Decorating With Green

Four Foolproof Color Combinations

For a natural look: Moss green and soft blue (shades reminiscent of forest and sky) are a terrific match. “When in doubt, stick with nature―bad color pairings don’t happen there,” says Laura Guido-Clark, a color consultant in Berkeley, California.

For a soothing look: A lot of spas use sea-foam green and chocolate brown―for good reason. Try painting the walls chocolate and the trim sea foam in your bathroom or bedroom and rest easy.

For a fresh look: Consider the classic Rugby-shirt twosome of Kelly green and bright white. “The green is such an exciting color,” says Guido-Clark. “And when you pair it with white for contrast, you give it a chance to sing.”

For a playful look: Don’t worry about your room resembling the pages of the 1980s Preppy Handbook. This duo of lime green and soft pink brings a cheery, light-hearted appeal to a bathroom, a nursery, or a playroom.