Living Room Colors: What to Skip and Why

Photo Credit: Architectural Digest

Bold color choices can bring character to a home, but there are some areas where a more thoughtful approach might be better—your living room walls are one of them. Since this is a space where you and your guests spend a lot of time, the wall color can significantly impact the overall atmosphere. To avoid making a decision you might regret, here are a few colors that might not be the best fit for your living room.

Bright or Neon Yellow

Yellow can be a tricky shade to work with. What seems cheerful and uplifting on a paint swatch can become overwhelming once it’s on the walls. Neon or very bright shades of yellow, in particular, tend to bounce light around the room excessively, which can create a harsh environment. Bright lighting paired with neon yellow can also strain the eyes, making the space feel far from relaxing.

Consider Instead

If you’re fond of yellow but concerned about its intensity, opt for a more muted approach. Soft, buttery shades or even a light off-white with subtle yellow undertones can bring warmth to the room without overwhelming it.

Purple

Purple, particularly in its bolder or darker shades, can feel too intense for a living room, making the space feel less comfortable or welcoming. This color can create an overpowering effect, which is why it’s better suited for smaller areas like a powder room or a child's bedroom, where its playful and rich nature can shine.

Consider Instead

If you’re drawn to purple but don’t want to overwhelm your living room, consider incorporating it through decorative accents like cushions, rugs, or artwork. Lighter hues of lavender or soft lilac can also bring a touch of purple in a way that feels subtle and elegant, without dominating the room.

RED

Red is an energetic and bold color, but it can be overpowering in a living room. The intensity of red may stir up emotions, which can conflict with the calming and relaxing atmosphere many people want in a living space. While it’s a color often associated with love and excitement, it can also evoke feelings of tension.

Consider Instead

For those who love red but want to maintain a peaceful vibe, think about incorporating red through smaller elements. Decorative pillows, rugs, or artwork can give you that pop of color without overwhelming the room. This way, you can easily adjust the balance if you feel the room needs a change.

Cool White

White is a popular go-to color, but not all whites are created equal. Cool-toned whites can sometimes make a room feel sterile and uninviting, especially in spaces with minimal natural light. Instead of creating a fresh and airy feel, cool whites can come across as cold and impersonal, similar to a clinical environment.

Consider Instead

For a warmer, more welcoming ambiance, choose an off-white or cream. These softer tones still brighten the space but with a more inviting and comfortable touch. They work particularly well in living rooms, where a cozy, lived-in feel is often the goal.