Bertha Heathcote
Regardless of the décor or style of a bedroom, color alone has the capacity to increase the energy of an otherwise yawn-worthy room or bring a much-needed element of restfulness into an otherwise hectic one. Of course, the hue or tone (lightness or darkness) of a color plays a significant role in its effect, so it’s important to consider this as well, particularly in a monochromatic space.
Because bright orange is associated with youthfulness, it might be better to use softer, deeper tones (maybe even throwing in some brown) for a grownup bedroom. Similar to orange (its color wheel sister, in fact), yellow is sunny and bright and inherently exudes cheer.
Many people feel that true (bright) red is generally too stimulating to be a good bedroom color choice. But for those who are only in their bedrooms in late evenings, after it’s already dark, the muted, lamp-lit crimson tones transform into rich and sophisticated hues.
Blue is well-known for its soothing capacity; physiologically, it has been shown to reduce blood pressure and slow respiration. It’s important to remember that darker colors typically have a warm and sophisticated aura, which is helpful to know if you want your large bedroom to feel more intimate and cozy.
Almost inevitably, when one thinks of things that are lighter blue – the sky on a sunny day, the ocean waves, even cotton candy at a fair – an almost immediate feeling of calm and serenity follows. In fact, harmonious light blue has been shown to foster tranquility and peace while simultaneously soothing aggression and reducing tension. When using light blue as your monochromatic bedroom color base, be sure to incorporate other tones of warmth and depth for balance. Aqua is known for its ability to evoke relaxation (think of the gradients of ocean water on a gorgeous day at the beach) and to inspire trust.
As a benefit to going monochromatic with aqua in the bedroom, you can easily incorporate shades of blue AND green as well, increasing a meditative effect on your chi. As such, a monochromatic green bedroom is an excellent choice – lovely for unwinding after a long day, and retaining the aura of warmth and comfort.
In fact, some people believe that, with its relaxing vibe, green has the ability to reduce stress, rejuvenate, and enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Surrounded by these softer tones, experts believe our thinking processes and thoughts themselves will be elevated as we receive new inclinations and fresh perspectives with regard to emotional issues, in particular.
Because light purple can read as fairly juvenile (just as any pastel can), it’s important to incorporate plenty of deeper and greyer tones, to create a more grownup space. Pink tends to soothe while enhancing feelings of tenderness and empathy – which are excellent qualities for a bedroom retreat to foster.
Remember that lighter colors tend to feel airy and expansive, which is important if you want to make your bedroom seem larger and brighter than it actually is.
