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Photo: Dustin Halleck / Centered by DesignColor has a significant impact on how we perceive our surroundings, and the paint hue you select not only shapes the appearance of a room but also its mood. Beyond simple aesthetics, color influences our emotions. "It's well-known that color impacts your mood—that's why extensive research goes into selecting brand color schemes," explain the designers at Chicago-based Studio Gild. "When it comes to interior design, using a dominant color throughout a space can evoke emotions that wouldn't be triggered if it were merely an accent color," they note.
While there are no strict guidelines for choosing paint colors, most of us want to surround ourselves with shades that make us feel good. To narrow down the choices, we consulted professional designers for their top picks of colors that are guaranteed to boost your mood. Here are 12 colors that will brighten your day each time you walk into the room.
1. Gray Cloud, by Benjamin Moore
Dustin Halleck / Centered by Design"Blues are always a favorite and tend to make clients smile," says Claire Staszak of Centered by Design. So, when designing your space, why not choose a color that will make you feel good as well? "Benjamin Moore's Gray Cloud is the gentlest pale periwinkle, perfect for various rooms. Who wouldn't love the sensation of floating among the clouds?" This serene blue is ideal for creating a calm bedroom or a peaceful bathroom.
To purchase: benjaminmoore.com.
2. Brewster Gray, by Benjamin Moore
Benjamin MooreAnother design studio, Studio Gild, also recommends a delicate blend of blue with a touch of gray to bring a sense of happiness to a room. "Blues foster a feeling of balance and promote a sense of calm and order," the designers share. "Benjamin Moore's Brewster Gray is one of our favorites; with just a whisper of green, it brings a peaceful aura to any room it graces."
To purchase: benjaminmoore.com.
3. Rosé Season by Clare
ClareLooking for a color with a little extra character? You'll fall for this blush pink shade from Nicole Gibbons, the founder and CEO of Clare. "Warm pink tones like Rosé Season inspire optimism and exude a joyful, cheerful vibe," says Gibbons. "Crisp, bright, and just the right amount of sweet, this lively pink hue makes us think of toasting with good friends. Whether it graces your walls or fills your glass, who can resist a refreshing rosé?!" We couldn't agree more.
To purchase: clare.com.
4. Farrow's Cream, by Farrow & Ball
Farrow & BallIf you're thinking about giving your kitchen a makeover, take note of Studio Lifestyle's top recommendation for this space. "Kitchens are ideal for a splash of yellow since it lifts your spirits and boosts your energy—something we can all use in the mornings as we head to the kettle." A gentle, understated yellow provides the perfect energy boost for those early risers and night owls alike.
To purchase: us.farrow-ball.com.
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5. Blanched Coral, by Benjamin Moore
Michael Partenio/ Erin Gates Design"Pale pink rooms always lift my mood—they radiate warmth and wrap you in a calming atmosphere," says Erin Gates of Erin Gates Design. To avoid a pink that feels too youthful, it’s important to select the perfect shade and pair it thoughtfully. "Blanched Coral is a beautiful light pink that doesn’t come across as too sugary or immature—and when combined with bold choices like black, deep red, or chartreuse, it gains a striking new character."
To purchase: benjaminmoore.com.
6. Kimono by Portola Paints
Portola PaintsIf you're looking for a cheerful color with some boldness, Kimono by Portola Paints is your answer. "Kimono is a deep jewel tone that injects energy and joy into any space. This blue will transport you to vacation mode every single day!" says Jamie Davis of Portola Paints.
To purchase: portolapaints.com.
7. Watermist, by Dunn Edwards
Dunn EdwardsSometimes, the shades that bring us the most happiness are those that evoke a sense of calm. Take, for example, Sarah Barnard of Sarah Barnard Design's favorite pick, Watermist by Dunn Edwards. "Watermist is a soft off-white with the faintest hint of aquamarine. Ideal for coastal spaces, this refined color creates a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere," she shares.
To purchase: dunnedwards.com.
8. Boca Raton Blue, by Benjamin Moore
Benjamin MooreAccording to Katie Hodges of Katie Hodges Design, Boca Raton Blue strikes the perfect balance between elegance and fun, making it an ideal choice for a vibrant home. "It's the ideal burst of color for a kitchen or breakfast nook, and it pairs beautifully with Mediterranean or Spanish-style homes," she explains.
To purchase: benjaminmoore.com.
9. Greyhound, by Benjamin Moore
Callie Hobbs / Studio McGee"Greyhound is a soft neutral that never fails to brighten our mood," says Shea McGee of Studio McGee. "It's inviting and light, without being overpowering. We believe it makes the perfect front door color to greet guests even before they step inside," she adds. Need proof? Just take a look at the welcoming entrance on the right.
To purchase: benjaminmoore.com.
10. Galápagos Turquoise by Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore"From aquamarine to cerulean, turquoise is the ultimate color for vibrant, spiritual energy and bold expression," explain the designers at the San Francisco-based firm Gamble + Design. "Galápagos Turquoise by Benjamin Moore infuses any room with a sense of depth, thanks to the touch of black in its pigment." This shade is sure to bring life to any space in your home.
To purchase: benjaminmoore.com.
