How to Decorate with Living Coral
Simply Gorgeous
“To achieve a bold yet subtle statement with a feeling of warmth and comfort, living coral needs to live in your space.” - Joy Huitron, Living Spaces Visual Merchandiser
Living coral is the embodiment of fun; it’s energetic and carefree – on a mission to take you back to the happy-go-lucky days of summer. The perfect complement to every color of the rainbow, living coral is a celebration of life and vibrancy.
What Is the Color Meaning of Living Coral?
With the help of orange and reddish undertones, living coral gives a soft warm glow like that of its namesake – the vibrant-hued coral reef found in tropical oceans. Just as the color of actual living coral fluctuates slightly from species to species – some in which orange undertones dominate over red, and vice versa – so does the ‘living coral’ color that you see in fashion and design.
Whether you wear it or decorate with it, living coral offers a kick of rejuvenation. What living coral represents, its color meaning, can be found in its name: life. Use living coral as a reminder to live boldly and beautifully – and to add instant refreshment to any corner of your home!
Curl Up with Coral
“Mid-century modern should be vibrant, but many trends embrace neutral walls and floors. Living coral is an easy way to wake this up!” - Vilma Sakha, Living Spaces Design Consultant
Living coral makes a splash, so a little goes a long way. In interior decorating, all you need is a hint, so opt to incorporate living coral through accents such as throw pillows, wall art and home decor.
Decorating with Living Coral: Insider Tip
“The easiest way to incorporate the Pantone Color living coral in your interior is pops of color via throw pillows, wall art and other home accessories. It would also make for a fun accent wall in an otherwise neutral space." - Emilie Baltorinic, interior designer, Living Spaces
Living coral is bold, so it’s easiest to style with it in small splashes and accents here and there. But if you’re going to go bold, go all the way. Paint a wall in living coral, hang curtains in living coral or lay an area rug in living coral – or all three! If you choose all three, just remember the 50-150 rule: when grouping together three decorative pieces in the same color, one should be the “standard” shade of the color, another one should be 50% lighter than the standard and the third should be 150% darker than the standard. This will help to calm and define the energy of a living coral palette.
Living Coral Inspiration
5'3"x7'6" Fiber Rug- Fiona Medallion Blue / Peach / Green Rectangle Botanical | Indoor | Low Pile | Layering By Surya
$175
2'7"x10' Runner Rug-Colbourn Traditional Machine Washable Fabric Blue/Dusty Coral | UV Resistant | Performance | Long | Rectangle By Surya
- UV Resistant
- Machine Washable
9'3"x12' Fabric Rug-Colbourn Traditional Botanical Machine Washable Blue/Dusty Coral | UV Resistant | Rectangle | Performance By Surya
- UV Resistant
- Machine Washable
Accent Pillow Fabric Watercolor Leaves Coral 22x22 | Machine Washable By Surya | Botanical
- Machine Washable
2'7"x7'3" Runner Rug-Colbourn Traditional Machine Washable Fabric Blue/Dusty Coral | UV Resistant | Rectangle | Performance By Surya
- UV Resistant
- Machine Washable
3'11"X5'7" Rug-Sonoma Aztec | Rectangle
$95
Common Questions About Coral Color Decor
How can I incorporate coral into my living room without it being overwhelming?
Coral is a vibrant hue, so start with smaller accents like throw pillows, a decorative vase, or even artwork to introduce its cheerful energy. You can also use it strategically on an accent wall or within a patterned rug to create a focal point. Consider pairing coral with neutrals like beige, cream, or gray to balance its intensity and create a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere.
What color palettes pair well with coral for a cohesive room design?
Coral beautifully complements a range of colors, offering versatility for different styles. For a coastal vibe, pair it with crisp whites, sandy beiges, and soft blues. To achieve a more modern and bold look, combine coral with deep navy, charcoal gray, or even black. For a softer, romantic feel, consider blush pinks, muted greens, or warm terracotta tones.
Is coral a suitable color choice for a bedroom, and how can I make it feel calming?
Absolutely! Coral can bring warmth and personality to a bedroom, making it feel inviting and cozy. To ensure a calming ambiance, opt for softer, muted shades of coral or balance it with plenty of calming neutrals like soft grays, whites, or light wood tones. Incorporate plush textures through bedding and rugs to enhance the tranquil feel.
What are some stylish ways to use coral in a small space, like an entryway or a home office?
In smaller areas, coral is fantastic for adding a pop of personality without dominating the space. Consider a coral-painted accent piece of furniture, like a console table or desk, or use coral in smaller decorative items such as planters or picture frames. A coral-toned rug can also define a space and add warmth underfoot, making even a compact area feel more intentional and inviting.
When choosing coral decor, what materials and finishes best enhance the color's vibrancy and appeal?
Coral's natural vibrancy is enhanced by various materials and finishes. For a modern feel, consider coral in glossy finishes on ceramics or lacquered furniture. Natural materials like rattan or wood can offer a more organic contrast, while metallic accents in gold or rose gold can add a touch of glamour. When selecting textiles, look for coral in linen or velvet for added texture and depth.