Teal is a bluish-green color that evokes feelings of calmness, relaxation, and sophistication. As an interior design color, teal can be both refreshing and luxurious. Understanding the psychology behind color and the emotions teal evokes can help you determine if it’s the right color for your space.
The Color Psychology of Teal
Teal sits between blue and green on the color wheel. It takes on some of the psychological attributes of both colors:
- Blue is associated with peace, tranquility, and stability.
- Green represents nature, growth, and renewal.
Together, these form the soothing, balanced personality of teal. Here are some of the main feelings teal evokes:
| Feeling | Description |
|---|---|
| Calming | The cool blue undertones of teal have a relaxing, destressing effect. Teal is said to lower heart rate and blood pressure. |
| Balanced | Teal provides equilibrium between warm and cool colors. Its stability is grounding and centering. |
| Soothing | Associations with water evoke teal’s soothing qualities. Its subtle vibrancy is refreshing like a day at the spa. |
| Spiritual | As a bridge between sky and sea, teal seems almost mystical or spiritual, especially in nature. |
| Trustworthy | Teal’s honesty comes through in its lack of artificiality. It promotes openness and integrity. |
Teal elicits many of the same feelings as blues and greens, while also possessing some unique qualities. Decorator and color expert Kate Smith sums up the appeal of teal as “a color of sophistication with a sense of the unknown.”
Using Teal in Interior Design
In interior decor, teal is a versatile color that fits right in with current trends. Here are some popular ways to use teal throughout the home:
Paint
Adding a splash of teal to your walls is an easy way to refresh a room. Teal paint has an invigorating energy that also encourages relaxation. Use it in spaces like:
- Bedrooms – awakens your spirit but still soothes you to sleep
- Bathrooms – evokes the relaxing feel of a spa
- Studios – stimulates creativity but keeps you focused
- Dining rooms – appetizing and social but not overpowering
For a really striking look, paint all four walls in a darker teal. For a more relaxing feel, opt for teal accents against neutral walls.
Furniture
From couches to headboards, teal makes furniture pop. It pairs nicely with woods, metals, and neutrals. Vivid teal energizes a room, while paler teal furniture creates a gentle ambiance. Use teal to:
- Update classic pieces like tufted armchairs or Chesterfield sofas
- Complement mid-century modern and Scandinavian furniture
- Add intrigue to eclectic spaces
- Freshen up dingy thrift store finds
Decor
Accessories provide the perfect chance to add smaller teal accents. Vases, pillows, rugs and art prints allow you to incorporate teal in doses. Try teal decor in:
- Entryways – welcoming and soothing
- Kitchens – energizing but appetite-enhancing
- Bathrooms – spa-like with towels, candles, and decor
- Offices – focuses attention but prevents burnout
For a pulled-together look, repeat teal across decor pieces like throw pillows, rugs, and artwork. Use varying shades to add visual interest.
Textiles
From bedding to curtains, teal textiles add comfort, warmth, and personality to a room. Options like:
- Sofa throws
- Accent pillows
- Area rugs
- Shower curtains
- Towels
- Table runners
Teal textiles work in many aesthetics, from contemporary to cottagecore. Layer lighter and darker teals to create depth.
Teal Color Combinations
One of the best qualities of teal is its ability to be paired with many color palettes. It’s easy to work into an existing decor scheme. Here are some recommended color combinations:
| Colors | How They Work with Teal |
|---|---|
| Neutrals like white, beige, grey | Let teal pop while creating a soothing backdrop |
| Black | Grounds teal and adds modern edge |
| Warm metallics like gold, brass, copper | Warm up teal’s coolness for a vibrant look |
| Yellow | Energizing contrast creates tropical vibe |
| Pink | Unexpected but beautiful pairing |
| Purple | Complementary colors provide visual interest |
| Red | Vibrant blend great for eclectic spaces |
| Navy blue | Deepens teal for sophisticated nautical feel |
| Green | Harmonic analogs with natural appeal |
Teal is extremely versatile, but be cautious of overusing it. Stick to one or two teal decor items so they can stand out.
Teal Decorating Ideas for Specific Rooms
Ready to use teal to refresh your living spaces? Here are teal decor ideas for popular rooms:
Teal Living Room Ideas
- Sofa or accent chair in teal velvet
- Paint one accent wall in deep teal
- Area rug with abstract teal splatters
- Curtains in muted seafoam teal
- Teal glass lamp bases or lampshades
- Throw pillows mixing teal hues
- Teal flower vase on side table or console
Teal Bedroom Ideas
- Teal painted headboard or accent wall
- Down comforter in aqua teal
- Nightstand and dresser in driftwood with teal knobs
- Bamboo roman shades in pale teal
- Teal glass pendant lights
- Throw blanket at end of bed in teal knit
Teal Bathroom Ideas
- Subway tile shower surround in sea glass teal
- Teal bath mats and towels
- Teal vessel sink sitting on wood vanity
- Wallpaper accent wall with modern teal print
- Shower curtain with abstract teal shapes
- Teal glass flowers or shells in jars for decor
Teal Kitchen Ideas
- Teal glass backsplash tiles
- Vintage-inspired fridge in robin’s egg blue
- Pale teal walls contrasting white cabinetry
- Marble or wood countertops with teal barstools
- Teal kitchen utensils in glass canisters
- Teal ceramic knobs and handles
Tips for Decorating With Teal
When using teal in your home, follow these tips for a fashionable, livable look:
- Choose the right teal shades – Light or muted teals work well in traditional spaces, while vivid or jewel-tones add drama.
- Use teal as an accent – Little splashes of teal go a long way. Teal accents pop against neutral backdrops.
- Mix matte and shine – Pair glossy teal vases with flat teal pillows for dimension.
- Add texture – Use teal in a range of textiles like silk, velvet, linen, and jute.
- Repeat teal tones – Create a collected look by echoing similar teal hues throughout the space.
- Watch adjacent colors – Avoid placing teal next to overwhelming colors like loud oranges or reds.
With the right approach, teal can be tastefully integrated into any design aesthetic. It’s ideal for creating both vibrant and peaceful spaces.
Conclusion
Teal is much more than a trendy paint color. This soothing, sophisticated hue has lasting power because it combines the stability of blue with the growth of green. Interior designers and behavior experts agree that teal promotes relaxation while still maintaining an air of mystery.
Use teal to create a personal refuge that awakens your spirit and creativity. Teal is versatile enough to enliven any room or architectural style. Just be strategic with placement and tone to ensure teal complements rather than overpowers your existing decor. With a little planning, teal can become the signature shade that finally makes your house feel like home.