Painting your home is one of the most straightforward and effective ways to give the rooms a fresh and new look. However, with so many color options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to use. In this article, we will take a look at popular color schemes for painting walls since the beginning of the 21st century and the trends and influences that have shaped them.
2000 - 2004
In the early 2000s, the most popular choices for wall painting were neutral tones such as beige and off - white. These colors provide a clean and timeless look and can be easily paired with any decor style. The trend was influenced by the desire for a neutral canvas that would be easy to decorate and the popular minimalist aesthetic at the time. Additionally, neutral colors are ideal for smaller spaces, making rooms appear more extensive and open.
2004 - 2008
As we moved toward the mid - 2000s, bold and bright colors such as red, blue, and green began to make a comeback. They are considered to add visual interest and energy to a room and are typically used as accent walls to create a focal point in a space. The trend was shaped by the desire to add more personality and character to homes and the influence of popular design movements such as the " pop art " aesthetic.
2008 - 2012
By the late 2000s, gray started to gain popularity as a neutral color choice for walls. It is versatile and can be paired not only with different shades of white and beige but with bolder colors too. The trend was determined by the " grayscale " aesthetic and the desire for a modern and sophisticated look. Also, gray is a relatively " cool " color, making the rooms appear spacious and open.
2012 - 2016
As we moved into the early 2010s, muted and subdued colors such as pale pink, blue, and green became favorites in bedrooms and bathrooms. These colors create a soothing atmosphere, making them ideal for relaxation spaces. The trend was influenced by a desire for a more peaceful and tranquil environment in the home, as well as the popularity of " spa - like " decor. Also, pastel shades are often considered more " feminine " colors, which may have contributed to their popularity in bedrooms and bathrooms.
2016 - 2020
In the late 2010s, earthy tones such as green, brown and tan gained popularity. These colors add warmth and richness to a space and can be paired with natural woods and other earthy materials to create a cohesive, organic look. The trend was shaped by the popularity of " bohemian " and " rustic " decor styles and the preferences for a more natural and earthy aesthetic in the home.
2020
In 2020, the trend of using calming colors such as light blue, pale green, and pastel shades regained popularity as the COVID - 19 pandemic forced people to spend considerably more time at home and desire a sense of calmness and tranquility in their living space.
2021 - 2022
In 2021 and 2022, as people started to return to normalcy, the fashion of using colors that inspire creativity and positivity rose. Bright yellow, vibrant orange, and deep purple were used more often as they are considered to promote feelings of energy and enthusiasm.
2023
In 2023, the lead as the most popular colors for painting walls will be taken by the soft, earthy shades of pink and clay, contrasting to the bolder ones that were preferred in 2021 - 2022. The shift towards delicate, muted shades reflects a desire for a calm and relaxing environment. These gentle hues bring a sense of tranquility and balance to any space and are a departure from the statement - making colors of the recent past. The trend towards soft pink and earthy clay reflects the growing influence of wellness and mindfulness in home design.
It is important to note that these are general tendencies, and color choices vary depending on individual preferences and regional influences. Additionally, trends change rapidly - in many cases, they overlap and are used simultaneously. It is always best to consider your personal taste, the purpose of the room, and the amount of natural light it receives when choosing colors.
