What makes interiors thrive? Since humans are inherently visual, the first thing that comes to notice is colour. It could be a mellow neutral palette or soothing coastal pastels. Then you have the bold colours. But using them can feel like walking on eggshells, as they can easily make a space look too gaudy or overwhelming. Add colourful decor to the mix, and too many attention-grabbing elements can turn your well-curated interiors into one big hotchpotch.ALSO READ: Decorating a boring room corner? 6 ways to make it look Instagram-worthy without overdoing the decor
4. Balance statement pieces with quieter surroundings
Does that mean you rule out bold colours entirely? Not really. It is much more nuanced, and when you follow some design principles, you create an expressive space.
Let’s hear from experts on how you can use bold colours, from upholstery to walls. There is a consensus that balance and restraint are what make all the difference, so whether you introduce vibrant shades through statement surfaces, textiles or smaller decor elements.
Now the trick is you don’t have to introduce bold colours in the same way across the room. You can incorporate them through different elements, from natural stone surfaces and feature walls to upholstery, rugs and smaller decor elements.
Ramesh Bhandari, director at A-Class Marble, told HT Lifestyle that choosing tones that find the common ground between expressive and understated energy can make a space feel sophisticated.
In a nutshell, bold colours do not need to take over your home with a loud presence. They can exist subtly as well, through statement natural stones, upholstery, and rugs. The key is to give stronger shades enough breathing space. Balance it out and let your interiors have character.
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Describing the colours, he added, “While muted, earthy tones have an understated charm, jewel-toned hues can instantly energise a space and lend it a distinct personality without feeling excessive. Yet, many shy away from bold colour palettes, fearing they may overpower a room. Sometimes, though, the most memorable spaces come from stepping outside the safe zone and doing a little experimentation.”
Here are his tips for introducing bold palettes while maintaining a sophisticated balance:
He also asked to do one litmus test: “Test your palette under natural daylight, as it is the most honest indicator of how colour behaves.”
Now that you know how to set the foundation with natural stones and permanent architectural features, let’s understand how you can experiment further, this time with elements that can be changed easily whenever required. This includes textiles such as curtains, rugs and upholstery, which should complement the broader design of your interior. Let’s hear from another expert and break these principles down into practical ideas that you can apply at home.
Mandeep N. Housego, creative director at Shades of India, shared his insights with HT Lifestyle, challenging the perception that bold colours are always too much.
“Bold colours are often associated with maximalism or visual clutter, but I’ve always believed they can bring incredible warmth, depth, and personality into a home when used thoughtfully. The secret lies in balance, layering, and understanding how colour interacts with texture, light, and space,”he opined, highlighting the untapped potential of bold colours, which are often dismissed as too loud.
Mandeep also emphasised that bold palettes do not necessarily have to appear overpowering. Pairing them with softer elements can instead create a more nuanced space.
Here’s another set of tips from Mandeep on how to use bold colours within interiors:
