Teal green is a gorgeous shade that can add a pop of color to any space. But what colors actually go with teal green? Here we’ll explore the best color pairings and schemes to make teal green sing.
Complementary Colors
Complementary colors are those located opposite each other on the color wheel. For teal green, this would be a shade of reddish-orange. Think burnt orange, terra cotta, or even a brick red. These warmer shades contrast beautifully with the cool tone of teal.
Try using complementary colors in accent pieces like pillows, throws, vases or artwork. The teal and orange will play off each other in a striking combination. Just be sure not to overdo it – too much of both colors in one space can feel jarring.
Analogous Colors
Analogous colors sit next to each other on the color wheel. For teal, this includes other shades of blue-green as well as blue-violet. Sage greens, seafoam greens, aquas, and blues in shades like cobalt or navy all work well with teal.
The analogous palette creates a cohesive, calming look. Use different shades of blue and green throughout a room. Try teal walls with navy blue furniture and accents of bright aqua. The overall effect is subtle yet refreshing.
Triadic Colors
A triadic color scheme uses three colors equally spaced around the color wheel. The triadic palette for teal includes red-violet and yellow-orange.
Vivid shades like fuchsia, crimson and coral complement teal nicely. Warm yellows and burnt oranges also pair well. Use these colors sparingly to create striking accents against a teal backdrop.
Tetradic / Double Complementary
The tetradic scheme combines two sets of complementary colors. For teal, this palette includes orange and red-violet (teal’s complements) plus the colors opposite them, blue and yellow.
This vibrant combination lets you use a wide range of hues. Try bold geometric patterns in teal, orange, fuchsia and yellow. Or opt for teal walls with blue and orange furniture and yellow decorative pieces.
Split Complementary
The split complementary palette pairs a color with the two hues adjacent to its complement. For teal, this includes orange-red plus yellow-orange and red-orange.
This scheme has strong visual contrast while retaining some color harmony. Use a teal sofa or chair as a starting point, then bring in accent pillows or artwork in the split complementary shades.
Monochromatic
Sticking to shades of one color is always a safe and stylish option. Choose teal as your base and experiment with lighter and darker tones. Add textures like velvet, linen or nubby knits for depth.
Soft teal walls with darker teal furniture creates a soothing look. Or make a statement with vivid teal paired with black and white for contrast.
Neutrals
Neutrals like white, cream, beige, gray and black make the ideal backdrop for teal. The neutral base allows the vibrant teal to take center stage.
Try white walls and floors with teal furniture or black walls with bright teal art and accessories. Wood tones also complement teal – think oak or walnut accents against a teal palette.
Metallics
The cool tone of teal works beautifully with metallics like silver, pewter, nickel and steel. Copper and bronze also pair nicely for a warmer accent.
Incorporate metals through lighting fixtures, furniture hardware, vases, mirrors, jewelry and more. A little metallic sparkle goes a long way against teal.
Patterns & Prints
When working with a vibrant hue like teal, patterns and prints can add eye-catching contrast. Here are some pairings to try:
– Teal with black & white graphic prints
– Teal with navy & white stripes
– Teal with coral or yellow florals
– Teal with woodgrain patterns
Keep patterns to small accents so they don’t compete with the main teal color. Scale is also key – pair larger teal items with smaller scale prints for balance.
Teal Color Combinations
Now that we’ve covered the main color schemes, here are some specific teal color combinations for inspiration:
| Color Palette | Description |
|---|---|
| Teal, cream, black | Sophisticated and universally flattering |
| Teal, navy, silver | Cool and nautical |
| Teal, yellow, gray | Bright and cheerful |
| Teal, peach, brown | Warm with natural appeal |
| Teal, sage green, white | Serene and spa-like |
| Teal, coral, black | Punchy color pop |
Tips for Decorating with Teal
When incorporating teal into your home, keep these tips in mind:
– Use teal as an accent in small doses. Too much teal can feel overwhelming.
– Pair with neutral walls and floors. This allows teal décor to stand out.
– Add teal through paint, pillows, rugs, drapes and accessories that are easy to swap out.
– Choose a lighter “airiness” teal for a soothing spa-like vibe. Go for deeper jewel tones when seeking drama.
– Remember to repeat colors throughout a space for a pulled together look.
– Don’t be afraid to experiment with unexpected color combos like teal and peach or teal and coral.
– View teal décor in natural lighting before purchasing. The hue can read differently in store lighting.
Where to Use Teal
While teal works in any room, here are some spaces where it really shines:
– Living room – Try a teal sofa or accent chair, or use teal on walls.
– Dining room – Make a statement with a rich teal dining set or teal drapes.
– Bedroom – Use teal bedding, throw pillows and artwork for a calming retreat.
– Bathroom – Teal walls or tiles and towels create a relaxing spa vibe.
– Kitchen – Add pops of teal through barstools, appliances or cabinetry.
– Home office – Energize your workspace with teal accents and storage.
– Entryway – Greet guests with a vibrant teal front door or display teal vases.
– Patio – Folding teal chairs and outdoor pillows bring color outside.
Conclusion
With its versatility and visual appeal, teal can be incorporated into any design scheme. From complementary hues like orange and red to serene analogous greens, the options for pairing with teal are endless. Use the color wheel as your guide, then have fun seeing how different combinations can bring out teal’s unique flair. With the right accent colors, teal can transform a neutral space into something fresh and vibrant.