If you’ve bought a new home recently or are planning to repaint your home, then you might have been going through a lot of colour catalogues and colour shade cards. If you feel you need something unique rather than sticking to the usual eggshell white and sunny yellow, then you should go through these 7 colours that you might have never heard of. These colours have everything from pinkish-red shades like Amaranth to Bluish-grey like Glaucous, so let’s explore each one of them to help you find the perfect paint shade.
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7 Obscure Colours You Need To Know
Celadon
This soft, pale green with hints of grey draws inspiration from ancient Chinese ceramics. Celadon is delicate and calming, evoking serenity and balance. Ideal for kitchens or bathrooms, it provides a subtle connection to nature while maintaining a polished, timeless feel. The muted undertone ensures it doesn’t overwhelm, making it a versatile choice for both modern and traditional interiors. Its quiet elegance pairs well with whites, creams, and darker forest greens. You can explore similar shades in the Asian Paints Royale colour shade card.
Isabelline
A pale, creamy off-white with hints of beige and yellow, Isabelline is subtle, refined, and reminiscent of aged parchment. You can use this shade to create a wallpaper texture-like surface without the hassle of searching for wallpapering near me. Today, it’s ideal for minimalistic or bohemian spaces, providing warmth without overwhelming. Isabelline works beautifully in naturally lit rooms, adding a soft glow and enhancing a space’s natural textures and layers.
Smalt
A striking cobalt blue with a slight translucence, Smalt has its roots in the glassmaking industry, where it was used as a pigment. Its vibrant yet deep tone makes it ideal for statement walls or artistic accents. Smalt works well in modern and eclectic spaces, adding a pop of bold colour without being overwhelming. When paired with whites or silvers, it creates a clean, crisp aesthetic reminiscent of Mediterranean-inspired interiors.
Drunk-Tank Pink
A bubblegum pink with a psychological twist, Drunk-Tank Pink is known for its calming effect on aggression. It was famously used in prisons and sports locker rooms to pacify emotions, earning its quirky name. The shade feels playful yet soothing, making it perfect for children’s rooms or creative spaces. Its vibrant undertone adds energy to a room while maintaining an approachable softness. Pair it with muted greys or white wallpapers for a modern, lively aesthetic. For wallpapers, you can search for wallpapering near me on the internet to find the perfect fit.
Glaucous
A soft, dusty blue-grey inspired by the powdery coating on grapes and certain plants, Glaucous is serene and understated. Its subtle coolness evokes a sense of calm, making it a great choice for bedrooms or reading nooks. The shade also has a timeless quality, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary styles. Glaucous pairs beautifully with natural wood tones, crisp whites, and muted greens for a cohesive, nature-inspired palette. You can also pair wallpapers with it by simply searching wallpapering near me and selecting the perfect wallpaper for the shade and your home design.
Amaranth
A vivid pinkish-red Amaranth is as bold and vibrant as the flowers it’s named after. This intense, saturated colour exudes confidence and passion, making it ideal for accent walls or dramatic decor pieces. Historically associated with the Amaranth plant, it carries connotations of immortality and resilience. When used sparingly, Amaranth can create a luxurious, energetic vibe, particularly when paired with golds, charcoals, or deep greens for a striking, glamorous look.
Zaffre
A deep, rich blue with historical roots, Zaffre is derived from cobalt oxide and was once used in stained glass and porcelain. Its striking, almost electric quality makes it a perfect choice for feature walls or modern, minimalist designs. Zaffre’s intensity adds drama and sophistication, especially when paired with light neutrals or metallics. The colour works well in both bold, contemporary spaces and traditional settings, lending a regal, timeless allure.
With these shades, you can create a home that is not only unique but also stands out from other home interiors.
