Spread coral charm

Geetu Vaid

Colour trends are on the top of the list for those looking to add a touch of freshness to their interiors. Each year the Pantone Colour of the Year sets the tone for the colour trends in home decor. This year’s colour — Living Coral — reflects not only a strong affinity to nature besides exuding subtle femininity, but also veers away from the violets and tones of red and blue. Focusing on the endangered coral reefs, this shade is a refreshing change from last year’s ultra violet. Living Coral is a soothing, fresh and vibrant hue that can blend perfectly with several other hues and also fit into the minmalistic and modern interiors. Designers have described it as a mood enhancer shade that can be introduced in home decor in a number of ways. If you are still thinking of the ways to add coral to your home, here are some tips by interior designers to blend in the  coral charm in your decor:   

According to Parul Mittal, Director, Greenlam Industries Ltd., “Living Coral is a shade that is an acquired taste, leaving you craving for much more”. 

“If you are doubtful about using coral on walls, then it could be used as a nice contrasting colour for decorative furnishings and art, upholstery, fabrics, or even lighting”, says Kuntal Aggarwal, Founder & Design Head, Resaiki Interiors.

According to Aggarwal, a coral hue lighting or even coral lamp shades combined with neutral-coloured walls can make a style statement for your basic interiors. “The sincerity of striking a perfect balance, especially with the evening lights, makes you fall in love with it. Your guests would be truly enamoured”, she adds. 

“Pair Living Coral with white laminates and classic dark premium real wood floors. These shades will add a subtle and cosy ambience to your décor”, advises Parul.

Door to creativity

Scared to paint the whole wall into something too bright like Living Coral? Not to worry! Coral doors is one of the newest trends  this year to energise your interior. A nice visual appeal with a completely different reflection, who doesn’t like that kind of vibrant look. Adding a bright contrast to the doors and windows creates a variety of attraction points. 

Trendy sleepovers

Jazz up your boring living room or bedroom with a coral accent wall. The challenge of decorating a simple room is easily overcome by using the trick of creating a reflecting surface. This can be achieved by using a peach or coral contrast on one side, which immediately creates a successful colour scheme for your house. Aggarwal is all for adding a bit of quirk to the dining area with a coral accent wall. Even a partial section of lighter walls could be painted with coral tones.  “A light friendly texture goes brilliantly with wooden furniture, both light and dark. A blend with a mysterious hue of this universally flattering colour provides just the right balance in your house,” she says.

Work on contrasts

Various colour palettes can help bring out the dynamic nature of this colour and make your home a impressive. “If you are looking to entertain minimalistic décor by adding just one or two shades to your colour scheme, deep hues of blue  would be a perfect companion to Living Coral. These colours complement each other perfectly.  For those preferring a vibrant and bold palette, choosing vivacious burgundy with a gorgeous dark lilac tint will spread exuberance around”,  suggests Parul. 

Colour sweep for accessories

Place statement pieces such as an elegant real wood table with Living Coral table mats or crockery to add a bold vibe to your dining area. In addition to that, place a dark-patterned rug with a rose gold lamp and a showpiece in Living Coral. “Similarly, by adding coral chevron-patterned cushion covers and a collage of monochrome pictures, it would be easy to give a timeless retro touch to your living room,” says Parul.  

Explore the irrepressible fun and spontaneity that comes with this shade because it’s that change in little things that matters the most!

Cosy corners

Create an irresistible touch by having a cozy corner to yourself where you can have a relaxing time after a long day. Decorate it with a statement pearl chair and, a beautiful coffee table and a harmonizing warm blanket in Living Coral tones. Not only will it look more welcoming, but will also add a joyous colour scheme to your interiors. You can also shift this trend to your bedroom by having Living Coral bedsheets and covers complemented by curtains of the same tint. Place essential items like book holders and a table clock to complete the look.