The Art of Pairing Burgundy: A Designer's Guide to Creating Stunning Color Combinations
Burgundy, a rich and captivating shade, has long been a favorite among designers and homeowners alike. Its warm, cozy vibe makes it a go-to for fall and winter interiors, but pairing it with the right colors can be a challenge. In this article, I'll delve into the world of color theory and design principles to uncover the five best colors to pair with burgundy, offering a fresh perspective on this timeless shade.
The Magic of Color Theory
Color theory is a designer's best friend, and understanding its principles can unlock a world of creative possibilities. When it comes to burgundy, the key is to find colors that complement its unique characteristics. As Jenna Randolph David, director of interiors at Grossmueller's Design, explains, "The reason these colors work is because they are on opposite sides of the color wheel." This means that by choosing colors from the opposite side of the wheel, we can create a harmonious and visually appealing combination.
Teal: A Vibrant Companion
Teal, with its vibrant and playful nature, is an excellent choice to pair with burgundy. As David suggests, "Whether your burgundy is more red or blue, you can always use the color wheel as your guide and see which way to lean." The contrast between the two colors creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere, making it perfect for brightening up any room. Imagine a cozy living room with burgundy accents and a vibrant teal accent wall - a stunning combination that exudes energy and warmth.
Hunter Green: Nature's Elegance
Hunter green, with its rich and earthy tones, provides a beautiful contrast to burgundy. Linda Hayslett, principal designer of LH.Designs, notes that "olive and muted greens naturally create a beautiful contrast with burgundy." This combination is especially effective in creating a sophisticated and homey vibe. Picture a dining room with burgundy walls and hunter green accents - a timeless and elegant setting for a cozy dinner.
Yellow-Greens: A Pop of Energy
Angie Hranowsky of Angie Hranowsky Studio raves about the combination of yellow or lime yellow/green with burgundy. "A yellow will make the burgundy pop - you can't go wrong," she says. This vibrant pairing is perfect for adding a touch of energy and playfulness to any space. Envision a family room with burgundy furniture and yellow-green accents - a cozy and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for snuggling up on chilly evenings.
Creams and Blushes: Warmth and Coziness
To maintain the warmth and coziness of a burgundy-heavy room, Hayslett recommends opting for creams and blushes. "I also love burgundy with blush or a very muted pink because you're essentially working within the same color family, just at different levels of saturation and intensity," she shares. This combination creates depth without overwhelming the senses. Imagine a powder room with burgundy walls and creamy accents - a cozy and intimate sanctuary for relaxation.
Midnight Blue: A Sophisticated Counterbalance
If you're concerned about a burgundy room feeling too dark, Garrow Kedigian of Garrow Kedigian Interior Design has a solution. "I've happily paired burgundy with midnight blue/almost black such as Benjamin Moore’s Evening Dove," he reveals. The contrast between the two colors creates a sophisticated and balanced atmosphere. Picture a home office with burgundy accents and midnight blue walls - a stylish and inviting space for productivity and creativity.
Expert Tips for Decorating with Burgundy
While breaking up burgundy with complementary colors can prevent a space from feeling too dim and murky, there are additional tips to consider. Kedigian suggests using a higher-gloss sheen to prevent any saturated color from being too heavy or overwhelming. "The reflective quality of the finish really gives it effervescence and depth of tone," he explains. Additionally, statement pieces like throw pillows, lacquered decorative boxes, table lamps, or throw blankets can add warmth and interest to a room.
Hayslett recommends considering textures and materials to take away some of the seriousness associated with burgundy. "Burgundy in linen, mohair, velvet, leather, or a high-gloss lacquer can all read completely differently," she notes. Pairing it with materials like oak, unlacquered brass, creamy stone, or woven textures helps create a more inviting and cozy atmosphere.
The Best Rooms to Decorate with Burgundy
Burgundy is a versatile color that can be used in various rooms to create a stunning and unique atmosphere. Hayslett suggests using it in intimate spaces like libraries or office nooks for a sophisticated yet homey vibe. "I have used burgundy many times on walls and once or twice on the ceiling, too," Kedigian reveals. The biggest impact of this color seems to work best in smaller spaces like studies.
Dining rooms are another natural fit for burgundy, as the color can create a rich and intimate atmosphere, especially with warm lighting. Hranowsky recommends carrying the color into tablescapes through candles, napkins, placemats, and even tableware. Larger spaces like family rooms can also benefit from burgundy, as it can make a wonderful color for a cozy and relaxing environment.
Conclusion: Embracing the Intensity of Burgundy
Burgundy is a captivating color that can transform any space with its rich and cozy vibe. By understanding color theory and design principles, we can unlock a world of creative possibilities. Whether you're pairing it with vibrant teals, earthy hunter greens, or sophisticated midnight blues, burgundy offers a unique and elegant touch to any interior. So, embrace the intensity of burgundy and let it inspire your next design adventure!
