Your home is meant to be a peaceful haven where you can relax and escape from the stresses of the outside world.
Unfortunately, avoiding stress is not always a simple task. Juggling a busy family life, maintaining an active social calendar, or even just keeping your home tidy can all contribute to heightened stress levels.
Calmness might come from just one corner of your home as Psychreg founder Dennis Relojo-Howell says: “Your ‘self-care space' can be the lounge, where you do your yoga or your kitchen where you find pleasure in trying new recipes. It can also be your bedroom, which becomes your sanctuary for rejuvenating yourself after a busy day.”
How your home is decorated might also hold the key to a stress-busting future. Let’s take a look at how.
The Colors For A Calming Vibe
Fitted furniture experts Hammonds wanted to find out which colors and design schemes would bring out calm in people.
When it comes to the walls of a home, four stood out among those surveyed.
- White (21%)
- Duck egg (20%)
- Pale grey (20%)
- Beige (16%)
Softer colors provide a neutral canvas for you to add splashes of your personality on. They also help to create an airy environment and can help bounce natural light around a space.
What Interior Trends Are The Most Zen?
How can we design a home that promotes calm alongside these color schemes?
Cottagecore was voted the most calming home aesthetic. Notes of traditional English countryside bring natural materials and traditionally crafted furniture together to provide a homely feel all year round.
Think bright and breezy summer parties in the garden before huddling up around the fire in the depths of winter.
Scandi – taking influences from the Nordic countries – and Japandi – a mixture of those northern influences with others from Japan – also ranked highly among those polled.
Tips For Maintaining A Calm Home Atmosphere
If a full repaint or interior design overhaul isn’t quite on the cards just yet, don’t fret. There are plenty of other, smaller, ways in which you can bring a bit of peace to your home.
Kirsty Oakes, Hammonds Head of Product and Marketing, said: “Having somewhere you can retreat to after a stressful day – whether that’s your living room, your bedroom, your bathroom or even your kitchen – is important, and it’s clear from our research that there are various things we can do to make sure those spaces are inviting and calming.
The Power of Nature in Your Home
Embracing the natural world has always been a source of calm and relaxation. This is no different when it comes to our homes. Incorporating shades that remind us of the great outdoors can instantly bring that sense of tranquility indoors. Greens, in particular, from the softest sage to the deepest forest green, can evoke feelings of being amidst nature, even in the heart of a bustling city.
The Allure of the Ocean
The dreamy blues of the ocean have a compelling charm that many find irresistible. From the palest sky blue to the intense ultramarine, these hues can transform any space into a serene haven. Especially in bedrooms and bathrooms, these colors can create an environment that feels like a seaside retreat.
The Warmth of Earthy Tones
Earthy tones, including warm browns and beiges, have a grounding effect. They remind us of the stability of the earth beneath our feet. Incorporating these colors in living spaces can create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for curling up with a good book or enjoying a quiet moment with loved ones.
Modern Neutrals for a Contemporary Touch
While traditional neutrals like white and beige have their place, modern neutrals such as soft grays and muted pinks are making waves in the interior design world. These colors provide a sophisticated backdrop, allowing furniture and decor to shine, while still offering a sense of calm and elegance.
The Timeless Appeal of White
White, in its many shades, remains a favorite for many homeowners. It offers a blank canvas, allowing for flexibility in design and decor. Whether you prefer a stark, modern white or a creamy, warm variant, this color can brighten up spaces and give a feeling of cleanliness and freshness.
Top-five tips for creating a more relaxing home environment:
- Place a reed diffuser or light a scented candle to help eradicate any unpleasant smells
- Clear up mess and clutter – as the saying goes, tidy house, tidy mind!
- Clean your windows (inside and out) and pull back curtains or window dressings to let natural light flood in – this is key to improving your mood.
- Move furniture around or take out non-essential pieces altogether if you’re short on space. A room with very little spare space can feel chaotic!
- Repaint dark rooms or walls.
Summary
In the quest for a calm and serene home, the colors and interior trends we choose play a pivotal role. From the soothing shades of white, duck egg, pale grey, and beige to the comforting aesthetics of Cottagecore, Scandi, and Japandi, our homes can truly become our sanctuaries. The additional insights into the power of nature-inspired colors, the allure of oceanic blues, the grounding effect of earthy tones, the sophistication of modern neutrals, and the timeless appeal of white further emphasize the importance of thoughtful design in achieving a peaceful abode.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most calming wall color?
The most calming wall colors are typically soft, muted shades like pale blues, greens, and neutrals such as beige and gray.
What is the color trend in interior design for 2023?
The color trend for 2023 leans towards nature-inspired hues, including greens, blues, and earthy tones. Bold and punchy colors are also making a comeback.
What colors make a home feel cozy?
Warm colors like deep reds, oranges, browns, soft neutrals, and earthy tones can make a home feel cozy and inviting.
What color is replacing gray in 2023?
While gray remains popular, blues and greens are becoming more prevalent in interior design as replacements for gray.
How do colors affect our mood at home?
Colors can significantly influence our emotions and mood. For instance, blues and greens are often associated with calmness and relaxation, while reds and oranges can evoke energy and warmth.
Which room is best suited for a calming blue shade?
Bedrooms and bathrooms are ideal for calming blue shades, as they promote relaxation and tranquility.
How often should one change wall colors for a fresh feel?
It's subjective, but many interior designers recommend updating wall colors every 3-5 years to refresh the home's look and feel.
What are the benefits of using neutral colors in home decor?
Neutral colors provide versatility, allowing for easy updates with decor and furnishings. They also create a calming and harmonious environment.
How do I choose the right shade of white for my home?
Consider the room's lighting and the mood you want to create. Warmer whites make a space feel cozy, while cooler whites give a modern, crisp look. If you've found a shade you love, you can use this paint color matching tool to find similar shades or colors from leading suppliers. This tool can help you select the best match for your desired aesthetic.
Are dark colors suitable for small spaces?
While lighter colors can make a small space feel larger, dark colors can add depth and coziness. The key is to balance dark shades with adequate lighting and decor.
What is the Pantone Color of the Year for 2023?
The Pantone Color of the Year for 2023 is Viva Magenta, a vibrant shade with both warm and cool undertones.
How do I incorporate the Japandi style into my home?
Japandi style combines Scandinavian simplicity with Japanese elegance. Use neutral colors, clean lines, and incorporate natural materials like wood and bamboo.
What is the significance of Cottagecore in interior design?
Cottagecore emphasizes a return to traditional, rural living. It incorporates natural materials, vintage furnishings, and a connection to nature.
How can I make my home feel more luxurious using color?
Incorporating rich, deep shades like navy, emerald, or burgundy can add a touch of luxury. Metallic accents in gold or silver can also elevate the space.
