A Guide to Green Interior Design Ideas for a Soothing Environment

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The colour green can create a peaceful and serene atmosphere in a room, making it a popular choice in interior design. Green works well in all rooms in our homes, from calming green bathrooms to vibrant forest green living rooms. 

Using natural elements is frequently linked with creating a peaceful and serene home and this is where green interior design comes in. Green is a versatile colour that can be used in many different design styles, ranging from traditional to Scandi, biophilic design to industrial.

A Guide to Green Interior Design Ideas for a Soothing Environment Pinterest pin

Traditional design often uses green to bring a sense of refinement and sophistication to a room. It complements rich and warm tones such as gold, brass, and wood perfectly and can be integrated into your decor through the use of fabrics, wallpaper, and paint.

Using green in modern interior design can bring a refreshing and natural touch to your space.

Consider painting one or more walls in shades of green. Opt for soft, muted greens like sage, mint, or olive to create a calming and modern atmosphere. Alternatively, you can use green wallpaper with a subtle pattern or texture to add depth to the space.

Using Green Interior Design for a Relaxing Space

Green walls with green mosaic backsplash in the kitchen. There is statement lights hanging from the ceiling and a contemporary sofa in front of the kitchen units. The flooring is terrazzo tiles

The importance of interior design in creating a soothing environment cannot be overstated. Our surroundings have a significant impact on our well-being and mood and as we spend so much time in our homes, it is really important to create a sanctuary away from the busyness of life.

Interior design directly affects our psychological state. A cluttered and chaotic space can induce feelings of stress, anxiety, and restlessness. On the other hand, a well-designed and organized environment promotes a sense of order, balance, and harmony, which can have a calming effect on our minds.

Soft and soothing colour palettes, such as cool blues, greens, and neutrals, can evoke a sense of serenity and tranquillity. Incorporating natural elements, such as wood, stone, or plants, can create a connection to the outdoors and bring a sense of calmness to our interiors.

a large metal stand alone bath tub in a bathroom with floor to ceiling crittal windows. The flooring is oak and metro tiles line the walls with hanging shelves and plants
Green interior design doesn’t always have to involve painting walls and buying furniture. It can be as simple as adding lots of plants

Here are some ideas on how to incorporate green interiors into modern interior design:

  • Paint your walls green or use green patterned wallpaper.
  • Integrate natural materials that exhibit shades of green such as green marble or a green rug made from eco-friendly materials like jute or sisal.
  • Plants are one of the best ways to introduce green into a space. Select indoor plants with lush green leaves and interesting shapes.
  • Add pops of green throughout your home through accent pieces and accessories such as throws, pillows, curtains or artwork.
  • Install a vertical garden or living wall in your home for a stunning focal point.
  • Buy green furniture such as green velvet sofas or upcycle an existing piece of furniture by painting it green.

Using Green in Different Spaces

When incorporating green in interior design, the amount used can vary depending on the other greens present in the room and the desired level of impact. Green can easily be used in any room in the house, here are some ideas to get you started!

Bathroom

a sage green wall with an arched mirror above a dark green vanity unit and toilet in the bathroom. There are moroccan tiles on the floor and hexagon tiles behind the sink
Chatsworth Traditional Green – Victorian Plumbing

Using green hues in your bathroom can create a refreshing effect, particularly when paired with neutral shades such as white or black. Green interior design in a bathroom could include – 

  • Green walls or tiles with other colours to combine with green to create a sophisticated and serene bathroom. Sticking to a particular side of the shade spectrum is advisable to avoid clashes between greens in a limited space. Combining lime green tile with emerald green wallpaper might not be the statement you wish to convey.
  • Introduce indoor plants to bring a touch of nature to your bathroom. Select plants that thrive in low-light and high-humidity environments, such as ferns, snake plants, or peace lilies.
  • Enhance your bathroom with green interior accessories and accents. This can include green towels, bath mats, or shower curtains.

sage green walls with white metro tiles and a large round mirror in the bathroom. There is an old oak floating shelf with a sink on it and a wicker basket full of towels

  • Incorporate natural materials with green hues. Consider a vanity or countertops made from sustainable materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood. You can also add natural stone elements with green tones, such as marble or quartzite, for a luxurious touch.
  • Display green glassware, jars, or bottles on shelves or vanity countertops. You can use them to store toiletries or showcase beautiful green-coloured bath salts, soaps, or lotions. These subtle accents will add a hint of elegance and a pop of green to the space.
  • Consider incorporating green tiles in the shower area for a statement feature. You can opt for large green tiles for a bold and modern look or choose mosaic tiles in different shades of green to create a visually appealing pattern.

Green Living Room

green bespoke cabinets in the living room with a biofuel burner surrounded by brick tiles and a boucle chair
I am a huge fan of green in the living room!

I am a huge fan of using green in the living room as it makes a bold and vibrant statement. Consider painting all of your walls in a shade of Emerald or Forest green and adding green throws and rugs to create a cohesive and stylish look.

Incorporate green furniture pieces to make a statement. Choose a green sofa, armchair, or ottoman as a focal point in the room. Alternatively, you can opt for green accent chairs or a green coffee table to add pops of colour to the room. 

a beige and green colour blocked wall in the living room with a bright orange sofa. There is a dark green ocassional chair to the right with an orange velvet cushion and a copper round coffee table in the middle
If you don’t want to use green everywhere, think about adding pops of green in a colour-blocked wall and a green velvet armchair

If you want to keep your decor simple, consider adding green accents. By doing so, you can still benefit from the positive effects of the colour green and the calming effect it has whilst still keeping your living room fairly neutral.

Add green throw pillows and blankets to your seating area. These accessories can instantly inject a touch of green into your living room. Mix different shades of green and patterns to create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.

A green fern sits on a coffee table in the living room

Living rooms are the perfect rooms to add plants and greenery. Place potted plants or hanging planters in strategic locations, such as near windows or empty corners. Plants like pothos, ferns, or spider plants thrive indoors and add a refreshing touch of greenery.

Finally, introduce a green area rug to anchor your green living room and define the seating area. Choose a green rug with an interesting pattern or texture to create a focal point. This can help tie the green elements together and bring a cosy and inviting feel to the space.

Kitchen

an olive green kitchen with cabinets in the same colour. There are large oversized light shades hanging over the island and wooden bar stools.

One of the easiest ways to add green to a kitchen is to go with green kitchen cabinets. This colour has seen a huge surge in popularity in recent years with cabinets available in many shades of green, from sage green to dark emerald.

Opt for shades of green that suit your style and preferences, such as mint, forest, or olive green. You can choose to have all cabinets in green or use it as an accent colour for a specific area, like the kitchen island.

If you don’t want to change or paint your kitchen cabinets, why not consider installing a green tile backsplash instead? You can choose subway tiles in shades of green or opt for patterned tiles with green accents. This can create a focal point and serve as a backdrop for your cooking area.

a sage green kitchen with white quartz worktops and light grey wood style flooring

Green appliances are easily incorporated into your kitchen design. Many appliance manufacturers offer appliances in various colours, including dark and sage green. You can choose a green refrigerator, oven, or dishwasher to add a fun and retro vibe to your kitchen.

If you don’t like the thought of changing your kitchen hardware and appliances, you can still enhance your kitchen with green accessories and accents.

This can include green dishware, utensil holders, or small appliances like a blender or toaster. These touches of green interiors can be both functional and decorative, adding a cohesive and vibrant element to your kitchen.

Plants also work well in a kitchen, especially a green indoor herb garden! Install a small herb garden or place potted herbs on the windowsill. This not only adds a refreshing touch of green but also provides fresh herbs for cooking.

Bedroom

a vibrant emerald green panelled wall in the bedroom with a bed on old wooden pallets. There are white sheets on the bed with lots of plants

To create an intimate atmosphere, consider painting the walls with warm or deep shades of green such as olive or emerald green. These deep green shades complement contemporary, mid-century modern, or classic styles when paired with chic wall panelling.

To create a comfortable atmosphere ideal for a good night’s sleep, incorporate soft textures such as cotton and cashmere into the room. This will add a cosy feel to the space.

dark green walls with a green nature inspired wallpaper in the bedroom. The bed has white bedding with green velvet cushions
Image: Graham and Brown

On the contrary, a pale green, like sage green, has the ability to create an illusion of space and airiness in smaller bedrooms. You can opt for a green accent wall as a focal point behind the bed and complement it with textures such as rattan, wood or jute.  

If redecorating your bedroom isn’t on the cards, but you still want to inject a bit of colour into the room, use green bedding such as sheets, duvet covers and pillowcases.

Consider a green upholstered headboard, an accent chair, or a bench at the foot of the bed. This brings a pop of colour and adds a cosy element to the room. Use the same colour green in your artwork or decorative pieces around the bedroom for a nature-inspired and cohesive look. 

Outdoor Living Space

sage green rattan garden furniture with grey cushions on the grass

Outdoor living areas are, by default, green! Unless your garden resembles a concrete jungle and no plants are able to survive. But fear not, you can still turn your garden into a green oasis, even if your grass has seen better days.

Place potted plants and hanging baskets filled with green foliage on your garden deck. Choose plants with different shades of green and various textures to create depth in your garden.

Consider ferns, succulents, ornamental grasses, or trailing vines as they are all easy to look after and provide a beautiful green backdrop to your garden. 

garden trellis covered in climbing plants

Incorporate climbing plants and trellises along the edges of your deck or on nearby walls. Plant vines such as ivy, honeysuckle, or climbing roses to create a green backdrop. As they grow, they will provide shade, privacy, and a touch of natural beauty.

If the plant life in your garden is still a bit sparse, add green outdoor furniture to help complement the natural surroundings.

Select patio chairs, tables, or lounge seating in shades of green. This creates a cohesive and harmonious look that blends with the greenery of your garden patio.

You can choose umbrellas or canopies with green fabric and matching outdoor cushions to finish off the look.

Incorporating Specific Styles

You can also use some specific styles for your green interior design to give your home a sophisticated look.

Boho Style

a bohemian style green inspired bathroom

Bohemian or Boho style is a type of decorating that draws inspiration from bohemians’ carefree and unconventional lifestyle.

To achieve a Boho-inspired greenhouse decor, select a colour scheme incorporating various shades of green. Consider incorporating plants and greenery into the space to introduce a natural element.

Adding textured fabrics such as macramé wall hangings, woven baskets, and other similar items can enhance the overall Boho aesthetic. You may additionally use patterns, including tribal prints or Moroccan tiles with olive green and terracotta combinations.

When selecting furniture, opt for pieces that are comfortable and have a relaxed, informal feel. Wood and rattan are two examples of natural materials that can enhance the Boho vibe and look wonderful with green interiors.

Biophilic Design

a wood desk in a corner of an office with exposed brick walls and lots of plants. There is an industrial style bookcase with lots of books and natural ornaments
Image: Overstock

Biophilic design is an approach to architecture and interior design that aims to reconnect people with the natural world and incorporate elements of nature into the built environment. The term “biophilia” refers to the inherent human inclination to seek connections with nature and other forms of life.

Biophilic design recognizes this connection and seeks to enhance the well-being, productivity, and overall experience of individuals by integrating natural elements, patterns, and processes into the design.

Green interiors play a huge role in biophilic design and are one of the key elements to making this style work in the home. 

Interior with Green Accents

a green abstract rug in a living room with a rattan chair, oak shelving and lots of ceramics and vases
A sage green rug helps pull this biophilic-designed room together. Image: Ruggable

Selecting focal points that will stand out as well as have a big effect is one method to bring maximum elegance to your interior decor with green accents. It might be a lush green area rug with contrasting colours, plush green throw pillows, or glossy green vases.

Alternating between green hues can add dimension and stop the colours from blending into one. Plants, whether in hanging baskets, pots, or perhaps on a living wall, are another way to bring in the colour green. Plants are a great way to brighten up a room and make it feel more alive and active.

Adding some tasteful green accents here and there can do wonders for your interior design. As green is a versatile colour, it can be used in many ways to complement any aesthetic and make any room feel more at ease.

Monochromatic Green Interior

a dark green wall with large leaf prints in green. There is a large bed with a wooden headboard and white bedding with green leaves on it. The room has lots of plants and white ornaments.
Using only green as the colour of this bedroom, the wood flooring and headboard helps break up this monochromatic scheme

Monochrome is often referred to as black and white, but it actually refers to a variety of colours from the same family.

Green comes in various shades, ranging from deep emeralds to soft pastels. Select a shade of green that resonates with your desired atmosphere and complements your personal style.

Consider the lighting conditions in the room as well, as different shades can appear differently under natural or artificial light.

While working with a monochromatic green interior palette, incorporate multiple tones and variations of green to create depth. Combine light and dark shades, as well as muted and vibrant tones, to add dimension to the space.

This layering of greens can be achieved through walls, furniture, accessories, and textiles.

a white room with black furniture. There is a green wall behind the kitchen units and a green tablecloth
A white, black and green interior dining room and kitchen

Introduce neutral colours to create contrast and balance within the monochromatic green scheme. Shades of white, cream, or beige can help highlight the green elements and prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.

Consider incorporating neutral-coloured furniture, artwork, or decor pieces to provide a subtle contrast.

While working with a monochromatic green interior, it’s important to maintain a balance throughout the space. Ensure that the green elements are distributed evenly, and consider the scale and proportion of each item.

Avoid overwhelming the room with too much green and create a sense of harmony by arranging the elements thoughtfully.


By incorporating these ideas into your green interior design, you can create a soothing environment that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and fosters a deeper connection to nature.

Remember, the key is to experiment, personalize, and adapt green interior design to your unique style and preferences. By incorporating these tips, you can create a beautiful and harmonious space that showcases the beauty and versatility of the colour green.

Frequently Asked Questions >>>

Q. What are some popular shades of green that work well in interior design?

A. There are several popular shades of green that work well in interior design, depending on the desired atmosphere and style of the space.

Sage green creates a calming and soothing ambience, emerald green is a rich and vibrant shade that adds a touch of luxury and elegance and Olive green is a versatile and warm shade of green that pairs well with earthy and neutral tones. 

Q. What are some effective ways to balance green interiors with other colours in a room?

A. Incorporate neutral colours such as white, cream, beige, or grey to balance the green elements. Neutrals provide a calming backdrop and allow green interiors to stand out without overwhelming the space.

Choose complementary colours to green on the colour wheel to create balance and visual interest. For example, red is the complementary colour to green, and incorporating small touches of red can create a harmonious colour scheme. Use complementary colours in accessories, artwork, or accent furniture pieces.

Q. What is the psychology of green in interior design?

A. Green is often perceived as a calming and relaxing colour and is associated with nature. It is also linked to healing and restoration, a symbol of growth and prosperity and above all, a colour that harmonises with its surroundings. Green interiors can play a hugely positive part in your life!

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