How to Choose Bedroom Colours

Are you decorating a bedroom? Whether you're starting from fresh or redesigning an existing space, it's important to consider the role colour will play in the overall design. Read on to discover our Colour Consultants’ top tips on how to put together a beautiful colour palette that you will be happy to wake up to everyday!

 

 


Think About What Relaxation Means to You

When it comes to designing a bedroom, it's important to consider the function of the room. In this case, the requirement is to create a space for sleep and relaxation. With that in mind, start the design process by asking yourself what relaxation looks like to you.

 

“When choosing a paint colour for your bedroom, consider what atmosphere you are trying to create. Do you want a fresh and airy space, a dark moody sanctuary or something in-between?” ~  Regina Burke, Colour Consultant, Commons Road 

 

 

Work With the Room

Aspect and lighting are particularly important in bedroom design as these can significantly impact the quality of your sleep. Think about the aspect of the room and the amount of light it receives throughout the day. What's more the direction of the light can affect how colour appears in the room throughout the day.


“For a north-facing room, consider warm colours such as creamy whites, soft greys, or pale yellows to add warmth and brightness to the room. For south-facing rooms, cool colours like blues, greens, or greys can create a soothing and refreshing atmosphere.” ~ Jade Daly, Colour Consultant, Blanchardstown

 

Also, consider any furniture and fittings that you won’t change such as the flooring, headboard, wardrobe, curtains etc. These can provide a useful base for you to create a cohesive palette made up of colours that contrast, complement or harmonise with these elements.

 

 

Create a Cosy Cocoon

Dark colours can transform your room into a cocoon-like space far removed from the stress of the outside world. We like earthy greens and browns that evoke nature such as Wooded Walk by Dulux Heritage and Treron by Farrow & Ball. For added effect, try out the ‘Colour Drenching’ technique in which you paint the walls, ceiling, and trim all in the same colour.

 

>An example of Colour Drenching using Farrow & Ball's Calke Green No.34 

 

Go for Soothing Blues

Research from the National Sleep Foundation found that painting your bedroom walls in blue can improve sleep quality. Your brain links blue with feelings of calmness, and this helps to lower your blood pressure and heart rate. When choosing a boudoir blue, you can’t go wrong with Due West by Ralston, Elfin by Colourtrend, or Dix Blue by Farrow & Ball.

 

“Choosing a soft green or blue tone (e.g. Green Oxide by Dulux Heritage or Icehouse by Colourtrend) can promote a feeling of relaxation.” ~ Arunima Dutta, Colour Consultant, Blanchardstown

 

Wine Dark No. 308 - Farrow & Ball

 

Introduce A Bold Accent Colour

With bedrooms, you may opt to keep things simple by applying an all-over colour or you can introduce a bolder colour through the addition of an accent wall. There are several options to choose from including painting a wall in a bold accent colour, installing painted wall panelling, or hanging a beautiful wallpaper. 

 

"A popular option is to place the accent wall behind the headboard to allow for the use of vibrant colours without affecting sleep quality.” ~ Fiona Finnegan, Colour Consultant, Centre Park Road

 

Accent wall painted in 'Wooded Walk' while the main walls and ceiling are painted in 'Pale Walnut' - Dulux Heritage. Image Credit: Lisa Joyce @seoigehome


Consult an Expert

For expert advice specific to your bedroom, why not draw on the expertise of a professional? At Pat McDonnell Paints, we offer a free Colour Consultancy service with qualified design and colour experts in all of our stores. Our colour consultants will help you devise a bedroom palette perfectly suited to your taste.

 

Book your free colour consultation today


 

 

Visit one of our nine stores nationwide to get expert advice specific to your project.
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Please Note: Paint colours on-screen may vary from actual paint. If unsure, we advise purchasing a colour tester to ensure you are happy with your choice. Our tinted products are made to order and are therefore non returnable.