From deep hunter to vintage-inspired avocado, green is a perennially popular choice for decorating, but right now, green is showing up in a new and unexpected way in home decor—as a neutral.
Because greens can have different undertones and look lovely and fresh in even the lightest shades, this color is taking its place alongside cream, gray, and beige neutrals for those looking to switch up their style while keeping the overall color pallet soft and soothing.
If you’re ready for a style that stretches your decor comfort zone, green might be just what you need for a fresh fall look.
This trend is definitely a bit out of the box, but sometimes, you need to try something new to shake things up! We have some tips for bringing this color into your home as a base for a room that’s anything but boring. Whether you’re looking to start from scratch or add green to your existing design, these statement-making suggestions are sure to breathe life into your home.
Why Green Is Trending This Season
From soft silvery shades like sage to warm creamy hues, green is versatile. Using neutral greens can be a fun and unexpected way to introduce color into a room. Pale greens come in such a wide range of shades that they can blend easily into homes from different eras and in various design styles.
We’re seeing an overall trend toward unique decor that goes against the status quo, and using an unexpected color as a neutral certainly does that.
Like many natural colors, greens have the calming effect of nature. Fall is a time when much of nature goes dormant, so introducing verdant shades reminds us that even though winter is around the corner, spring will come again, providing a psychological boost on the coldest of gray days.
How to Incorporate Green in Your Decor
If you want green to act as a neutral in your home but are cautious, start by introducing lighter shades. However, dark green can work like black does, as a sleek statement-making neutral if your house has a dramatic theme—so maximalists take note.
If you’re starting your design scheme from scratch, you have more latitude to choose a color that speaks to you, but it’s still a good idea to test multiple paint samples in the space. Since color can change dramatically under artificial light and as sunlight changes in a room throughout the day, take your time and look at samples over 24 hours or several days.
If your room is already decorated, but you want to switch things up by introducing green as a neutral, consider how it will coordinate with your existing design. Think about the main elements in your room—floor, cabinets, counters, and furniture—and consider whether these pieces have warm or cool undertones. Then, pick your green accordingly.
If you previously had a shade of beige or cream as your neutral, pick a warm hue of green; if you had crisp white or most grays, choose a cool shade.
If repainting your walls seems too daunting or isn’t practical, introduce green through furnishings, such as a couch or painted table, or use fabric to add color. A pair of celadon curtains would perfectly frame a window, reminding you that warm days will come again as you look out at the falling leaves, and a cheerful spring green duvet cover might make it a little easier to hop out of bed on chilly winter days.
However you decide to bring green into your decor, this new neutral will surely invigorate your home with the beauty of nature’s timeless allure.