A Guide to Choosing Accent Colours

When it comes to creating a space that feels both personal and polished, few design tricks are as effective as a well-chosen accent colour. Whether you're looking to bring energy to a room, add warmth,boost interest, or simply refresh your décor, accent colours can do the heavy lifting with just a small splash. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?

Below we’ll explore how to select accent colours that complement your space and introduce five stunning shades from Crown’s new Walls & Ceilings range that make perfect choices

An accent colour is a shade used sparingly to create visual interest and contrast within a room. It’s often applied to one wall, a piece of furniture, soft furnishings, or decorative accessories. The goal with an accent colour is to add personality and dimension without overwhelming the space.

Think of your base palette as the canvas and  the accent colour(s) as the signature touch that brings it all to life.You can play it safe or go bold!

1. Think about the mood you’re going for

Different colours evoke different emotions. Do you want your space to feel cosy, energising, calming, or dramatic? Pay attention to the psychology of colours to lead you in the right direction and give you inspiration with your accent colours.

2. Consider the light in the room

Rooms with plenty of natural light can handle much bolder shades, while darker spaces that don’t get as much light will benefit from lighter, softer tones to avoid feeling cramped. Notice the light throughout the day and how it impacts different areas of the space and how it will impact the colours you choose.This is part of the reason why testing your shades is so important.

3. Work with what you’ve already got

If you’re searching for inspiration, you don’t need to go back to the drawing board. Instead, look to your existing furniture, flooring, and artwork. Pull colours from those elements for a polished look. 

4. Use the 60-30-10 rule

This classic interior design principle suggests using 60% of a dominant colour, 30% of a secondary colour, and 10% as your accent colour. Think about this golden equation when you’re designing your room. 

Here are five new standout shades from our recent Walls & Ceilings launch for you  to consider for your next decorating project:

Grape Escape®: A rich, muted dusky purple that feels both intimate and dramatic. Ideal for cosy corners, bedroom feature walls, or moody living rooms. Pair it with warm neutrals or gold accents for a luxe finish.We love this colour in living rooms, bedrooms, and ready nooks. 

Candy Clay®: This charming clay pink radiates warmth and comfort. It adds a subtle pop without overpowering, making it ideal for softer interiors or modern rustic spaces.Use this delightfully playful shade in living rooms, kitchens, and hallways for a unique look that oozes character.

Bright Bluejay®: A jewel-like, vibrant royal blue that’s bold and energising. If you're looking to make a statement, this is the shade for you! This stunning colour demands attention and delivers elegance in return. We love it for dining rooms, bedroom walls, at-home offices, and anywhere you want a bold punch of colour. 

Evergreen Echo®: This beautifully balanced mid-green has  khaki undertones and goes well with a variety of design styles. Nature-inspired but effortlessly grounded, this colour works well in both modern and traditional homes. Try it in your kitchen, study, living room, bedroom, or anywhere you want to kick back and relax. 

Soaring Dove®: A soft, classic neutral that plays well with others. It's versatile and elegant, acting as either a gentle backdrop or a foil for bolder accent shades like Candy Clay or Grape Escape. Try in your living room or ceilings to create an open and inviting space. 

Choosing the right accent colour can completely transform a room, bringing depth, personality, and a professional finish to your design. Whatever colours you may be drawn to, Crown offers a carefully curated palette that makes it easy to find your perfect match.