Experts Recommend Neutral Bedroom Palettes for Better Sleep

Designers share their tips for creating calming, relaxing sleep sanctuaries.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Experts and designers agree that using a neutral color palette in the bedroom can create a more calming and relaxing environment that promotes better sleep. Softer, neutral tones are said to elicit a psychological response that is more conducive to winding down and falling asleep. Designers recommend layering textures and materials like velvet, linen, and shearling to add visual interest without being overstimulating.

Why it matters

Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being. Experts believe that the colors and design of the bedroom environment can have a significant impact on sleep quality. By creating a soothing, neutral-toned space, homeowners can optimize their bedrooms for better rest.

The details

Certified sleep science coach Livvi DiCicco says "Certain colors can elicit certain psychological responses. Softer, neutral palettes might be better for a more calming atmosphere." Designers like Jack Simpson, Becky Shea, and Matthew Leverone all advocate for neutral bedroom designs that avoid overstimulating colors and patterns. They recommend layering textures like velvet, linen, and shearling to add depth and visual interest without disrupting the calming vibe.

  • The article was published on February 10, 2026.

The players

Livvi DiCicco

A certified sleep science coach at Sleepopolis.

Jack Simpson

The founder and creative director of London-based Nomad Developments.

Becky Shea

A designer known for her calming, quiet palettes.

Matthew Leverone

The founder and principal at his namesake design firm.

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What they’re saying

“Certain colors can elicit certain psychological responses. Softer, neutral palettes might be better for a more calming atmosphere.”

— Livvi DiCicco, Certified sleep science coach at Sleepopolis

“While other rooms can maintain a calming atmosphere, their richer, color-drenched schemes offer moments of visual drama and play, but the bedroom is intentionally kept softer to emphasize a tranquil feel.”

— Jack Simpson, Founder and creative director of Nomad Developments

“In a home we completed in Bridgehampton, New York, we used a palette of light tones to speak to the beach setting and the warmth and tranquility of the dune grasses, as well as the movement of the sand they emulate.”

— Becky Shea, Designer

“We kept the room's color palette restrained; to counterbalance this, we introduced interesting furniture and lighting pieces, such as the architectural platform bed and playful Pierre Yovanovitch pendants.”

— Matthew Leverone, Founder and principal at Leverone Design

The takeaway

By creating a soothing, neutral-toned bedroom environment with thoughtful textures and materials, homeowners can optimize their sleep sanctuary and improve their overall sleep quality.