Decorating with Bold Colors

Decorating with jewel tones packs a visual punch and makes a seriously bold statement. But the trick is to make that impact without it turning garish. So how do you do that? Make sure your bold colors stay sophisticated by choosing shades that aren't too bright. Bold paint colors with muted tones are going to feel more visually soothing. Additionally, determine your level of commitment to the colors you've chosen by containing it to a powder bath or small space. If you're not too sure you want to go all in, experiment with accessories such as pillows, bedding, and throws. A space can also be made super cheerful just by introducing a bold and colorful piece of accent furniture. Keep reading to see how bold color combinations affect different rooms in your home.

The navy blue walls in this living room are almost a neutral backdrop that can pair with almost any other color. Try the bold blue color with hot pink, pale blue, bright red, grass green—the sky is the limit. This room pops with the perfect amount of contrast thanks to all the red accents. Want an easy update? It's easy to decorate with bold colors without spending a lot of money. Switch out the lampshades, or try an interesting throw. Found frames at a thrift store could easily be spray painted for a low-cost update.

Experiment with bold colors in smaller spaces like hallways or powder baths. A vintage piece of furniture that's gotten a fresh lease on life with new paint can be a low-cost solution. Just about anything you already own can be painted with a bold color palette for an instant refresh. When you're ready to try something new, just pull out a can of paint!

A pop of peacock in the form of an accent chair and small accessories is the perfect example of experimenting with color without having to commit to an entire room. There are slight echoes of blue in the bold patterned curtains, but again, they read as a neutral in the background. Small pops of yellow on the sofa and window treatments playfully contrast the bold shade of blue.

The bold wall colors in this living room provide the perfect backdrop for a pair of chartreuse club chairs. By painting the trim the same color as the cabinets and walls, it recedes into the background to create a cohesive, sophisticated feel. Any contrasting woodwork would have been visually jarring to this entire room due to the amount of cabinets and shelves. Gold hardware and accents are the perfect accessories to take this bold color combination from playful to downright chic.

There is so much to love about this delightful Palm Beach-inspired dining space. The rug provides bold colors to inspire the entire room. High-contrast white woodwork and accent furniture pop against the warm sapphire blue walls. Metallic hardware and lighting lend high sophistication and vintage glamour—it's like the perfect vintage costume jewelry for the room.

Brightly colored ottomans punctuate a sitting area and steal the show with their friendly color placed front and center. Another easy way to add a modern bold accent is with brightly painted stools or end tables. They're versatile pieces that work as a perch for setting down a book or glass and as extra seating. Play off the colors that exist in a rug or introduce a fun new shade to your space.

Neutral kitchens are another place to add a cheerful pop of color—choose bright bar stools or a painted island to create a happy snack zone. Bold kitchen colors encourage guests to come and chat while you prepare the food. We love seeing bright red, blue, yellow, or green unexpectedly in a kitchen color scheme.