As an interior designer, I believe few choices transform a space as much as the color of the walls. The right hue can change the mood, redefine natural light, and even influence how we feel when we walk into our home.
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And when the goal is to create a warm, elegant, and relaxing living room, some paint colors are true classics — favorites among designers for conveying tranquility, comfort, and timeless sophistication.
Here are 6 relaxing colors designers recommend to transform your living room into a haven of calm and well-being.
1. Warm, creamy beige
Beige is back in full force — but far from the dull shade of the 2000s. The new neutrals have warm and creamy undertones that create a soft and inviting atmosphere.
Shades like Natural Linen (Sherwin-Williams) or Wheat Bread (Behr) are perfect for those seeking a neutral yet enveloping base. This tone serves as a versatile backdrop, allowing you to play with different textures, furniture, and color accents.
Designer tip: pair warm beige with natural fabrics, light wood, and touches of aged gold for a cozy and refined look.
2. Sage green
Among the colors most recommended by designers for 2025, sage green reigns supreme. It’s a tone that soothes the senses and connects the space to nature — perfect for those who want to bring serenity indoors.
This color works beautifully in rooms with natural lighting, as it reflects light softly, creating a fresh and calm feeling.
Designer tip: combine sage green with linen cushions and handmade ceramic details. The result is a balanced and airy environment.
3. Grayish blue
Blue with gray undertones is one of the most relaxing colors for living areas. It conveys peace without making the space feel cold. It’s a color that evokes tranquility, ideal for anyone who wants to turn the living room into an urban retreat.
Shades like Nimbus Gray (Benjamin Moore) or Smoky Blue (Sherwin-Williams) are spot-on choices.
Designer tip: to keep grayish blue from feeling too cold, use warm textures — such as fluffy throws, velvet, and honey-toned wood.
4. Soft terracotta
For those who prefer a touch of warmth and personality, soft terracotta is a welcoming and modern choice. This color recalls the sunset and creates a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
According to many designers, earthy tones help the body relax because they evoke natural elements like clay and soil.
Designer tip: pair terracotta with neutral tones and warm lighting to enhance coziness and highlight wall textures.
5. Warm gray
Warm gray is the perfect choice for those who want an elegant and calm space that isn’t completely neutral. Unlike cool gray, it has a hint of beige or brown, making it more inviting.
It’s a color that works well with any style — from contemporary to Scandinavian.
Designer tip: warm gray pairs beautifully with oak furniture, sand-colored rugs, and natural linen curtains.
6. Burnt pink
Burnt pink is a shade gaining popularity in home projects for its balance between softness and elegance. It adds a touch of romance without being overwhelming and creates an atmosphere of understated calm.
In living rooms, this color brings a light and inviting feel without weighing down the space.
Designer tip: combine with shades of terracotta, beige, and creamy white. Add golden or copper accents for a sophisticated touch.
Conclusion: the power of soft colors
Choosing the right color for the living room is more than an aesthetic decision — it’s a way to create an emotional retreat. Soft and warm tones help slow down the pace, making the home a space of comfort and balance.
As a designer, I always recommend prioritizing colors that evoke calm and naturalness, creating spaces that embrace everyone who enters. After all, a beautiful home should, above all, be a place where you can breathe deeply and relax.
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
