Designers are gravitating towards deep green as the preferred neutral shade for 2026, as evident by Cliff Richard's rich, earthy green sofa.
The Enduring Appeal of Green in Home Décor: A Calming and Versatile Colour Choice
Green, a colour that symbolizes growth, health, and vitality, continues to be a popular choice in home décor, particularly in living rooms. The enduring popularity of green is due to its calming effects, strong association with nature, and the sense of peace and balance it brings to a space [1][3][5].
Green's appeal in living rooms is multifaceted:
- Its calming and restorative qualities reduce stress and evoke the tranquility of the outdoors.
- Its symbolic connection to growth, health, and wellness reinforces a positive, vital atmosphere.
- Green's versatility allows it to work well in biophilic design, integrating nature-inspired elements like plants and earthy materials.
In terms of colour pairings, green is highly adaptable. It pairs beautifully with whites and neutrals, which brighten spaces and enhance green’s natural freshness without overwhelming it. Green also combines well with warm metals like brushed gold or brass, adding a touch of sophistication and depth, especially with deeper green tones like emerald or forest green [2][3].
Soft, muted greens (sage, olive) harmonize with wood and organic materials, emphasizing an earthy, natural feel. Vibrant greens, such as the trendy dill green, balance both casual familiarity and crispness, making them suitable for pairing with patterned tiles and light-colored walls for a fresh summer vibe [2][3].
Designer Nina Lichtenstein explains that green's vast shade range makes it highly versatile for more than just sofas. Green works well with warm woods, brass, blackened metal, soft neutrals, pale pink, terracotta, and other colours [4]. She notes that green is neither too warm nor too cool, making it a design world's version of emotional equilibrium.
Green's contrast, being invigorating and soothing at once, and its association with growth, renewal, and safety, contribute to its appeal [4]. As demonstrated by Cliff Richard's decor from a 1964 photo, green works well in a living room setting, with a green sofa, red and green throws, a low-profile coffee table, a fruit bowl, glassware, and a pink and neutral rug [6].
The use of green in living rooms has been increasing among celebrities and designers, and it is expected to continue its popularity in home design, with no signs of slowing down, as we look towards 2026 [7]. A plush and elegant green velvet loveseat is an excellent addition to any neutral living space, while a natural wood rounded table adds a warming twist to a '70s-inspired scheme and is suitable for both dining rooms and living rooms [8].
In conclusion, green's psychological benefits and visual flexibility—working with a broad palette from neutrals to warm metals and natural textures—explain its sustained popularity and seamless integration into living room décor [1][2][3][5].
Green's versatility extends beyond sofas, making it an ideal choice for interior-design, particularly in home-and-garden settings. If you're looking to refresh your lifestyle, consider incorporating green into your living room, enhancing the room's calm and natural atmosphere, and reflecting a positive lifestyle that embraces nature and growth.
