Paint colour shades to 'avoid where possible' that makes homes feel cold

The best bedroom paint colour depends on the shade (Image: Getty)

Paint colours immediately set the tone of your home and choosing the right shade can make all the difference.

It's the first thing that greets you upon walking into a room.

Depending on the colour and its shade, the colour a room is painted can make it feel bigger, warmer and evoke different moods from sleep or socialisation.

Bedrooms require even more thought, according to interior design experts, as it's one of the most frequented areas of the home and where we get much-needed rest.

With many factors coming into play - diet, lifestyle and external stressors - simple design choices can encourage a good night's sleep.

Bright white paint can feel 'clinical' (Image: Getty)

Joanne, head of bedrooms expert at Wren, claims people can improve their quality of sleep through well-thought out, yet simple design choices.

"Whilst colour and sleep aren’t directly related, colours can have a significant impact on our mood and emotions, with low mood negatively affecting our sleep.

"This is why choosing a colour palette that either calms, soothes, or uplifts you is a key ingredient to the perfect night’s sleep."

Quality sleep is even more important for energy levels throughout the winter months, as shorter days and bleaker weather make people feel more drowsy and tired during the day. There are certain shades Joanne advises to avoid - and ones that are associated with peace, tranquility and relaxation.

Bedroom paint colours to avoid

Lack of sleep has been linked to poor focus, anti-social behaviour, weakened immune system and stress, meaning the following bedroom design choices are to be "avoided where possible".

Muted greens evoke a sense of calm (Image: Getty)

Colour choices that disrupt sleep

Whilst it may be a good idea to paint your bedroom white, blue or green, the tone and shade are equally as important, Joanne adds.

"It’s all about layering tones to keep the room feeling inviting. Stick to pale or muted versions of these colours to keep the look calm and avoid anything too bold or bright.

"I would personally suggest an off-white, as pure white can often appear clinical and stark. For blues and greens, bright, neon shades are not suggested, as they evoke energy and alertness, stimulating the mind.

"Equally, utilising too many deep, dark hues, such as navy or forest green in one area, are potentially counteracting your sleep, as they have been known to evoke negative feelings, such as sadness and loneliness."

The best paint colours for bedrooms

With this in mind, Joanne specified the shades that help create a peaceful bedroom space through simple colour and design choices.

Blue

"People associate blue with peace and tranquillity as it is synonymous with clear skies and a cooling bed of water, resulting in a feeling of relaxation. Some people even relate blue with a feeling of security, which is essential for a good night’s sleep.

"If blue washed walls or fitted wardrobes are too eclectic for your taste, look to incorporate this colour through soft furnishings, such as pillows and throws. A blue headboard is a bold design choice which can bring together a calming space."

Green

Green has a similar effect, as Joanne explained, "Green is synonymous with nature, evoking a sense of calm. Pairing green with neutral-coloured accents will balance out the space and give the bedroom an earthy feel, whilst pairing with light blues can softly brighten the space for a completely zen atmosphere."

Neutrals

Keep it simple with neutral colours for rest and relaxation.

"Neutral colours, such as whites, creams, beiges and other gentle tones that help create a relaxing vibe," Joanne said.

"You can add visual interest through layering different shades of these neutral colours, whilst incorporating a mix of plush, soft materials in whites and creams bringing the tranquil bedroom together through textural interest."