Teal is a gorgeous medium blue-green shade that can add a pop of color to any room. With its versatility, teal can complement a wide range of colors from neutrals to other bold hues. The key to successfully pairing teal is understanding its undertones and keeping color harmony in mind. Read on to learn what colors go with teal and how to create stylish teal color schemes.
Neutrals
Teal has both cool blue and earthy green undertones, making it highly compatible with neutral shades. Crisp whites, creams, grays and black serve as foolproof background colors that allow teal to take center stage in a room.
Some classic neutral and teal color combinations include:
- Teal and white
- Teal and beige
- Teal and light gray
- Teal and charcoal gray
- Teal and black
Teal pops against neutral backgrounds and can lend spaces a serene, spa-like feel. For contemporary edge, pair teal with black and white. Teal also harmonizes beautifully with natural textures like wood tones and rattan.
Earth Tones
With its green undertones, teal teams up seamlessly with earthy neutrals like tans, browns, terra cotta and khaki. Earth tones are an easy match for teal and can help ground the color in an organic way.
Designers often use teal and earth tones together in bohemian, Southwestern and tropical style rooms. Try combining:
- Teal and tan
- Teal and light brown
- Teal and terra cotta
- Teal and olive green
Use textiles like jute rugs, rattan furniture and terracotta tiles to bridge earth tones with teal for a nature-inspired space.
Pastels
Soft pastel hues like mint green, sky blue, blush and lavender partner beautifully with teal. The resulting schemes have an airy, ethereal quality perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms and other retreat-like spaces.
Some winning pastel color combinations with teal include:
- Teal and mint green
- Teal and light blue
- Teal and lavender
- Teal and peach
- Teal and light pink
If using multiple pastels with teal, opt for tones in the same color family for visual cohesion. For example, pair teal with complementary shades of green and blue.
Jewel Tones
Vibrant jewel tones like emerald, sapphire and amethyst make bold color partners for teal. The rich hues play off teal’s intensity for stylish, jewel-box interiors.
Jewel tone combinations that complement teal include:
- Teal and emerald green
- Teal and royal blue
- Teal and ruby red
- Teal and deep purple
Limit jewel tones to accents and accessories to keep rooms from becoming overwhelming. Use teal and jewel tones sparingly in small spaces.
Bright Colors
Want to really amp up the energy? Pair teal with other bright, saturated hues like yellow, orange, pink and red. Vibrant color schemes create fun, youthful interiors.
Some bright color combos to try with teal:
- Teal and lemon yellow
- Teal and tangerine
- Teal and fuchsia
- Teal and cherry red
For harmony, opt for bright colors close to teal on the color wheel, like yellow-green and orange. Use brights sparingly to keep the look crisp instead of chaotic.
Color Scheme Formulas
Beyond individual color pairs, teal can be used to create several classic color scheme formulas. These preset combinations follow color theory for foolproof decorating. Some examples include:
| Color Scheme | Formula |
|---|---|
| Analogous | Teal + blue-green + blue |
| Complementary | Teal + brick red |
| Triadic | Teal + plum + yellow |
| Split Complementary | Teal + brick red + yellow-green |
Using teal in established color combinations is an easy way to set a color foundation. Accessorize with additional hues for personalization.
Tips for Decorating with Teal
When working teal into your home’s decor, keep these tips in mind:
- Use teal as an accent. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly against neutral backdrops.
- Look at teal paint swatches in both natural and artificial light. The hue can read more blue or green depending on the lighting.
- Pair teal with metallics like brass, gold and copper for glamorous style.
- Incorporate teal into floral prints and area rugs for a punch of color.
- Use multiple tones of teal together, from pale aqua to deep jewel tones.
Examples of Teal Decor
Need some visual inspiration for decorating with teal? Here are some beautiful examples of teal color schemes in home interiors:
Teal and White Kitchen
This airy kitchen features bright white cabinetry paired with a teal backsplash in glossy ceramic tiles. Brushed brass hardware and light wood flooring add warmth. Crisp white dishes pop against the bold teal backsplash.
Teal and Brown Living Room
In this cozy living room, olive-green teal walls complement the chocolate leather sofa and rattan side chair. Neutral accessories in cream and gray balance the earthy color scheme.
Teal and Pink Bathroom
A vanity in matte teal-green is the focal point of this feminine bathroom. Blush pink walls, marble tile and brass fixtures create a glam yet soothing vibe. The pink orchid artwork ties the whole color scheme together.
Teal and Orange Outdoor Space
This patio features vivid teal patio furniture cushions and throw pillows. The teal pops against the terracotta tile flooring and the sunset orange cushions on the rattan sofa. Lush potted plants add natural greenery.
Teal and Purple Bedroom
In this bedroom, a teal upholstered headboard pairs elegantly with lilac purple walls and crisp white bedding. The accent pillows pick up both colors for a harmonious blend. A glass chandelier and mirrored nightstands add glamour.
The Meaning of Teal
In color psychology, teal is associated with balance, sophistication and healing. Its cool tranquility is said to promote mental clarity and spiritual grounding.
Specifically, teal symbolizes:
- Balance – Equal amounts of blue and green give teal a balanced essence. It brings equilibrium of mind and emotion.
- Composure – With traits of both green and blue, teal promotes calm composure. Its even-keeled nature is soothing.
- Wisdom – Teal’s blend of green earthiness and blue intuition conveys wisdom. It bridges the physical and spiritual.
- Stability – Teal represents the security that comes from synthesizing logic and feelings. It encourages sound decision making.
- Healing – Teal is considered both physically and emotionally therapeutic. Its restful qualities aid in recovery and self-care.
The rich symbolism and soothing essence of teal make it a wonderful hue for mind-body sanctuaries like spas, yoga studios and therapy offices. Use teal to create a comforting retreat in your own home.
Conclusion
Teal is a highly versatile color that can be mixed and matched with a variety of shades for gorgeous, balanced interiors. From earthy taupes to punchy brights, teal harmonizes beautifully when paired with colors that share its undertones. Follow color theory basics, limit bold hues and enhance teal’s tranquility by sticking with soothing neutrals and pastels. With its relaxing yet uplifting vibe, teal used smartly adds feel-good style to any space.
