Coordinating Orange and Green Successfully: Achieving "Vibrant and Lively" Harmonious Combinations with Careful Execution
Incorporating a vibrant orange and green color palette in interior design might initially appear unconventional, yet it can lead to the creation of dynamic and invigorating spaces. Designers suggest that this seemingly unlikely pairing, found naturally alongside each other in juicy citrus next to lush foliage or autumn leaves, requires careful consideration for a harmonious outcome.
Rachel Blindauer, a St. Louis-based interior designer, explains that color in interior design functions not only as decoration but also as a storytelling device. While orange and green may seem too bold initially, they can generate a lively and organic conversation in an interior when balanced correctly.
The serene calming qualities of green, associated with growth and renewal, contrast with the warmth and upbeat energy of orange. This combination creates a dialogue that feels both vibrant and organic, provided the proper tone is struck.
Incorporating muted, earthy versions of both green and orange enhances the ensemble, making it more accessible and comfortable to live with. Layered schemes featuring a sage green wall paired with rust-colored throw pillows or an olive green velvet sofa against a backdrop of warm, muted orange drapery create a sense of depth and sophistication.
Designer Rachel Blindauer, with over 15 years of experience in the field, studied interior architecture and product design at Kansas State University and the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London.
A bolder and more energetic take on orange and green can be applied to various spaces, according to designer Alykhan Velji, creative director at Alykhan Velji Designs in Canada. He advocates incorporating more saturated greens and oranges in dining rooms, laundry rooms, or powder rooms to bring character and warmth to often overlooked areas, making everyday spaces feel special.
To complement the lively orange and green color combination, Alykhan suggests the use of natural textures like linen, leather, or reclaimed wood for a minimalist approach.
The olive green and terracotta orange color scheme offers a harmonious, earthy, and sophisticated pairing that feels timeless. Saturated greens and oranges can be used effectively across multiple room types, adding character and warmth, especially in dining rooms, laundry rooms, or power rooms. For a more minimalist approach, layer this color combination with natural textures.
Another orange and green combination, sage green and apricot, creates a gentle, airy atmosphere ideal for high-trafficked areas like sunrooms, kitchens, or creative studios. The softer tones create a tranquil environment that appeals to those partial to a minimalist color palette seeking only a touch of color. Both sage green and apricot can stimulate appetite and conversation in colorful dining rooms, making them well-suited for these spaces.
The final orange and green iteration, deep forest green and burnt orange, lends a rich and dramatic feel to the space. These darker shades create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, adding depth and sophistication to the design. The combination shines in moody dining rooms, cozy libraries, or dark-academia-inspired offices. Incorporating burnt orange and forest green into neutral color schemes provides a subtle touch of vibrancy while preserving a timeless aesthetic.
To ensure a harmonious look, choose deeper, more saturated tones of green and orange in your combined color scheme. Balance the dominance of one color with the other, and match undertones (warm with warm, cool with cool) to create a cohesive look. Additionally, weave in neutrals and natural textures to create visual interest yet maintain balance within the color scheme.
- Rachel Blindauer, an interior designer based in St. Louis, emphasizes that color in interior design serves not only as decoration but also as a storytelling device.
- Alykhan Velji, the creative director at Alykhan Velji Designs in Canada, suggests that a bolder and more energetic take on orange and green can be applied to various spaces, such as dining rooms, laundry rooms, or powder rooms.
- The olive green and terracotta orange color scheme offers a harmonious, earthy, and sophisticated pairing that feels timeless and can be effectively used across multiple room types.
- The sage green and apricot combination creates a gentle, airy atmosphere ideal for high-trafficked areas like sunrooms, kitchens, or creative studios.
- The final orange and green iteration, deep forest green and burnt orange, lends a rich and dramatic feel to the space, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, particularly in moody dining rooms, cozy libraries, or dark-academia-inspired offices.
