Ah, the bedroom – our personal haven for rest and rejuvenation! Did you know that the colours we choose for our sleeping space can significantly impact our mood and sleep quality? It’s true! A study by Travelodge found that people who sleep in blue bedrooms get an average of 7 hours and 52 minutes of sleep per night, more than any other colour. Fascinating, right? Let’s jump into the world of relaxing bedroom colours and transform your space into a tranquil oasis!
The Psychology of Colour in Bedrooms
Have you ever wondered why some bedrooms feel instantly calming while others seem to energize you? It’s not just about the furniture or the layout – colour plays a huge role in setting the mood of your sleep sanctuary.
Understanding Color’s Impact on Emotions and Sleep
Colours aren’t just pretty to look at; they can actually influence our emotions and even our sleep patterns. It’s like each colour has its own personality that can whisper to our subconscious. For instance, cool colours like blues and greens are often associated with calmness and relaxation. They’re like a gentle lullaby for your eyes, helping to slow down your heart rate and reduce stress levels.
On the flip side, warm colours like reds and oranges can be stimulating. While they might be great for a lively living room, they could turn your bedroom into a space that’s a bit too exciting for sleep. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between colours that make you feel good and colours that help you wind down.
The Importance of Personal Preferences
While colour psychology provides some great general guidelines, your personal preferences are the real MVP when it comes to choosing bedroom colours. After all, you’re the one who’ll be spending the most time in this space. If you’ve always found purple soothing, even though it’s not typically considered a “relaxing” colour, then by all means, embrace that lavender!
Your cultural background, personal experiences, and even childhood memories can all influence how you perceive and react to different colours. For example, if you grew up in a home with a cosy beige bedroom, you might find that neutral tones bring you a sense of comfort and nostalgia that helps you relax.
Balancing Color Psychology with Your Unique Style
The key is to strike a balance between what colour psychology suggests and what resonates with you personally. Think of it as a conversation between your logical brain (which knows the calming effects of certain colours) and your emotional brain (which knows what makes you feel good).
Start by considering colours that are generally known for their relaxing properties, but don’t be afraid to tweak them to suit your taste. Love the idea of a blue bedroom but find navy too dark. Try a softer sky blue or a grey with blue undertones. Drawn to the freshness of green but worried it might be too bright? Explore muted sage or soft mint options.
Your bedroom should be a reflection of you. It’s okay to break the “rules” if it means creating a space that truly feels like your personal haven. After all, relaxing bedroom colours are those that make you feel at peace as soon as you walk into the room.
Top Relaxing Bedroom Colours
Now that we’ve explored the psychology behind colours, let’s paint a picture of some of the most popular relaxing hues. These colours have earned their reputation for creating serene, sleep-friendly environments. But remember, they’re not one-size-fits-all solutions – think of them as a starting point for your colour journey.
Serene Blues: From Soft Sky to Deep Navy
Blue has often crowned the king of calming colours, and for good reason. It’s associated with the sky and the sea, two of nature’s most serene elements. But not all blues are created equal when it comes to relaxation.
Soft sky blues can make a room feel open and airy, almost like you’re sleeping under a clear summer sky. These light blues work especially well in smaller bedrooms or those with limited natural light, as they can help the space feel larger and brighter.
On the other hand, deeper blues like navy or indigo can create a cocooning effect, perfect for those who want their bedroom to feel like a snug, secure retreat. These darker shades can be particularly effective in larger bedrooms, helping to make the space feel more intimate.
When using blue, consider pairing it with crisp whites for a fresh, clean look, or with warm woods for a more grounded, natural feel. And don’t be afraid to play with different shades of blue in the same room – a tonal blue palette can add depth and interest without sacrificing the calming vibe.
Calming Greens: Nature-Inspired Hues for a Peaceful Ambiance
Green is another top contender in the relaxation colour stakes. It’s the colour most associated with nature, bringing to mind lush forests, tranquil meadows, and peaceful gardens. In colour psychology, green is often linked to balance, harmony, and renewal – all great qualities for a bedroom!
Soft, muted greens like sage, moss, or olive can create a soothing, earthy atmosphere. These shades work particularly well if you’re aiming for a natural, organic feel in your bedroom. They pair beautifully with natural materials like wood, rattan, or linen for a cohesive, calming look.
For a fresher, more energizing feel (while still maintaining relaxation), consider lighter greens like mint or seafoam. These can be especially effective in rooms with lots of natural light, creating a bright, airy space that feels grounded and peaceful.
If you’re worried about a green room feeling too “theme-y” or forest-like, remember that you can always use green as an accent colour. A primarily neutral room with green accents in the form of plants, artwork, or textiles can still harness the calming power of green without overwhelming the space.
Warm Neutrals: Beige, Taupe, and Cream for a Cozy Atmosphere
While cool colours like blue and green often get the spotlight for relaxation, warm neutrals deserve their moment in the sun (or should we say, the soft bedside lamp?). Colours like beige, taupe, cream, and soft browns can create a wonderfully cosy, nurturing atmosphere in a bedroom.
These warm neutrals work by creating a sense of comfort and security. They’re like a visual hug, enveloping you in warmth as soon as you enter the room. This can be especially appealing if you live in a colder climate or if you simply love that snug, nestled-in feeling.
One of the great advantages of warm neutrals is their versatility. They play well with almost any accent colour, making it easy to change up your bedroom’s look with different textiles or decor items. They also provide a beautiful backdrop for natural textures like chunky knit blankets, smooth wood, or nubby linen.
When working with warm neutrals, consider using a variety of shades and textures to add depth and interest to the room. A monochromatic scheme of creams and beiges, for instance, can be incredibly sophisticated and soothing when you play with different materials and finishes.
Soft Purples: Lavender and Lilac for a Touch of Luxury and Tranquility
Purple might not be the first colour that comes to mind when you think “relaxing,” but its softer shades like lavender and lilac can create a beautifully tranquil atmosphere with a touch of luxury. These colours are often associated with creativity, spirituality, and calmness.
Lavender, in particular, has long been used in aromatherapy for its calming properties, and the visual colour can have a similar effect. It’s a great choice if you want something a little more unique than traditional blues or greens, but still with a soothing quality.
Lighter purples like lilac can create a fresh, spring-like feel in a bedroom. They pair beautifully with whites and soft greys for a clean, contemporary look. For a more dramatic effect, deeper purples like plum or aubergine can create a rich, cocooning atmosphere. It is perfect for those who want their bedroom to feel like a luxurious retreat.
When using purple in a bedroom, be mindful of the balance. Too much purple, especially in its more saturated forms, can be overwhelming. Consider using it on one feature wall, or through accents like curtains, bedding, or artwork, balanced with neutral tones.
How to Choose the Perfect Relaxing Colour Scheme
Now that we’ve explored some of the most popular relaxing bedroom colours, you might be wondering how to actually implement these in your own bedroom. Choosing a colour scheme isn’t just about picking a colour you like. It’s about creating a harmonious environment that promotes relaxation and good sleep. Let’s dive into some key considerations and techniques for selecting your perfect palette.
Considering Room Size and Natural Light
The size of your bedroom and the amount of natural light it receives should play a big role in your colour choice. Here’s why:
- Room Size: In general, lighter colours can make a small room feel larger and more open, while darker colours can make a large room feel more cosy and intimate. If you have a small bedroom, consider lighter shades of your chosen colour, or use darker colours sparingly as accents.
- Natural Light: The amount and quality of natural light in your room can significantly affect how a colour looks. North-facing rooms tend to receive cooler, bluish light, which can make cool colours appear more intense and warm colours appear muted. South-facing rooms, on the other hand, receive warmer, more golden light, which can intensify warm colours and soften cool ones.
To get a true sense of how a colour will look in your space, always test paint samples on your walls and observe them at different times of day. The way a colour looks on a small swatch in the store can be very different from how it appears on your bedroom wall!
Incorporating Accent Colors and Textures
While a monochromatic colour scheme can be beautiful, incorporating accent colours and textures can add depth and interest to your bedroom without sacrificing its relaxing vibe. Here are some tips:
- Complementary Colors: Consider using colours opposite each other on the colour wheel for subtle accents. For example, if your main colour is blue, small touches of orange (like in a piece of artwork or a throw pillow) can add a pop of interest.
- Analogous Colors: These are colours that sit next to each other on the colour wheel. For instance, if your main colour is green, you might incorporate touches of blue-green or yellow-green for a harmonious, nature-inspired palette.
- Textures: Don’t underestimate the power of texture in creating a relaxing environment. Soft, plush textures like velvet, fleece, or shag can add warmth and cosiness, while smoother textures like silk or cotton can feel cool and refreshing.
Accent colours and textures should enhance the overall relaxing feel of your bedroom, not compete with it. Use them sparingly and intentionally.
Using the 60-30-10 Rule for Balanced Color Distribution
The 60-30-10 rule is a classic interior design principle that can help you create a well-balanced colour scheme. Here’s how it works:
- 60% of the room should be your dominant colour. This is typically applied to the walls and perhaps large pieces of furniture like your bed.
- 30% should be your secondary colour. This might be used for bedding, curtains, or an accent wall.
- 10% is reserved for accent colours. These can appear in artwork, throw pillows, or small decor items.
For example, in a blue-themed bedroom, you might have pale blue walls (60%), white bedding and curtains (30%), and some soft grey or silver in your decor (10%).
This rule helps ensure that your color scheme feels cohesive and intentional, rather than chaotic or overwhelming. Of course, like all design rules, it’s meant to be a guideline rather than a strict law – feel free to adjust the percentages to suit your personal taste and the specific needs of your space.
Best Paint Finishes for Bedroom Walls
Choosing the right relaxing bedroom colours for your walls is crucial, but don’t forget about the finish! The paint finish you select can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your room. Let’s explore the best options for creating that perfect relaxing ambience.
Matte Finishes for a Soft, Velvety Look
Matte finishes, also known as flat finishes, are a popular choice for bedroom walls, and for good reason. Here’s why you might want to consider a matte finish:
- Soft Appearance: Matte paint doesn’t reflect light, which gives it a soft, velvety look. This can create a soothing, cosy atmosphere in your bedroom.
- Hides Imperfections: If your walls have minor flaws or unevenness, a matte finish can help conceal these imperfections.
- Rich Color: Matte finishes often make colours appear deeper and richer, which can be particularly appealing if you’re going for a moody or cocoon-like feel in your bedroom.
However, keep in mind that matte finishes are less durable and harder to clean than other options. They’re best suited for low-traffic areas, which usually includes bedrooms.
Eggshell for a Subtle Sheen and Easy Cleaning
The eggshell finish is a step up from matte in terms of sheen but still maintains a relatively flat appearance. Here’s why eggshell might be the right choice for your bedroom:
- Subtle Glow: Eggshell has a slight sheen that can add a gentle glow to your walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- More Durable: Compared to matte finishes, eggshells are more resistant to wear and tear, making it a good option if you have kids or pets.
- Easier to Clean: Eggshell finishes are easier to wipe clean than matte finishes, which can be handy for maintaining your walls over time.
- Versatile: Eggshell works well with most colours and can complement various decor styles, from traditional to modern.
Eggshell is often considered a happy medium between the flatness of matte and the shine of satin, making it a popular choice for bedrooms.
When to Use Satin or Semi-Gloss Finishes in Bedrooms
While matte and eggshell finishes are typically the go-to choices for bedroom walls, there are situations where satin or semi-gloss finishes might be appropriate:
- Satin Finish: Satin has a pearl-like sheen that reflects a bit more light than eggshell. It can be a good choice for:
- Smaller bedrooms that need a bit more light reflection to feel spacious
- Accent walls where you want to draw a bit more attention
- Bedrooms with high humidity (like in tropical climates) as it’s more moisture-resistant
- Semi-Gloss Finish: Semi-gloss is even shinier than satin and is highly durable. While it’s not typically used for entire bedroom walls, it can be suitable for:
- Trim, doorframes, and window sills
- Built-in shelving or cabinetry in the bedroom
- Bathrooms attached to the bedroom, where moisture resistance is important
The shinier the finish, the more it will highlight imperfections in your walls. If you’re considering a satin or semi-gloss finish, make sure your walls are in good condition or be prepared for some prep work before painting.
When choosing a paint finish, consider the practical aspects of your space. Think about factors like the amount of natural light, the condition of your walls, and how much wear and tear the room typically experiences. By balancing aesthetics with functionality, you can create a beautiful, relaxing bedroom that stands the test of time.
Complementing Your Relaxing Wall Colour
Once you’ve chosen the perfect relaxing bedroom colours for your walls, the next step is to complement it with the right furnishings and decor. This is where you can really bring your personal style into play while maintaining that serene, sleep-friendly atmosphere. Let’s explore how to select bedding, curtains, furniture, and decor that will enhance your calming colour scheme.
Selecting Bedding and Curtains that Enhance the Calming Atmosphere
Your bedding and curtains are large visual elements in your bedroom, so choosing them wisely can significantly impact the overall feel of the space. Here are some tips:
- Coordinating Colors: Choose bedding and curtains that complement your wall colour. This doesn’t mean they have to match exactly – in fact, a bit of contrast can add interest. For example, if you have pale blue walls, consider white bedding with subtle blue accents, or go for a deeper blue to create a tonal effect.
- Textures: Incorporate different textures to add depth to your colour scheme. A chunky knit throw on a smooth comforter, or layers of different fabric weights, can create visual interest without disrupting the calm vibe.
- Patterns: If you want to include patterns, opt for subtle, organic designs like gentle waves, soft florals, or abstract nature-inspired motifs. These can add character without overstimulating the senses.
- Light Control: Choose curtains that effectively block out light when needed. Blackout curtains can be especially helpful for creating a sleep-friendly environment, particularly if you have street lights outside or are sensitive to morning light.
Remember, your bed is the focal point of your bedroom, so your bedding choices can really make or break the relaxing atmosphere you’re trying to create.
Choosing Furniture and Decor that Harmonize with Your Color Scheme
Furniture and decor items are your opportunity to add personality to your relaxing bedroom. Here’s how to choose pieces that complement your colour scheme:
- Wood Tones: The colour of your wooden furniture can greatly impact the feel of your room. Lighter woods like ash or maple can brighten a space and pair well with cool colours, while darker woods like walnut or mahogany can add warmth and depth.
- Upholstered Pieces: If you have a reading chair or bench in your bedroom, consider upholstering it in a fabric that complements your wall colour. This could be in a similar shade for a monochromatic look, or in a contrasting colour for more visual interest.
- Metallic Accents: Metallic elements can add a touch of luxury to your bedroom. Silver or chrome can enhance cool colour schemes, while gold or brass can warm up a space. Just be careful not to overdo it – a little shimmer goes a long way in a relaxing bedroom.
- Artwork: Choose art pieces that reinforce your colour scheme and contribute to the relaxing vibe. Landscapes, abstract pieces in soothing colours, or black-and-white photography can all work well.
- Mirrors: Strategically placed mirrors can help reflect light and make your bedroom feel larger. Choose frames that complement your overall colour scheme and furniture style.
Incorporating Natural Elements for Added Serenity
Bringing elements of nature into your bedroom can significantly enhance its calming properties. Here are some ways to do this:
- Plants: Indoor plants not only look beautiful but can also improve air quality and boost your mood. Choose low-maintenance plants like snake plants, pothos, or peace lilies. If you don’t have a green thumb, high-quality silk plants can still provide that natural touch.
- Natural Materials: Incorporate natural materials like wood, rattan, jute, or stone in your decor. This could be through furniture pieces, decorative objects, or textiles.
- Nature-Inspired Decor: Look for decor items that echo natural forms, like landscape paintings, or sculptures inspired by natural elements.
- Essential Oils or Scented Candles: While not visual elements, natural scents can greatly enhance the relaxing atmosphere of your bedroom. Lavender, chamomile, or vanilla scents are known for their calming properties.
The goal is to create a cohesive, calming environment that reflects your personal style while promoting relaxation and good sleep. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect balance for your space.
By carefully selecting your bedding, furniture, and decor, you can create a bedroom that’s truly made for rest.
Conclusion
Creating relaxing bedroom colours is an exciting journey of self-expression and comfort. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil blues or the soothing greens, the perfect palette is waiting to transform your bedroom. The most relaxing bedroom colours are those that resonate with you and bring a sense of peace to your space. So, why not grab some paint swatches and start envisioning your dream bedroom today? Sweet dreams await!
References
[1] Travelodge. (2013). The Secret to a Good Night’s Sleep? It’s in the Colour of Your Bedroom. Retrieved from Travelodge Study
