10 Color Combinations to Try That Aren't Black and White
Colors are powerful communication tools that can be used to influence our emotions, thoughts and moods. In interior design, color psychology plays a monumental role in helping to create various desired effects, be it a sense of serenity in a bedroom or balance and motivation in a home office. However, rooms with just one color can feel monotonous or even too intense. A better approach would be to introduce color pairings — easier said than done, as not all colors go well with each other.
Black and white have long been seen as a timeless and versatile combination that works for all ages, genders and settings. But we know we can do a little better, with hundreds and thousands of colors out there that can make our homes and offices so much more inviting and personable. Ahead, we take a look at 10 color pairings that will breathe new life into your walls, furniture, decor and more. Along the way, you might even discover a new combination we haven’t come up with ourselves.
1. Sea Blue and Sand
Drawing inspiration from sandy beaches, a calming shade of sea blue complements the soft, neutral color of sand for a natural contrast that hints at relaxation. This combination works well with a range of themes, from maximalist styles like coastal to minimalist designs. Opt for more subtle shades if you’re worried about the colors overwhelming the space.
2. White and Stormy Gray
White and gray offers a close second to black and white if you’re in search of a safe yet fresh alternative. Instead of using stark white, try off-white or cream for a softer feel, with gray to diffuse the intensity. Adding light clay shades can add interest, giving it a more stonework-inspired, earthy quality.
3. Sage Green and Blush Pink
If you prioritize tranquility and relish the idea of renewal, sage green is a standout choice that is as refreshing as it is sophisticated. Matching this diluted and almost pastel shade of green with blush pink can infuse your interior with a gentle youthfulness and warmth.
4. Canary Yellow and Cobalt Blue
Not for the faint of heart, the confident and cheerful tone of canary yellow offers a perfect contrast to the deep and vivid hue of cobalt blue. This eccentric and striking palette instantly conveys personality with its harmony of warm and cool. Add it to your living room for a burst of excitement, the kid’s room for a splash of creativity, and your home office for a surge of energy.
5. Forest Green and Walnut Brown
As you can tell, one can never go wrong taking a page from natural landscapes. A lush forest green paired with deep walnut brown has become a favorite for nature enthusiasts, evoking the essence of the great outdoors. The beauty of this pairing is its versatility: both colors work wonderfully as main hues, or as a primary color with an accent. Not only does it create a visually comforting effect, it also contributes to a feeling of stability and warmth.
6. Burgundy and Ivory
Infuse your home with the old-world charm offered by a vintage marriage of burgundy and ivory. Manifesting a luscious purplish red, burgundy appeals to those with an appreciation for refinement, while ivory lends its own subtle elegance. Together, they create an ambiance that exudes timeless warmth and grace.
7. Violet and Gold
Violet is prized by many, tied to mindfulness and mysticism in some cultures and wisdom and royalty in others. It always brings an air of luxury, and forms a perfect pairing with gold. Take this combo up a notch by dramatizing with rich textures like velvet or silk in your interior, creating an opulent vibe that indulges the senses.
8. Chocolate Brown and Tiger Orange
It’s not every day we get to play with high-impact colors like orange, so when the opportunity comes, we jump on it. This vibrant hue may be unconventional, but in all the best ways — sparking excitement and pleasure, while being unexpectedly revitalizing. We pair it with brown to bring in neutrality, grounding the boldness with warmth and comfort, creating a space that feels both energizing and secure.
9. Tropical Teal and Silver
Tropical teal, strengthened by green undertones and a faint trace of blue, evokes scenes of crystal-clear lakes and a refreshing splash of adventure. When meshed with silver, the bold but soothing shade takes on a modern, refined edge, all while staying effortlessly eye-catching. The result is a perfect balance of vibrancy and sleek sophistication, great for bathrooms to impart a spa-like atmosphere.
10. Lavender and Charcoal
Dreamy and romantic, lavender comes together beautifully with charcoal, a dark shade of gray with a tinge of blue. This duo emphasizes lavender’s softness against the strength of charcoal for a balanced and dynamic look, setting up a backdrop that will invite as much calm as curiosity.
Final Thoughts
Exploring these color combinations offers a fresh perspective on how to enhance your spaces beyond the classic black and white. Each pairing brings its own flair and functionality, making it easy to find the shades that perfectly suit your style and needs. Have fun experimenting with these ideas and see how the right colors can completely revamp your surroundings!
At MyDesk.sg, we design furniture that effortlessly fits into any color scheme and design theme. From ergonomic chairs to electric standing desks and more customizable options, our pieces are built to adapt with you and your changing style throughout the years. Check out our catalog to find the ideal match for your home or office. Get in touch with us to see how we can secure your preferred color and material, and help you make it all come together, with comfort and aesthetics at the center of everything.