As the last couple months of 2024 settle in, the crisp air isn’t the only thing that’s changing; your home’s color palette may be ready for a refresh, too. And much like fashion changes from season to season and year to year, interior design trends also have a way of shifting with the wind.
If you’re someone who likes to keep up with timely styles and decor, or someone who gets bored with the same look for years on end, a colorful update could be a great way to spice up your home.
So, What’s In Style?
When it comes to your home, your own personality will always reign supreme. However, there are some guidelines you can follow if you want to avoid a stale, outdated look.
In 2024’s color trends, the cool sterility of greys and whites is winding down, making way for warmer and more organic shades that reflect the beautiful tones found in nature. Today’s trends emphasize cozy, earthy hues, such as gentle blues and mossy greens. Unlike the bold and dramatic greens or stark black or white of previous years, softer shades are taking the spotlight — think tones that evoke a sense of calm.
Paint manufacturers, like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams, have released their 2025 color forecasts, offering a glimpse into what’s next. But don’t feel confined to these palettes; every home has a unique vibe, and a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works.
How to Plan Your Home’s Color Scheme
There are plenty of ways you can go about choosing colors for your home, but no matter what, it’s best to start with some kind of plan. Sometimes it helps to think of what emotion or emotions you want each space to bring forth. When curating your color scheme, consider some of these approaches:
Dramatic Contrasts: If you’re feeling bold, play with high-contrast colors that can bring energy and vibrancy to your space.
Warm and Organic: Embrace hues reminiscent of nature, like warm browns, sage greens, and soft rusts, creating a grounded atmosphere.
Classic with Strong Accents: Combine timeless neutral tones with striking pops of color for a balanced yet dynamic look.
Soft and Serene with a Sprinkle of Bold Accent: Choose a calming palette with one or two standout colors that catch the eye.
To determine what color scheme works best for you, start by asking yourself these questions:
What colors naturally exist in my home’s architecture? Consider details like a stone fireplace or wood floors.
What do I see when I look out my windows? Use your outdoor view as inspiration.
What’s my favorite piece of artwork, furniture, rug or decor? Let these elements guide your color choices.
What colors or elements do I associate with my favorite places?
Your personality and stress levels also play a crucial role. If you get bored easily, lean toward versatile, neutral tones that can be accented over time (or easily painted over). If you have a style you love, invest in permanent or semi-permanent items in colors that you can see yourself enjoying for the long haul.
Making Your Color Palette Work
When you’re standing in the middle of your home or walking from room to room, ensure your color palette remains consistent from every angle. This doesn’t mean a monochromatic scheme — rather, it should all harmonize beautifully and keep dissonant colors (those that really don’t work well together) separated. You can stray a bit more from the consistency with isolated rooms, such as a bathroom or a guest room, which are typically hidden from the connected gathering spaces.
Your local paint store can also be a goldmine for inspiration. Many chains curate beautiful display palettes that can ignite your creative juices — just remember, don’t get overwhelmed by taking home too many samples.
Ultimately, your color scheme should have a foundational neutral, a main color (possibly a neutral), a secondary color, and complementary shades to bring the space to life. Every detail contributes to this palette — from flooring, cabinets, and walls to the finishing touches that add personality. In fact, a rug, a piece of art, or a fabric selection can be very helpful as the inspiration for a space’s color scheme.
Remember, shaking up the aesthetics of your home doesn’t mean you have to go all in. To help you upgrade while keeping the flow of your home harmonious, consider scheduling a consultation with a professional interior designer. Some designers offer specific paint consultations, which can provide tailored recommendations.