Lighten up with Pastels

June 10, 2012 by Iris Interiors LLC | 11 Comments

The spring runways were awash with pastels and the trend has made its way into the home. Interior designers and homeowners are taking a hiatus from dark, dramatic colors in favor of candy coated hues. Nurseries and children’s rooms aren’t the only spaces dripping in sherbert shades. Dreamy lilac, pistachio, yellow, mint green, robin’s egg blue, and pale pink are among the choice colors for walls and accents. Coordinate confection-inspired tones for a light, feminine look or toughen things up by pairing pastel shades with clean lines, masculine fabrics, and pops of black, brown, or deeper, saturated colors. Here are some of our favorite takes on the cheery palettes:

Picture compliments of the Chestnut Park Blog.

Stunning minty bedroom with a feminine, whimsical feel. The mint green walls and pastel pink lamp are tempered by a bold use of gold in Moroccan poufs and a sunburst mirror.

Photo compliments of Interiorholic.

The pale buttery yellow sofa, lavender carpet, and touches of pink, purple, and mint are grounded by the brown furniture and frames in this eclectic room. The look feels very soothing. If you’re not ready to commit to pastel walls, adding sunny pieces will reflect light and make any room appear larger and more open.

Photo compliments of Habitually Chic.

Albert Hadley’s sitting room is the epitome of chic. The beige wallpaper, black furniture, incredible trim, and table vignette receive a surprising twist with a large, framed pale blue canvas. Pastel without the commitment. Love the hot pink chair as well.  (Note:  Albert Hadley, whose clients included Oscar de la Renta, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and Diane Sawyer, just to name a few, died at the age of 91 just two and a half months ago)

a Photo compliments of Shelterness.

Pastel pink, blue, and yellow adirondack chairs create a playful atmosphere on the porch.

Photo compliments of Sara Gilbane Interiors.

The lilac walls, opulent chandelier, and pastel chairs are soft and dreamy. The romantic space doesn’t look swamped in purple because of the varying pastel hues and classic design.

Photo compliments of Cupcakes for Breakfast.

I could almost eat this candy colored outdoor dining area. Pastel rattan chairs, a pink accent wall, and design elements in every pale color of the rainbow. The rustic, shabby chic decor really gets new life with soft tones.

Photo compliments of Apartment Therapy.

A traditional, sophisticated bathroom features varying shades of pink. The art and vintage gold accents add serious glamour. Gold and pastel. Are we seeing a trend here?

Photo compliments of Elle Decor.

Here’s an example of bright citron set against a pastel backdrop. The light blue-gray walls and seashell colors impart a softness to the space. The black and neutral accents provide drama and the splash of citron introduces a bold, modern element.

Photo compliments of Cupcakes for Breakfast.

Delicate lilac is subtle, yet still makes a statement. The striped couch stands out against the pale walls. It’s a grown-up version of a little girl’s dream bedroom.

Photo compliments of Mark English Architects, AIA.

Play up a more saturated shade of yellow with pastel pillows. The artwork and even umbrellas pick up the colors of the settee.

Photo compliments of Easy Living.

A clawfoot tub serves as a traditional element in this cheerful, Easter egg bathroom. With a tub full of bubbles and the sun streaming in, taking a bath in this space is probably a magical experience.

Photo compliments of Coco+Kelley.

The lavender walls are funky, fun, and decidedly unisex, because of the use of black and grey as neutrals. The gold chair and modern artwork are perfect accessories.

How do you feel about pastels? Which space is your favorite?