The Return of Bold Colours: How to Move Beyond Neutrals in Your Home Decor
- lynspurrier
- Jan 4
- 4 min read
If you’ve scrolled through Pinterest boards or flipped through a home design magazine lately, you may have noticed a bold trend taking over: vibrant colours are making a comeback.

While soft neutrals like beige, grey, and white have long dominated home interiors for their timeless and calming qualities, homeowners are now looking to inject personality, energy, and character into their spaces through colour. From lush greens to striking pinks and cheerful oranges, bold colours are no longer reserved for eclectic or bohemian aesthetics - they're entering modern, minimalist, and even traditionally styled homes.
But how do you embrace this daring shift without creating a chaotic space? Let’s explore how you can add bold colours to your home decor in a way that feels fresh, balanced, and uniquely you.
Why Bold Colours?
Bold colours add energy, warmth, and personality to a home. They can:
Create a Statement: A vibrant hue draws the eye and can make a room memorable.
Set the Mood: Colours like green promote relaxation, while orange brings vibrancy and optimism.
Express Your Personality: Bold tones can reflect your adventurous spirit or love for creativity.
Tips for Incorporating Bold Colours Into Your Home

Start Small: Accent Walls and Accessories
If you’re new to bold colours, ease into the trend by introducing them through accent walls or smaller decor items like cushions, throws, or vases. For instance:
Living Room: Paint one wall in a rich emerald green and balance it with neutral furniture.
Bedroom: Add a pop of hot pink with pillows or a plush rug against a white or grey bedspread.
Pair Bold Colours With Neutrals
Neutrals don’t need to disappear entirely. Pair bold colours with neutral tones to maintain balance and prevent the room from feeling overwhelming.
Green + Beige: Create a serene yet vibrant atmosphere by combining leafy greens with earthy beige tones.
Orange + Grey: This dynamic duo brings warmth and sophistication to a space.
Use Colour Blocking
Colour blocking is a fantastic way to experiment with bold hues. Paint sections of a wall in different shades or incorporate furniture in contrasting colours.
Dining Area: Pair a bright orange dining table with chairs in a soft teal or navy blue.
Office Space: Paint a geometric design in pink and green for a creative and inspiring work environment.
Let Nature Be Your Guide
Bold colours like green and orange are often found in nature, making them surprisingly easy to integrate into your home. Consider:
Greenery: Add lush plants or choose green as your primary accent colour to bring the outdoors inside.
Sunset Tones: Orange and pink hues mimic natural sunsets, making them a warm and comforting choice for living rooms and bedrooms.
Add Layers and Textures
Bold colours can feel softer and more cohesive when layered with textures and patterns. Think:
Velvet Sofas: A deep green velvet sofa adds luxury and depth.
Patterned Rugs: An orange patterned rug can ground a room and tie together bold and neutral tones.
Experiment With Artwork
If you’re not ready to commit to painting walls or buying bold furniture, incorporate bold colours through art. A large, brightly coloured painting or gallery wall can make a stunning impact without permanent changes.
Room-by-Room Ideas for Bold Colours

Living Room:
Add a cobalt blue sofa or bright orange armchair as a statement piece. Pair with a neutral area rug and wooden furniture for balance.
Kitchen:
Consider painting your cabinets in a high-gloss green or introducing bright backsplash tiles. Keep the countertops and walls neutral to let the colour shine.
Bedroom:
Opt for bold bedding in pink or mustard yellow. Combine with neutral walls and curtains to create a harmonious yet lively retreat.
Bathroom:
Add a bold vanity in a deep emerald green or line the walls with patterned tiles in bright shades.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Too Much Colour: Avoid overloading a space with multiple bold colours. Stick to one or two vibrant hues and let them shine against a neutral backdrop.
Ignoring Lighting: Natural light can affect how colours appear. Test samples in your space before committing to a shade.
Lack of Cohesion: Use bold colours in different parts of your home, but tie them together with a consistent accent (e.g., gold hardware or black finishes).

The Return of Bold Colours: Embrace the Trend
Moving beyond neutrals doesn’t mean abandoning them - it’s about finding a balance that works for your home and personal style. Bold colours can inject life, energy, and creativity into your living spaces while still maintaining elegance and comfort. So, grab that paintbrush or pick out that neon-pink throw pillow. Your home is your canvas - don’t be afraid to return to bold colours, embrace the trend and make it bold!
Ready to Become Your Own Interior Designer? Join The Self-Taught Designers Hub!
For more interior design tips and inspiration, check out The Self-Taught Designers Hub and dive into our online courses! Learn how to create a home that feels both stylish and personal, no matter your design experience. We can guide you through each step of designing with purpose, practical tips and expert insights, as you become your own interior designer.
Visit the Self-Taught Designers Hub and enrol in our "Discover the Designer in You" Masterclass. Learn the skills you need to design spaces that truly reflect you! Plus, get access to free resources that will help you start today!
Happy designing from all of us at the Self-Taught Designers Hub!



Comments