Understanding the impact of color on mood is crucial, especially when it comes to the bedroom. This space should serve as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, away from the stresses of the day. Selecting the right color scheme can make all the difference between a restful night’s sleep and restlessness.
While personal taste is important, some colors are known to disrupt tranquility and should be avoided in the bedroom. To help you steer clear of these disruptive shades, we sought advice from expert interior designers who understand the nuances of creating a calming bedroom environment.
Meet the Experts:
– Bailey Li, founder of Bailey Li Interiors
– Andrea Magno, director of color marketing and design at Benjamin Moore
– Mary Patton, founder of Mary Patton Design
White, while often perceived as a safe choice, can feel cold and unwelcoming if not chosen carefully. Opt for warmer off-white tones for a cozier and more inviting atmosphere, advises Bailey Li. Bright purple, known for its energizing properties, might not promote relaxation in the bedroom. Instead, consider cool blues and greens for a soothing ambiance, as suggested by Andrea Magno.
The color yellow, reminiscent of sunlight, can interfere with winding down at night due to its association with daylight. If using yellow, opt for a soft, muted shade that reflects light gently. Red, with its stimulating nature, may not be conducive to relaxation. Earthy terracotta or soft blush tones offer a more calming alternative, according to Li.
When incorporating warm colors like red, ensure balance with complementary hues for a harmonious look. Consider using red sparingly, such as in accents like a terracotta nightstand against soft blue walls, to create visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Remember, a carefully chosen color palette can transform your bedroom into a tranquil haven conducive to rest and rejuvenation.
The Right Way with Orange
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Similar to red, orange boasts a bold and invigorating essence, making it a fantastic choice for vibrant spaces. However, it may not always be the most suitable option for creating a relaxing atmosphere. Terracotta, which is a deeper blend of red and orange, stands out as an exception in this regard, providing a sense of warmth without being overpowering. Despite this, interior designer Mary Patton warns that bright orange may feel somewhat out of place in a bedroom, which should serve as a sanctuary for unwinding after a long day.
Patton recommends reserving brighter shades of orange for areas that require a boost of energy, such as a laundry room. According to her, bedrooms should exude a sense of tranquility, and softer hues like blues, grays, or earthy neutrals are better suited for cultivating a restful ambiance.
Black and Dark Gray
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While dark, moody bedrooms have gained popularity on platforms like Pinterest, not everyone may gravitate towards black and deep gray walls. These colors, although they can introduce drama and sophistication, might not always foster the peaceful environment that many individuals desire in their bedroom setting.
Magno proposes finding a middle ground rather than fully embracing dark tones. She suggests the interplay of darker and lighter shades within the same color family, as this approach maintains visual interest and a sense of cohesion without becoming overwhelming. Softer grays and warm neutrals offer a comparable level of elegance without feeling overly weighty.
For more insightful articles, visit Martha Stewart’s website.
