St. Patrick’s Day celebrations kick off this week with parades and flashes of tri-colour flags across the country. You can’t help but be reminded of the upbeat, energetic colour that is green! I always think that green is a much forgotten colour banished to downstairs bathrooms and dark hallways, while the truth is that there really is a perfect shade of green for every room in your home.

 

Green is the colour of youthful life; the colour is abundant in nature, signifying growth, renewal, health and environment. Green is also a restful colour with some of the same calming attributes as blue. It is rumoured in designer circles that time moves faster in a green room so it may be perfect for a home office if you want to make sure your work is completed efficiently.

 

There are so many different shades of green it is important to take a step back and think about what tones will suit the different  rooms of your home. Firstly there are the pastel green colours that include Apple Mist, Elegant Chiffon and Astonish, these will sit perfectly in bathrooms and kitchens as they are light and zesty in nature. Use these shades with other fresh pastels such as orange or sky blue but allow the green colour to lead the design.

 

The second set of green shades are inspired by the environment and nature, it includes colours such as Lunch Date, Mellow Sage and Bamboo Leaf. These are more sophisticated tones that will work better in rooms where you want to create a more relaxed atmosphere. Living rooms, conservatories and hallways are all perfect for this palette. Team with neutral shades such as beige tones like Walnut and basic Cotton Twill to enhance the earthy characteristics present. Use alternative natural materials throughout your room where possible to play on the organic side of this design.

 

The third set includes those on the bolder side of the spectrum that border on jewel tones, examples of these are Invigorate, Elegant Jade and Modern Organic. As these shades are dramatic they demand a striking contrast to complete the look. Purple or Teal will sit beautifully with these shades. If the idea of using the two of these colours on your walls is intimidating then choose to feature one of the green tones on all fours walls and feature the contrasting colour throughout the room with soft furnishings and accessories.

 

Two other unique contrasts that I love are green and pink, combining these colours creates a girly atmosphere perfect for a teenagers bedroom. Use Modern Design and Modern Organic from the gorgeous Crown Colourmix classic Collection in blocks to elongate and brighten the room. Compliment with a dash of Mimosa on the skirting and architraves to help tie the design together. The second contrast is apple green and red, this is another strong contrast that is not for the faint hearted but will generate a fabulous talking point in your home. Soft Lime and Toffee Apple are two shades that I love to put together, use with a vast amount of pure white gloss for a Scandinavian ambience in the space.

 

In terms of accessories the sky is the limit when it comes to green. There are lots of ways to include green throughout your home, try using green glass bottles as ornaments and vases for spring flowers. As green is nature’s primary colour make sure to always use lots of green plants inside your home as well as out. Coming up to St. Patrick’s Day I always purchase a few small potted shamrocks scrubs and place them in clear glass jars with soil. Hang these in your kitchen, hallway or conservatory to bring a touch of Irish, and maybe a bit of luck to your home!

 

 

 

Happy decorating,

Neville