5 Pretty (But Powerful) Pastel Palettes to Try

当谈到设计,我认为,有些事情that you like, and then there are things that you’re drawn to, things that speak to you on a visceral level that goes beyond taste or fashion. One of those things, for me, is pastels. These soft, soothing colors get me every time. They’re like a cool breeze for my senses. And, conveniently, they are quite stylish right now. If you love pastels, too, then you’re in luck, because we’ve got five different pastel palettes for you to try in your own home.

In the living room of this Paris apartment, a creation ofGCG Architects, a healthy dose of pastels is still supremely stylish. This is a soft, subtle update on the combination ofpink and green, a long-time preppy favorite. Although pastels are sometimes associated with children, here they seem quite sophisticated, thanks to small infusions of bright color, a textured rug (whose faded colors beautifully complement the walls), and a touch of pattern.

Here’s that same combo in a kitchen fromBaldini Architecture, but with one important addition: a touch of black. The introduction of black, particularly in the form of these graphic cement tiles, takes the soft, sweet combo of pale green and pink in a dynamic, modern direction.

Is this color pink? Or is it purple? I honestly can’t decide so I’ve settled on lilac, a color that seems to sit nicely at the intersection between the two. Here, it’s perfectly matched with gray, an unlikely partner that adds a touch of solemnity but is still a beautiful complement. Another notable thing about this space fromDouble Gis theBeni Ourain rug. I know they’ve become a bit ubiquitous, and many of you are tired of seeing them, but I can’t help thinking this rug is the perfect choice for this room: it adds a bit of texture, and a sophisticated touch, without competing with the main color scheme.

I really love monochromatic spaces that pair a color with different shades of the same color, although the look can be a little hard to pull off. It’s just perfect in this kitchen fromNordic Design, where accessories are at a minimum and the cabinets become the main color statement. This is a great way to embrace colorblocking without getting too crazy.

I’ve written before about how I love the combo ofblush and dark blue. They both bring so much to the table: pink is soft and light and lovely, the blue adds a little contrast and sophistication into the mix. In this living room fromIdeal Home, a slightly desaturated pale pink pairs perfectly with a navy blue accent wall (and black wall lamps), for a space that feels fresh and fun but also very grown-up.