Spring is a season of renewal, making it an ideal time to refresh your home. A vibrant splash of color can dramatically uplift your space. While a complete overhaul isn't always feasible, swapping out a few accessories can create a fresh look.

This season, instead of the usual soft pastels like pinks and light blues, a range of unexpected colors is emerging in home decor. Designers are moving towards lively coral, deep ocean shades, earthy terracotta, and mellow yellows — perfect for welcoming spring.

Living room by Kit Kemp with orange curtains and orange and pink sofa

(Image credit: Kit Kemp Design / Simon Brown)

'A spring refresh should exude character and breathe life into our favorite spaces,' shares a prominent designer. 'Opt for light, inviting fabrics and introduce surprising colors through unique accents like bright cushions or painted tables. These unexpected touches can bring a room to life.'

'Nature inspires my spring palette. Colors like marigold yellow, fuchsia, violet, and chartreuse can lift spirits after a long winter,' notes another designer. 'Changing out pillows or vases is a simple yet effective way to refresh a room. Bold artwork in vibrant colors can significantly enhance your space.'

1. Coral

Dining space by Sean Symington featuring coral chairs and lampshades, photographs Chris Wakefield

(Image credit: Sean Symington, photograph Chris Wakefield)

While soft pinks are typical for spring, coral adds a burst of energy. A designer uses coral accents against neutral backgrounds to make them pop. Fresh greenery can enhance the look, creating a lively atmosphere.

'Coral injects vibrancy and warmth into any space, embodying the spirit of spring,' the designer explains. 'It's a color that radiates optimism and joy, particularly after winter's chill.'

Simple vintage pieces can also introduce coral, like books with colorful spines stacked on a table, adding depth without overspending. These colors harmonize beautifully with darker wood tones.

St Frank Coral Trellis Suzani pillow
This vibrant cushion is perfect for warming up neutral spaces this spring.

Pooky Ikat lampshade
This stylish coral Ikat design is a great way to refresh your lighting.

Serena & Lily Fasano napkins
These cheerful coral napkins are 100% cotton and easy to clean with lovely fringed edges.

2. Indigo

Dining room with denim blue blinds and blue dining seats L.B.Copeland interior design, photograph Adam Kane Macchia

(Image credit: L.B. Copeland Interior Design, photograph Adam Kane Macchia)

Indigo and teal provide a soothing vibe reminiscent of the sea. These shades are versatile and pair well with neutrals, making them ideal for spring accents.

In a bright dining area, layered soft blues create a calming environment, with indigo seat covers adding a vibrant touch.

'Unexpected colors can uplift a space in spring, while still connecting with the overall design,' the designer notes, emphasizing the importance of balancing warmth with cooler tones.

3. Teal

curved off white chairs, blue and green custom bookcase and marble table

(Image credit: Julie Soefer)

Teal is gaining popularity this spring, especially on furniture, bringing a sense of optimism. It pairs wonderfully with warm shades found in nature.

A little teal can go a long way, whether through painted shelves or a striking vase. It harmonizes with vibrant oranges and greens, enhancing architectural details and drawing attention to focal points.

For vintage lovers, teal is common in unique decor pieces, from dining sets to artwork that features oceanic hues.

Greenrow Printed floral pillow
This cushion combines Japanese indigo-dye aesthetics with floral elements.

DecMode at Walmart Teal Ceramic vase
This versatile vase features playful stripes and a classic blue and white palette.

Anthropologie Livia storage hutch
An eye-catching piece that introduces stylish teal accents to any room.

4. Terracotta

Bedroom in Antionette Poisson wallpaper with Roweam headboard and cushions

(Image credit: Project by Moore House Design photographed by Jared Kuzia, Client Brunch with Babs)

Earthy tones are trending this spring, offering a nostalgic and comforting feel. Terracotta can bring warmth to a space, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

'Terracotta is a simple way to add warmth, especially as spring approaches. It brings a relaxed European vibe effortlessly,' says a designer, recommending pottery and accents in this hue.

In bedrooms, terracotta offers a romantic alternative to pastels, as showcased in a beautifully designed space with muted colors inspired by nature.

Magnolia Penelope Terracotta pillow
This versatile pillow boasts great texture, perfect for enhancing any living room.

Lulu and Georgia Terracotta linen quilt
A rich throw that anchors any space beautifully when layered with natural materials.

Tov Furniture Graham Velvet lamp
This chic lamp adds warmth and style with its sleek design.

5. Chartreuse

Pale blue bedroom with a green throw and lampshade by Katie Davis Design

(Image credit: Katie Davis Design, photograph Nathan Schroder)

Chartreuse and bright greens are making waves this season. These lively hues enliven spaces, whether through textiles or decorative items.

'Brighter greens and yellows invigorate a room,' states a designer, highlighting how these colors can add energy without overwhelming the space.

Layering shades of green can unify a room. For a lively atmosphere, choose yellows and bright greens like chartreuse, or opt for deeper, calming shades for a more subdued effect.

Serena & Lily Darien dining chair
A luxurious green velvet chair that adds a striking feature to any setting.

Anthropologie Handblown Glass Candle
This floral jasmine candle comes in a beautiful handblown holder that can be repurposed.

Lulu and Georgia Carrow Vase
A stunning vase perfect for spring centerpieces, featuring an artisan floral design.

6. Ochre

living room with ochre velvet sofa and green rug

(Image credit: Polly Wreford/Sally Denning)

For a sophisticated twist on spring colors, consider ochre and honey shades. These earthy yellows provide warmth and pair beautifully with natural materials.

'People are embracing colors that feel livable and grounded, like amber and ochre, inspired by nature,' explains a designer, noting that these tones are versatile and can transform a space.

Williams Sonoma Provençal Dinnerware set
This rustic stoneware set adds charm to any dining experience.

McGee & Co. Nora Table Lamp
This lamp features a lovely ochre glaze, reminiscent of vintage pottery.

Misette Jardin Amber placemats
These cheerful placemats bring a smile to spring gatherings.


While pastel colors are beautiful for spring, there are many vibrant alternatives to consider. If you're seeking to shake up your seasonal decor, these lively colors can create an uplifting and energetic atmosphere in your home.