Teal - the secret ingredient to a stylish home

Oct 3, 2023

A woman stood next to teal artwork

What colour is teal?

Teal, a medium to dark greenish-blue hue, is one of the most vibrant and versatile colours used in interior design. It derives its name from the common teal, a member of the duck family, which has a striking stripe of this colour around its eyes. The popularity of teal in interior design is attributed to its capacity to invoke a calming, tranquil mood while simultaneously exuding vibrancy and richness. Now you will have noticed, seeing as you are visiting this site, I am a lover of the colour teal, this whole site is pretty much dedicated to it. Have a look around and see if any of the artwork, that is free to download, might be a fit for one of your rooms. Teal can go anywhere, working beautifully with a myriad of other colours and can lend itself to various aesthetics from vintage to contemporary. In this post, we will delve into some of the current trends and teal interior design ideas that are making waves in the industry.

Teal sofa underneath artwork
Teal sofa underneath artwork
Teal sofa underneath artwork
Teal chair in a room
Teal chair in a room
Teal chair in a room

Why is teal popular in interior design?

Teal holds a significant sway in the realm of interior design, attributed to its diverse characteristics and adaptable nature. Here are a few reasons why teal is a sought-after colour in interior design:

1. Versatility:

Teal can effortlessly align with multiple design aesthetics, from contemporary and minimalist to bohemian and eclectic, granting designers the flexibility to incorporate it in various settings and themes.

2. Harmonious Balance:

Positioned between blue and green on the colour wheel, teal exudes a sense of balance and harmony, making spaces feel more aligned and cohesive. Its balanced nature allows it to blend easily with a myriad of colours and tones.

3. Richness and Depth:

Teal imparts a rich, sophisticated vibe to interiors, elevating the overall aesthetic. Its depth can make spaces feel more luxurious and well-curated, making it a popular choice for those aiming to bring an opulent touch to their interiors.

4. Calming Influence:

Teal is often associated with tranquillity and calming energies. It can create serene, relaxing environments, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms, (more on that here) bathrooms, and other spaces meant for relaxation and rejuvenation.

5. Pop of Colour:

In neutral or monochrome spaces, teal can serve as a vibrant pop of colour, breaking the monotony and adding visual interest and dynamism to interiors without being overpowering.

6. Compatibility with Accents:

Teal pairs exquisitely with metallic accents like gold, brass, or copper, allowing designers to craft elegant, refined spaces. It also complements warm and earthy tones, expanding its pairing possibilities.

7. Enhances Spatial Perception:

Teal can modify the perception of space. Lighter shades can make a room appear more spacious and airy, while darker shades can make large spaces feel more intimate and cozy.

8. Seasonal Flexibility:

Teal’s adaptability extends to different seasons. It can feel refreshing and cool in spring and summer while emanating warmth and coziness in fall and winter, depending on the shades and tones used.

9. Expressive and Trendy:

Teal allows individuals to express their personalities and tastes, adding a unique flair to interiors. Its stylish and trendy nature keeps it relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of interior design.

10. Symbolism:

Teal is often linked to sophistication, emotional balance and mood (more on that and teal art here), and rejuvenation. Its positive associations make it a preferable choice for creating environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also imbued with meaningful symbolism.

Teal’s popularity in interior design is undeniably linked to its multifaceted nature, capable of bringing balance, richness, tranquility, and expressive flair to spaces. Whether it is used as a bold statement or a subtle accent, it can have the power to transform interiors, making them more harmonious, elegant, and visually stimulating. Its enduring appeal ensure its continued prominence in the world of interior design.

Sofa with teal cushions
Sofa with teal cushions

What colours go with teal?

Teal pairs well with a myriad of other colours, allowing for both bold, dramatic interiors and soft, serene environments. Here are several colours that harmoniously complement teal:

1. White:

White creates a crisp, clean contrast with teal, emphasizing its vibrancy and allowing it to stand out. This combination can create a fresh, airy ambiance, perfect for a coastal or minimalist aesthetic.

2. Grey:

Grey and teal together create a sophisticated and modern palette. The neutrality of grey balances the vibrancy of teal, resulting in a refined and balanced look suitable for various spaces, this colour combination is the main one on this site.

3. Coral:

The lively and warm nature of coral creates a striking contrast with the cool and calming teal, offering a vibrant and energizing aesthetic that's particularly compelling in lively, social spaces.

4. Gold:

Gold accents paired with teal bring a touch of luxury and elegance to a space. This combination is rich and opulent, suitable for creating focal points and highlighting specific areas or decor items.

5. Navy Blue:

Teal and navy blue together create a harmonious, monochromatic look, rich in depth and intensity. This duo is suitable for creating cozy, sophisticated spaces with a calming atmosphere.

6. Yellow:

Yellow’s brightness and warmth contrast beautifully with teal’s cool undertones, creating a balanced and cheerful space full of energy and life.

7. Beige or Cream:

These neutral shades complement teal beautifully, allowing it to shine without overwhelming the space. This combination creates a soft, welcoming environment, ideal for relaxation.

8. Blush Pink:

Teal paired with blush pink offers a soft, romantic feel. The subtle, warm tones of blush pink against the boldness of teal create a balanced and inviting atmosphere.

9. Chocolate Brown:

The earthy, deep tones of chocolate brown pair wonderfully with teal, creating a warm, rich, and cozy ambiance. This combination is particularly suitable for dens, studies, or living rooms.

10. Orange:

Teal and orange, being complementary colours, create a dynamic and vibrant contrast, suitable for spaces meant to inspire creativity and energy.

11. Red:

Red’s boldness paired with teal results in a dramatic, attention-grabbing palette. This combination can be used to create striking accents and focal points in a room.

12. Lime Green:

Lime green and teal together create a fresh, lively look, reminiscent of tropical landscapes. This vibrant duo is perfect for creating playful, energetic spaces.

Teal, with its sophisticated charm and versatility, is a favourite among interior designers. Whether used as a bold statement on walls, a refreshing colour for furniture, or a subtle accent in textiles and accessories, teal has the ability to transform spaces into stylish, serene sanctuaries. Its compatibility with various design styles and colours makes it a timeless choice for interiors. From modern minimalist to vibrant bohemian, teal interior design ideas are endless and can suit everyone’s taste and preference. Whether you’re a designer or a homeowner looking to refresh your space, incorporating teal can bring a unique and refreshing aesthetic to any interior environment. If you love to have teal as part of your interior design, this site has a selection of free wall art for you to download. Each piece has a different style but maintains the minimal aesthetic, all with that hint of teal.