Creating a Calm Interior with Bold Colors: Our Top 10 Picks
When you think about creating a serene living space, you might default to soft, pastel hues such as stone, oatmeal, gray, and earthy greens. But venturing into bolder color schemes can also foster a serene atmosphere if you choose the right shade that resonates with you.
Unlocking Relaxation with Bold Colors
Bold shades aren’t just for bold people. Incorporating vibrant colors into your home can be incredibly calming if paired with elements that balance out the intensity. Here, we explore ten daring yet soothing options recommended by top interior designers.
1. Emerald Green
(Image credit: Theresa Butler Interiors / Marc Mauldin)
Emerald green reminds us of nature, often evoking a sense of calm. But selecting the right shade matters. Some may prefer a softer hue for a tranquil ambiance, while others might feel more at peace with a more vibrant forest green.
Theresa Butler, an interior designer, says, “When looking for inspiration to create a bold office space, we turned to the client’s favorite color: Kelly Green by Benjamin Moore. Color drenching the space in this rich color turned it into a cozy working nook, accented with wood tones to inject an organic touch. Varying textures and neutral furnishings help ground the space.”
This juxtaposition of vibrant color and neutral elements is key to creating a serene space.
2. Burnt Orange
(Image credit: Paint & Paper Library)
Rich, Earthy tones like burnt orange offer a cozy, safe feel. This can work beautifully in a modern home. Andy Greenall from Paint & Paper Library says that Atlas, an earthy burnt orange shade, can create a cocooning and enlivening environment ideal for family gatherings.
To keep the space balanced, opt for light flooring and seating materials such as oatmeal or stone, which add warmth without overwhelming the rich color.
3. Teal
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
Helen Parker of deVOL Kitchens says that while mixing several colors can be daring, it’s achievable. A bold teal paired with softer colors like blush pink can create a peaceful, cheerful environment.
Balance your bold choice with neutrals or complementary shades to make the space feel grounded and inviting.
4. Sunshine Yellow
(Image credit: Andrew Martin x Kit Kemp)
Yellow can be both tranquil and uplifting. According to David Harris, a design director at Andrew Martin, this color can recall sunny, relaxed days and brighten even gloomy days.
Pairing yellow with blues, greens, and whites can help tone it down without losing its vibrancy.
5. Black
(Image credit: Imparfait Studio)
Black isn’t necessarily calming, but when used right, it can give a cozy, cocooning feel to a space. Rebekah Zaveloff, co-founder of Imparfait Design Studio, suggests that black rooms can be warm and soothing for those who like ‘cave-like environments.’
Add patterns and contrasts to balance bold black with softer tones like tan or off white.
6. Purple
