Good Wall Colors for Tan Furniture

Light Standards

• Ideal color matching is commonly based on the actual shade of your furniture. Dark tans work beautifully with ecru, ivory, butter-cream, light beige, light tan and some shades of ochre. White typically works with tan, too, however you can create a more interesting look by choosing light wall paint with a dark trim color -- for baseboards and crown molding -- that is closer to the shade of your furniture. Light furniture contrasts well with darker colors.

Blues and Greens

• While olive green may be too dark, you can find lighter versions that can work with tan furniture. You don't have to paint the entire room, but can use hunter green for one wall or ceiling and a misty or sea green for the rest. Certain shades of blue contrast well with tan, but don't go too dark unless you your furniture is very light in color. Touches of royal, slate or grey-blue cool the room.

Reds and Yellows

• Burgundy, rust red, brick red, tangerine and gold can warm up an environment. Tan furniture of almost any shade will blend easily with these colors. A strong cherry or fire-engine red against extremely pale tan furnishings make a dramatic presentation. Light yellows work with dark tan, and dark yellow walls enhance tans that lean toward a richer brown. Be careful when dealing with paints in the purple family.

Other Options

• Other options to consider, instead of using one color of paint, is to combine two colors using a sponge, dry brush or color-wash technique. You can also use textiles, tiles for trim, and wall papers. The array of wall papers available today can bring alive any room, whether you use it on one wall, on an upper section of each wall, or on all the walls. Look for brocade or geometric patterns that have visually appealing designs using a blend of colors that work with your furniture.