Planning to update your interiors this year? From cheery yellows to fuss-free beige, there are plenty of beautiful paint colours to inspire your next decorating project and lift your spirits in 2021. Paint brushes at the ready...
'Colours provide more than a decorative purpose; they enhance our emotions and play a part in making us feel secure and happy,' says Kane Hughes, interior design expert at My Job Quote.
'Many of us have invested more time into transforming our homes in 2020, one cancelled holiday after another we've had time to create the ideal place to live, work and play. The colour trends that are predicted to take over 2021 have been inspired by our need for peace in our daily lives, as it's more important than ever to look after our wellbeing.'
Keep reading to find out which colour trends will be all the rage this year...
1. Sunshine yellow
Bring joy to your home with cheery bursts of yellow. Symbolising happiness, positivity, warmth and energy, a recent study conducted by Showers To You even found that painting your bathroom walls in dazzling yellow can help to boost your energy in the morning.
Kane Hughes explains it's one of the trending colours tipped to be the most popular in 2021 as we all hope 'things will get brighter'. Kane explains: 'Incorporate yellow into muted colour schemes to create a relaxing environment boosted with a brightness hue. The colour will stimulate your mind and revive each room of your house.'
HB recommends... If you're feeling bold, paint your front door yellow for a truly scene-stealing entrance.
2. Nature
Give your space an uplifting refresh by bringing elements of the natural world into your home. Whether you're planning to give your kitchen a facelift or want to spruce up a tired-looking living room, rich green is the hue to choose.
'Many find this colour soothing and peaceful due to its therapeutic properties,' says Kane. 'Rich green shades work well in home offices or rooms with technology to balance out the 'artificial' feeling.'
3. Grounded tones
With Dulux's Colour of the Year 2021 named as Brave Ground – a neutral shade described as 'the cornerstone of decorating' — it's no surprise that grounded tones are one of the best for creating a relaxed and inviting feel.
'When contrasted with brighter tones such as forest green, it will provide a richer experience for you to enjoy in your homes,' suggests Kane.
4. Mulberry hues
On the hunt for a more daring colour? Tap into a warmer palette of mulberry hues — a luxurious shade which can bring more depth to a subtle white room. This distinctly cool toned colour, which has a plummy blue undertone, is an easy way to liven up your living room, bathroom or study.
'Mulberry reflects light beautifully, whether you paint a feature wall or the ceiling too, it can bring a splash of punchy colour to your room.'
5. Earthy tones
Another colour palette set to be all the rage in 2021 is earthy tones, such as sage greens, burnt oranges and gentle off-white hues. Inspired by nature, Kane explains that these subtle and sophisticated colours have an 'emotive reflection of the world around us'.
HB recommends... If you're not looking to repaint a room, get your hands on affordable accessories in earthy tones instead. For an instant update, think vases, cushions or rugs. They're not as permanent as paint, but will still refresh your room.
6. Rustic vibes
Paint colour is taking a rustic turn in 2021, with more homeowners set to dabble in colours that will help to 'create an uplifting and nourishing setting'.
Kane suggests: 'Think natural clay, earthy browns and light masala – these shades create a unified palette to create an ambient atmosphere. Chalky white walls look great paired with rustic colours, when paired with rustic coloured textured cushions and layered rugs. It can work in any room in any style of home.'
7. Pastel hues
Pastels have the ability to brighten up any bland area. From shades of baby blue to pale pink, softer palettes usher in spring and summer goodness, lighting up the darkest of winter days. For the ultimate Insta-worthy feel, don't forget to add in hints of greenery. You can never have too many plants...
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17 living room accessories for an instant style update
Clocks - Best Living Room Accessories
John Lewis & Partners Organic Shape Metal Analogue Wall Clock, 60cm, Black
Enhance your living room effortlessly with this swoon-worthy metal wall clock. With gold arms and a flower-like shape, it's perfect for creating a minimalist feel at home.
Cosy up in style with this gorgeous tassel throw from the House Beautiful collection at Homebase. Make those crisp, cold days a little easier.
Nothing completes the look of your living room like a beautiful cushion cover – and we've got this cream-coloured style from H&M Home right at the top of our wish list.
A living room wall mirror is great to bounce light around, and you'll find this especially useful in a small living room. Crafted from metal and glass, this mirror from Oliver Bonas makes a great statement.
Table lamp - Best Living Room Accessories
Broste Copenhagen Lolly Table Lamp Metal
Brighten up a dark corner (quite literally) with this on-trend table lamp. Featuring a matte opaline glass shade, it's ideal for placing on a side table in your living room.
Bookends - Best Living Room Accessories
A by AMARA Carved Marble Bookends - Set of 2 - White
Keep your favourite novels neat and upright with these chic marble bookends.
Living Room Rug - Best Living Room Accessories
John Lewis & Partners Modasa Rug, Paprika
A rug is a must in a living room – it helps to zone certain areas, which is particularly useful for open spaces, but it also helps to create a focal point. This contemporary geometric rug from John Lewis will provide a pop of colour in a neutral living room.
A practical spot to keep all of your House Beautiful magazines! This black wire magazine rack is a minimalist dream - with a clever geometric pattern and simple black colour.
Vase - Best Living Room Accessories
John Lewis & Partners Totem Vase, H33cm, Natural
We love this grown-up cream vase, particularly its unique shape. Fill with your favourite dried flower bouquet and show them off to all your friends.
Books - Best Living Room Accessories
One for the coffee table, make a carefully curated pile of must-read books starting with this one – a beautiful collection of stories from the creators behind Soho House. From recipes to decorating tips, it's the perfect post-work read (with your favourite tipple).
The natural colour of these seagrass baskets makes them an ideal backdrop for plants. Place these on the floor by sideboards and cabinets for a cosy living room feel.
This Insta-worthy DIPTYQUE candle makes a rather decorative display. Choose from a range of refreshing scents.
Every coffee table needs a coaster. Serve up your morning coffee in style with these stylish pink agate coasters from the House Beautiful Marketplace. Stylish and practical.
Photo Frame - Best Living Room Accessories
Gallery Perfect Photo Frame Set, 9 Photo, 8 x 8" (20 x 20cm), Black
Create an Insta-worthy gallery wall with this set of nine black photo frames from Gallery Perfect at John Lewis. In the same sizes, simply fill with your favourite memories, hang, and enjoy.
Create a cosy and welcoming setting on your sofa with a warm throw blanket. We love this terracotta style, which has been made from linen and cotton.
Vases - Best Living Room Accessories
Notonthehighstreet Pressed Glass Square Bottle Vase
Keep it simple on your windowsill with this pack of four square bottle vases. Line them up together and pop in a few stems for a cohesive look.
Lampshades - Best Living Room Accessories
House Beautiful Samet Velvet Drum Shade Duck Egg
This House Beautiful shade ticks two trend boxes, with its classic duck egg colour and tactile velvet material. With a brushed metallic inner to disperse a soft light.
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