Green is a color to envy in home decor

Spring has sprung, and it’s time to talk about color. Specifically, green, a color that is often considered pure, crisp and fresh.

I simply love using the color green. Why? To sum it up in a single word: versatility. Like a great black dress, the color green can be dressed up or dressed down and can be paired with so many colors. Best of all, there are so many shades and tones of greens from which to choose.

One of my favorite shades of green to use is the color of a jalapeno pepper. What I love about this rich shade is that its deep yellow undertones not only create a bright, warm interior, but also look so amazing with a myriad of colors, from pure white to eggplant and other citrus colors such as orange and yellow. The color green also adds a level of sophistication to an interior, especially when paired with other strong neutrals like white, black and chocolate brown.

From painting an accent wall to incorporating green into accessories such as artwork and toss pillows, there are a large number of options. I really love using bold, rich green tones as a wall color. Deep colors can help make larger rooms feel cozy, while lighter shades of green can help to brighten a dull space.

Not ready to take the plunge? Try using bursts of green in your accent pieces such as artwork and accessories (such as toss pillows or bedding).

Green is one of the few colors that is on trend without being trendy. It is really a standard color that stands the test of time. Shades such as hunter green are often associated with traditional interiors, while shades such as dill pickle and even chartreuse add a modern edge.

Green is considered a restful color that can be used in various environments. Shades of green can be used in bedrooms in order to create a sense of tranquility and calm. Brighter shades can be used in a space in which you wish to uplift a mood, while more muted tones can create a mood that is more subdued.

While green is a sophisticated and rich color, the reality is it may not have universal appeal of neutral colors such as gray and taupe.

Colors like yellow and amethyst work well with green, as do colors like blue and charcoal gray, as well as pure white, black and chocolate cocoa brown.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C.