Green for My Library Room? It Wasn’t My First Choice!
Picking a color for a space is usually about what feels right—but this time, I approached it differently. Green wasn’t my first pick, and honestly, I wasn’t even sure about it at first!
Choosing colors for your home can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, and it’s easy to second-guess yourself. That’s why I like to work with a color plan—a way to create a palette that keeps everything cohesive without feeling too “matchy.”
One thing I didn’t mention in my last post? You don’t have to stick to just one shade. Using different tones of the same color can add so much depth and interest to a space.
So, how did green end up winning? Here’s what happened.
You can add depth and interest to your home by incorporating different shades of the same color.
Choosing the Right Color (Even When It’s Unexpected)
I’ve already used blue in my living room and even in half of the bathroom, so I wanted to mix things up for this room. I considered red, pink, yellow, or green—but since this is where I work from home every day (and my husband likes to use it as his hangout spot), I wanted to keep his opinion in mind too.
Even though he prefers blue, I didn’t want to overdo it. So, I had to rethink things.
This room will be a home office, library, snug, and guest bedroom all in one (no pressure, right?!). That meant it needed to be:
✓Cozy and inviting in the evening
✓ Relaxing and warm, but not too dark
✓ A color that feels timeless
I had three contenders: green, yellow, or cream. And while neutrals are great, I love using actual colors whenever I can. Green just felt like the right balance—warm but fresh, timeless but interesting. Plus, with the way this room gets south- and west-facing light, I knew it would feel like a cozy little retreat.
Now, I can’t wait to see it all come together!
Not Sure Which Color to Choose? Try This!
If you’re struggling to pick a color for a room, start by looking at what you already love. Take note of the colors in your wardrobe, favorite artwork, or even the landscapes that make you feel good. Then, test paint samples on different walls and at different times of the day—lighting can completely change how a color looks. But here’s the key: don’t compare swatches right next to each other!
When you see colors side by side, lighter shades can seem too light, and bolder colors can feel too intense. Instead, cover up the other samples and focus on just one at a time. This helps you visualize what the entire wall would look like in that shade—some people can picture it naturally, but for others, this trick makes all the difference! You might be surprised to find that the "too bright" color actually feels perfect, or that the pale shade is more vivid than you expected.
The right color should feel good in the space and in your everyday life. Trust what makes you feel at home!
If you’re ready to reimagine your own home, I’d love to guide you through the process with my Interior Design Services.
You can schedule a call or a consultation, and we’ll chat through your ideas and vision. It’s the first step toward creating a home you truly love.
And if you’re inspired by pattern too, my first wallpaper and border collection is in the works—subscribe to my newsletter (below in footer) for early previews and a closer look inside the studio.