If you’ve been wondering how to take your classroom decor to the next level, you are in the right place! Choosing a modern classroom color palette is essential to creating a cohesive and inclusive classroom environment. While many teachers opt for a classroom theme, a classroom color palette is not only more aesthetically pleasing, but also better for student academic performance. (If you haven’t read my blog post, Why You Should Ditch Your Classroom Theme and Adopt a Classroom Color Scheme, you may want to check it out to understand the research behind this). In this post, I’m sharing my personal favorite modern classroom color palettes along with must-have, affordable products to match.
Since you’re here, I’m guessing you want some advice in the classroom decor area. Maybe you are a veteran teacher who could use a modern refresh, maybe you’ve been teaching for a few years and finally have the time to get intentional about your classroom decor, or maybe you are a new teacher with a blank slate to decorate and want to do it right the first time. In any case, you are in the right place!
In order to create a cohesive, beautiful space, it is imperative to follow a classroom color palette as closely as possible. First, you’ll want to choose a color palette that’s right for you. Here are a few rules of thumb I follow when choosing the right palette:
- Choose something timeless. You want colors that will last at least a few years (we all know how expensive it can be to redo a classroom!).
- Choose a maximum of 3 or 4 statement colors (Rainbow is not a color scheme). Black, white and neutrals should be used as much as possible.
- Stick to your color palette religiously. Avoid the temptation to impulse buy cutesy things from the dollar section that don’t match your scheme.
- Incorporate items you cannot change, such as furniture or wall colors, into your color scheme. This will create a clean, cohesive look.
- Choose muted tones over bright or neon colors.
Now that you’ve got the low down on choosing a color palette, it’s time to choose one that’s right for you! Below, you’ll find 5 modern classroom color palettes that I created specifically for teachers. These are my personal favorite classroom color palettes, complete with hex codes and must-have items to match. Feel free to use one of these palettes for your classroom, or create your own following the rules above! Happy decorating!
Terra Cotta Modern Classroom Color Palette
First, we have my Terra Cotta Classroom Color Palette. If you consider yourself stylish, laid back and optimistic, this is the palette for you. This is for the modern teacher who loves warmth and sunshine. If I were to get a new classroom today, this is the color palette I’d be going with!
Product Links:
- “In this classroom…” (Set of 3) Digital Artwork from Etsy – $15.80
- Wood Poster Frame – $16.00
- Terracotta Throw Pillows (Set of 2) – $15.99
- IKEA LUSTIGKURRE Wicker Basket – $17.99
- Studio Magee Natural Wood Bench – $120 or IKEA PERJOHAN Bench with Storage – $49.99
- Terra Cotta Clay Pot – $6.97
Earthy Tones Modern Classroom Color Palette
#2 of my 5 modern classroom color palettes is the Earthy Tones Classroom Color Palette. This is the palette for you if you value simplicity, the Earth and a sense of peace. This palette gives me all the relaxing vibes and is perfect for the teacher looking for a more calm and quiet classroom.
Product Links:
- IKEA HELMER Drawer Unit – $39.99
- IKEA KALLAX Shelf Unit in Walnut – $34.99
- Artificial Potted Plant – $15.99
- “We Rise By Lifting Others” Digital Artwork – FREE
- RugsUSA Beige Area Rug 4’x6′ – $127.99
- Kallie WASHABLE Tiled Rug – $72.95
Jewel Tones Modern Classroom Color Palette
Next up, we have my Jewel Tones Classroom Color Palette. Consider this palette if you are bold, adventurous and consider yourself a people-person. This is for the teacher who feels all the feels and loves to have a good time.
Product Links:
- 4-cube Organizer Shelf – $54.99
- Emerald Green Chair – $62
- Brightroom Storage Bin – $9
- “Be Kind” Digital Artwork from Etsy – $5.00
- Paisley Tufted Rug (Gold, 4′ x 5’6″) – $49.99
- Indoor/Outdoor Yellow Rug 5’x8′ – $115.95
- Washable Alphabet Rug
Light & Airy Classroom Color Palette
Another favorite of mine is the Light and Airy Classroom Color Palette. This palette is great for teachers who love to keep things clean and organized. Perhaps you love the smell of freshly wiped desks, crisp morning air and citrusy essential oils. If all of those things make your heart sing, this is the palette for you!
Product Links:
- Mesh Tote with Bamboo Handle – $19.99
- Grey and White Striped Pillow Covers (Set of 2) – $17.99
- “No One is You and That is Your Super Power” Digital Artwork – FREE
- White Chair with Wooden Legs (Set of 2) – $79.99
- 11″ 3-Cube Organizer Shelf – $27
- 11″ Fabric Bin in Mint – $5
Traditional Classroom Color Palette
Last but not least is my Traditional Classroom Color Palette. This palette is for the teacher who likes to stick to the basics– no fluff. Maybe you have kids at home and spending time & money decorating your classroom is not a priority. This palette is perfect for you, since most typical classroom items already come, or can be easily found, in these colors.
Product Links:
- Blue Chair – typical chairs included in many classrooms
- 8 Cube Organizer Shelf – $80
- Yellow Pillow Covers Set of 2 – $9.99
- Grey and White Stripe Pillow 16″x16″ – $17.99
- Brightroom Storage Bin – $9
- “Read Everyday” Digital Artwork from Etsy – $8
So, which palette is your favorite?! I’d love for you to let me know in the comments, or tag me on Instagram @teachinginmyrightmind!
xo,
Kelsey
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a very small commission if you purchase one of these items using the link provided. This is just one small way I can earn money for my family. I only promote products that I already own or would purchase for myself.
