WordofMany

Color

top 5 interior design trends featuring unexpected color choices

By Anya Petrova

Published: 09 May 2025

A Personal Confession (and a Hint of Chaos)

Okay, let's be honest. My apartment? It's less 'Architectural Digest' and more 'organized chaos.' I'm all about bold choices, and that sometimes translates into a living room that's a riot of color, texture, and maybe a few misplaced throw pillows. But lately, I've been noticing some seriously cool interior design trends that are completely rocking the unexpected color boat – and I'm obsessed. So, grab your favorite paint swatch (or a glass of wine, whatever helps you relax!), and let's dive in!

colorful and eclectic living room | Image: Supplied

Trend 1: Jewel Tones in Unexpected Spaces

Forget the predictable living room blues. I'm seeing jewel tones – think deep emeralds, sapphire blues, and ruby reds – popping up in the most surprising places. Picture a powder room painted in a rich emerald green with gold accents – luxurious and unexpected! Or a kitchen backsplash covered in deep sapphire tiles. These aren't subtle colors, but they add drama and sophistication when used strategically. Don't be afraid to experiment! I'm even considering a jewel-toned accent wall in my own bedroom. Maybe...a deep amethyst? What do you think?

emerald green powder room with gold accents | Image: Supplied

Trend 2: The Unexpected Brights

We're talking sunshine yellows, shocking pinks, and electric blues – colors you usually wouldn't think to put in a living space. But used sparingly, they create such an amazing focal point, a delightful burst of energy, that other rooms feel more balanced by comparison. A bright yellow kitchen island, maybe? Or a vibrant pink accent chair in a neutral living room? You can also use these colors in smaller doses, such as through patterned throw pillows or artwork. Trust me, it makes a statement!

bright yellow kitchen island in a neutral kitchen | Image: Supplied

Trend 3: Earthy Neutrals with Bold Accents

This trend is all about balancing. I'm seeing gorgeous, warm neutrals like terracotta, sandy beige, and muted greys as base colors. But then BAM! They’re paired with unexpectedly bold pops of color. Think a terracotta living room with bright orange and teal accents, or a beige bedroom with contrasting deep purple throw pillows. It's sophisticated but still packs a punch. This has been so popular, I'm going to go ahead and predict its continued trend in interior decorating! It's also super versatile – so many combinations work here!

terracotta living room with orange and teal accents | Image: Supplied

Trend 4: Maximalist Color Blocking

Oh boy, here's where things get really interesting. Maximalist color blocking is all about embracing bold, contrasting colors in unexpected ways. Think geometric patterns, stripes, or even just a mix-and-match approach where colors play against each other. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're feeling adventurous, the results can be breathtakingly beautiful. It's like a party for your eyes! A room like this is an explosion of colors but still manages to feel intentional and classy. I'm not sure I have the courage to try it yet, but who knows what I'll feel like next week?

maximalist color blocking in a modern living room | Image: Supplied

Trend 5: Unexpected Color in Lighting

Who ever thought that lighting could be such a pivotal part of the overall decor? This is my favorite one yet! Think outside the box: colored glass pendant lights, lamps with vibrant shades, or even colored LED strips to illuminate furniture or walls. It's a subtle way to add a pop of color without overwhelming a space. Imagine a soft pink glow in your bathroom or a cool blue light highlighting your artwork – dreamy, right? I recently added LED strips under my kitchen cabinets and the difference is stunning. They provide just the right amount of color without disturbing the rest of the space.