Unexpected Color Palettes That Work

Courtesy of Kayla Kitts
Photography by Camilla Molders Design

Hi Friends,

In our feature the Orange and Shades of Blue are unexpected combinations. When designing a room, a jolting shade of tangerine and various shades of blue may not be the first color combination that comes to mind. However, the two pair very well together when used correctly (and won't make you feel like you're cheering for a sports team). In this room, think of the subdued and grayed shades of blue as neutrals. The tangerine chair, crib mattress and changing table are now beautiful, vibrant accents among soft blue surroundings. Designer Sarah Richardson adds just the perfect amount of orange accessories to create that shot of color. Brilliant!

Indigo & Copper

When we say copper, we don't mean the metal. In this designer bedroom, a copper-orange upholstered headboard and bed frame make an eye-catching debut among an otherwise white and indigo color palette. The hues complement each other and allow the white to create balance with contrast. Photo courtesy of Massucco Warner Miller Interior Design.

Lime Green & Golden Yellow

If you're feeling especially brave, why not go for a color combination that is anything but subtle? Lime green and golden yellow? It works! In this living room, the yellow is used as an accent color while lime green is used as the primary color. The designer even chooses a small dividing wall to paint yellow to break up the green color scheme.

Coral, Golden Yellow & Gray

Traditionally, no girl's bedroom would be complete without a combination of pretty pastels like coral, golden yellow and blue. But what about pastels mixed with gray and black? In this bedroom, gray plays the neutral while black and white act as standout accents. Photo courtesy of HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams.

Red, White and Blue, Plus Black and White

Designer Tobi Fairley takes a daring approach when choosing the color scheme for this preppy/traditional entryway. First, she uses bright red frames on the wall for the most noticeable burst of color. Then she coordinates with a bright blue chair with red trim. The surprise comes when she adds a sky-blue and white console table and a black-and-white-striped rug. Red, white, blue and black can absolutely work together!

Citrus & Kelly Green

Kids' bedrooms should be full of spirit and liveliness, just like the kids themselves. In this stylish nursery, the designer uses an unusual but well-paired combination of kelly green and citrus around the room. Green-and-white stripes create a focal point on the ceiling, and bold yellow doors are certainly a fun way to transform a traditional room element. Other primary color accents bring the entire room together.

Take your home to a bold new level by trying out one of these unexpected, but surprisingly perfect, color palettes and share some of your unexpected color combinations with us; look forward to hearing from you...

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Live well,
Yvonne