If you're anything like me, as soon as the holidays are over, festive decor has to go quickly. Not only does that mean that holiday decorations are boxed up for another year, but the rich color palettes of the festivities soon feel out of place: I'm all about a fresh home that feels calming and uncluttered for the year ahead.

And while you probably aren't looking to totally reinvent your home's color schemes, it's about the smaller decor swaps that can reset your space and bring new life to each room. Intrigued by what designers have to say on the best colors to make a home feel fresher for 2026, I asked them for their favorites, which you can explore below to inspire your room color ideas.

1. Soothing Greens

Green room ideas offer appeal year-round, but certain shades feel extra fresh for the start of the new year. 'For 2026, a soft mineral green with a gray undertone delivers an instant sense of freshness after months of heavy holiday reds, browns, and metallics,' says interior designer Lauren Saab. 'This color is perfect for reflecting natural light and provides a constant, even energy in a room without being cold or washed out.'

Gray-green is also a favorite color choice for Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA. 'A cool, muted green-gray, something that sits just adjacent to a pastel without fully becoming one, feels especially fresh right now. It brings in lightness and clarity, but still has depth and presence.'

When it comes to decorating with paint, some of Kristina's favorites are Farrow & Ball's French Gray and Vert de Terre, and Backdrop's Road to Todos Santos. Or, if you're adding this soothing hue through smaller decor pieces, complete the look with light colors and natural materials. 'Warm white, light wood, limestone, and unlacquered metal are some great options to pair with soft mineral green,' says Lauren.

2. Dusty Pinks

Designers are favoring pink as a fresh color choice for 2026. While richer warm tones – think wine reds and velvety purples – can feel aligned with the festivities, a dusty pink offers timelessness. 'Not the sugary baby girl pink that we all think of for nurseries, but the moody, muddier pink that you see on the walls of British country houses, or the sophisticated pink that is shown in this Gucci wallpaper,' says designer Lauren Conner.

Andrea Goldman is also championing pink. 'A great paint selection to freshen up your space is Benjamin Moore's Morristown Cream, which is the perfect dusty, soft pink that still feels like a neutral. You can also layer in a mix of muted pinks and warm brown tones with textiles. It's a super simple refresh that makes your home feel luxe and cozy heading into 2026.'

3. Soft Lilacs

Lilac feels like a fresher take on the purple color trend. 'If you're looking to refresh your space for 2026, consider painting your study, bedroom, or living room a soft purple like Benjamin Moore's Peace and Happiness or Touch of Gray,' recommends designer Betsy Wentz. 'It can add a touch of sophistication and calmness to your room, creating a soothing atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Plus, it's a versatile hue that pairs well with neutrals, woods, and pops of green, giving you endless options for furniture and decor.'

Another designer-approved lavender paint is Farrow & Ball's Calluna, which has a darkened quality so it's not too vibrant. 'Calluna brings freshness to a space while still offering depth – an ideal reset after heavier seasonal palettes,' says Jennifer Nichols of Fairfax Dorn Projects. 'In natural light, it shifts gently throughout the day: sometimes cooler, sometimes warmer, adding quiet movement to a room.'

When decorating with a soft lilac on the walls, Jennifer recommends avoiding harsh contrast. 'Layer in creamy whites and warm linens rather than stark contrast. Use natural woods, rattan, and ceramics to enhance the color’s organic quality.'

4. Light Sky Blues

Blue room ideas are one of the first to come to mind when thinking of fresh color schemes. Instead of rich navy blues, go for gentle light blues, which feel serene and crisp. 'For 2026, I recommend a fresh sky blue – the kind you see in nature every day: clear blue sky, coastal water, winter light,' says designer Stephanie Kraus. 'After a season of rich holiday tones, it instantly resets a home and makes everything feel cleaner, fresher, and more breathable.'

'Pair it with warm materials so it feels elevated,' Stephanie adds. 'My favorite combinations are sky blue with white oak, natural stone, linen, and soft ivories, and I would add touches of unlacquered brass.'

Soft blue is also a favorite for designer Carly Gray, who used this hue in wallpaper here. 'Bringing in colors from nature can enhance natural light and help us feel grounded,' she says. 'These shades offer a refreshing balance, evoking calmness while adding interest and depth to a space.'

5. Teal

Teal has been a trending color of late, working as an in-between color that combines the calming appeal of blue and green. But it's not just jewel tone interpretations of this hue that designers are loving, but softer, muted tones that lend a refreshing quality for the new year.

For interior designer Jessica Whitley, Benjamin Moore's Knoxville Gray is a favorite paint color. 'It’s ideal for dining rooms, libraries, living rooms, and primary bedrooms where you want a cocooning, restorative atmosphere,' she says. 'I used this color in my own formal living room and layered it with a Moroccan rug featuring chocolate, toasted chestnut, and warm ivory tones.'

But it's not just paint ideas to consider when decorating with teal. Smaller additions of this natural world-inspired hue are a great way to add color and freshness to a space, especially in neutral rooms.

6. Warm Beige

Don't rule out decorating with neutrals when adding freshness to your home. For designer Nicole Hirsch, a palette of warm beige is a go-to. 'This soft, neutral foundation creates a zen-like atmosphere that promotes clarity and calm as you step into the new year,' she says.

To add this timeless shade to your home to add freshness, Nicole recommends layering textiles. 'Luxurious, plush materials such as velvet and textured mohair work beautifully in pillows or drapery, adding warmth and a soothing, layered feel. To introduce subtle color without the boldness of holiday tones, pair these neutrals with blush accents for a gentle, sophisticated touch.'

7. Gray, With a Hint of Blue

Gray room ideas have somewhat fallen out of favor in recent years, ever since they were branded as cold and drab. However, a nuanced gray is a wonderful way to maintain a neutral scheme, yet without veering into bland territory.

'I would recommend Benjamin Moore's Brewster Gray for 2026 – it’s a beautiful blue-gray that feels soft, uplifting, and fresh without leaning cold,' says designer Justine Wolman. 'It has just enough color to feel like a shift from neutral, while still remaining completely timeless.'

'I recently used Brewster Gray in a project where we painted all the trim in this color and paired it with Benjamin Moore's Swiss Coffee on the walls and ceiling,' says Justine. 'The combination is such a breath of fresh air and creates a balance of charm and modernity. It feels crisp and clean, yet warm and inviting – which I think is exactly what people are looking for in 2026 as they reset their homes after the holiday season.'

Your home doesn't need a full makeover to feel fresh for the new year. To add these shades timelessly, start with your existing color schemes – which rooms could benefit from a textile or decor refresh, without needing to reinvent the whole space?

That said, if you are embarking on a redecoration project, there are plenty of stylish paint shades here to try – just make sure it's a color you'll love for years to come.

Earthy colors were once the much-needed savior from the cool-toned minimalist phase. Think sand tones, clay, sage green, and slate blues: they're neutrals we're comfortable with, and while they're arguably more livable than white-washed rooms, they can risk falling flat and appearing muddy. The solution? Earthy tones with a vibrant twist.

'This new wave of earthy color is what I call earthy vibrancy: grounded, nature-inspired hues, but with a subtle radiance that stops them from feeling flat,' says Tash Bradley, color expert and director of interior design at Lick. 'They’ve got life in them.'

From sunny ochres to mossy greens, rust reds to warming blues, vibrant earth tones feel warming, layered, and fill rooms with soul. It takes inspiration from the natural world but goes beyond pale and typically 'calming' shades towards those that inject a space with life and energy, while still feeling grounded. Here, designers explain all about this emerging color trend and explain how to incorporate it into your home.

What Is the Earthy Vibrancy Color Trend?

'Around ten years ago, everything was ruled by cool millennial grays,' says Tash. 'Then, we gradually swung into the warmer beiges. Now, we’ve traveled all the way into these rich, energizing tones: burgundies, spicy browns, clay pinks, ochres, and olive greens – all with that beautiful, warm, grounding yellow undertone running through them.'

For Tash, the current appeal among her clients centers on timeless decorating. Have trend cycles become so demanding that we're now seeking authentic homes that feel more personal than they do in fashion? Perhaps. The appreciation for palettes of rich and earthy hues is every bit timeless: they are calming and livable yet exciting and layered, while nodding to colors of decades past without feeling dated.

'People want to decorate in a way that feels personal and expressive, but they don’t want to redecorate every twelve months,' Tash says. 'That’s why these earthier, sun-washed, warm tones have exploded. They instantly make a home feel lived-in, soulful, and comforting, but there’s enough energy and pigment in them to keep things feeling modern and uplifting.'

How to Bring 'Earthy Vibrancy' Into Your Home

Think of this as less of a design trend and more of a return to a bolder approach to color that layers a room with rich and soulful hues. There are no real rules for incorporating these tones, but choosing those that align with the colors you're naturally drawn to is always a good idea.

1. Decorate With Pink to Add Warmth

In this dining room, the pink wallpaper brings vibrancy while feeling in keeping with the traditional decor. 'There is depth to the earthy colors in the paper that gives the impression that the paper has been in the space for a while instead of being newly installed,' says the interior designer Lauren Robbins.

'Earth tones help to ground a space, making it feel warm and full of depth,' Lauren continues. 'These shades feel both current and classic, which I love.'

Take inspiration from this room and consider decorating with pink to add a hint of vibrancy to your earthy color schemes while maintaining a livable and classic feel.

2. Drench Walls With a Rich Shade of Olive

'This sitting room has trim painted with Relentless Olive by Sherwin-Williams, and the walls are upholstered in a mossy green fabric,' says the interior designer Roger Higgins.

While pale and muted shades of green can appear almost neutral, a rich and warming olive tone like this one adds vibrancy. 'This earthy green hue is one of my favorites,' Roger continues. 'When you swathe a room in it, you create a cozy, comfortable, enveloping environment.'

3. Step Away From Classic Neutrals With Terracotta

If you're used to decorating with neutrals and don't want to lean too far into color, terracotta decor is a great way to bridge the gap. 'This client was drawn to neutrals and shied away from vibrant color,' says Roger Higgins when discussing the design of this dining room.

'This terracotta color was my answer to breaking up the neutrals throughout the rest of the house,' he continues. 'The rich hue – especially when paired with gorgeous millwork and traditional furnishings – added depth and warmth.'

4. Add Moodiness With Ochre

Another color that lends itself to the earthy vibrancy trend is ochre, which is a timeless and sophisticated take on decorating with yellow. In this study, the interior designer Victoria Tanforan opted for a rich ochre on the walls. She says that it was 'carefully selected to honor the historic context of the home without being too serious or too juvenile'.

Colors such as ochre add plenty of richness to rooms and are a wonderful switch from pale yellows, which can sometimes appear washed out. 'They're particularly great for historic homes as they draw out so much of the inherent character,' says Victoria.

5. Decorate With Rich Reds

If you're feeling bolder, why not add red to your scheme? In this kitchen designed by Jessica Helgerson Interior Design, the rich red sofa adds vibrancy to the earthy neutrals, along with the pop of playful yellow on the ceiling.

While a red piece of upholstered furniture is an effective way to add this bold hue, especially if you want it to feel subtle, you could also take this bold shade to the walls. For Tash Bradley, a favorite paint color combination is Green 05, Blue 03, and Red 06. 'It’s a palette rooted in nature, but it feels modern and surprising,' says Tash. 'The olive green is warm and earthy, the blue brings that breath of freshness, and the wine red anchors everything with depth.'

'These tones haven’t historically been used together, but the minute you understand their undertones, you see just how beautifully they balance one another,' she adds.

Even small decor in rich hues can do wonders to elevate a space, especially in neutral rooms. Below, you can shop stylish pieces that nod to this trend – from warm amber tones to mossy greens.

No longer do earthy hues need to look flat or bland – a more vibrant take offers plenty of warmth and energy, while still capturing that calming feel we all love. You don't need a lot of these colors to make an impact; painting small rooms or adding decor will keep your space dynamic and interesting.

Designers are increasingly embracing bolder, more experimental color in kitchens, moving away from the all-white or beige spaces that have dominated interiors for years. In 2026, we’re seeing a resurgence of 1970s-inspired two-tone kitchen color schemes and vibrant technicolor palettes, where daring combinations and playful contrasts bring warmth, personality, and a sense of fun to the heart of the home.

A perfect example of bold color in the kitchen is the moment designer Tom Morris first stepped into the home that would become a colorful kitchen showcase – a space that was a far cry from the vibrant, playful kitchen it is today.

‘A developer previously owned the house, and it was one of those homes where every last centimeter had been gobbled up, with every effort to grab and fill any bit of space. And it was shiny, with bright, bright lights. We wanted to create something with more charm and color,’ he says.

Those two qualities are the hallmarks of Morrisstudio, and it’s no surprise to see so many shades at play here – Tom is adept at a mixed palette. ‘The owners had just had their garden done, and the purple salvia was in flower, while thistles were out on nearby Hampstead Heath. I wanted to evoke those shades.’

He chose GrafClean paint in Rosewood by Rose Uniacke for the cabinets, which is contrasted by Farrow & Ball’s Lulworth Blue on the ceiling, mirroring the summer sky. ‘I worked with Apron on the build, a company I now work with all the time as it’s so great,’ Tom says. ‘The brief was “Shaker-ish” – those classic shapes but a little more refined and with a little less detail.’

The makers were able to incorporate storage that suited the way the family lives. ‘They’re big tea drinkers, so there’s a whole tea cupboard and drawers where their mug collection lines up in little squares.’

The element Tom is proudest of is the copper used on the kitchen countertop and oven hood. ‘It’s such a wonderful living material,’ he says. ‘The clients were very conscious of the fact they would have people over and didn’t want a kitchen that was too precious – the copper is going to age and verdigris in the most delicious way.’

Flanked by textured tiles by Balineum as a kitchen backsplash – a nod to the Victorian-era house – the resulting playful design creates a beautiful backdrop against which to live out a life. ‘It’s cozy, fun, and very bright,’ says Tom. ‘The balance of color lends itself to family life. They’re big cooks, and they needed a room they could properly use.’

In 2026, this technicolor approach signals a welcome break from beige – offering a vibrant, practical, and utterly stylish vision for the modern family kitchen.

By embracing bold, playful palettes alongside functional design, it proves that modern kitchens can be both beautiful and livable, where every detail, from color choices to materials, enhances daily life. Far from fleeting trends, these daring shades create spaces that feel warm, inviting, and full of personality, encouraging families to gather, cook, and celebrate together in a kitchen that is as dynamic as it is enduring.

Dark paints were once reserved for bolder decorators, but in the last few years, the richest of wall colors have become far more mainstream, a color trend that dominated for most of 2025.

From inky dark blues to burgundy, deep greens to charcoal, there's been a growing appeal for the darkest of paint colors that bid farewell to the earthy neutral and white-washed craze of years prior, coinciding with interiors that feel soulful and full of personality.

But, as with any design trend, its longevity and timeless appeal are up for debate, and as we near the end of 2025, we're questioning whether or not dark paint colors will still lead the way in 2026.

Will Dark Paint Colors Still Be Trendy in 2026?

Below, interior designers share all on dark paints and whether or not they're championing them for the year ahead.

Dark Colors Still Feel Sophisticated – But They’re Evolving in 2026

'While a new year always invites a fresh start, I believe that deep, rich paint colors are here to stay for quite a while,' says interior designer Hannah Blumenthal of Studio Olivine. 'With so much uncertainty in the world, having spaces in our homes that feel especially cozy and inviting is not something we will wish to stray from anytime soon.'

That said, there may be a shift coming in the way that we decorate our homes with dark paint colors in 2026. 'People are experimenting with different hues,' says Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA. 'Rather than the navies or maroons that have saturated the internet, clients have become more experimental with deep jewel tones, near-black olives, and richly saturated hues that bring forth more personality.'

This observation coincides with recent Color of the Year trends. Behr unveiled a jewel-toned teal, while Benjamin Moore chose a rich charcoal, reflecting a move towards moody and mysterious dark paints instead of once-popular navy blue and forest green.

Not only are the colors themselves shifting, but designers also say that their application is, too. 'It’s no longer just an accent wall or four walls,' says Kristina. 'Homeowners are more inclined to color drench – painting walls, ceilings, and trim in a single, immersive shade. It creates a cocooned, high-impact atmosphere that’s both streamlined and cozy.'

'Clients who once gravitated toward safer, lighter palettes are now embracing moodier hues with confidence,' agrees designer Marguerite Rodgers. 'Trends like color drenching have only amplified their appeal, proving that deep, saturated tones can be both dramatic and grounding. As we head into 2026, I don’t see the pendulum swinging away from dark colors; instead, I see them becoming even more embedded as a modern classic.'

While dark paints have proven to be effective in plenty of rooms, for 2026, designers are favoring them for small rooms or those that aren't the main living spaces, providing an element of surprise. 'I love to use them in transitional spaces such as foyers, small spaces such as powder rooms, or occasional spaces such as formal dining rooms, where they are especially enveloping,' says Hannah. 'It's wonderful to have a contrast between darker and lighter hues throughout a home, making rooms with rich color palettes feel very considered and special.'

That Said, Spring and Summer Will See Lighter Hues Return

While dark paints don't seem to be going anywhere in 2026, experts say that lighter tones can be an effective color choice as we transition into the warmer months ahead. 'Lighter hues will naturally creep back in as we move from winter into spring,' says interior color consultant Charlotte Cropper. 'Early 2026 will bring a craving for light, so softer, uplifting tones that help us emerge from hibernation.'

For rooms with a dark color scheme, consider adding a moment of relief for the spring and summer months with lighter accessories. A refresh of decor accents – from throw pillows on the sofa to lighter window treatments – can be all that's needed to take a dark color scheme from feeling moody and cozy to fresh for the changing weather.

A Well-Designed Home Needs Both

When I asked designers whether dark paints are here to stay, a common theme came up in their responses. The use of dark paints is all about balance in interior design, and a mix of light and dark hues in a home feels grounded and timeless. Although it's a definite 'trend' at present, designers encourage thoughtful application that ensures longevity.

'You really need both dark colors and light colors to create balance in the home,' says designer Roger Higgins of R. Higgins Interiors. 'Having deep-toned painted areas emphasizes the light and makes you appreciate the light areas more.'

'The key is balance: rich, dramatic color where it enhances the experience, paired with gentler tones that allow a home to breathe,' says designer Marie Flanigan. 'I love using those moody shades in more intimate or jewel-box spaces where they can really shine.'

If you're wondering how you can create balance in your home with dark color schemes, think beyond painting the walls. Dark paints used as an accent on furniture can be a wonderful way to embrace the drama without it feeling too heavy. 'Deep shades are popping up as accents and focal points: a dramatic kitchen island, a rich tone on built-in wardrobes, even darker staircases and woodwork,' says Charlotte. 'Dark colors are becoming more intentional rather than all-over, which feels like a beautiful balance.'

If you're not quite ready to go as bold as painting the walls a dark hue, channel this trend through decor. Below, we've rounded up some of the most stylish picks to do so.

Designers agree that dark paints are a timeless decorating idea that is very much expected to continue into next year. That said, they are favoring moody and sophisticated tones such as teal, burgundy, and warm-toned blacks that feel grounded and refined, instead of the likes of navy blue and forest green. If you're feeling inspired to paint the walls with one of these trending dark hues, use color-drenching to create a cozy and cocooning effect. It's especially effective in small rooms and bedrooms and feels more polished than an accent wall.

However, keep in mind that designers recommend adding balance when painting the walls a dark shade. If you're going to go bold with a rich, warm-black on the walls, for example, provide lightness with decor to keep things fresh and livable.

When it comes to neutral colors that feel both stylish and effortless, Sherwin-Williams' best seller, Repose Gray, makes the shortlist. A soft, welcoming greige with just the right amount of warmth, it offers a calm, contemporary foundation for interiors that crave a bit of quiet elegance.

Whether you're updating a whole home or refreshing a single space, Repose Gray has the kind of versatility designers look for in a gray shade. So, if you're on the hunt for the best gray paint that can carry a room with understated charm, this hue deserves serious consideration.

And while decorating with gray can sometimes feel a little clinical or flat, Repose Gray avoids that entirely. Its balance of warm and cool undertones makes it surprisingly flexible, being easy to layer with color, texture, or pattern without overwhelming a space.

With expert insight from Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams, we take a closer look at Repose Gray SW 7015 to explore how it looks in different lighting, where it works best (and where it might not), plus how to pair it with other shades to get the most out of its refined color.

How to decorate with Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray

Repose Gray has become a favorite among designers and homeowners alike thanks to its adaptability. It’s a true greige paint – sitting comfortably between warm and cool –that plays nicely with most interior color palettes.

According to Emily Kantz, 'Repose Gray’s versatility makes it an ideal color for creating a cohesive look throughout the home. Its balanced tonality allows this tone to create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere, great for living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens.' It also provides a neutral backdrop that lets furniture, art, and architectural details shine.

If your space is blessed with natural light, Repose Gray will absolutely thrive. 'Rooms with plenty of natural light or good artificial lighting can showcase the beauty of Repose Gray, creating a feeling of subtle softness and comfort within a room,' says Emily. It’s the kind of color that makes a room feel put-together without trying too hard – ideal for open-plan living rooms or bedrooms that double as sanctuaries.

In contrast, spaces with lower light levels will bring out Repose Gray’s moodier side. Emily advises that 'in spaces with limited natural light, Repose Gray can look darker and more muted,' resulting in a slightly darker appearance.

This can work wonderfully well in smaller spaces like powder rooms or offices to add depth. However, to prevent things from feeling on the heavy side, and stop it from making the room feel unhappy, pair it with light-colored furniture, reflective finishes, or crisp white paint on the trim to help bounce light around and balance the space. As always, testing in your specific lighting conditions is key, so make sure to test with a color sample before fully committing.

What colors go with Repose Gray?

Repose Gray and its easy-going nature when paired with other colors means it pairs effortlessly with both bold accents and subtle neutrals. For a crisp, clean contrast, Emily suggests pairing it with Pure White SW 7005, which adds a fresh edge to trim, ceilings, or cabinetry.

If you're after something deeper and moodier, Naval SW 6244, a rich navy, offers a dramatic foil that still feels timeless. Meanwhile, to achieve a warmer space, earthy tones like Redend Point SW 9081 or soft green-gray Evergreen Fog SW 9130 bring a cozy, layered vibe to the room.

If you're leaning into a more tonal, subtle look, try complementary neutrals like Pavestone SW 7642 or Anew Gray SW 7030. These create a harmonious, relaxed feel that's perfect for casual spaces where comfort is key.

Is there any rooms to avoid using Repose Gray?

Though Repose Gray is a famously versatile color, there are still a few scenarios where it might not behave as expected. Emily advises, 'There are rare instances when Repose Gray does not work, such as a room that has north-facing windows. This cooler light can make Repose Gray appear more blue or green.'

This isn't necessarily a dealbreaker, but it can catch you off guard if you’re expecting a true warm gray. Emily recommends testing a color chip or sample in the actual space before committing. It’s a simple but essential step to ensure Repose Gray’s undertones work with the natural lighting in your room, rather than against it.

If you aren't planning a big paint project, bring the soft, balanced tones of Repose Gray in smaller accents with these home decor pieces.

Sherwin-Williams’ Repose Gray SW 7015 continues to be a go-to choice for those who want a neutral paint that hits that sweet spot between warm and cool, modern and classic.

Whether you're refreshing a light-filled living room or decorating a lower-lit space, this gentle greige delivers on depth and restraint, simultaneously. It's worth noting that, used in certain contexts, gray can be more of a misstep than a masterpiece, and can be one of the worst colors to decorate a room, owing to its inherent chilliness. As such, in some instances, there are times you should never paint a room gray, but gray has its uses, and if you are searching for the most reliable gray on the market, you can stop your search here.

Anti-trend colours stand the test of time because above all they are livable, practical and versatile colors.

Much like a little black dress, a room painted in an anti-trend color can withstand every season, every change of decor and be dressed up and down depending on your evolving tastes and style.

Whilst color trends are great, offering us fresh perspectives, bold design choices and a serious revamp of your space, there is a reason so many appear to ‘play it safe’ with a trusted palette of colors. And it isn’t coming from a place of lack of imagination.

As Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin Williams reminds us ‘anti-trend colors stand the test of time, they are tried and true and are considered good basics in design’.

With this in mind, we’ve asked a panel of interior designers and paint experts just why they keep coming back to these key seven anti-trend colors project after project and give us their expert insight into why these colors are enduring favorites.

1. Sage Green

If you’re drawn to sage green, you’re in good company. This soft, muted hue has become a design staple for a reason.

Sage green has been used in design for centuries, from traditional English cottages to stately homes. It’s also a favorite in modern and minimalist interiors for its ability to soften sleek lines and hard edges.

It's an easy to live with, gentle color that works season on season, year on year and sage green provides a hint of color without overpowering a room. This makes it easy to incorporate with other hues, patterns, and materials. Which is one of the key components when we think of timeless colours for using in interior design.

Its understated charm adds a connection to nature as well, and, as interior designer Nina Lichenstein reminds us, ‘Sage continues to lead the charge in creating serene, nature-inspired interiors. This muted green has moved beyond trend status to become a design staple, beloved for its soothing, organic quality.’

2. Plaster Pink

Often dubbed ‘plaster pink’ this soft, nuanced hue strikes a perfect balance between pink and beige. It’s no wonder this color is a staple in the world of interior design, effortlessly complementing everything from farmhouse kitchens to the clean lines of a modern minimalist space.

Gentle enough to bring a calming atmosphere yet distinctive enough to add personality, plaster pink works beautifully in every room. Decorating with pink has had long associations with femininity but this understated hue sheds that reputation and allows this versatile colour to a main staple of interior design. Its muted, dusty tone pairs seamlessly with natural textures, wood tones, and various color schemes.

The secret to a good pink is its underlying tonality giving it warmth and delicacy but avoids it becoming a fragrant pink. As interior designer Laetitia Laurent , founder of Laure Nell Interiors says, ‘Plaster pink is subdued yet distinctive. It’s not the typical ‘pink’ we think of – it has a softness and earthiness that brings warmth without feeling overly feminine.'

3. Cream

If bright white feels too harsh, say hello to the soft warmth of cream. Cream tones are perfect for spaces needing warmth without overpowering other decor. It sits in the 'white family' but softer than cooler, brilliant whites.

Cream paint has never truly gone out of style and as Patrick O'Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow and Ball says, ’We all seem to have preconceptions of cream as a hangover from the 80s and 90s. But remember, when used as a woodwork color, it creates softness over generic whites and can deliver gentle warmth as a wall color'.

It's a staple in interior design and when designing this room, Kristina Khersonsky, founder of Studio Keeta chose a pared-back milky tone, explaining, 'The color used in this scheme is Benjamin Moore’s ‘Putnam Ivory.’ It has a tinge of peach undertone to the naturally pale beige color. We created a layered effect: the upper third of the room was lighter to lift the space, while the lower two-thirds featured Putnam Ivory, adding subtle depth.'

Selecting the ideal cream depends on natural light, architectural details and the over all aesthetic of the room. In a Scandinavian style room, warmer creams compliment light wood, while cooler creams bring balance to modern decor.

4. Black

When we think of a wardrobe staple, the little black dress comes to mind. It goes with everything, it’s undeniably elegant and it stands the test of time.

The same can be said for decorating with black. As interior designer Laetitia Laurent , founder of Laure Nell Interiors puts it, 'Black is elegant and grounding. It can be dramatic but also adds a sense of restraint and sophistication. Used strategically, it provides contrast and brings clarity to a room’s composition, making other elements feel more intentional and defined.'

Much like its opposite, white, black serves as the ultimate backdrop for showcasing other colors, materials, and textures in a room. Against black walls, metallic finishes, natural wood, and even vibrant artwork stand out beautifully without competing for attention or needing to choose something that ‘goes’ with the color. This versatility makes black a favorite in interior design.

Black also has deep roots in traditional interiors. Think black-painted doors, wrought-iron fixtures, and classic wood paneling. While white brightens and opens up spaces, black has a unique ability to absorb ambient light, black does the opposite, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere. It’s the ideal understated neutral for rooms where you want a sense of intimacy.

5. Taupe

If you’re after a soft, sophisticated neutral, taupe might just be your match. Positioned between white, gray, and brown, taupe offers a cooler, understated vibe compared to cream’s warm yellow undertones.

In the age of 'quiet luxury', taupe doesn’t demand attention and for interior designer Laetitia Laurent, this shade is an obvious choice ‘Taupe is a refined, earth-toned neutral that doesn’t scream for attention but adds a layer of depth to any space. Its slightly warm, grayish-brown hue feels rich and works beautifully in spaces that lean toward a natural, understated elegance.’

With undertones ranging from warm, dusty pink to cool stone gray, I have seen some paint brands offer over twenty shades of taupe, which shows you just how many options there are when decorating with this color.

South and west-facing rooms, with their warm, golden light, work beautifully with deeper taupe shades. In contrast, cooler rooms, like north-facing ones, may benefit from lighter taupes to avoid a shadowy gray cast.

6. Navy

When we think of classic, timeless shades, our minds often gravitate toward lighter colors. However, some spaces call for deeper, more dramatic tones, and a few select colors have become mainstays in interior design.

Navy, for instance, has a distinguished history, appearing in uniforms, royal settings, and stately homes, which gives it an undeniable sense of dignity and timeless appeal. It’s a subtle enough color to act as a versatile alternative neutral to the more common choices of grays and blacks.

For a touch of regal luxury, a navy room works brilliantly accessorized with gold or brass accents or for a modern Scandinavian feel, this versatile shade works just as as well paired against light woods and pale pinks.

Despite its moody allure, navy truly shines when used in color drenching. And if full color drenching feels too intense, try highlighting architectural details by contrasting navy walls with crisp white trim.

As Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene, points out, 'Using different blue hues on various elements with a ‘Double Drenching’ approach brings design interest, drawing the eye to architectural details whilst remaining calming and harmonious. Pair the rich ‘Royal Navy’ on walls with a related blue such as deep indigo ‘Dock Blue’ on the ceiling.'

7. White

Pure, simple, and undeniably timeless, white is the classic that never fades from fashion. It’s the ultimate blank canvas, offering endless versatility in any room.

Whether you go for a cool, bright white or a warmer, softer shade, white remains the ideal backdrop to showcase your style, accommodating any color, furniture, or decor you throw at it.

Or, if minimalism is your style, white is the obvious choice, being clean, calm and simple, it’s the least challenging color to work with. And nothing says minimalism quite like white does.

Patrick O'Donnell says ‘The color (or non-color) white offers us peace and calm in a room. The color of purity, it is the very essence of projecting a clean and ordered environment and easy to layer many other elements in a space such as artwork and well curated pieces of furniture’.

But decorating with white isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Far from being plain, this firm favorite comes in a whole spectrum of shades from warm creams to cool whites. The hundreds of shades available mean you’ll be spoiled for choice when choosing the perfect shade.

If you love the thought of yellow room ideas, but haven't had the courage to decorate in this sunny palette, these inspiring schemes may well convince you. Warm colors are having something of a revival, so perhaps now is the time to decorate 'sunny side up'.

From yellow living rooms to mudrooms in this exuberant color, these rooms all have something in common, however much yellow they have in them: they are warm and welcoming. 

While the popularity of decorating with yellow has been revived in recent times, the hue itself isn't new – the color yellow is one of the oldest shades in history.

Farrow & Ball’s color consultant Joa Studholme notes that we are embracing stronger shades when decorating our homes. These include the range of hues from reds and pinks to oranges and yellows found on the warm half of the color wheel. Much research has been done into how colors affect our mood. Yellow inspires optimism, creating a summery feel; team it with charcoal and black for modern look.

Below is our selection of favorite yellow room ideas for inspiration.

Yellow room ideas

While yellow room ideas may appeal, you can of course decorate with yellow in a more subtle way, through accent colors. In all of its forms, yellow has been declared one of the best colors to make a room feel happy by paint experts.

‘Current trends show a real shift towards brighter colors with a clean-cut finish,’ says Sue Kim, senior color designer at Valspar. ‘When choosing room color ideas, 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.’

1. Layer yellow for a welcoming entryway

Yellow room ideas are wonderful if you are looking for entryway color ideas, but consider muted tones that won't overwhelm what is a busy, sometimes cluttered space. 

’Quince is a particularly versatile and adaptable shade, finding natural matches with all manner of contrasting shades. It’s also just as happy to exist in harmony with other bold yellow tones, such as Saffron and Olive,' says Rebecca Elderfield, Product and Services Director at Neptune. See our collection of yellow hallway ideas for more inspiration.

2. Reverse a classic yellow and blue combination

'Yellow and blue is a classic color combination for rooms,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief of Homes & Gardens. 'While it is often used in pastel shades and in floral designs to create a traditional, pretty finish that can't be beaten, it can also be used in strong pairings to create a more contemporary feel. I'm intrigued by the spaces above, where a contemporary blue and yellow mix is reversed from one room to the next.'

3. Hang subtly patterned yellow wallpaper in hallways

For a more traditional finish for a hallway or entryway, choose a subtly patterned yellow wallpaper for your walls. And, if you are looking for yellow room ideas that have an old world appeal, combine yellow with warm or dark-toned woods in antique furniture, as in this space by Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors.

'I find that antiques have a timeless quality that is difficult to achieve with most modern pieces, and the depth that they give to a scheme provide unparalleled comfort. However, often it is the juxtaposition of old and new that creates that certain special energy,' says Henriette.

4. Pick a beige-yellow for an elegant living room

'Rooms such as home libraries where you like to linger deserve the more leisurely touch when it comes to color choices, so having a shade which is measured and easy going offers calm and contented vibes,' says stylist and art director Sara Bird. 'Go for mid-tone yellows that offer warm and uplifting notes throughout the day and that mature with age come night-time.'

'We recently painted our sitting room in Pollen by Atelier Ellis, using the same color across the ceiling, woodwork and walls. The room is drenched in this muted, earthy yellow making it warm and inviting without feeling overbearing,' says Lou Graham, Co-Owner of Graham & Green.

5. Combine yellow and green in the new muted shades

'Yellow room ideas' needn't mean all over yellow. You can use tones of mustard yellow in your home to provide a clever mix of brightness and warmth. Fantastic mixed with beige-pink walls, warm wood furniture, this earthy shade looks great with an additional contrast color such as green. In fact, next to yellow and blue, yellow and green room ideas are amongst the most popular pairings.

6. Add zingy yellows as surprising accents

Add a pinch of the unexpected. Be brave enough to introduce a bold element of surprise – sometimes the successful use of yellow relies on less, not more. 

Decorator Suzy Hoodless used this technique with her own yellow living room ideas, where she painted the architrave between the library and sitting room in a near neon yellow to create definition between the two spaces. 

'A powerful shock of a bold or unexpected hue instantly saves a space from being too polite,' says Suzy. 'I particularly like to paint woodwork in an unexpected color, together with quieter tones and lively patterns on cushions or upholstery, it results in things that perhaps shouldn't really go together but somehow they do.'

7. Give a classic yellow room idea a contemporary twist

This deep yellow is a classic choice for an elegant living room, but you can give a traditional living room a more modern appeal by choosing a gloss finish for your wallpaper. 

Teaming the yellow with grey tempers the bold wall color, while the addition of a mulberry accent color adds balance and a hit of drama. 

8. Add yellow in details

If yellow room ideas are appealing but you want to add this sunny shade in splashes rather than swathes, one way to do so is with accessories. Just as interior designer Suzy Hoodless painted the entrance to her living room in a citrus yellow, here, interior stylist and art director Kate French added a touch of yellow in woodwork and accessories. 'There's something alluring about a room that's bursting with color,' she says. 'Draw attention to an architectural detail by painting it yellow, a perfect way to break up the pattern.'

9. Choose yellow for a stand-out contemporary kitchen

Grey is the versatile and much-loved neutral and teamed with soft camomile and primrose yellows can create a gentle but energizing feel to a room that works with any style. Here, citrus hues draw to eye and add a bright summery lift, while an intricate white and grey marble backsplash gives this room a gentle exoticism.

10. Add yellow to brighten up a pantry

Rich turmeric has a Seventies feel and pairs beautifully with warm woods or jewel shades, and are perfect for pantry ideas, which can, of course, be much more exuberant than your kitchen color ideas.

'Ochre hues are ideal for adding a burst of intense golden warmth. A palette of rich mustard with deeper shades creates a well balanced look,' says Laura O’Connell, product manager, Thomas Sanderson.

11. Pick cooler yellows for a traditional feel

This beautiful three-toned yellow kitchen belongs to cook and author Skye McAlpine and is a masterclass in how to get this color right in more traditional spaces. Inspired by the 1950s kitchen in the house Skye and her husband rent in Venice, the city where Skye grew up and returns to regularly, it shows how even hard surfaces like kitchen cabinets can combine comfort with patina.

12. Choose monotone yellow room ideas for guest rooms

If you are looking for yellow bedroom ideas, remember that they are perfect for creating warmth in cool spaces. With this classic scheme in superb sunshine yellows, interior designer Veere Grenney provides a masterclass on how to brighten a north-facing room. It features wallpaper, bed curtains and valances in Belvedere in Straw, with curtains in Verandah, also in Straw, both from the designer’s collections.

13. Embrace a bright yellow for a dark bedroom

Lighter yellow room ideas are wonderful for enhancing a space, making it feel bigger and brighter. 

‘I love all colors. When you open the door, even if the room isn’t filled with sunlight, color can alter your mood dramatically and that should never be underestimated. Sunshine isn’t always a guarantee, so I like to add a touch of yellow to brighten up our schemes,' says Kit Kemp, co-founder, Firmdale Hotels.

14. Let yellow dominate darker schemes

Despite yellow in this dark blue bedroom only appearing in as an accent shade, it is the dominant color in the scheme, showing its power. The effect of this splash of vibrant color would be less effective if the ceiling were painted white; instead, its punchy nature is maximized by the room's cocooning color scheme.

15. Choose yellow for cheery kids' rooms

While yellow is a natural choice for kids' room ideas, it's worth bearing in mind that it is an energizing shade that inspires activity rather than rest.

However, its space-enhancing, neutral tones shouldn't be ignored, especially in shared bedrooms, which make a great choice. For success, choose buttery tones rather than zingy ones, and take down the lively-levels with a hit of darker colors, such as navy. In combination, these colors are a dream.

16. Balance yellow in a bathroom with monochromes

Symbolizing energy and optimism, yellow bathroom ideas are becoming more popular, both in sanitaryware, tiles and, more traditionally, wall colors. Muted yellows with a hint of grey in them will give you an elegant finish that is ideal for a grown-up bathroom; you may want to leave brighter yellows for family or kids' bathrooms. 

17. Give large bathrooms a hit of yellow

In large bathrooms, bright yellow does have a place, and we are seeing boldly colored sanitaryware becoming more popular as we embrace bright colors in unexpected places more readily.

'You can paint the exterior of some baths to suit your scheme,' advises Jennifer Ebert, digital editor of Homes & Gardens. 'However, if you want a safer yellow room ideas, brightly colored towels can give you that much-needed hit of color.'

18. Brighten up a powder room with yellow

Powder room ideas can be bolder and more adventurous than in just about any other space in your home. In fact, we think brightly colored powder room wall decor is de rigueur. This is certainly the place to indulge in yellow room ideas, and we love this elegant approach by interior designer Henriette von Stockhausen.

19. Put yellow on a ceiling to make a small space sunny

In a really small space, adventurous ceiling ideas can make a room that's limited on decorating choices feel really special. 

'The fifth wall is a great way to add layering and a three-dimensional aspect to the design of a space, says Elnaz Namaki, creative director, Elnaz Namaki Studio.

20. Bring yellow into a laundry room or mudroom

Looking for fun laundry room ideas or mudroom ideas? A splash of bold yellow can make all the difference.

'Don’t shy away from color or pattern in your laundry room, if anything, this is one place to really embrace it,' says interior designer Kathleen Walsh.

21. Bring zest to a utility room

Yellow is a colour that induces creativity. What better place to use it in its brightest, zingiest form than a flower or utility room? Interior design team Salvesen Graham created this joyous space, which is painted in Little Greene’s Mister David Intelligent matt emulsion, with open scalloped shelves to soften the utilitarian nature of the room. 

The finishing touch is the pretty, skirted storage, fashioned from a repurposed bed hanging sewn with white linen tea towels.

21. Balance summery yellows with patterned fabrics

Yellow walls are the perfect choice for an all-year-round living room scheme. Achieve seasonal balance by ensuring that the colors of contrasting upholstery, furnishings and flooring work for both halves of the year. 

Include natural textured flooring, fabrics in summery neutrals and stripes with weaves in ochres, burgundy and olive hues. This bench has been upholstered in Knole in Tapestry from Madeaux, with a cushion in its Berber Stripe in Saffron. The walls are in Little Greene’s Mister David.

22. Paint a bookshelf in yellow

Yellow walls can be a bold statement, for a more subtle approach to decorating with yellow consider limiting the shade to furniture and woodwork.

‘If yellow walls might be too much for you, introduce it into smaller areas such as kitchen cabinetry, window and door woodwork, the inside of a wardrobe or by painting a favourite piece of furniture, ' says Dominic Myland, owner of Mylands Paints. 

23. Introduce yellow accents

Playful scale and pattern are at the heart of this uplifting bathroom design by Salvesen Graham. 

A yellow palette is used judiciously lining a pair of Roman blinds, with a pair of mid-century wall lights and a statement chequerboard paint-effect floor with wallpaper in Closet Stripe by Farrow & Ball.

24. Paint a kitchen island

Painting a kitchen island yellow is a quick and easy way to breathe new life into a kitchen which will bring an uplifting pop of color without dominating the space.

This sunflower paint from Sanderson is part of a collection that has been developed by Morris & Co to complement its iconic prints. A gently sunny hue, it contrasts beautifully with the grain of the period panelling, textured brick and warm oak beams.

25. Create a serene living space with ditsy florals

Yellow wallpapers in small-scale floral prints are a fabulous way to bring a feeling of serenity and happiness to living rooms. Featuring a delicate honeysuckle design in a golden hue, this Nerissa paper by Jane Churchill brings the beauty of nature and a summer glow into the space. 

Keep the look light with white woodwork and upholstery in a combination of neutrals and large-scale florals and finish the scheme by adding in a yellow side table and golden fresh flowers.

26. Wallpaper with elegant florals

Sunshine yellow shades and rose motifs make for a romantic combination on wallpapers and are a brilliant way to bring an elegant feel to bedrooms, living rooms or dining rooms.

Cinda’s Roses in Sunshine from Lucinda Rogers for Lewis & Wood, is a traditional wallpaper design with a contemporary twist. Its rich yellow backdrop has that soothing end-of-the-day quality that is neither too bright nor too loud - great for yellow dining room ideas.

27. Highlight a window alcove

Color blocking the inset to a window with yellow creates a dynamic effect that not only brings warmth but offers an eye-catching focus to a room. 

Painted in Mustard Jar Breatheasy coloured emulsion by Crown, this warm paint hue was developed with the mid-century trend in mind and is made from a deep greyed-yellow that has got the depth of an old gold. 

‘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.’

28. Think about the light

When it comes to deciding where and how much yellow to use in a room, consider the light in the space and its orientation advises Dominic Myland, owner of Myland Paints.

‘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.'

'For a north-facing room, yellows and yellow- based off-whites will imbue the room with warmth and counterbalance a cool light,' he adds.

How do you make a yellow room look good?

The key to making a yellow room look good is choosing exactly the right shade. This is determined by how much natural daylight the room gets and whether that light is cool or warm. Small windows and a north- or east-facing orientation will generally mean the room will be darker, so you need to go for either warm-toned pale yellows to make them feel bigger and brighter, or warm-toned mustard yellows for an inviting appeal. For bright, airy, warm rooms, you can afford to go for yellows with a hint of grey in them or much cooler pastel shades.

Which color is best with yellow?

Yellow goes best with blue and green, though it is also a great match for grey, white and even black. We also love to pair yellow with jewel shades, such as ruby.