What color means for your interior space
Whether you want an interior space to be bright and welcoming, or dark and cozy, wallpaper color is a key factor in the emotional qualities of a room. By choosing a specific wallpaper pattern and color, the character and mood of an interior space can change dramatically. In this article, we’re going to give you a quick rundown on how color affects our perception when we walk into a room.
Either you want to add energy to a dull room or calm a hectic one, this guide will help you pick the color that suits you best. The perfect wallpaper color that will not only enhance the aesthetic of your home but would also uplift your mood and spirit.
First, the emotional quality of each color differs between cultures. Check out this interesting infographic that compares how different cultures around the world perceive each color:
Click to view a larger version (Source: Information Is Beautiful)
The color purple can mean wealth and luxury in Western cultures, but in Thailand, purple is associated with death and mourning. While culture differences make up a large part of how color is viewed, a color’s "mood" or emotional impact can also be symbolic of values or unspoken "rules" in our society. For example:
- A red stop sign or a red light that implies ‘stop’
- Green packaging or graphics on a product which emphasizes its natural ingredients
- Packaging on Apple product that is mostly white in color, emphasizing cleanliness and modernity
While this article looks at color moods from a Western perspective, there are many resources online that compare a color’s emotional quality from different cultures. Before you dive straight into your next interior design project, check out these articles to learn more:
Table of contents:
- Black wallpaper: mysterious, minimalist, elegant, refined
- Grey wallpaper: industrial, futuristic, sleek, sophisticated
- White wallpaper: minimalist, modern, pure, clean
- Brown and Beige wallpaper: classic, functional, timeless, cozy
- Red wallpaper: stimulating, passionate, intimate, energetic
- Pink wallpaper: playful, feminine, peaceful, fun
- Purple wallpaper: regal, luxurious, rich, calming
- Blue wallpaper: tranquil, soothing, inviting, graceful
- Green wallpaper: natural, organic, renewal, relaxation
- Yellow wallpaper: cheerful, happy, energetic, welcoming
- Orange wallpaper: energetic, creative, funky, trendy
- Summary
Black wallpaper: mysterious, minimalist, elegant, refined
Black can often transform a room dramatically, making a space appear darker and more closed in. Depending on what you want to achieve with your interior design, this may or may not be the result you’re looking for. Still, if you want to create a mysterious and refined look, black wallpaper can often do the trick!
Black Dyed Ink on Canvas Metallic Wallpaper R6237
Sample wallpaper above which is Black Dyed Ink on Canvas Metallic has an artistic strokes of painted color mimic the look of ink saturating canvas. The colors bleed into each other to create an abstract design that forms subtle horizontal stripes. Splashes of metallic strokes paint the canvas for an elegant sheen.
One way to incorporate black colors in a room design is by using it as a feature wall and pairing it with other black décor items, such as a large rug. This keeps the black color scheme present throughout the room without it being too overpowering.
Black Weathered Grid Wallpaper R6547
Another way to use black wallpaper is to choose a pattern that mixes black with other lighter colors. Check out this geometric design, which uses black as accents overtop the lighter grey background. This helps keep the color palette from being too uniform, while also adding an interesting visual element.
This Black Weathered Grid Wallpaper is a contemporary geometric wallpaper that features metallic linework that forms a grid over a weathered background. The layered colors and shimmering effects make this design a great metallic living room wallpaper.
Grey wallpaper: industrial, futuristic, sleek, sophisticated
Depending on the pattern, grey wallpaper can make a room feel sophisticated and high-end, or more rustic and industrial. Unlike regular paint where you are using a single color to change a room’s mood, wallpaper pattern is also important to keep in mind.
Grey & Gold Jungle Fans Wallpaper R7127
This elegant grey geometric wallpaper takes the classic art deco fan design and turns it into a tropical motif with hand painted strokes and metallic elements. The hand drawn linework and brush strokes overlaid on a dark background create a dramatic and intricate design, perfect as an entryway or dining room wallpaper. It isn’t just perfect for adding a sophisticated touch to your home but it is also a best “home-therapy” after a long-stressful day at work.
Faux Stitched Grey Diamond Cushion Wallpaper R4386
This luxurious damask wallpaper is an example of grey wallpaper that is elegant and stylish. The stitched detailing and bold design laced with intricate details and swirling effects. A subtle paisley pattern adds an ornate element, making this perfect for a glamorous powder room wallpaper.
White wallpaper: minimalist, modern, pure, clean
Like black, white colors in a room can make it feel minimalistic. While white can open up an environment and make it feel more spacious and clean, too much white can also make a room feel uninspired. Balancing the benefits and drawbacks of color usage can be tricky.
However, an off-white color can be used to achieve that balance, with a modern and clean look that adds a sense of style to a room. Wallpaper that has a light colored pattern, such as the damask in the image above, helps keep the room looking minimalist in design.
This geometric design uses vertical lines with a textured effect mixed with layers of color to create a design that resembles a mountain landscape. A cloudy, painted effect covers the top of the mural for an abstract, misty mood. The stripes can be made with a metallic gold effect.
White Tropical Pop Wallpaper R6590
However, an off-white color can be used to achieve that balance, with a modern and clean look that adds a sense of style to a room. Wallpaper that has a light colored pattern, such as the tropical in the image above, helps keep the room looking minimalist in design.
This white botanical wallpaper uses bold lines and striking colors to create a tropical explosion on the wall! The variety of lush tropical plants and canvas textured background makes this nature-inspired design a perfect cool kids' or teens' bedroom wallpaper.
White Aztec Stripe Wallpaper R6136
If you want to go with a more traditional white color, choose wallpaper that has other design elements going for it. For example, White Aztec Stripe Wallpaper has an interesting geometric design but also a metallic effect that adds a lot of depth.
This bold and brilliantly large striped pattern features a subtle linework design full of sharp triangular angles. The micro shapes and lines are similar to aztec design. A subtle metallic sheen shines through from the background, while light texture embosses the geometric linework.
Brown and Beige wallpaper: classic, functional, timeless, cozy
Brown and beige colors are often seen as more traditional and reserved. While it’s often a "safe" choice for interior designers, this doesn’t mean it has to be a "boring" choice.
Brown & Blue Rough Herringbone Wallpaper R6699
This FAUX FINISH WEATHERED SHIP features a wooden herringbone pattern with a photo realistic finish. With an aged look that is on-trend, this design is sure to transform any bedroom or home office. The high amount of detail and various colors adds a modern touch that will complete your rooms design.
Brown Abstract Layers Digital Wallpaper M9541
Hanging the same wallpaper pattern in different colors can create a lot of visual interest since it keeps the color palette more diverse and exciting. In the example above, the use of different brown and beige colors connects the large bedroom and hallway.
This Brown Abstract Layers Digital mural uses a collage of geometric imagery and a painted effect to form an overall image of a skull. A faux crocodile skin effect is applied throughout the mural for added texture and depth, giving the skull the appearance of being painted on top of the wall like graffiti.
As a warm color, brown can help make a space feel cozy. One way to modernize brown wallpaper and keep it from looking too traditional is to choose a pattern with metallic accents.
Red wallpaper: stimulating, passionate, intimate, energetic
Red is a dramatic color that instantly changes the mood of a room. Because it is such a strong color, it adds a high level of energy to the space.
Red wallpaper is a stimulant. It promotes courage and fearlessness. Use this color when you want to increase self-confidence. But too much red can make you feel overly excited or agitated. A little goes a long way. Try a bright red candy dish, picture frame, or accent pillows.
A brighter, cherry red adds a high level of energy to a room and stimulates the senses. Lighter red tints like the one above convey a more exciting mood that’s more playful and fun.
This charming nature inspired wallpaper features an illustrated style of branches climbing the wall, adorned with perched birds and blooming with berries and foliage. The playful art style paired with bold color options makes this a refreshing and artistic choice for a tropical jungle design.
Coral Red Geometric Intersect Wallpaper R6834
A darker red can take on a more mature, sophisticated look. Muted red shades have less energy, but have a more classic appeal.
This glamorous geometric Coral Red wallpaper features bold intersecting lines and rectangular shapes that form an overall maze-like pattern. A gorgeous metallic coating covers the linework, underlaid with a simple matte background for elegant contrast. This design is perfect to use on a feature wall as a contemporary style living wallpaper.
Pink wallpaper: playful, feminine, peaceful, fun
In Western cultures, pink is often associated with femininity (much like how blue is associated with masculinity), but that doesn’t mean the color can only be used in a girl's bedroom!
Gentle and soothing, pink is the color of love. It promotes tenderness and is a comfort in times of emotional transition. Use it in a room when you are trying to increase receptivity and understanding. Try a pink lampshade, table runner or just a glass of rosé wine.
Pink Peaceful Peacocks Wallpaper Mural M9828
This gorgeous Pink Peaceful Peacocks nature wallpaper features large scale illustrated peacocks and flowers. With a hand-painted effect and whimsical style, this contemporary wallpaper mural makes for a great kids' or teens' bedroom wallpaper.
Moreover, mixing pink and white can produce a mood that is calm and peaceful like this Pink Metallic Mountains Wallpaper. Because of the lighter colors, this intricate damask design adds a touch of grace and stylishness to a room without being too dominant.
Like vibrant reds, hot pink colors such as the one above can go a long way in energizing a room. The deep pink also dramatizes a room much more than lighter shades, so a great way to use this color is in small doses, such as on a feature wall.
Purple wallpaper: regal, luxurious, rich, calming
Just as the previous categories pointed out, the difference between dark and light color shades for purple wallpaper can be quite impactful when considering a room’s mood.
Purple wallpaper will help you connect to a higher plane. Purple encourages a fresh perspective on emotional issues. By reminding you that we are all connected, it will deepen your sense of humanity. Use it in your home to enhance compassion and to experience friends as family. Try a light purple cashmere throw, journal or fresh bouquet.
Playful painted flowers and plants are arranged in a whimsical pattern for a cute floral wallpaper design. Subtle metallics paint flower petals, making this a charming contemporary floral wallpaper design for a powder room or kitchen.
Lighter purple colors can be more calming than darker purples, which is perfect for bedroom wallpaper. Mixing and matching different color shades is a great way to get the best of both worlds.
Blue wallpaper: tranquil, soothing, inviting, graceful
Best suited to many different room types, blue wallpaper is extremely versatile! It will purify your thinking, so you can cut through the clutter and discover what is most important in your life. It helps you integrate the big picture with the little picture. Wear dark blue when you need to make a decision. At home, try it on an oversized tray, a wastebasket, a desk lamp or all over the room
Blue Aztec Triangles Wallpaper R7097
Soft, pastel blue colors make a room appear calmer. This makes it a perfect choice for areas such as bedrooms or offices. A powder blue like the one pictured above can also make a room feel more traditional and classic.
This geometric blue wallpaper uses triangular shapes to form a tribal pattern that resembles a striped aztec design. The triangles are embossed to form a bold depth, with texture and glitter metallics adding a playful and elegant touch perfect for a cozy bedroom wallpaper.
Blue Geometric Tie Dye Wallpaper R6771
This blue geometric wallpaper uses subtle linework to form a diamond pattern. Ovals and circles are arranged evenly throughout the design and are colored in a way that gives a 3 dimensional effect. This design has a tie dye effect, making the wallpaper resemble weathered fabric in which the ink has bled. The canvas texture amplifies the design, making this the perfect bohemian bedroom wallpaper.
For a more modern feel, take a look at the abstract wallpaper above. Similar to many of the dark colors discussed already, the intense dark blues offer up a sense of sophistication and mysteriousness.
Green wallpaper: natural, organic, renewal, relaxation
Like blue, green colors work to create a more calming, relaxed atmosphere. The color is also associated with nature, so green wallpaper is a good choice for those who want their space to look and feel fresh.
The primary color in nature, it corresponds with life's riches. It is the color of fresh starts and growth. It will encourage you to honor your unique talents and manifest them in the material world. Try a green wallpaper that match your green chair, side table or front door
A lighter, more vibrant shade of green makes a room feel more clean and fresh. Perfect for areas such as a kitchen or living room, bright green colors invite people in.
3 Dimensional metallic hills luxurious geometric wallpaper features overlapping oval shapes that form a scale or wave pattern. Excellent layering of colors creates shadows and depth to give this design a 3 dimensional look. Metallic paint dithers from the top of the ovals that gives this high-end wallpaper a beautiful shimmer, making it a perfect glamorous powder room wallpaper
Green Metallic Weathered Grid Wallpaper R6822
Darker green shades have a more mature presence that emphasizes a refined taste. While not as energetic as lighter green colors, darker green colors like in the image above are more suited for bedrooms.
Darker green shades have a more mature presence that emphasizes a refined taste. While not as energetic as lighter green colors, darker green colors like in the image above are more suited for bedrooms.
Yellow wallpaper: cheerful, happy, energetic, welcoming
As the most visible color, yellow is optimistic and energetic. Hanging yellow wallpaper in a room will instantly brighten the entire mood of a room.
This color is known for enhancing intelligence and mental agility. It can help stimulate conversation and clarify thoughts. Try a yellow floral wallpaper, yellow geometric wallpaper, yellow grasscloth wallpaper of yellow abstract wallpaper.
This elegant nature inspired wallpaper adorns the wall with printed tropical trees in various colors. The trees, which have a hand-drawn look with ink outlines, sit atop a gorgeous matte background, making this a glamorous powder room wallpaper.
Yellow is a dynamic color that catches your attention the moment you step into the room. Like red, it makes an immediate impact, but whereas red was more stimulating, yellow is more about instilling a cheerful attitude!
Yellow Blossoming Almond Trees R2791
Since it can be quite a powerful color, designers may want choose wallpaper that incorporates other colors into the mix. For example, take a look at the image above, which uses soft pastel colors like green and pink.
Orange wallpaper: energetic, creative, funky, trendy
Orange colors are perfect if your goal is to create a vibrant atmosphere with a color that is not often used. It’s a good balance between energetic red colors and cheerful yellow colors.
This vibrant hue reduces self-consciousness and allows you to express yourself with confidence. Use it in your home when you want to feel younger. It is the color of laughter and celebration. Add an orange wall to your office, an accent wall to your child's room.
Lighter orange colors are less about energizing a space, and more about setting a welcoming mood for the room. Mixing the cheerfulness of yellow and the freshness of green, light orange wallpaper such as the one above is a great choice for dining rooms and kitchens.
Darker orange shades create a more spirited environment, working in a similar way that red colors would. Because of how bold it is, consider using it as a feature wall.
Summary
Whether you want to create a calming atmosphere for the bedroom, a bold and energetic mood for your living room, or a welcoming setting for your dining room, paying close attention to color usage is important.
For even more design tips and inspiration, check out these previous articles:
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