Neon signs are known for their bright, flashy colors that stand out against darker backgrounds. When incorporating a neon sign into a room’s decor, it’s important to choose wall colors that complement rather than compete with the neon hues. There are a few key strategies for selecting wall colors that enhance neon signs.
Go With Neutral Tones
One of the most popular options is to paint the walls a neutral tone like white, beige, light gray, or tan. The muted wall color allows the neon sign to pop as the focal point. White is arguably the best neutral for neon signs, as it reflects and enhances the bright luminescence. Beige, light gray, and tan work well too, providing a soft, muted backdrop. Just avoid going too dark with the neutral, or it could overpower the neon’s vividness. Aim for a lighter neutral base.
Use Accent Colors That Complement the Neon
Instead of plain neutrals, consider using accent walls that contain colors complementary to the neon sign. For example, if the sign uses bright pink neon, paint one wall a grayish mauve shade. For a blue neon sign, accent with a slate blue-gray wall. Pick an accent color that enhances, but doesn’t match directly, for maximum contrast. Just make sure the accent wall color is a muted, darker hue – pale tints could compete with the neon.
Go Dark for Maximum Impact
For a bold, dramatic effect, paint the walls a deep charcoal, navy, eggplant, black, or other dark color. The darkness causes the neon colors to stand out and appear brighter. Using this high-contrast approach, the neon sign becomes the “light” against the dark walls. It creates an edgy, nightclub vibe. The dark color also makes the room feel intimate and cozy when the neon sign illuminates.
Use Wallpaper or Murals
Consider wallpaper, murals, or decals to provide a backdrop for the neon sign. Choose patterns and images that integrate well with the sign. For example, a brick or concrete wall mural can mimic an urban alley where neon signs are commonly found. Geometric or minimalist patterns also pair nicely, letting the neon be the focus. Use metallics like silver, gold, copper or other shiny surfaces to reflect the neon glow.
Showcase Neon with Glass or Mirrors
Using glass, plexiglass, mirrors or reflective metal surfaces on one wall allows the neon to reflect, creating a luminous effect. This opens up the space and makes the neon the focal point from all angles. Consider adding a mirrored bar area or backsplash as part of the neon wall space. Frame the sign with glass or acrylic to double the neon glow.
Pick Colors Based on the Mood You Want
Beyond just aesthetics, wall colors also impact the mood of a space. Here are suitable wall colors to complement neon based on the desired ambiance:
– Energetic: Citrus orange, lime green, bright yellow
– Glamorous: Glimmering gold, champagne, rose gold
– Retro: Deep ruby red, metallic silver, black
– Futuristic: Electric blue, violet, magenta
– Edgy: Glossy black, blood red, deep purple
– Relaxed: Light tan, sky blue, muted sage green
So consider both the visual appeal and the feel you want when selecting wall colors with neon signs. The colors you choose can reinforce the overall style.
Sample Wall Color Palettes for Neon Signs
Here are some example wall color palettes that work well with neon lighting:
| Neon Sign Colors | Complementary Wall Colors |
| Pink and blue | Purple gray walls with white trim |
| Bright yellow | Charcoal gray walls with yellow accents |
| Green neon | Deep eggplant walls with green details |
| Red and orange neon | Black walls with metallic gold details |
| Blue and purple neon | Silver or gray concrete/brick wall mural |
As you can see, the wall colors don’t need to match the neon exactly. Combining complementary hues creates a cohesive, visually appealing neon style.
Important Considerations
When deciding on wall colors for neon signs, keep these factors in mind:
– Room size – Dark colors tend to make small rooms feel closed in. Bright or light colors open up the space.
– Natural vs. artificial light – During the day, neon signs aren’t illuminated. Make sure wall colors look good under both natural and artificial light.
– Furniture and decor – Coordinate the palette with other items in the room like furniture, flooring and decor accents.
– Personal preference – Consider your own tastes, since you’ll be living with the wall color long-term. Pick colors you enjoy seeing daily.
– Light reflections – Glossy or semi-gloss paint can create interesting reflections of neon lighting. Matte walls absorb light.
– Ceiling color – Don’t forget to factor in the ceiling. A darker ceiling directs focus towards the neon sign on the wall.
Safety Tips
When installing neon signs, keep these safety guidelines in mind:
– Turn power off at the breaker before wiring a neon sign, and follow all electrical codes.
– Avoid touching neon tubes with bare hands to prevent burns or shocks. Wear rubber gloves.
– Neon signs generate heat. Don’t install near flammable materials and provide adequate ventilation.
– Use mounting hardware that can support the weight of the sign to prevent it from falling.
– Carefully seal and waterproof any outdoor neon signs and transformers.
– Hire a professional electrician if unsure about safely installing and wiring a neon fixture.
Conclusion
The vibrant glow of neon signs can enliven any space when paired with the right wall colors. Neutral, lighter tones allow neon hues to pop while darker colors make them shine brighter. Accent walls in complementary colors also enhance neon beautifully. Consider the desired mood, decor, and room size when selecting an ideal wall color palette. With the proper setup, neon signs become an electrifying focal point. Just take basic safety precautions, and then let the neon radiance shine through.
