making it feel larger.

8. Be brave when it comes to color in the hall

Over the last few years, we have been led to believe that white walls are the only way to go. A plain and neutral base can indeed be a good starting point from which to build a decorating scheme, but if you ignore the spectrum of colors available in paint, you could be missing out. Many brands now produce paint, so tricky decisions are often already made for you when it comes to creating perfectly coordinated combinations. Be brave and find a color scheme that work for you.

Paint doesn't have to be pedestrian. Look for uplifting shades that make you feel good. Color should be able having fun, and the hallway is the perfect place to experiment with paint ideas that spark joy. 

9. Go for an all-grey hallway color scheme

Grey hallways offer infinite possibilities for making spaces feel airy and relaxing, refined, and timeless, or elegantly sophisticated, but its most redeeming quality is the feeling of calm it creates in any space,' says Farrow & Ball's color curator Joa Studholme.

Dark greys can work superbly in light starved halls to create drama on arrival and make all adjacent rooms look spacious and unapologetically bright.

Pale greys provide a softer alternative to whites, while deep dark greys are packed with drama allowing contrasting shades to pop against their bold backdrop. While the darker shades usually have the strongest appeal, when push comes to shove, having such a deep color on the walls may be too much of a commitment for some.

The key is to choose the right undertone for your space. 'With almost as many grey paint colors to choose from as off-whites, finding the perfect grey can be a minefield,' says Benjamin Moore director, Helen Shaw. 

10. Use paint to add interest to architectural features

Shun the default white for doors in favor of a more dramatic approach. Architectural details such as panelling, rails and coving provide a framework in which to explore color. 

Mouldings and architraves are easy to add to plain walls and can then be customised in a favorite color scheme. A bold shade always looks very smart – and works wonderfully when contrasted with brilliant white. 

11. Reach for the green paint

Green hallway ideas promise to renew your connection to nature and is said to evoke feelings of balance and vibrancy. It comes to life with plenty of natural light but can also work in a dark or small hallway. 

'Green is incredibly versatile, and the breadth in shade and tone is huge,' says Megan Holloway, marketing manager at Sofa Workshop. 

You shouldn't be afraid to pair greens along the color spectrum – all colors complement green. However, choosing accent colors – whether that is the green or another color – needs to be done carefully to ensure there's harmony, which is what green is all about.

12. Paint wall panelling 

Fitting wall panelling vertically will make a room feel taller, making it a great trick for small rooms, such as the hallway. Painting it in a pale color will further emphasize the room's proportions, and introduce architectural interest and intrigue. 

13. Decorate in an all-white color scheme

Nothing surprising about this, but brilliant white paint has a transformative effect on interiors. For white hallway ideas, use it on walls and ceilings and it will make a star of every non-white piece of furniture – or soft furnishings.

White is a wholly selfless paint shade, providing all the light and energy while reflecting the attention elsewhere – and white decorating ideas are incredibly easy to switch up.

14. Paint your hallway in a tranquil shade of blue

Calm, cool and collected, decorating with blue is win-win: not only does it make a beautiful base for a hallway color scheme but it’s scientifically proven to be a subconsciously serene shade, making it the perfect choice for an entrance or foyer.

Most colors go well with blue, although introducing warmer shades, such as yellow, orange and red will add warmth to the scheme where it might otherwise be lacking. If in doubt, revisit the color wheel for inspiration for your blue hallway ideas.

15. Embrace a bold color scheme 

Being imaginative with color, a specialist finish or decorative effect is the perfect way to give your hallway individual style.

‘Current trends show a real shift towards brighter colors with a clean-cut finish,’ says Sue Kim, senior color designer at Valspar. ‘When choosing a paint color for an entrance, don’t forget to look beyond the walls – consider the ceiling, skirting, window frames and mouldings and how they can be brought into the scheme.’

If you really want to go bold, then consider embracing this year's biggest paint trend – color drenching. This trend involves choosing one color and painting it across multiple surfaces in one space. The result is bold and thoroughly modern, though its appeal extends beyond its daring aesthetic.

How do you pick a hallway color?

When picking a paint for your hallway it is worth noting that lighter colors will give the appearance of more space, while darker tones will bring the room in, although this can be good if it results in a cozier, more intimate feeling.

The same applies to wallpaper – a large motif will introduce a sense of drama, while a smaller design will be subtle and make the hallway appear more spacious.

Be sure to view the hallway as an integral part of your home, and as such try to make sure it’s in harmony with any rooms leading off it, as well as with the stairway, balustrades and landing (when visible). Don’t treat it as a one-off room: ensure any paint colors or wallpaper designs, even if they are different from those in the surrounding rooms, are in keeping.

 Should hallways be painted light or dark?  

Whether your hallway should be painted a light or dark color can depend on factors such as the size of the space and how much natural light the room receives. If your hallway is on the smaller size or quite dark, opting for a light paint color will make the room feel bigger and brighter.

Simon Morris, Marketing Manager at The Radiator Company states, 'hallways often have limited proportions but are some of the busiest places in our homes. We need the space to look great, but also ask a lot from them. A bit of thoughtful planning can help the space feel more elegant from a decorating standpoint'.

Ultimately, it is completely up to you what color you choose. The hallway is a great place to get creative and use colors and paint ideas that reflect the rest of the decorating scheme in your home, whether you opt for a light or dark color, the space should reflect your personality and thoughtfully welcome you into the home.

A deep, cyan-green shade that is a firm favorite for designers and decorators alike, the color teal can be used to create both a calming and energizing atmosphere in an interior space. 

Named teal after the common Teal duck, which has a bright teal eye-patch on its head, the color’s connection to nature reinforces its soothing and stimulating characteristics. In this article we will explore the frequent questions asked when researching, what color is teal?

If you are decorating with teal, this guide will be invaluable.

What color is teal?

Located between blue and green on the color wheel, the teal shade is made up of an equal amount of both colors, which makes it a tertiary color (an equal mix of primary and secondary colors). 

The color teal is regarded to ignite feelings of balance, calm and tranquility, which suggests why it is so popular in interior design as these sentiments are for many what we associate with home. For paint experts Benjamin Moore, ‘Aegean Teal’ was chosen as the the Benjamin Moore color of the year 2021, with the shade recently being disclosed as officially Benjamin Moore's best-selling paint color.

If you are looking for room color ideas, teal is great for establishing an elegant impact in a space. Natasha Bradley, Color Psychologist at Lick Paint states, ‘teal is great for entryway ideas as it is a very welcoming color and helps you bring the outside in, but it’s also really dramatic. By opting for a darker green such as Lick’s Teal 03 in the hallway, it will make all the rooms leading off it look lighter'. Whether you are using teal to accessorize in a living room, or to paint a bathroom or hallway, the classic shade can integrate into an array of styled spaces. We now explore some of the most popular questions asked when researching, what color is teal? 

Is teal more green or blue? 

Placed in-between blue and green on the color wheel, teal is made up of a mix of both primary shades. As teal is a secondary color, there are many shades available, with some closer to green and some closer to blue.  

What color complements teal? 

In the color wheel, complementary colors sit opposite each other, for teal, which sits in the blue-green section, the opposite, complementary colors are red-oranges. Tobie Lewis, Senior Brand Manager at Valspar Paint says to use teal 'with a cleansing white to maximize natural light in a room, or in contrast with an earthy mustard yellow or burnt orange to add more depth to your color palette.’

What two colors are teal? 

As discussed, teal sits between blue and green on the color wheel. A secondary color, teal is formed from mixing primary colors, blue and green. To create a lighter teal shade, add white or yellow to the blue and green mix, to create a darker shade, add black.  

How can I decorate with teal?

This popular teal color trend is easy on the eye – and a very good choice for those who prefer a louder hue, rather than subtle, quieter shades. A beguiling hue that reminds us of warmer climes, teal has the ability to be both invigorating and calming.

‘I am a big advocate for color, and a rich blue-green on the walls paired with strong red tones creates the perfect harmony in my view,' says Sarah Fortescue, founder, Sarah Fortescue Design. 'It’s particularly suitable in a north-facing room where strength of color can replace the lack of natural light and sunshine.’

'Some consider decorating with blue to be cold (and it can be sometimes), but this powerful, punchy shade is anything but; rather it is enlivening in its strength,' explains Tricia Guild, founder and creative director, Designers Guild. 'Use it with a white for crisp simplicity, make it dramatic with darker hues. It responds beautifully to sunlit rooms, but looks equally stunning with low lighting and candlelight.’  

Looking to create a restful space? Our green living room ideas promise to renew your connection to nature, with the color green effective at evoking feelings of balance, vibrancy and good fortune. 

Whether a touch of emerald will bring you joy or mint is more your thing, we’ve compiled an inspirational collection of green living rooms. 

With green available in a whole host of shades, it’s easy to find decor and living room ideas that will suit your ideas for decorating with green, and give your scheme a seasonal lift, whether it’s a large-scale makeover for the living room or simple styling project. 

Green living room ideas

If you love green room ideas, why not consider them for your living space? There is a whole range of tones to choose from, including deep, moody tones, right through to lighter shades. Consulting the color wheel will ensure your scheme is soothing and that your room color ideas flow effectively from space-to-space. Our favorite green living room ideas – using a variety of hues – will inspire you.

1. Pick a chalky shade for a restful feel

If you are looking for living room paint ideas, chalky sage green is a restful choice, especially for sunny, south- or west-facing rooms. The obvious choice for patterns in a green living room is foliage-inspired but we love to match this with graphics for a more modern appeal, seen here in the smart bold stripe armchair from Ceraudo and elegant rug with scallop edge detail.

Painted furniture ideas, like the painted cane side table from Trove, are very en vogue at the moment, too. 'The wall canvas, with floral botanical design wallpaper from Designers Guild. is a clever way to introduce a panel of pattern in a contained way, without overwhelming a room,' says the stylist Kiera Buckley-Jones, who created this room for us.

2. Combine different patterns to add layers of interest

Geometrics play the perfect foil to dainty florals and a classic ticking from GP&J Baker. Pattern mixing works especially well when keeping to a tight color palette. Here Kiera Buckley Jones, who styled this room for us, has had fun playing with different shades of green, from fresh and minty with the botanical sofa upholstery from Jane Churchill, to grassy and textural with the Birdie Fortescue rug. The cool, deeper green walls offer a calming backdrop as canvas for the pattern and color play.

'I love playing with different styles, patterns and tones; mixing things up in unexpected ways often result in a more interesting feel. Sometimes unplanned accidents lead to unexpectedly pleasing outcomes,' says Emma Thomas, Interiors Editor, H&G.

Unexpected accent colors, such as dark grey and blue, work well to add an extra dimension of interest, too.

3. Complement mint with pretty pink

Even a grownup space can be very pretty if you choose delicate living room wallpaper ideas, as in this room.  

'This wallcovering from Lewis & Wood feels elegant and charming and the pink and green colorway is a harmonious, easy to live with pairing,' says Emma Thomas, Style Editor at Homes & Gardens.

If you are going down the 'pretty' route for wallpaper, Emma's advice is to offset it with chunky furniture and sculptural accessories, such as the rustic sideboard from Chelsea Textiles and textural table lamp from Matilda Goad.

'Patterned plates as artwork are a great alternative to framed prints, and look good in a group,' she says.

4. Introduce a botanical feel

From arboretum-inspired motifs to hothouse plant life, foliage takes on a fresh look this season. It’s time to welcome all things green and pleasant into the home. 

Energising and uplifting, plants and plant motifs have huge decorative potential in the home and enduring appeal. Fabric and wallpaper ideas featuring botanical prints are pretty without being over-feminine, and they work just as well in modern, country or classic schemes. 

In this botanical-inspired green living room, trellis wallpaper speaks of blissful summer days in the garden. Working geometric motifs into the scheme gives the finished look a modern edge.

5. Go for an all-over green living room

Is there any color more suited to now 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 nature, growth and renewal. 

Deep green is also effective in creating a natural, grounding feel in industrial, tech-heavy homes, working well to encourage a connection with nature. And as the two colors most regularly seen together in nature, combining green and blue living room ideas requires our eyes to do little, to no, adjusting, which is perfect for creating a feeling of restfulness and harmony – even in small living rooms.

6. Blur the lines in a modern green living room

Be brave when choosing living room color schemes in modern spaces. 

Keeping the floor the same color as the furniture helps to blend the room together – if nothing stands out, then your eye will flow around a space, and in a small living room this can be key to making it feel larger.

7. Highlight architectural details with a green palette

Take inspiration from a bygone era by painting your period home in a heritage green color. Not only will this highlight architectural details, but will also provide the perfect backdrop for vintage furniture, heirloom pieces and accents of pattern and texture.

If you think your living room is too small for a deep green scheme, then look above. The fifth wall is often an afterthought when it comes to redecorating, but done right, ceiling ideas can make a real difference to a small room. 

As long as your ceiling is painted in the same or a paler color than your walls, no matter the color, your ceilings will feel higher, helping long living rooms feel more spacious.

8. Keep it modern with a white and green color palette

Forget gray living room ideas – green and white is a color combination like no other. This striking duo lends itself to leaf prints and botanical patterns. It will create a fresh, natural look to suit every space from traditional, country to modern. 

As a rule of thumb, cool-leaning greens and yellow-toned greens like lime, fern, jade and emerald work best when used with white living room ideas.

9. Go for pattern-on-pattern in a green living room scheme

Connecting to nature is more important than ever, and you can achieve this by using touches of green in your living room – the most used room in the home. 

An easy way to introduce color to a living room is to go bold with your walls. Whether you opt for a beautiful, bright paint color, or choose a wallpaper in a vivid green tone, you can really transform a room quickly and easily. 

Here, the contemporary green and white scheme gives this otherwise neutral living room a light touch, despite the pattern-on-pattern approach.

10. Embrace a variety of green tones

Why stick to one green in a living room when you can decorate with many? Choosing a tonal palette allows you to explore your favorite green in all its forms, from barely-there pale versions perfect for walls to deep, dark iterations for defining accents. 

The key to this trick is keeping the scheme to one pure color – in the case of this green living room, a warm grass hue – and going either lighter or darker from there. 

11. Paint a country living room in an olive green

Soothing olive green brings a warm, enveloping and earthy aesthetic to any space. It works particularly well in living rooms with good natural light, as the sunlight enhances and warms the softer tone almost making it glow, says Judy Smith of Crown Paints. 

But research recently carried out by Oxford University and paint manufacturers Valspar revealed another aspect to the color green: it makes the room feel two degrees warmer. 

Perfect, in other words, for a space that you want to feel cozy, like a living room snug, or one that's starved of warm natural daylight, such as a room that faces north or east.

12. Go bold with a dark green 

There's no rule that says you can't use dark living room ideas in a small space – in fact, if a room is lit well and has large enough windows and a south- or west-facing aspect, a dark green living room can look beautiful and make a smaller space feel really welcoming. 

'Fresh, cool green can create a relaxing atmosphere in any room. It is associated with nature, outdoors, growth and creativity and, as it is such an organic shade, it is very easy to live with. The important thing is to pair whatever hue you choose with the right accent color, like the warm red above, to create a feeling of flow throughout a room,' says Jennifer Ebert, Homes & Gardens' Deputy Editor (Digital)

13. Use a daring color combination

Blue and green is a color combination that shouldn't work, but when done right, it can really sing out. Color can have a profound effect on mood, and a bright scheme can uplift the senses as well as adding depth to an interiors scheme. 

Spaces with unexpected color combinations, such as green and blue, can work well. However, try to provide relief with some neutral touches, like white woodwork, or introduce texture to break up the look.

‘Combining color is a perfect and affordable way to create an impressive design statement, 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. Have confidence in your whims, and look at the clothes in your wardrobe for color inspiration,' says interior designer Andrea Maflin.

14. Pick a very dark green for an elegant look

'Dark green, like navy, is wonderful for creating an elegant look, and is perfect matched in a living room that gets lots of warm natural daylight paired with white paintwork, dark woodwork and neutral accent colors, such as grey; in fact, I'd say green is one of the best accent colors for gray,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief, Homes & Gardens.

15. Use green as a welcome accent color

Searching for green living room ideas that are subtle but stylish? This room designed by Carolina-based interior designer Cortney Bishop is one of our favorites. 

'The green here is incredibly limited, yet draws the eye, wherever you are in the room,' says Jennifer Ebert, Homes & Gardens' Deputy Editor (Digital). 'Cortney has cleverly picked it up very subtly in cushions and accessories, but it's incredibly underplayed so that the scheme doesn't feel too contrived.'

Is green a good color for the living room?

Green is a gorgeous color choice for a living room. All colors complement this verdant color – including brights, like red; cool tones, like blues; and naturals, such as brown or beige living room ideas. 

Begin by deciding which shade, or shades, of green you want to incorporate into your space. Different tones will create unique moods, so be sure to take a look at your options. 

Think about going for a paint makeover if you want a more permanent transformation. Collect emulsion samples and remember to test the colors out in various areas of the room, as they can appear different depending on light.

If you want to decorate a large area in one color, go for a light shade to avoid making the space feel dark. Pastel or sage green will add character to your room whilst still making it feel light and airy.

Choose a deeper, forest green if you’re after a more traditional look for your home. This color works well for creating a cozy living room space when paired with creams or maroons.

What color goes with green for a living room?

If you are consider green living room ideas, you'll want to think about accent colors that can go with your main shade. Green can, in fact, be matched with most colors if you pick tones that work together. For an elegant look, green should be mixed with white; for a pretty feel, match it with pink; for a bolder, sunnier effect, put green with yellow or even red.