10 Tranquil Colors to Transform Your Walls, According to Top Interior Designers

You’re likely aware that stress can affect your body, mind, and social interactions. But what if the source of that stress is closer than you think? The color of your walls, in particular, might be making it more difficult to relax and unwind in your home.

Your home should be a sanctuary where you can relax and find peace, and the design elements play a crucial role in creating that atmosphere. Since your walls are one of the largest surfaces, the paint colors you choose will have a significant impact. Going with colors known for their calming properties—and those highly recommended by interior designers—is a great way to start. Here’s expert advice on selecting the most soothing hues for your space.

What Makes a Color Relaxing?

Though the study of color psychology is still evolving, experts generally agree that certain shades tend to have a more calming influence than others. Amber Guyton, founder of Blessed Little Bungalow, explains, “Colors that soothe the nervous system are typically cool and neutral. Blue, green, white, gray, and beige are prime examples. These colors evoke calmness, peace, and serenity, helping to create a tranquil atmosphere in any home.”

Incorporating calming colors in your home doesn’t require you to compromise on your personal style. “While certain hues, like gentle blues and greens, are widely known for their calming effects, individual taste plays a significant role,” says Barry Bordelon, part of The Brownstone Boys. “Personal experiences and cultural backgrounds shape how someone reacts to a particular color. So, while soft, natural tones are generally soothing, the exact shade that calms you could be entirely unique to you!”

If darker shades are what you love, go for it! Both Jordan Slocum and Bordelon from The Brownstone Boys agree that you should embrace deeper, more dramatic colors, which can still create a relaxed yet luxurious ambiance.

When and Where to Use Calming Colors

Some rooms are more in need of calming colors than others. Meagan Macievic, the founder of Meagan Rae Interiors, points out areas that tend to be hectic, such as mudrooms and laundry rooms. She also shares from personal experience that teen bedrooms are an excellent choice for soothing tones. “Teenage years come with a certain level of stress,” she says. “Home should feel like a safe haven for families. As a parent of 4, I know life feels more manageable when kids are happy and thriving.”

Guyton suggests that, generally, all bedrooms can benefit from soothing colors. “It's crucial to incorporate calming hues in your bedroom that promote relaxation and prepare the body for rest, while also ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed,” she explains. “It’s equally important to create a tranquil atmosphere in your home office to minimize stress and anxiety while maintaining focus and productivity.”

Soothing Paint Colors

Grove Green by Farrow and Ball

As The Brownstone Boys have both emphasized, deep hues can create just as peaceful an atmosphere as lighter shades. This rich green tone from Farrow and Ball perfectly complements the open layout of this spacious living room, adding warmth and timeless charm to an otherwise contemporary space.

City Loft, a neutral shade by Sherwin-Williams, evokes a soft, tranquil atmosphere with subtle hints of red and beige. Perfect for creating a serene and stylish environment.

City Loft by Sherwin-Williams is a soft, neutral tone with undertones of red and beige. Suggested by Guyton, it's an ideal choice for both indoor and outdoor spaces, particularly in minimalist bedroom designs.

Light Blue by Farrow and Ball adds a serene touch to any room, offering a calming effect with its subtle blue tones.

The Brownstone Boys embrace nature-inspired hues. Slocum mentions, 'Colors can be calming because they remind us of nature and serenity.' Picture the relaxing effects of a bright blue sky or a gentle green meadow. This soft, silvery blue from Farrow and Ball embodies that tranquil vibe.

Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore is a soft, creamy white that infuses warmth and subtle elegance into any room.

Swiss Coffee is a beloved off-white, neutral hue praised by both Guyton and Macievic. With its warm undertones, this shade pairs beautifully with dark wood accents and crisp white trims, as seen in this striking entryway designed by Macievic.

Ashwood by Benjamin Moore offers a sophisticated, soft gray tone, perfect for creating an elegant, timeless atmosphere in any room.

Ashwood is a warm gray with subtle green undertones, as recommended by Macievic. She often turns to soft taupes for creating serene, inviting spaces.

Collingwood by Benjamin Moore offers a soft, versatile gray that can complement a variety of interior styles with its neutral, balanced tone.

This buttery white is another of Macievic’s favored shades. Its warm, gentle glow pairs beautifully with medium to deep brown tones.

Salty Dog by Sherwin-Williams is a bold, captivating shade that brings a sense of calm yet vibrant energy to any space.

If taupes and beiges aren't your style, here's a daring suggestion. Guyton shares, 'If going with a 'color color', my favorite navy blue is Sherwin-Williams' Salty Dog... I love blues and greens. They work so well together, reflect the outdoors and nature, are gender-neutral, and are loved by most homeowners.'

Budding Green by Benjamin Moore is a refreshing, vibrant green that adds a natural, lively touch to any room.

This remarkable shade of green perfectly captures the essence of spring's first shoots. The Brownstone Boys agree that soft green hues are a great choice for calming spaces. Bordelon explains, 'Greens, especially those with a touch of gray, create a refreshing, serene atmosphere, much like a peaceful forest.'

Halo by Benjamin Moore is a soft, ethereal shade that brings a gentle, luminous quality to any room.

Macievic also recommends Halo by Benjamin Moore, a soft, delicate beige perfect for pairing with light, neutral wood floors, creating a serene and balanced atmosphere.

School House White by Farrow and Ball is a timeless, soft off-white that adds warmth and character to any space with its subtle, understated elegance.

School House White is a beloved choice for the Brownstone Boys. It exudes a timeless elegance while creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in your home. Like any neutral, its adaptability is unparalleled.