Discover inspiring ways to incorporate the calming essence of nature into your living space with dark green hues.

Green Decor Ideas
Evoking the Forest: Dark Green Decor Ideas for Your Home Photo: Nate Berkus Instagram©

Dreaming of a home that feels connected to nature? Earthy tones and natural elements are a great start, but if you’re looking for a simpler solution, consider the transformative power of dark green. A dark green living room instantly evokes the tranquility of a forest, bringing a sense of peace and rejuvenation to your space. In this article, we’ll explore green decor ideas to incorporate this revitalizing hue into your home.

Why Green?

Green’s strong association with nature makes it inherently calming. Our brains perceive green as healthy and natural, and studies have shown that spending time in green spaces or even just looking at green scenery can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance impulse control. Even in ancient mythology, green symbolizes fertility and rebirth—ancient Greeks portrayed Osiris (their god of birth, rebirth, fertility, and agriculture) with a green face.

Beyond its calming influence, dark green can also evoke positive feelings like optimism and compassion. By incorporating this versatile color into your living space, you can create a space that promotes both well-being and a deep connection to the natural world.

Vintage Charm In Greens

Kelly Wearstler’s signature style shines in this private residence lounge, enveloped by bold, high-gloss dark green. True to her love of vintage and antique pieces, Wearstler has curated a space filled with character. A vintage Ilum Wikkelso loveseat, a bespoke stone coffee table, a custom rug, and commissioned wall art by Amanda Martinez all contribute to the room’s captivating ambiance.

The result is a space that is both inviting and visually striking. To further enhance the natural feel and complement the vintage aesthetic, the addition of carefully chosen indoor plants would be ideal.

Wallpaper Magic

 

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If the idea of dark green walls feels a bit too daring, take inspiration from celebrity designer Joanna Gaines. Her charming and whimsical dining room showcases how to bring the outdoors in without overwhelming the space. A playful wallpaper with a green base and nature-inspired patterns creates a delightful forest-like ambiance.

Consider using a similar approach in your own living room:

  • Choose a green-toned wallpaper. Whether it’s a subtle botanical print or a bolder pattern, make sure the green complements your existing décor.
  • Apply the wallpaper on walls from top to bottom to create a dramatic, immersive effect.
  • Accessorize thoughtfully. Select décor pieces that either harmonize with or create a striking contrast to the wallpaper. This will add depth and visual interest to the room.

Architectural Details and Lighter Touch

The rich green walls in this room exude luxury and elegance. Such deep hues are beautifully balanced by lighter contrasting elements like the ceiling and rug. Glass lighting fixtures add a touch of glamor, while the intricate architectural details elevate the overall space and green decor idea.

Greens and Textures

Even in its unfinished state, this space demonstrates the power of green. The dark green wall evokes a forest-like ambiance, further enhanced by a large leafy plant. The plush velvet textiles and nature-inspired lighting fixtures create a sense of harmony amidst the bold design.

Subtle Hints Of Green

For a more subtle approach to dark green, look no further. Here, a single accent wall in dark green creates a connection to nature, while exposed wooden beams add visual warmth. The green theme continues with pendant lights and a low bench. Earthy tones like light brown and exposed brick complete the rustic look in this green decor idea.

Embracing the Boldness of Green

This living room showcases how to go all-in with green. The deep green walls create depth and richness, while large indoor plants add vibrancy. To soften the boldness, the flooring and sidewalls are kept white. Biophilic curtains further enhance the connection to nature. With such green decor ideas, ample lighting is crucial to prevent the room from feeling cramped.

Got a small living room? Check out 10 Tricks to Make a Small Room Feel Airy and Spacious

Balancing The Color Palette

In this cozy living room, deep green walls are balanced by a blush-pink sofa and a light wood coffee table. This prevents the small space from feeling overwhelmed. Light-toned accents and plush velvet textiles add warmth, while small indoor plants complement the dark green wall and bring a touch of freshness.

References

  1. Biophilic Design: How to Incorporate Nature into Design in a Chic, Elegant Way, Amy Kartheiser Design
  2. What Does the Color Green Mean?, Very Well Mind
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About Don Vandervort
Don Vandervort has developed his expertise for more than 30 years as a remodeler and builder, Building Editor for Sunset Books, Senior Editor at Home Magazine, author of more than 30 home improvement books, and writer of countless magazine articles. He appeared for 3 seasons on HGTV’s “The Fix,” served as MSN’s home expert for several years, and is featured as Yelp's home improvement expert. Don founded HomeTips in 1996. Read more about Don Vandervort