If you’ve ever walked into a room and felt instantly uplifted by its energy, chances are it’s not a beige box. Color has a powerful impact on our emotions and can transform a space from drab to delicious with just a few splashes of the right hue. But for many, the idea of decorating with color is intimidating—there’s always that nagging fear of “What if it’s too much?” or “What if it doesn’t match?”
Fear not, color lover! Whether you’re looking to dip your tippy toes into a bolder palette or dive headfirst into the world of vibrant home style, this guide is here to help you embrace the joy of decorating with color.
1. Start with a Statement Color
When it comes to decorating with color, you don’t have to go all-in from the start. Begin by choosing one statement color that makes your heart sing. Maybe it’s a refreshing teal, a zesty lemon yellow, a punchy coral or my favorite, a bright pink. This color will be your anchor, and you can weave it through different elements in the room or throughout your home.
A deep emerald green velvet sofa or a set of vibrant cobalt blue chairs, for example, can ground the space and set the tone for the rest of your color adventure.
2. Layer with Neutrals (But Make Them Interesting)
Now that you’ve committed to your anchor color, it’s time to layer in some neutrals to balance things out—but don’t settle for boring. Instead of stark whites or grays which can feel drab or even dated, think in terms of rich neutrals. Current trends lean away from gray and include warm beige or tan tones, rich chocolate browns, or creamy off-whites. These shades will add sophistication and keep the room from feeling overwhelming if color is new for you.
If you’re a bit of a chromaphobe (aka you are afraid of color), layering your anchor color against interesting neutrals will make the space feel cohesive without sacrificing any boldness. Don’t be afraid to keep the walls neutral or add a neutral rug with texture or subtle pattern for extra depth.
But if you are all about a dopamine hit, also don’t be afraid to go all in with color on furniture, walls, rugs, art and accents, For some of us color fanatics, there’s no such thing as too much color.
3. Play with Patterns
Patterns are the secret weapon for those who want to add more color. Mixing patterns in complementary or contrasting colors can create an energetic and lively space without feeling chaotic. Think geometric rugs, striped pillows, or even a floral wallpaper in coordinating hues.
The trick is to find a common thread—maybe all your patterns include a hint of your statement color, or maybe they’re in the same color family but in different scales–large florals with small polka dots, for example. This approach keeps things visually interesting and cohesive.
4. Use Color in Unexpected Places
Ready to get a little daring? Daring should be my middle name!
Try adding pops of color in unexpected places! Paint your ceiling a soft pastel or bold hue for a delightful surprise when you look up. Or line your bookshelves with bright wallpaper for a burst of color behind your favorite objects.
Even smaller touches like a bright door or doorframe, a colorful collection of vases, or vibrant pillows on your neutral sofa can bring joy to a space without a major commitment.
5. Embrace Color Through Art and Accessories
If you’re still nervous about committing to too much color on your walls or furniture, focus on art and accessories to introduce bold hues. A large, colorful painting, a gallery wall filled with vibrant prints and original works on canvas, or a collection of funky ceramics can bring life to your room.
Elements like pillows, blankets, and rugs are also an easy way to experiment with different color schemes. They can be swapped out or mixed up as your tastes evolve, letting you refresh the look of a space without major changes.
6. Go All In (If You Dare!)
Feeling fearless? Then go ahead and embrace color everywhere! When done thoughtfully, layering bold hues throughout an entire room can feel cohesive, energizing, and utterly unique. For example, create a color story by combining rich jewel tones—deep sapphire blues, sassy hot pinks, and striking emerald greens—for a glamorous vibe.
Alternatively, if you want more subtle color, go for a monochromatic color scheme, where you layer different tones of the same color for a chic, tonal effect. For example, varying shades of pink—from blush to fuchsia—can create a sophisticated, layered look without feeling too loud. I’m often a fan of layering shades of blue from soft sky blue to fashionable cerulean to rich cobalt. Blue is the world’s favorite color, so even when bold, most people love it.
7. Trust Your Instincts
The most important rule of decorating with color? Trust yourself. Design is all about personal expression, and color should reflect your unique style and personality. If a particular hue makes you happy, don’t worry about trends or rules—just go for it!
Color Is the Key to Joyful Spaces. Decorating with color doesn’t have to be intimidating. Whether you start small with a pop of vibrant throw pillows or take the plunge with an all-out color explosion, the goal is to create a space that makes you feel energized, happy, and totally at home. Don’t shy away from making bold choices—after all, your home should be a reflection of your personality. And if your personality is colorful, why not let your space be, too?
Remember, homes are meant to be lived in, loved, and filled with joy. So why not fill yours with color that brings a smile to your face every time you walk into the room?
Now go ahead—grab that paintbrush, those patterned pillows, or that eye-catching piece of art, and start decorating with color like the bold, fearless person you are!
Xo, Tobi
