Escape from Your Red-Hot Office

Why Cool Grey is Perfect for Your Living Room

Cool grey is like a steaming cup of herbal tea on a hot day – calming and soothing. It evokes feelings of peace, making it perfect for a living room. And the best part? Cool grey plays nicely with a variety of colours, including the vibrant reds often used in home offices. Like a Sri Lankan spice market – vibrant red chillies next to soft pink lotus petals, create a striking visual contrast.

Finding Your Perfect Shade of Cool Grey

But choosing the right shade of cool grey depends on your taste! A well-lit room can handle a darker shade, like a deep charcoal, while a room with less natural light might benefit from a lighter, airier pearl grey. Here's a tip – the specific shade of red in your office matters too. Cooler reds might pair well with warmer greys, while fire-engine reds might look fantastic next to a cooler grey.

Changing Your Living Room with Cool Grey

Painting your walls isn't the only way to use cool grey. Here are some fun ways to add this calming colour:

• Soft Furnishings with Soul: Think of plush grey throw pillows with intricate hand-woven patterns or a soft cotton rug that feels like walking on a cloud. Linen cushion covers in shades of cool grey add a touch of texture and comfort, perfect for the Sri Lankan climate.
• Artistic Touches: Hang a calming landscape painting depicting the misty mountains of Knuckles Range, or a charcoal sketch capturing the intricate details of an ancient temple. These artworks will add a touch of heritage and peace to your room.
• A Touch of Metal: Metallic accents in silver or chrome complement the cool grey palette beautifully. Consider sleek lamps with chrome bases or modern side tables with a metallic finish. These elements will add a touch of contemporary style.

Warming Up Your Cool Grey Space

While cool grey is calming, it's important to add a touch of warmth to prevent it from feeling sterile. Here's how:

• Wood Wonders: Add rich mahogany furniture pieces like a sturdy coffee table or a sleek teak side table. These will add a touch of Sri Lankan heritage and natural warmth, just like the beautiful wood carvings found in ancient temples.
• Textiles with Flair: Throw pillows or blankets in warm colours like mustard yellow or burnt orange add a burst of vibrancy to the cool grey base. Think of the vibrant hues of a traditional saree – a touch of colour that celebrates the island's rich culture.

Cool Comfort with Sri Lankan Charm

Now comes the fun part – adding those finishing touches that make your living room Sri Lankan:

• Light: Floor lamps with soft yellow bulbs create a cosy vibe, perfect for evenings spent reading a good book or sipping a cup of kawa (Sri Lankan coffee). Woven lampshades add a touch of natural texture and Sri Lankan flair.
• A Touch of Tradition: Think of vibrant straw mats with intricate blue patterns or hand-loomed rugs featuring geometric designs in earthy tones. These Sri Lankan textiles will add a touch of cultural pride and warmth to your room.