Green is an interesting color choice for a living room. On one hand, it can represent nature, renewal, and harmony. On the other, it can also symbolize jealousy, inexperience, and misfortune. So what does green truly mean in a living room design? The answer depends on the exact shade and how it is used.
Meanings of Green
In general, green evokes nature, health, and renewal. It is the color of grass, trees, and vegetation. In many cultures, green symbolizes growth, fertility, and rebirth. It is often used to represent environmental causes and organizations. Lighter greens are soothing and refreshing, associated with relaxation. Dark greens represent prestige, wealth, and ambition. Green is also tied to St. Patrick’s Day and “luck of the Irish.”
Some negatives meanings associated with green include jealousy, inexperience, misjudgment, and envy. Sickly green can represent nausea and cowardice. Dark olive green is linked to military and war. Overall though, green maintains mostly positive natural associations.
Green Living Rooms
In home decor, green makes an interesting accent color in a living room. It has more versatility than many people assume. Here are some popular ways to incorporate green decor:
Natural Green
Natural greens work beautifully in rustic, country, or bohemian living rooms. Sage green walls or olive upholstery on wood furniture evoke a peaceful, organic look. Accent with neutral tones, natural fibers and textures, wood accents, and plants. This “earth green” connects the indoors and outdoors.
Vintage Green
For a vintage or antique feel, deeper greens like emerald and jade complement mahogany wood tones. Add interest with eclectic, curated furnishings and antique accessories. Touches of burgundy and gold elevate the look. Vintage green dining rooms feel rich and sophisticated.
Bold & Bright Green
Vibrant lime green makes a bold, energetic accent. Use it sparingly on one wall, a piece of art or furniture, or decorative accessories. Complement it with white, black, grey, or other bright accent colors. This fun, youthful green adds whimsical pop.
Soothing Green
Soft mint or sage green can help create a calm, relaxing space. Pair with other light, airy colors like cream, light blue, or soft yellow. Incorporate natural wood tones and houseplants. Simple, minimalist styles allow the subtle green to shine.
Green Color Schemes
Green pairs beautifully with neutral, earthy colors that highlight its natural essence:
| Green + Tan | Green + Brown |
| Green + Beige | Green + Grey |
| Green + White | Green + Black |
Bolder green colors make exciting contrasts with these hues:
| Lime Green + Red | Emerald Green + Gold |
| Mint Green + Purple | Sage Green + Yellow |
Paint Color Options
Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams, and Behr all offer beautiful green paint colors for living rooms:
Benjamin Moore Green Paint Colors
– Revere Pewter – Soft sage green grey
– Silvery Fern – Light green grey
– Kendall Charcoal – Deep green grey
– Salamander – Medium sage green
– Mountain Air – Light airy green
Sherwin Williams Green Paint Colors
– Tradewind – Blue green grey
– Naval – Dark green grey
– Hashtag – Vibrant green
– Luna Park – Bright lime green
– Granny Smith Apple – Vivid green
Behr Green Paint Colors
– Silver Moss – Sage green grey
– Fragment – Soft muted green
– Chantilly Lace – Pale green grey
– Jalapeno – Vibrant lime green
– Emperador – Deep jewel green
Green Decor Items
Here are some attractive green home decor items that would enhance a living room:
– Throw pillows in shades of emerald, olive, lime, or mint
– Area rug with green geometric or floral pattern
– Table lamps with green lampshades
– Vase filled with green flowers or decorative branches
– Large artwork or wall prints featuring green nature scenes
– Candles or glassware in green hues
– Patterned blankets or quilts with green accents
– Houseplants like philodendrons, ferns, or succulents
Green furniture like a velvet or nubby green sofa or accent chair can also make a dramatic style statement.
Conclusion
Green is an appealing, versatile color for living rooms. The exact shade and hue dramatically impacts its meaning and style. Soft, muted greens like sage promote relaxation and harmony with nature. Vintage jewel-tone greens create an elegant, ritzy feel. Bright, vivid greens bring fun youthful energy. Olive and emerald greens speak to wealth and ambition.
Overall, green evokes nature, renewal, and life. With so many green shades and styles to choose from, it can be incorporated into all design aesthetics from modern to traditional. Use green decor to create your desired living room vibe. Just make sure to avoid sickly greens which represent jealousy and misfortune. With the right green hues, any living room can feel fresh and inviting.
