Paint Colors for a Split-Level Living Room

Go Neutral

• If your split-level living room opens up to other parts of the house, opt for a subtle wall color so it doesn't clash with the shades in other rooms. A neutral color is your best option because it will complement both cool and warm tone colors and allow you to choose from a wide variety of accent shades for your living room. White is a classic option, but it can sometimes have a cold, stark feeling. Cream and beige are softer alternatives. You can also opt for darker neutrals, such as a tan or gray, if you prefer a more dramatic look for the space.

Keep It Light

• You aren't confined to neutral shades if your split-level living room opens up to other parts of your home. However, keeping the wall color on the lighter side presents an understated look that doesn't compete with bolder colors in other rooms. Pastels are an attractive option because they are soft shades that work with a variety of darker colors. Mint, sky blue and lavender may work well as wall colors for your living room. If you prefer warmer shades, choose a light yellow or peach instead.

Bold and Warm

• If you feel like your split-level living room isn't as distinct a space as you would like because of an open floor plan, choosing a bold color for its walls instantly defines the space. In a large living room, a warm, bright color is an attractive option because it creates a cozy, inviting feel for the space. For a truly bold look, select a primary red or bright yellow for the walls. You can also try slightly subdued shades like wine, gold or rust. However, if your living room is on the small side, these darker, bolder shades may actually make the space feel smaller, so you may want to opt for lighter tones in the same color family.

Cool and Elegant

• Like a bold, warm shade, a dark, cool-toned color can help define your split-level living room and make it stand out. A cool, rich wall color has an elegant, sophisticated effect that works well for a formal style living room. Select shades like hunter green, eggplant or navy blue for the walls. You can even go bolder with brighter shades such as Kelly green, indigo or royal purple. As with the bold, warm colors, avoid cool wall shades that are too dark if you have a small living room, and use them for accent colors instead.