The short days and long nights of winter can really bring on the blues. Dark, dreary weather keeps us indoors more, and all that time inside can start to feel dreary. One of the best ways to banish the winter blues is by incorporating colors that evoke the mood-boosting essence of spring and summer. Here are my top color recommendations for each room that will help lighten your mood all winter long.
The heart of the home deserves a color that energizes and uplifts. A sunny yellow like Benjamin Moore’s Sun-Baked charges up a kitchen with good vibes. It evokes the warmth of a spring daffodil garden. Pair cheery yellow walls with white cabinetry, trim and stainless steel appliances for a clean, refreshed look.
Keep a yellow kitchen feeling fresh instead of frumpy with plenty of bright white. White cabinetry prevents the space from feeling overly yellow. Stainless steel appliances add reflective surfaces to enhance the light. For texture, use wood cutting boards, rattan baskets and ceramic canisters in natural tones. The mix of yellow, white and wood tones is warm and energizing.
The bathroom should feel like a tranquil oasis from stress. An airy aqua like Sherwin Williams Rainfall cultivates peaceful vibes. It’s reminiscent of cool ocean waves and sunny skies. Keep the ambience serene with white tile, natural wood accents and greenery.
Prevent an aqua bathroom from feeling too cold by incorporating woods. Try timber stools, woven baskets and wood-framed mirrors. Potted palms, trailing ivy and ferns add organic texture and connection to nature. The aqua walls with natural elements banish winter blues, evoking thoughts of tropical getaways.
The bedroom should feel like a romantic escape from the world. A flirty coral like Benjamin Moore’s Caliente makes a fabulous choice for sparking joy and intimacy. It reminds you of star-studded desert nights. Play up the glam factor with silky bedding, mirrored nightstands and crystal lighting.
Take full advantage of coral’s romantic vibe by using sumptuous textures. Opt for silk pillows and duvets, cashmere blankets and velvet slippers. Gauzy linen curtains filter the light beautifully, while shaggy faux sheepskin adds coziness underfoot. The mix of coral walls, mirrored furniture and opulent textiles makes for an oasis from winter’s chill.
An office should help, not hinder, your focus and productivity. An earthy olive green like Sherwin Williams Nether promotes concentration and clear thinking. The natural tone is reminiscent of lush forests and mossy glens. Enhance the earthy factor by using wood desks, shelving, floors and frames.
Prevent olive green from feeling too militaristic by mellowing it with natural woods. Opt for oak desk tops, timber shelves and woven baskets for warmth. Jute area rugs and rattan chair seats also enhance the earthy feel. For contrast, use crisp white trim and crown molding against the green walls. The mix of green, white and wood tones helps mental clarity.
The living room deserves a warm, welcoming ambience. Nothing beats a sunny yellow for brightening moods on a dreary day. Benjamin Moore’s Buttercup reminds you of spring daffodils and lemon drop candies. Play up the cheer with patterned pillows, botanical art prints and fresh flowers.
Make the most of yellow’s happy vibe by incorporating floral motifs. Try daisy accent pillows, tulip lamps and poppy wall art. Vases full of fresh blooms add living color. For contrast, pair yellow walls with white trim, dark wood floors and charcoal gray sofa and chairs. The sunny yellow with hits of patterns and flowers chases away the gloom.
Winter’s chill can permeate our moods. By thoughtfully incorporating energetic yellows, soothing aquas, romantic corals and earthy greens, you can create an indoor oasis full of warmth and light. Focus on colors that evoke your favorite aspects of spring and summer to keep a sunny state of mind all winter long. With the right hue in each room, you can banish those seasonal blues.
Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.