Coral Color Pantone

Coral Color Pantone refers to coral shades defined within the Pantone colour system, a widely used colour reference for design, interiors, fashion and product development. One of the best-known Pantone coral shades is PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral, which was selected as Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2019. Pantone describes Living Coral as a vibrant yet mellow coral with a warm golden undertone.

Coral sits between pink, orange and red, creating a warm and lively colour that can bring energy to an interior without feeling as intense as a pure red. In home décor, coral can be introduced through upholstery, cushions, artwork, rugs, lamps, ceramics and other decorative accents.

Quick Facts

• Well-known Pantone shade: PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral
• Colour family: Warm orange/coral
• Undertone: Golden and warm
• Interior character: Energetic, welcoming and optimistic
• Popular pairings: Cream, beige, white, navy, green and natural timber
• Best use: Accent furniture, textiles, artwork and decorative accessories

Why It’s Popular

Coral is an expressive colour that can instantly add warmth and personality to an interior. Unlike stronger reds, coral has a softer quality created by its combination of orange and pink undertones.

Pantone's Living Coral became particularly recognised after being selected as the Colour of the Year in 2019. The shade was presented as a warm, life-affirming colour inspired by the natural vibrancy associated with coral reefs.

In interiors, coral works particularly well as an accent colour. A coral cushion or decorative vase can enliven a neutral room, while a coral armchair or upholstered sofa can become a more dramatic focal point.

The colour can also be adapted to different design styles. Softer coral tones can create a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere, while richer coral shades can add sophistication and drama.

Popular Coral Pantone Styles

Living Coral

PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral is a distinctive warm coral shade with a golden undertone. It can be used as an accent across furniture, textiles, accessories and wall décor.

Soft Coral

Paler coral tones have more of a peach or blush quality. They work beautifully in bedrooms, sitting rooms and relaxed contemporary interiors.

Coral Pink

Coral with stronger pink undertones creates a softer and more romantic appearance. It pairs particularly well with cream, ivory and warm beige.

Coral Orange

A stronger orange-based coral creates a more energetic statement. It can work particularly well in modern interiors where a vibrant accent is required.

Deep Coral

Deeper coral shades can introduce greater richness and visual depth. They work particularly well with dark timber, navy, charcoal and antique brass.

Muted Coral

Muted coral tones are softened with beige, grey or earthy undertones, making them easier to incorporate into understated interiors.

How to Choose

When choosing a coral shade, consider the amount of natural light in the room. Bright spaces can accommodate stronger coral tones, while darker rooms may benefit from softer or warmer variations.

Think about the existing colour palette too. Coral can complement neutral interiors particularly effectively, but it can also work alongside deeper shades such as navy, forest green and charcoal.

Material can change the appearance of coral. Velvet tends to make the colour appear richer and more luxurious, while linen and cotton create a softer, more relaxed impression.

For a subtle approach, introduce coral through smaller accessories. If you want the colour to become a defining part of the room, consider a coral accent chair, artwork, rug or upholstered furniture.

Styling Tips

Coral works beautifully with cream and ivory, creating a warm and welcoming combination that feels sophisticated rather than overly bright.

Pair coral with natural timber for a relaxed, organic interior. Oak, walnut and woven materials can help balance the vibrancy of the colour.

For a more dramatic look, combine coral with deep navy or charcoal. The contrast gives the room a polished and contemporary character.

Brass and gold accents can emphasise the warm undertones of coral, making the colour particularly effective in glamorous living rooms and dining spaces.

For a botanical-inspired scheme, combine coral with soft or deep greens. The relationship between warm coral and natural green creates an appealing connection with the colours found in nature.

Benefits at a Glance

• Adds warmth and energy to interiors
• Creates an attractive accent colour
• Works with both modern and traditional styles
• Complements warm neutral palettes
• Pairs beautifully with natural materials
• Can be introduced through small accessories
• Makes statement furniture visually distinctive
• Works across upholstery, artwork and soft furnishings

Inspiration from Designer Brands

Coral accents can be incorporated alongside furniture and accessories from established interiors brands such as Eichholtz, Richmond Interiors, Gallery Direct, Tommy Franks, Uttermost, Jonathan Charles and Malini.

For an elegant scheme, combine coral accessories with neutral upholstered furniture, warm timber and metallic lighting. In a more contemporary room, use coral as a vivid accent against cream, charcoal or navy.

The key is proportion. Coral does not necessarily need to dominate a room. A carefully chosen chair, cushion, vase, artwork or decorative object can provide enough colour to bring an otherwise neutral scheme to life.

Common Questions

What is the Pantone coral colour?

There are numerous coral shades within Pantone's colour libraries. One of the most recognised is PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral, the Pantone Colour of the Year for 2019.

What colour is Pantone Living Coral?

Living Coral is a warm, vibrant coral shade positioned between orange, pink and red, with a noticeable golden undertone.

What colours go with coral?

Coral works well with cream, ivory, beige, white, navy, green, charcoal, natural timber and warm metallic finishes.

Is coral a warm colour?

Yes. Coral is generally considered a warm colour because of its orange, pink and red characteristics.

How can I use coral in interior design?

Use coral through cushions, throws, artwork, rugs, lamps, ceramics or accent furniture. Smaller touches can introduce the colour without overwhelming the room.

Finishing Touch

Coral Color Pantone offers an expressive way to bring warmth, optimism and personality into an interior. From the celebrated PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral to softer and deeper coral variations, the colour can be adapted to everything from subtle accessories to statement furniture. When balanced with neutral tones, natural materials and carefully selected metallics, coral can create an interior that feels both energetic and sophisticated.

Disclaimer: House of Isabella is not affiliated with any third-party brands mentioned. All trademarks remain the property of their respective owners.