The majesty of ancient forests has long inspired interior design. Whether the grandeur of an oak tree or the enchanting shape of an acanthus leaf, rich, velvety dark and mid-tone greens offer homes a nurturing connection to nature. So, it was no surprise that Victoria Beckham used this calming color to drench her London flagship store, designed in collaboration with Rose Uniacke. Using a custom paint shade and velvet-upholstered furnishings, the luxe and livable space has a decadent yet intimate feel. The final result is a masterpiece. But why green?
Green is in general a relaxing color. Being the color that represents nature, green makes us feel good and positive. ‘The poet and philosopher Goethe used to describe green as a useful color, a good color to have around,’ explains Francesca Wezel, founder of Francesca’s Paints.
‘Decorating with green reassures us on a very primitive level. We know we can find food and water, which means green equals life. Using dark green paint and furnishings in our home, brings in these feelings of reassurance and rest,’ says Karen Haller, color and design psychology specialist and author of The Little Book of Color, available on Amazon. It is a mood-boosting color that I would argue is the best color in the world.
Many people struggle with how to create a predominantly green room, but the ideas and color combinations are vast.
For a soothing and comforting ambiance, layer lighter or darker tones with tactile fabrics like linens and velvets. Rich greens work well with antique dark woods and in period homes that are blessed with architectural details, such as beams and exposed brick. Neutrals offer a fresh contrast to dark green as well as colors including blush pinks, turquoise and copper. For a more cocooning effect, consider giving a room a green canopy by painting all walls in the same shade. This is my favorite way to decorate with green.
‘I use a lot of green because it is very calming,’ says interior designer Sarah Vanrenen. ‘I also love using patterned wallpaper in green. I don’t think space is a barrier to going bold – don’t be put off by using strong colors and patterns in even the smallest spaces and use it on all four walls. Use it on the fifth wall – the ceiling – if you are brave enough. The effect is dramatic and green works with so many other incredible colors, too.’
For the perfect green scheme, be inspired by the colors and textures of the forest landscape. Green never disappoints, and Victoria Beckham's green Dover Street store in London is a testament to that.
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Add intention to your everyday routine with a beautifully hued pair of taper candles. A staple for dinner parties and everyday entertaining, tapers can also bring an element of mindfulness to daily meditations, yoga practices, or evening bubble baths.
I've been searching for a throw pillow cover in this exact color for a little while, and this one is quite perfect for my green scheme. The cover is made from cotton with a solid hue and a velvet-like texture for an inviting look and feel.
Hardware is oft-forgotten about, but it can completely change up the look and feel of a room. These days, interior designers and decorators are opting for playful colors and delightful switch plate designs to add interest and character.
Add a flourish of green to your home's aesthetic with this Faux Gypsophila Leaf Potted Tree from Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia. With a vibrant green gypsophila leaf tree housed inside a ceramic pot, this faux arrangement brings a touch of nature indoors without the hassle of any maintenance.
Crafted from cotton jute, the Jefferson Stool has a sophisticated, cylindrical form and quilted feel. Its form is abstract and comfortable and unique design that gives a subtle nod to modern mid-century styles.
This area rug is my new go-to for adding a splash of my favorite color to a living room. Made from wool and hand-loomed, it features a bold color-blocked design that catches the eye. I suggest using a rug pad to keep it in place and add extra comfort.
