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The Power of Pastels: How to Use Soft Shades in Your Home

Pastel paint colours have long been associated with tranquillity, elegance, and charm. These soft, muted tones offer a fresh alternative to bold hues and stark neutrals, bringing a sense of calm and sophistication to any space. Whether you want to brighten up a small room, create a relaxing atmosphere, or add a touch of subtle colour, pastels are a versatile and stylish choice.

Why Choose Pastel Paint Colours?

Pastels, such as soft blues, blush pinks, mint greens, and pale lavenders, have a naturally soothing effect. They reflect light beautifully, making rooms feel airy and open. Unlike more saturated colours, pastels can introduce personality without overwhelming a space, making them ideal for both modern and traditional interiors.

To keep pastels from feeling overly sweet, balance them with neutral shades like white, grey, or beige. Adding deeper accent colours—such as navy blue, charcoal, or brass—can create contrast and sophistication. Layering pastels with different textures, like velvet cushions or woven rugs, enhances depth and interest. Whether painting a full room or adding a pastel accent, these gentle hues can transform your home into a stylish and serene space.

Always test new colours with a paint sample pot at home in your chosen space to observe how they shift throughout the day. The sunlight will intensify certain tones, so it's important to ensure your chosen blue works well at all times.

 

Popular Pastel Paint Colours

Farrow and Ball Borrowed Light

Little Greene Chemise

Paint and Paper Library Sprig III

Crown Trade Lemon Balm

Dulux Heritage Lavendar Grey

Johnstone's Trade Pastel Paper

Where to Use Pastel Colours

Living Room

A soft pastel feature wall or subtle all-over colour can create a warm and inviting space. Pair with natural textures, such as wood and linen, for a balanced, cosy feel.

Bedroom

Pastels are perfect for bedrooms, promoting relaxation and restful sleep. Try dusky pink, soft lilac, or powder blue for a dreamy retreat.

Children’s Rooms

Pastel shades are a great alternative to bright primary colours in kids' bedrooms and nurseries. They offer a playful yet calming atmosphere.

Garden Furniture

Pastel shades are a great alternative to classic mahogany or oak wood colours in the garden. Using pastel colours outside is a simple way to add a pop of subtle colour to complement your plants and flowers or to add vibrancy in place of colourful blooms.

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Little Greene Dorchester Pink is a classic pastel pink shade. Use it on front doors and garden furniture or bring it indoors for a calming bedroom or living room.

Dulux Heritage Copenhagen Blue is a pale blue that works well in any space, particularly south-facing rooms where it will bask in natural light.

Dulux Heritage Lavendar Grey is a subtle lavendar blue shade that creates a serene, calming space wherever it is used.

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