When choosing wallpaper for a room, one of the most important decisions is picking a color palette. Cool colors like blues, greens, and purples, can create a relaxing and tranquil environment. Using cool colored wallpaper is an excellent option if you want a space that feels calming and peaceful.
The Psychology of Cool Colors
Cool colors get their name because they give off the impression of coldness. Visually, cool colors recede in space and make objects appear farther away. Using cool colored wallpaper can make a room feel more open and airy. Psychologically, cool colors also evoke certain moods and feelings.
Blue is associated with stability, harmony, trust, and professionalism. Blue wallpaper can evoke feelings of relaxation in a bedroom or study. Green is connected to nature, growth, health, and renewal. Green wallpaper brings a sense of vitality and freshness. Purple wallpaper can create an aura of luxury, creativity, and sophistication in a living room or dining area.
Benefits of Using Cool Colored Wallpaper
Here are some of the top benefits of using cool colored wallpaper in your home:
- Creates a calming environment – The cool tones are soothing and peaceful.
- Makes rooms feel more open – Cool colors recede, expanding the feel of the space.
- Invokes positive moods and feelings – Blues and greens foster relaxation and tranquility.
- Provides an elegant backdrop – Cool hues feel refined and sophisticated.
- Easy to match decor – Cool tones pair well with most furniture and decor.
- Timeless and classic – Cool colored wallpaper won’t go out of style.
Best Cool Color Options for Wallpaper
If you’ve decided cool toned wallpaper is right for your room, here are some of the most popular and attractive color options:
| Color | Personality |
|---|---|
| Navy blue | Confident, reliable, professional |
| Robin’s egg blue | Calming, peaceful, zen |
| Ice blue | Crisp, clean, refreshing |
| Pale blue | Ethereal, dreamy, tranquil |
| Blue gray | Mysterious, stable, anchoring |
| Sage green | Natural, organic, earthy |
| Mint green | Revitalizing, cheerful, bright |
| Seafoam green | Calming, relaxed, serene |
| Pale green | Renewing, fresh, rejuvenating |
| Lilac | Feminine, romantic, elegant |
| Lavender | Soothing, peaceful, sweet |
| Purple gray | Royal, sophisticated, luxurious |
Patterns and Textures
Cool colored wallpaper can feature a range of attractive patterns and textures beyond solid colors. Here are some top options:
- Herringbone: The zigzag pattern adds great visual interest and dimension.
- Chevron: Bold staggered stripes make a modern statement.
- Toile: Scenic pastoral motifs have a classic charm.
- Damask: Intricate floral shapes create an elegant mood.
- Paisley: Teardrop shapes and swirling designs are eye-catching.
- Plaid: Crisp checkered or tartan prints offer a preppy vibe.
- Animal print: Subtle leopard spots or zebra stripes for drama.
- Geometric: Hexagons, diamonds, or zigzags have visual impact.
- Organic: Natural bamboo, leaf, or wood textures are zen.
- Faux finish: Metallic sheens, brushed patterns, add depth.
Cool wallpapers can also incorporate different materials like vinyl, grasscloth, or flocked for added visual and textural dimensions.
Where to Use Cool Colored Wallpaper
Certain rooms and spaces are especially well suited to cool colored wallpaper:
- Bedrooms: Blue or green wallpaper can cultivate relaxation.
- Bathrooms: Aquas or violets create a spa-like ambiance.
- Libraries: Deeper blues encourage concentration and reading.
- Offices: Pale blue or green inspires productivity.
- Dining rooms: Grays or violets set an elegant mood.
- Living rooms: Subtle blues or greens encourage conversation.
- Entryways: Cool neutrals like gray make a good first impression.
- Basements: Blue tones counteract lack of natural light.
Lighter and brighter cool colors work best for smaller spaces, while bolder tones suit bigger rooms. Be sure to pick a color that complements your existing furniture and decor.
Complementary Colors and Accents
Cool colored wallpaper works beautifully paired with monochromatic decor or warm accents and furniture:
- Different shades of blues or greens (light to dark).
- Crisp white trim for contrast.
- Warm woods like oak, walnut, teak for organic flair.
- Terracotta, mustard yellow, coral as accent colors.
- Marble, granite, travertine for earthy textures.
- Copper, bronze for metallic touches.
- Cream, beige and tan upholstery or rugs to anchor.
When decorating with cool colored wallpaper focus on layering in metals, warm leathers, cozy textiles, and natural materials for balance.
Consider the Lighting
The lighting in a room can significantly impact how cool colored wallpaper is perceived. Here are some tips:
- North-facing rooms with low light take darker shades well.
- South facing spaces can handle icy blues or pale greens.
- Opt for lighter and brighter cool hues in dark rooms.
- Use plenty of lamps, sconces and ambient lighting.
- Candlelight and fireplaces warm up blue or purple tones.
- Install dimmers to adjust light levels as needed.
- Add mirrors to reflect and amplify the light.
Getting the lighting right alongside your cool colored wallpaper will help the colors look vivid and eye-catching.
Conclusion
Cool colored wallpaper can be an elegant and inviting addition to any room when thoughtfully selected. Focus on picking a cool hue and pattern that complements your existing space and furniture choices. Blues, greens, grays, and violets are terrific options that cultivate relaxation and tranquility. Properly lighting the wallpaper displays the colors to full effect. With the right prep work, cool colored wallpaper can transform the look and feel of your home interior.
