My Living Room Palette & Paint Colors
When I first shared BTS videos of the living room in progress, I think the expectation was that I would leave the living room bright and white… including the built-ins. Lots of people wrote back trying to convince me not to paint. The reaction from my social media friends, as well as those who see the space in person is always a surprise. I really wanted to add color to the living room this time around- and it totally works. In fact, it’s even better than I envisioned. Our old living space was bright, white, and all things neutral- so this felt really good. I thought I’d share the color palette, paint swatches, and an explanation of how it came to be. Click through for a little peek into my design process and how I landed on a complex palette over neutrals…
I was always leaning toward a little color in the living room, ever since moving into the house. However (I’m aware this is going to sound crazy), I thought you might want to know what sealed the deal? Sometimes I find inspiration in the strangest places. I was watching my favorite TV show (Grace and Frankie)… when Robert and Sol moved into their new home, I was smitten from the beginning. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, it’s worth a google and a watch. All of the color in their home is bold, masculine, a little dirty (muddy tones), and sophisticated all at the same time. Kudos to the set designer! It was enough to make me think while sitting in my own living room watching the show, “this space needs to be bold, include a statement color, and feel cozy”. That was honestly the aha moment for me.
Of course my mind went to green and navy first because that’s in my wheelhouse. After selecting the perfect green (SW Olive Grove), the rest of the palette sort of fell into place. I like to create digital mood boards, as shown below… but I also order swatches and examine everything in person prior to committing. People- that’s SO important! Don’t forget to look at paint swatches, tape them to the wall, and examine them throughout the day in different light. This was one of my original boards, but you can see how it unfolded.
Here’s some free design advice for you guys… if you’re nervous about adding a bold color to your home, buy a sample and paint a giant square (3′ x 3′ or larger) on your wall. Live with it for at least a week! It’s amazing the conclusions you’ll draw over that time period. Also keep in mind that complimenting colors are always an easy solution.
For instance, the navy chair and warm burl toned credenza work so well together in the same room because blue / orange are complimenting colors. I also like to add a little black and white (even if just a tiny bit) for a high contrast statement. For example, the black entryway door and window frame against the white trim looks super classic and timeless.
Lastly, be sure to “sprinkle” bits of the color palette throughout the space. Plants and greenery balance the focal wall of the fireplace throughout the room. You’ll also notice blue and grey tones throughout the space. The same goes for the orange (the compliment of green)… did you notice those tiny bits strategically placed?
I feel really comfortable with color, but I know it can be intimidating if that’s not your profession (and that’s 100% ok). Feel free to ask any questions in the comments below! I’m happy to help. I’ll post the products links and resources for the entire room in a couple hours, so check back in for those if you have your eye on something. I know… two posts in one day, that’s a rarity around here!