Article Originally Posted On Good Housekeeping
The early days of spring are some of the best in the year. The sun is out, there's a hint of warmth in the air, and the first crocuses have made their way through the thawing earth. No matter what the temperature actually is outside, you've been reminded that warmer weather is on its way, and that the winter doldrums are almost over. The best way to celebrate this welcome change of season? With a spring home refresh, of course.
One of the easiest ways to update your space for spring is to tweak its color palette. To find the prettiest spring colors of 2020, we asked interior designers and home experts which hues they were most excited about this year. Whether you use these colors to paint the walls or simply include them in a bright spring centerpiece, these shades will invigorate your space and help you spring into spring.
Aimee Mazzenga/Bria Hammel Interiors
1. Blush
Ever since the "millennial pink" craze began around 2016, blush has been a popular year-round color — but obviously, it's got a particular allure in spring. "One of our favorite color combos for spring is white, camel/taupe, and soft pink," says Bria Hammel of Bria Hammel Interiors. "It’s such a timeless color palette because of its neutrality, but it also provides a bit of warmth and subtle color to a space without going too over the top."
Victoria Peason
2. Bright Blue
A bright blue was Pantone's Color of the Year, so you'll see it everywhere this year. It works particularly well when paired with green, as the colors remind us of the great outdoors. "Both of these colors are so versatile and can work as an accent wall in a dark tone, as a pop of color in pillows or a rug, or even as a statement sofa in your space," says Lee Mayer, CEO of the online interior design service Havenly. "Depending on the tones and fabrics you choose, both of these colors can play into any style really well — an emerald velvet sofa can feel really luxe while blue linen pillows can feel perfectly classic."
Aimee Mazzenga/Bria Hammel Interiors
3. Sage Green
Nothing says spring quite like an airy green. "Green is such a versatile shade and can take on so many different tones, but for spring 2020 we’re loving a soft, muted sage green," says Hammel. "It feels so fresh, organic, and can be used in both masculine and feminine spaces."
Bunpoht Baimiden/Getty Images
4. Camel
Another rising trend you can expect to see more of are light-toned leathers. "Our clients are all about durability, so leather is a popular choice for sofas or chairs, but not everyone wants such a heavy dark piece in their home," says Mayer. "Camel, taupe, or off-white leathers have become really popular, and can feel appropriate for warmer months when mixed with natural materials like wood and rattan."
Kate Osborne
5. Coral
In 2019, the Pantone Color Institute named Living Coral its Color of the Year. The vibrant hue is both invigorating and energizing, and will add a dash of happiness wherever you put it. To make a serious statement, try a coral wallpaper in a small space like your mudroom, bathroom, office, or laundry room.
Karyn Millet
6. Yellow
A buttery yellow just might be the cheeriest spring color of them all. Incorporate the shade into your space in small doses — for example, with fresh flowers, accent pillows, throw blankets, or a funky light fixture — and you'll beat those winter doldrums, stat.
Katarzyn Abialasiewicz/Getty Images
7. Olive Green
Interior designers predict that masculine colors like navy blue, saddle brown, and hunter green will be some of the top-trending color of 2020. But just because they're darker shades doesn't mean they can't be brightened up for spring. "I love how olive green is being used in paint, pillows, and upholstery," says Mayer. "It’s a great example of a color that transitions well from spring and summer to cooler months." Pair the hue with lots of indoor plants for a serious celebration of spring.
Mike Garten
8. Pastels
Pastel shades are among the most common and classic colors to brighten your home for the warmer months. "We love using soft, muted pastel colors in spring," says Hammel. "Not only do they mimic the outdoors, but they are the perfect way to gradually incorporate color back into your home after the cold, darker winter months."
Scott Rickels
9. Sky Blue
This shade of blue is as cheerful as can be — and would work perfectly on any accent rug, pillow, or flower arrangement. Or, take a cue from this kitchen and use paint to make a true sky blue statement.
Victoria Pearson
10. White
A foolproof way to brighten up your home for spring is to go all-white. If that's not possible, try adding airier elements instead — think sheer white curtains that let the light in, white linens, and fresh houseplants.
