Interior Designer Unveils the Ultimate 'Old Money' Bedroom Colour
An interior designer with expertise in the coveted 'old money' aesthetic has disclosed the perfect colour to paint your bedroom to achieve that timeless, generational wealth appearance. Contrary to common assumptions, the recommended shade is neither classic white nor serene blue, which are often touted for their calming effects.
The Rise of the 'Old Money' Aesthetic in Modern Design
The 'old money' aesthetic has surged in popularity within interior design circles, drawing inspiration from television series like Bridgerton and Downton Abbey. This style aims to replicate the look of inherited, long-standing wealth through sophisticated and understated decor choices. Kiki Astor, a romance novelist and interior designer who describes herself as a 'former rich person', leverages her experience living in Montecito, California—an exclusive area also inhabited by Prince Harry and Meghan—to guide others in mastering this elegant approach.
Why White and Blue Don't Make the Cut
In a recent TikTok video, Astor boldly dismissed white and blue as unsuitable for 'old money' bedrooms. She argued that while psychologists advocate for blue bedrooms to promote sleep and restfulness, such advice lacks stylistic merit. "What do they know about style?" she quipped, emphasising that a bedroom should not resemble an art gallery, ruling out white entirely. For those insistent on blue, she cautioned that it must be balanced with carefully chosen furnishings, such as artwork, Persian carpets, and brown furniture, to avoid a nursery-like appearance.
The Surprising Colour Choice for Sophisticated Bedrooms
Astor proclaimed that the only appropriate colour for an 'old money' bedroom is pink—specifically, a neutral pink that can be mistaken for beige. "Not bubblegum pink, not hot pink. No, you paint it the sort of neutral pink that you can tell your husband is beige," she explained with a touch of humour, adding that this subtle hue ensures a cosy and refined atmosphere. She also advised against green in bedrooms, noting it can cast an unflattering light when undressing, and rejected red for awakening passions and grey due to its misuse in modern decor.
Public Reaction and Alternative Perspectives
Viewers largely supported Astor's recommendations, with many sharing their own experiences. One commenter affirmed, "As a lady with a pink bedroom who told her husband it's beige... yes," while another praised the colour's cosiness. However, not all agreed; some pointed out that traditional 'old money' homes often feature wallpapered walls, and others humorously noted their more modest circumstances, such as one user who stated, "I'm no money and my bedroom is the landlord special." This highlights the diverse interpretations and economic realities influencing home decor choices today.
