How to make bold colours relaxing
Using bold colours in interior design can be a fantastic way to infuse personality and energy into a space, yet the key to making them feel relaxing lies in the balance. It’s possible to create a vibrant room that also feels calming, and doing so involves a blend of thoughtful colour placement, strategic pairing, and subtle accents.
01. Pair Bold with Neutral Colors
One of the simplest ways to make bold colors feel less overwhelming is to balance them with neutral tones. Neutral colors, such as beige, grey, or white, help to tone down the intensity of vibrant hues while still allowing them to pop. For instance, a navy blue accent wall paired with light grey or soft white furniture can create a sophisticated and relaxing atmosphere. Neutrals can “anchor” bold colours, making them feel intentional and controlled rather than chaotic.
02. Use Bold Colours Sparingly
While it’s tempting to go all out, using bold colours in small doses can be just as effective. Accent walls, painted furniture, or small decorative items can add splashes of bold colour without overwhelming the space. In a living room, for example, you might opt for a deep emerald green sofa with lighter-coloured throw pillows, or a few bright-coloured frames against a muted wall. This selective approach keeps bold colours from overpowering the space, resulting in a more relaxing ambiance.
03. Choose Calming Bold Colours
Some bold colours are naturally more calming than others. Deep blues, forest greens, and certain shades of purple, for instance, are strong colours that can also have a calming effect due to their cool undertones. Warm bold colours like burnt orange or mustard yellow, when paired correctly, can create warmth without over stimulating the senses. Avoid overly bright or neon shades as they can be overly stimulating and may disrupt relaxation.
04. Emphasize Natural Light and Texture
Natural light can soften bold colours, making them feel more inviting and comfortable. If your space allows for it, maximize natural lighting with large windows or sheer curtains. Additionally, incorporating textures, like soft fabrics, woven rugs, or natural wood, helps to break up large swathes of bold colour. The interplay of different materials creates visual interest and depth, which can soften the impact of bold colours and make a space feel more harmonious.
05. Incorporate Soft Furnishings & Greenery
Adding cushions, throws, and even indoor plants can offset bold colours and add a layer of calm. Greenery is especially effective, as it brings a sense of life and freshness to bold interiors, while soft furnishings add warmth and texture, making a space feel cozy. A few well-placed plants can enhance the overall tranquility of a room, making bold colours feel less intense and more welcoming.
Incorporating bold colours into your design can create a vibrant yet calming space. By balancing bold hues with neutrals, using them sparingly, choosing naturally calming shades, and adding soft textures and greenery, you can achieve a look that is both lively and relaxing. Thoughtful choices allow bold colours to bring personality to your home without sacrificing comfort.