6 Unexpected Places to Add a Pop of Color
Spice up your home with a color upgrade.

When we think about adding color to our homes, we usually focus on the walls, furniture, decor, you know, the typical stuff. But what if you could inject personality and vibrancy into spaces, you might not have considered? Whether you want a bold statement or a subtle surprise, these six unexpected places are perfect for introducing a pop of color that will breathe new life into your home.
Window Trim
@whiteberryhome
Walls tend to get all the attention when it comes to color, but the trim around your windows presents a fantastic—and often overlooked—opportunity to make a statement. Instead of defaulting to standard white, try painting the trim in a contrasting or complementary hue to your walls. This approach adds architectural interest and frames your view beautifully. If your trim isn’t suitable for painting, consider adding color to the windowsill or the entire window frame to create a similar effect. This small change can transform the way light interacts with your space, making it feel more dynamic and intentional.
Staircase
@hillytreedesign
Your staircase is more than just a functional feature—it’s a design element that can add personality to your home. Painting the risers in a bold shade or pattern is a great way to introduce unexpected color without overwhelming a space. You can opt for a gradient effect, alternating colors, or even a stencil design to hand paint. Since stairs are a transitional area, they allow for a bit of playful experimentation.
Bookcase
@sandysaintilus
Bookshelves aren’t just for storage; they’re also an opportunity to showcase your personality. A fresh coat of paint on the back panel of a bookcase can create a striking contrast against your books, decor, and keepsakes. This technique adds depth and dimension to your shelving and makes even neutral-colored books and accessories pop. The best part? It’s an easy and low-commitment way to refresh a space without changing the entire room’s color scheme.
Ceiling
@livingawilderlife
The ceiling is often dubbed the “fifth wall,” yet it’s usually left plain white. A bold ceiling color can redefine a room, drawing the eye upward and creating a cozy or dramatic effect, depending on the shade you choose. Deep hues can add intimacy to a space, while lighter, brighter colors can make it feel more open and airier. This approach works especially well in smaller rooms, like bathrooms or entryways, where a bit of color can make a big impact without overwhelming the space.
Inside Cabinets and Shelving
@apartmenttherapy @honeyidressedthepug
Why not make your everyday routine a little more joyful? Painting the interior of cabinets, whether in the kitchen, bathroom, or a built-in storage unit, can introduce a playful element of surprise every time you open the doors. A bold color inside cabinets can create a striking contrast with neutral exteriors, making storage spaces feel more intentional and stylish. It’s a perfect way to add color in a way that’s visible only when you want it to be, allowing you to keep a minimalist aesthetic while still embracing vibrant hues.
Front Door Accents
A colorful front door is an easy way to boost curb appeal, but you don’t have to stop there. Consider extending the color to surrounding details like the trim, house numbers, or even the front steps. This creates a cohesive and eye-catching entryway that sets the tone for the rest of your home. If you’re feeling adventurous, a two-tone door or a glossy finish can further enhance the effect.
Adding color to unexpected places is a fun and creative way to refresh your home without committing to a full-scale makeover. Whether you go bold or subtle, these ideas will help you incorporate color in unique ways that enhance your space and reflect your personality.
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