What Are Some Relaxing Colors for Living Rooms?

Brown

• Neutral tans, creams and browns are relaxing to many. These are earth tones that can be used in the background on walls or furniture so that other items such as lampshades or pillows highlight the main colors of the room. Browns and tans work well with other colors and as a bonus do not show dirt as easily, so rugs and cushions don't show as much wear and tear over time.

Blue

• Always considered a relaxing color, the calm color of water and sky is a natural tone that is not blaring and in your face. Use blue as the main color theme in the room with splashes in places like the throw pillows, book ends or area rugs so that your eye falls on the calming color no matter where you look. To emphasize the colors calming effect, hang a picture with water or sky in it.

Green

• Green is a main color in nature, creating a soothing feeling. Ranging in shades from the subtle light green to dark or earth sage and then on into bright Kelly or neon green, you should stick with the lighter or darker colors. The light and dusty colors are good for walls or background, almost unnoticeable, while the darker or more natural greens can be used as highlights in the room.

Lavender

• Light purples and lavender are relaxing as long as you don't go too much toward brighter shades. It brings out visions of the sky in the evening, fields of flowers or the tips of far off mountains. Dark purple can be relaxing as long as it is a deep dark purple such as plum or grape. Use dark purples as accents in the room with pillows, throws or rugs, and use a light color on the walls.