Pastels are timeless in interior design, offering a balance of warmth, light, and refinement. Applied with intention, they bring a sense of calm and elevate a space without overwhelming it. At Amberth, our bespoke kitchen and bathroom designs in London use colour choices that are aligned with the architecture, materials, and the way our clients live – a reflection of our commitment to craftsmanship and functional beauty.
Why Pastels Work So Well in the Home
Pastel colours, created by blending hues with white, soften architectural lines and enhance natural light.
From mint green to blush pink, these tones brighten compact rooms, create visual harmony, and evoke a sense of calm, making them ideal for spaces where clarity and atmosphere are equally important.
Pastel Walls That Feel Fresh, Not Flat
For those seeking colour without intensity, pastel walls provide subtle vibrancy while maintaining a serene mood. They pair beautifully with crisp white detailing on window frames, skirting, and doors.
Project inspiration: In our Buckingham Road Project in North London, a gentle mint green was chosen to complement the room’s proportions and natural light. Combined with warm timber flooring and understated furnishings, the result is a light-filled, harmonious interior that feels both welcoming and refined.
Buckingham Road, By Amberth
Layered Accents: Using Pastels in Furnishings and Decor
Pastels need not dominate a space to have impact. They can be introduced through curated accents:
- Upholstered chairs or sofas
- Ceramic lighting or pendant shades
- Artwork or textured wall panels
- Sheer curtains and tactile cushions
Whether layering a mix of tones or focusing on a single hue, the key is balance – ensuring the palette enhances the room’s architecture and atmosphere.
Hicks Pendant Light from Andrew Martin
Yes, Pastels Belong in the Kitchen
Soft shades are a sophisticated way to bring charm and personality to a highly functional space.
Think of something like pistachio green cabinetry with creamy walls and a soft-toned worktop. The result? A calm, joyful kitchen that feels lived-in but luxe. The green gives a subtle retro twist, without leaning too nostalgic.
If full pastel cabinetry feels too bold, try:
- Combining pastel base units with white uppers
- Choosing a powder-blue or blush-toned backsplash
- Adding small pastel appliances: toaster, mixer, kettle
This bespoke kitchen design reflects Amberth’s approach: marrying function and elegance with colour choices that stand the test of time.
Pastels can also enhance bathroom design. A powder-blue vanity or soft peach wall tile can introduce elegance while maintaining a calming atmosphere, particularly effective in luxury bathroom renovations.
Final Thought
Pastel colours bring beauty, softness, lightness, and emotion into a space. Rooms feel brighter. Moods feel lifted. And your home starts to feel a little more like a sanctuary.
Ready to introduce pastels into your kitchen or bathroom? Let’s create a colour palette that reflects how you want to live. Light, calm, joyful. Book a consultation with Amberth and start your design journey with us.
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FAQs: Pastel Colour Interiors
What colours are considered pastel?
Pastel colours are any hues that have been lightened with white. Think soft mint green, powder blue, blush pink, pale lilac, buttery yellow, and gentle greys.
Do pastel colours work in small spaces?
Yes. Their light-reflective quality can actually make smaller rooms feel bigger and brighter. They’re perfect for compact kitchens or narrow bathrooms.
How do I stop pastel colours from feeling too sweet or childish?
Balance is key. Pair pastels with natural textures like timber or stone, use clean lines in furniture, and add contrast with bolder accents or matte black fittings.
Can I mix pastels with other colour palettes?
Absolutely. Pastels pair beautifully with neutrals, richer earthy tones, or even darker shades like navy or charcoal for contrast and depth.
Where should I start if I’m unsure about using pastels?
Start small: a pastel-toned pendant light, a blush-coloured tile backsplash, or a mint green cabinet. These accents can help you find your comfort level before committing more widely.
