25 Trending Modern Living Room Colors to Update Your Home

Are you ready to breathe new life into your living room?

If so, look no further than modern living room colors, as they can transform your space from drab to fab.

As the heart of the home, the living room deserves an inviting and trendy color palette. So in this home decor color guide, we’ll explore 25 stunning modern living room colors that are trending now.

Top 25 Trending Modern Living Room Colors:

From timeless neutrals to daring accents, these trending shades offer something for every style and taste to breathe new life into your living space.

1. Soft Greige (Neutral Foundation)

Soft greige is a blend of gray and beige and is one of the most popular modern living room colors. This versatile neutral creates a warm, inviting atmosphere while maintaining a contemporary feel, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balanced and neutral backdrop for their living space.

Why it works:

• Provides a neutral foundation that complements a wide range of decor styles and colors
• Offers more warmth than cool grays without the yellow undertones of traditional beige
• Creates a sense of calm and sophistication

Styling tips:

• Pair with crisp white trim for a clean, modern look
• Add depth with darker greige accents on furniture or textiles
• Incorporate natural textures like wood and linen to enhance the organic feel

Color pairings:

• Navy blue for a classic contrast
• Blush pink for a soft, feminine touch
• Forest green for an earthy, grounded feel

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Agreeable Gray SW 7029, Repose Gray SW 7015, Accessible Beige SW 7036
• Benjamin Moore: Classic Gray OC-23, Pale Oak OC-20, Balboa Mist OC-27
• PPG Paints: Fog PPG1010-2, Boulder Creek PPG0999-3, Dust Bunny PPG1000-1

Pro Tip – When choosing soft greige for your living room, consider the lighting in the space. This chameleon-like color can shift between cooler and warmer tones depending on the light, so test samples at different times of day before committing to a specifc paint color.

2. Light Gray (Neutral Foundation)

Light gray has become a go-to in modern living room colors, offering a contemporary alternative to traditional neutrals. This versatile shade provides a relaxing setting that can lean cool or warm depending on its undertones.

Why it works:

• Offers a modern, clean look without the starkness of white
• Serves as an excellent base for both cool and warm color schemes
• Creates a sense of calm and serenity

Styling tips:

• Layer different shades of gray for a monochromatic look
• Use warm woods to balance coolness
• Pair with bold colors for a dynamic contrast

Color pairings:

• Yellow for a cheerful, contemporary vibe
• Deep teal for a rich, moody atmosphere
• Blush pink for a soft, elegant combination

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: First Star SW 7646, Passive SW 7064, Gray Screen SW 7071
• Benjamin Moore: Gray Owl OC-52, Stonington Gray HC-170, Coventry Gray HC-169
• PPG Paints: Afraid of the Dark PPG0994-1, Ancient Cloud PPG0995-2, Pittsburg Gray PPG0994-2

Pro Tip – When selecting a color, always consider the natural light in your space and test samples before making a final decision. Each of these colors can significantly impact the mood and feel of your living room, so choose the one that best aligns with your personal style and the atmosphere your going for.

3. Crisp White (Neutral Foundation)

Crisp white remains a timeless choice in modern living room colors, offering a clean canvas that brightens and opens up any space. This versatile hue is perfect for those who love a fresh, airy feel or want to create a backdrop for bold accents.

Why it works:

• Maximizes the perception of space and light
• Provides a neutral backdrop for any style of decor
• Allows for easy updates with changing accent colors

Styling tips:

• Add texture through white-on-white patterns in fabrics and wall treatments
• Incorporate pops of color through artwork and accessories
• Use different shades of white to create subtle depth

Color pairings:

• Black for a classic monochrome look
• Any bold color for a striking contrast
• Natural wood tones for a Scandinavian-inspired feel

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Pure White SW 7005, Ceiling Bright White SW 7007, Snowbound SW 7004
• Benjamin Moore: Chantilly Lace OC-65, White Dove OC-17, Cloud White OC-130
• PPG Paints: Delicate White PPG1001-1, Commercial White PPG1025-1, Aria PPG1001-2

4. Warm Taupe (Neutral Foundation)

Warm taupe is another great foundation color for modern living room color schemes, offering a cozy yet sophisticated alternative to cooler neutrals. This rich, earthy hue brings depth and warmth to your space while maintaining a contemporary feel.

Why it works:

• Creates a welcoming, cocoon-like atmosphere
• Versatile enough to complement various design styles
• Adds warmth without overwhelming the space

Styling tips:

• Use in combination with crisp whites for contrast
• Incorporate natural materials like leather and wood for a cohesive look
• Accent with metallic touches for a touch of glamour

Color pairings:

• Sage green for a nature-inspired palette
• Dusty blue for a calming effect
• Burnt orange for a vibrant, earthy combo

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Timeless Taupe SW 9579, Taupe of the Morning SW 9590, Taupe Tone SW 7633
• Benjamin Moore: Reverse Pewter HC-172, Edgecomb Gray HC-173, Manchester Tan HC-81
• PPG Paints: Winter Cocoa PPG1000-4, Steeped Tea PPG0999-4, Sweater Weather PPG0999-5

5. Navy Blue (Bold Accents)

Navy blue has surged in popularity as a bold yet timeless choice for modern living room colors. This deep, rich hue adds sophistication and drama to any space, making it a favorite among interior designers and homeowners.

Why it works:

• Creates a cozy, enveloping atmosphere
• Pairs beautifully with a wide range of colors and materials
• Adds depth and interest to the room

Styling tips:

• Use as an accent wall to create a focal point
• Incorporate brass or gold accents for a luxurious touch
• Balance with light neutrals to prevent the space from feeling too dark

Color pairings:

• Crisp white for a classic nautical look
• Blush pink for an unexpected, contemporary combination
• Emerald green for a rich, jewel-toned palette

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Azure Tide SW 9684, Naval SW 6244, Moscow Midnight SW 9142
• Benjamin Moore: Prussian Blue CW-625, California Blue 2060-20, Bold Blue 2064-10
• PPG Paints: Brilliant Blue PPG1161-7, Dragonfly PPG1162-7, Blue Tang PPG1160-7

6. Emerald Green (Bold Accents)

Emerald green brings a touch of luxury and nature-inspired beauty to modern living room color schemes. This vibrant jewel tone adds energy and life to your space while maintaining a sophisticated edge.

Why it works:

• Introduces a bold, refreshing color that connects with nature
• Creates a sense of opulence and drama
• Complements both warm and cool color palettes

Styling tips:

• Use velvet upholstery for a plush, luxurious feel
• Pair with natural wood tones for an organic, grounded look
• Incorporate gold accents to enhance the regal quality

Color pairings:

• Soft pink for a playful, feminine contrast
• Deep purple for a rich, eclectic vibe
• Warm neutrals to balance the intensity

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Courtyard SW 6440, Hunt Club SW 6468, Shamrock SW 6454
• Benjamin Moore: Hunter Green 2041-10, Buffett Green CW-535, Green Bay 2045-10
• PPG Paints: Royal Hunter Green PPG1133-7, Medieval Forest PPG1230-7, Peacock Green PPG1140-7

To see how different color greens can transform a living room, check out our blog post “29 Stunning Green Living Room Ideas to Refresh Your Space“

7. Mustard Yellow (Bold Accents)

Mustard yellow is an often overlooked modern living room color, as it offers a perfect balance of warmth and vibrancy. This rich, earthy hue adds a sunny disposition to any space without being overwhelming.

Why it works:

• Brings warmth and energy to a room
• Complements a wide range of color schemes
• Adds a retro-modern touch to contemporary spaces

Styling tips:

• Use as an accent color on a single wall, cabinets, or fireplace
• Pair with neutrals for a balanced, sophisticated look
• Incorporate natural textures like linen and jute to enhance the earthy feel

Color pairings:

• Navy blue for a bold, contrasting combination
• Sage green for a nature-inspired palette
• Charcoal gray for a modern, grounded look

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Kingdom Gold SW 6698, Auric SW 6692, Sunflower SW 6678
• Benjamin Moore: Sun Valley 350, Damask Gold CW-405, Abstracta 322
• PPG Paints: Yarrow PPG1214-7, Crushed Pineapple PPG1213-7, Golden Hour PPG1214-6

8. Coral (Bold Accents)

While not for everyone, more and more people are turning to coral as a modern living room color, as it offers a fresh and lively option for those looking to add a pop of color. This versatile hue can range from soft and subtle to bright and energetic, depending on its intensity.

Why it works:

• Adds warmth and vitality to a space
• Complements both cool and warm color schemes
• Creates a welcoming, cheerful atmosphere

Styling tips:

• Use as an accent color in throw pillows, artwork, or a statement piece of furniture
• Pair with neutrals like white or gray for a balanced look
• Incorporate natural elements like plants to enhance the fresh, lively feel

Color pairings:

• Teal for a dynamic, tropical-inspired combination
• Soft gray for a contemporary, balanced look
• Navy blue for a preppy, coastal vibe

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Quite Coral SW 6614, Arden Coral SW 6874, Ravishing Coral SW 5512
• Benjamin Moore: Raspberry Blush 2008-30, Coral Reef 012, Fan Coral 013
• PPG Paints: Coral Silk 67YR 68/210, Peach Medley 61YR 60/282, Coral Cream
  PPG1062-2

9. Teal (Bold Accents)

Teal has emerged as a standout choice in modern living room colors, offering a perfect blend of blue’s serenity and green’s vitality. This rich, jewel-toned hue adds depth and vibrancy to any space, making it a favorite for those looking to create a bold yet balanced look.

Why it works:

• Strikes a perfect balance between calming and invigorating
• Adds a touch of luxury and drama to the room
• Versatile enough to complement various design styles, from coastal to contemporary

Styling tips:

• Use as an accent wall to create a stunning focal point
• Incorporate teal through plush velvet upholstery for a luxurious feel
• Pair with metallic accents like gold or copper for a touch of glamour
• Balance with neutral tones to prevent the color from overwhelming the space

Color pairings:

• Warm coral for a vibrant, tropical-inspired look
• Soft gray for a modern, sophisticated palette
• Mustard yellow for a bold, eclectic combination

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Calypso SW 6950, Intense Teal SW 6943, Really Teal SW 6489
• Benjamin Moore: Teal Tone 663, Bermuda Teal 2044-50, Miami Teal 656
• PPG Paints: Teal We Meet Again PPG17-32, Teal Zeal 58GG 71/202, Bright Teal Surprise 48GG 36/428

Pro Tip – When using teal in your modern living room, consider the intensity of the shade. Deeper teals can create a cozy, intimate atmosphere, while lighter teals can open up the space and provide a fresh, airy feel. Remember to test samples in your room at different times of day, as teal can shift dramatically depending on the lighting.

10. Terracotta (Earthy Tones)

Terracotta brings a warm, Mediterranean flair to modern living room color palettes. This rich, earthy hue evokes sun-baked clay, adding depth and coziness to your space.

Why it works:

• Creates a warm, inviting atmosphere
• Adds a touch of global-inspired style
• Complements natural materials and textures

Styling tips:

• Use on an accent wall for a bold statement
• Incorporate terracotta-colored textiles for a subtle touch
• Pair with plants to enhance the natural, earthy feel

Color pairings:

• Crisp white for a fresh, contrasting look
• Sage green for a harmonious, nature-inspired palette
• Deep blue for a rich, unexpected combination

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Cavern Clay SW 7701, Rookwood Terra Cotta SW 2803, Baked Clay SW 6340
• Benjamin Moore: Baked Terra Cotta 1202, Terra Cotta Tile 2090-30, Colonial Brick 2093-30
• PPG Paints: New Terra Cotta 60YR 31/368, Terra Cotta Rose 10YR 16/407, Dusty Terra Cotta 60YR 29/318

11. Sage Green (Earthy Tones)

Sage green has recently become a key player in modern living room color, offering a soothing, nature-inspired option. This soft, muted green brings a sense of calm and tranquility to your living space.

Why it works:

• Creates a serene, relaxing atmosphere
• Connects the indoors with nature
• Versatile enough to work in various design styles

Styling tips:

• Use as a wall color for a subtle, enveloping effect
• Incorporate sage green through plants and botanical prints
• Pair with natural textures like linen and wood for a cohesive look

Color pairings:

• Warm neutrals for a soft, organic palette
• Blush pink for a delicate, feminine touch
• Charcoal gray for a modern, sophisticated contrast

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Evergreen Fog SW 9130, Succulent SW 9650, Secret Garden SW 6181
• Benjamin Moore: Raleigh Green CW-525, Lehigh Green HC-131, Sea Green CW-515
• PPG Paints: Green Garland 10GY 59/218, Green Woods 30GY 19/178, Green Sprout 10GY 44/276

12. Caramel (Earthy Tones)

Caramel has become a favorite in modern living room colors, offering a rich, warm alternative to traditional neutrals. This golden-brown hue adds depth and sophistication to any space.

Why it works:

• Provides warmth without being too bold
• Creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere
• Complements a wide range of design styles

Styling tips:

• Use in leather furniture for a luxe, timeless look
• Incorporate wood tones in flooring or furniture
• Pair with crisp whites for a fresh, contemporary feel

Color pairings:

• Navy blue for a rich, contrasting combination
• Sage green for a natural, earthy palette
• Cream for a soft, tonal look

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Carmel SW 2921, Caramelized SW 9186, El Caramelo SW 9106,
• Benjamin Moore: Caramel Latte 2166-20, Burnt Caramel 2167-10, Classic Caramel 1118
• PPG Paints: Caramelized Orange 80YR 39/347, Caramelized Pecan PPG1089-7, Caramel Kiss PPG1083-6

13. Clay (Earthy Tones)

The color clay can take many tones offering a warm, earthy neutral that adds depth and character to any space. This versatile hue ranges from light to dark, providing options for various design styles.

Why it works:

• Creates a grounded, natural atmosphere
• Offers more warmth than traditional grays
• Complements both modern and rustic design elements

Styling tips:

• Use as a wall color for a cozy, enveloping feel
• Incorporate through textiles like throw pillows and rugs
• Pair with natural materials like wood and stone for a cohesive look

Color pairings:

• Olive green for an earthy, organic palette
• Dusty blue for a calming, balanced combination
• Warm whites for a soft, tonal effect

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Rockwood Clay SW 2823, Wet Clay SW 3083, Clay Pot SW 2917
• Benjamin Moore: Clay 1034, Egyptian Clay CSP-1140, Baked Clay 035
• PPG Paints: Clay Ridge PPG1053-6, Clay Pot 50YR 21/318, Charred Clay 30YR 17/341

Pro Tip – When incorporating these modern living room colors into your space, consider the existing elements in your room and how the new colors will interact with them. Always test samples in your space before committing to ensure the colors work well with your decor lighting and other decor elements.

14. Blush Pink (Pastel Hues)

Blush pink has become a darling of modern living room color schemes, offering a soft, feminine touch that’s both sophisticated and inviting. This delicate hue brings warmth and light to any space without overwhelming it.

Why it works:

• Adds a gentle, soothing presence to the room
• Creates a fresh, youthful atmosphere
• Versatile enough to pair with various color palettes

Styling tips:

• Use as an accent wall for a subtle pop of color
• Incorporate through textiles like throw pillows and curtains
• Pair with gold accents for a luxe, glamorous feel

Color pairings:

• Gray for a contemporary, balanced look
• Navy blue for a chic, contrasting combination
• Sage green for a soft, nature-inspired palette

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Positive Red SW 6871, Begonia SW 6599, Rose Pink SW 9693
• Benjamin Moore: Pink Popsicle 2001-40, True Pink 2003-40, Pink Starburst 2004-40
• PPG Paints: Pinkety Pink 63RR 39/350, Florida Pink 90RR 43/290, Fiesta Pink 53RR 27/417

15. Mint Green (Pastel Hues)

Mint green has refreshed the modern living room color palette, bringing a cool, crisp energy to contemporary spaces. This light, airy color evokes feelings of freshness and tranquility.

Why it works:

• Creates a calm, revitalizing atmosphere
• Brightens up a room without being too bold
• Offers a playful alternative to traditional neutrals

Styling tips:

• Use in small doses for a pop of color in accessories
• Pair with white for a clean, fresh look
• Incorporate natural textures to balance the coolness

Color pairings:

• Soft gray for a serene, contemporary feel
• Coral for a lively, unexpected combination
• Chocolate brown for a rich, grounded contrast

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Mint Condition SW 6743, Retro Mint SW 9036, Lark Green SW 6745
• Benjamin Moore: Adam Green 2037-40, Nottingham Green 569, Santa Barbara Green 2037-60
• PPG Paints: New Mint Green 90GY 75/139, Frosted Mint Green 50GY 83/060, Lime Wash PPG1122-2

16. Pale Blue (Pastel Hues)

Pale blue remains a favorite in modern living room colors, offering any space a serene and expansive feel. This light, airy hue brings a touch of sky and sea into your home.

Why it works:

• Creates a calm, relaxing atmosphere
• Makes rooms feel larger and more open
• Versatile enough to work in various design styles

Styling tips:

• Use as a wall color for a soothing, enveloping effect
• Incorporate through artwork and accessories for subtle touches
• Pair with warm woods to balance the cool tones

Color pairings:

• Crisp white for a fresh, coastal vibe
• Warm taupe for a balanced, sophisticated look
• Sunny yellow for a cheerful, contrasting combination

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: AleutianSW 6241, Dew Grop SW 9641, Favorite Jeans SW 9147
• Benjamin Moore: Morning Sky Blue 2053-70, Bright and Early 834, Polar Sky CC-790
• PPG Paints: Alpine Blue PPG1149-1, Subtle Blue PPG1152-1, Diamond Blue PPG1237-2

17. Lavender (Pastel Hues)

Lavender continues to gain in popularity due to its subtle yet distinctive vibe in modern living rooms. This soft purple hue adds a touch of elegance and whimsy to any space.

Why it works:

• Offers a unique alternative to traditional pastels
• Creates a soothing, dreamy atmosphere
• Adds a touch of sophistication to the room

Styling tips:

• Use as an accent color in throw pillows or artwork
• Pair with grays for a modern, chic look
• Incorporate silver or chrome accents for added glamour

Color pairings:

• Sage green for a soft, nature-inspired palette
• Charcoal gray for a dramatic, contemporary contrast
• Warm neutrals for a balanced, sophisticated look

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Lite Lavender SW 6554, Lavish Lavender SW 6975, Novel Lilac SW 6836
• Benjamin Moore: Lily Lavender 2071-60, Lavender Mist 2070-60, Lavender Lipstick 2072-50
• PPG Paints: Lavender Cloud 90BB 67/069, Lavender Vista PPG1249-2, Sea Lavender PPG1250-4

18. Charcoal Gray (Dramatic Darks)

Charcoal gray has become a staple in modern living room colors, offering depth without the heaviness of black. This rich, deep hue creates a dramatic backdrop for any style.

Why it works:

• Adds depth and drama to the space
• Creates a cozy, enveloping atmosphere
• Serves as a neutral backdrop for vibrant accents

Styling tips:

• Use on an accent wall to create a focal point
• Pair with light colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark
• Incorporate different textures to add visual interest

Color pairings:

• Crisp white for a high-contrast, modern look
• Mustard yellow for a bold, contemporary vibe
• Blush pink for an unexpected combination

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Mineral Gray SW 2740, Charcoal Blue SW 2739, Earl Grey SW 7660
• Benjamin Moore: Trout Gray 2124-20, Charcoal Slate HC-178, Anchor Gray 2126-30
• PPG Paints: Steamship PPG0996-5, Seal Grey 00NN 25/000, Dover Gray
  PPG1001-5

19. Deep Plum (Dramatic Darks)

Deep plum brings a touch of luxury and mystery to modern living room color schemes. This rich, jewel-toned hue adds depth and drama to any space.

Why it works:

• Creates a sense of opulence and royal sophistication
• Adds warmth and depth to the room
• Offers a unique alternative to traditional dark colors

Styling tips:

• Use as an accent wall for a bold statement
• Incorporate through velvet upholstery for a luxurious feel
• Pair with metallic accents for added glamour

Color pairings:

• Soft gray for a balanced, elegant look
• Emerald green for a rich, jewel-toned palette
• Warm neutrals to soften the intensity

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Ripe Berry SW 9689, Purple Passage SW 6551, Plummy SW 6558
• Benjamin Moore: Blackberry Wine 2069-20, Plum Royale 2070-20, Darkest Grape 2069-30
• PPG Paints: Purple Parlor PPG13-17, Imperial Purple PPG1175-7, Regal Purple 56RB 09/302

20. Forest Green (Dramatic Darks)

Forest green, all the rage in the 90s, has made a comeback in modern living room colors, offering a deep, nature-inspired hue that adds richness and serenity.

Why it works:

• Brings a touch of nature indoors
• Creates a cozy, enveloping atmosphere
• Offers a richer alternative to lighter greens

Styling tips:

• Use on all walls for a bold, immersive feel
• Incorporate through plants and botanical prints
• Pair with natural materials like wood and leather

Color pairings:

• Warm whites for a fresh, organic look
• Rust orange for a rich, autumn palette
• Add gold accents for a touch of luxury

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Courtyard SW 6440, Greens SW 6748, Argyle SW 6747
• Benjamin Moore: Green 2044-10, Calypso Green 2046-10, Deep Green 2039-10
• PPG Paints: Mallard Green PPG1132-6, Derby Green PPG1140-5, Carolina Green PPG1229-7

21. Chocolate Brown (Dramatic Darks)

Chocolate brown remains a timeless choice in modern living rooms, offering warmth and depth to contemporary spaces.

Why it works:

• Creates a cozy, grounded atmosphere
• Complements a wide range of color palettes
• Adds richness without the heaviness of black

Styling tips:

• Use in leather furniture for a classic, luxurious look
• Incorporate wood tones in flooring or furniture
• Pair with lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark

Color pairings:

• Sky blue for a fresh, unexpected contrast
• Cream for a soft, elegant combination
• Sage green for an earthy, natural palette

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Bitter Chocolate SW 6013, Warm Stone SW 7032, Backdrop SW 7025
• Benjamin Moore: North Creek Brown 1001, Fresh Brew 1232, Wenge AF-180
• PPG Paints: Earth Brown 00YY 07/093, Authentic Brown 60YR 09/086, Stewart House Brown 50YR 06/081

22. Gold (Metallic Touches)

Gold adds a touch of luxury and warmth to any living room, as it elevates the space with its rich, lustrous hue.

Why it works:

• Brings a sense of opulence and glamour
• Adds warmth and light to the room
• Complements both cool and warm color schemes

Styling tips:

• Use in small doses through accessories and hardware
• Incorporate gold-framed mirrors to reflect light
• Pair with deep colors for a rich, luxurious look

Color pairings:

• Navy blue for a regal, sophisticated combination
• Emerald green for a lush, opulent palette
• Crisp white for a clean, modern contrast

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Different Gold SW 6396, Mocharch Gold SW 2920, Classic Gold SW 2831
• Benjamin Moore: Pan of Gold 181, Gold Mine 2155-20, Oxford Gold 315
• PPG Paints: Gold Strike 20YY 46/425, Golden Field PPG1107-7, Prairie Grass Gold 35YY 61/431

23. Copper (Metallic Touches)

Copper has gained popularity in modern living room color schemes, offering a warm, earthy metallic that adds depth and interest to any space.

Why it works:

• Provides a softer alternative to gold
• Adds warmth and richness to the room
• Complements both modern and rustic design styles

Styling tips:

• Incorporate through light fixtures for a warm glow
• Add small accessories and accent pieces
• Pair with cool blues or greens for a striking contrast

Color pairings:

• Teal for a rich, dynamic combination
• Warm neutrals for a cohesive, earthy palette
• Charcoal gray for a modern, sophisticated look

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Copper Pot SW 7709, Copper Mountain SW 6356, Roycroft Copper Red SW 2839
• Benjamin Moore: Antique Copper 1169, Copper Mine 2094-20, Copper Kettle 1218
• PPG Paints: Ancient Copper PPG1063-7, Muted Copper PPG16-30, Old Copper Kettle 60YR 19/432

24. Bronze (Metallic Touches)

Bronze brings a timeless, elegant touch to contemporary living rooms, offering a deep, rich metallic that adds old-world charm while still keeping a modern feel.

Why it works:

• Offers a classic alternative to gold and silver
• Adds depth and warmth to the room
• Complements a wide range of color palettes

Styling tips:

• Use in hardware and fixtures for subtle touches
• Incorporate through decorative objects and frames
• Pair with natural materials like wood and stone

Color pairings:

• Deep green for a rich, nature-inspired look
• Warm whites for a soft, elegant combination
• Plum for a luxurious, unexpected palette

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Best Bronze SW 6160, Enduring Bronze SW 7055, Statue Bronze SW 7034
• Benjamin Moore: Autumn Bronze 2162-10, Aged Bronze 231, Suntan Bronze 1217
• PPG Paints: Bronze Statue PPG1026-6, Bronzed Ivy 50YY 12/095, Bronze Amulet 70YR 08/186

25. Silver (Metallic Touches)

Silver remains a great choice in modern living room color ideas, providing a cool, sleek metallic look that adds an urban touch to contemporary spaces.

Why it works:

• Creates a sense of spaciousness and light
• Adds a modern, polished touch to any room
• Complements both warm and cool color schemes

Styling tips:

• Use mirrors and reflective surfaces to brighten the space
• Incorporate through chrome fixtures and hardware
• Pair with bold colors for a striking contrast

Color pairings:

• Charcoal gray for a monochromatic, modern look
• Pale blue for a cool, serene combination
• Blush pink for a soft, feminine touch

Popular paint color options:

• Sherwin-Williams: Silverplate SW 7649, Silverpointe SW 7653, Monorail Silver SW 7663
• Benjamin Moore: Silver Dollar 1460, Silver Lining 2119-60, Lavender Wash CSP-515
• PPG Paints: Silver Swordplay 30BB 45/049, Silver Streak 50BG 76/023, Silver Reflection 50BG 54/017

Pro Tip – When incorporating these modern living room colors and metallic touches, balance is key. Use darker hues and metallics sparingly to create focal points without overwhelming the space.

Understanding Color Psychology in Living Rooms

Color psychology plays an important role in modern living room colors, influencing not just the aesthetics of your space but also the mood and energy within it.

Warm Colors:
Reds, oranges, and yellows evoke feelings of warmth, energy, and excitement. They can make a room feel more intimate and cozy, perfect for creating a welcoming atmosphere in your living room. However, use these colors sparingly, as too much can be overwhelming or even increase stress levels.

• Red: Stimulates conversation and appetite, ideal for living rooms where you entertain frequently.
• Orange: Promotes enthusiasm and creativity, great for family rooms or spaces where you want to encourage activity.
• Yellow: Boosts optimism and happiness, excellent for brightening up darker rooms.

Cool Colors:
Blues, greens, and purples tend to have a calming effect, making them popular choices for modern living room color schemes. These hues can make a space feel more spacious and serene.

• Blue: Promotes relaxation and tranquility, perfect for creating a peaceful retreat.
• Green: Connects with nature and promotes balance, ideal for refreshing and harmonious living.
• Purple: Adds a touch of luxury and creativity, great for those wanting a unique and royal space.

Neutral Colors:
Whites, grays, and beiges provide a versatile foundation for any living room. They can make a space feel larger and brighter, and serve as an excellent backdrop for more vibrant accents.

• White: Creates a sense of cleanliness and purity, ideal for minimalist or Scandinavian-inspired spaces.
• Gray: Offers sophistication and balance, perfect for modern and contemporary living rooms.
• Beige: Provides warmth and versatility, great for creating a cozy yet neutral backdrop.

Two-Color Combinations for Modern Living Rooms

Modern living room colors often shine brightest when paired together. Two-color combinations can create dynamic, visually appealing spaces that reflect your personal style and tastes.

Classic Pairings

• Navy Blue and White: This timeless duo brings a crisp, nautical feel to any living room. The contrast creates a clean, sophisticated look that’s both modern and timeless.
• Gray and Yellow: A popular choice in modern living room color schemes, this combination balances cool neutrals with energetic pops of color.
• Black and White: For a bold, graphic look, this high-contrast pairing never goes out of style. It provides a perfect backdrop for colorful accessories.
• Sage Green and Cream: This soft, nature-inspired combo creates a serene and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing living space.

Unexpected Combinations

• Blush Pink and Forest Green: This unlikely pair creates a fresh, modern look that’s both sophisticated and playful.
• Mustard Yellow and Teal: For those daring to be different, this vibrant combination adds energy and personality to your living room.
• Charcoal Gray and Coral: This pairing balances depth with vibrancy, creating a modern, eye-catching aesthetic.
• Lavender and Caramel: This unique combo offers a subtle contrast that’s both soothing and warm, perfect for a cozy yet stylish living room.

Tips for Balancing Two-color Schemes

• Follow the 60-30-10 rule: Use your dominant color for 60% of the room (walls, large furniture), your secondary color for 30% (accent furniture, curtains), and an accent color for the remaining 10% (accessories, artwork).
• Consider the undertones: Ensure both colors have compatible undertones (warm or cool) for a cohesive look.
• Use neutrals as a buffer: If your two main colors are bold, incorporate neutral elements to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.
• Play with different shades: Use various shades and tints of your chosen colors to add depth and interest to the room.
• Balance warm and cool tones: Combining a warm color with a cool one can create a dynamic, balanced atmosphere.
• Use texture to enhance color: Incorporate different textures in your chosen colors to add visual interest and depth to the space.
• Consider light: Remember that natural and artificial light can significantly affect how colors appear. Test your color combinations in different lighting conditions before committing.
• Use one color as the dominant hue: Let one color take the lead while the other plays a supporting role to maintain visual harmony.

When experimenting with two-color combinations for your modern living room, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. The best modern living room color ideas often come from unexpected pairings that reflect your unique style and personality.

Whether you opt for a classic duo or a bold new combination, the key is to create a space that feels both stylish and comfortable to you.

Additional Living Room Color Resources:

• Sherwin-Williams
• Benjamin Moore
• PPG Paints