Turn the volume down on Barbiecore decor and opt for subtle shades

With the new Barbie movie smashing it at the box office, it’s hard to escape the dazzling shades of hot pink favoured by the eponymous heroine. Not least since the film has triggered a home interiors trend known as ‘Barbiecore’ décor.

Of course living in Barbie’s bubble-gum mansion might sound like the recipe for a migraine. But it’s possible to stylishly boost your home with a more judicious pop of pink.

Get the right tone

To be on the safe side of tasteful, opt for sophisticated and muted shades of pink, such as blush, dusty rose, or pastel pink. 

‘These are more versatile and easier to blend with other colours,’ says James Mellan-Matulewicz, creative director at wallpaper studio Bobbi Beck.

‘To create a balanced and elegant look, pair pink with neutral colours like white, cream, beige, or light grey.’ 

Pink, he says, also pairs beautifully with metallic accents like gold, copper, or brass, which add a touch of glamour and sophistication.

Think small

If you’re nervous about committing to pink, start with simple tweaks or small statement changes, such as using pink as an accent colour — say on one wall.

In terms of accessories, go for items you can easily replace and use them to balance the overall neutral scheme of walls, floors, ceilings and joinery, suggests Karolina Adamczyk, chief visionary officer of interior design studio Ademchic.

In the pink: Barbie star Margot Robbie

Cooking with colour

A full on pink kitchen might put you off your dinner. But a subtle pop of colour can bring warmth and depth — perhaps with pink-tiled splashbacks, pink-themed appliances, pink wallpapers or even flooring. The trick is not to do all of the above.

Try mixing a different colour base and wall cabinet or create coloured ‘zones’ within the kitchen, says Dawn Filkins, head of creative at Smile Kitchens. 

For example, a pink island surrounded by neutral-toned cupboards.

Another elegant way to bring pink into your kitchen is to go vintage. 

‘You can bring back the charm and nostalgia of the 1950s with, say, a Smeg fridge in candied pink,’ suggests Anne Haimes, design director and founder of Anne Haimes Interiors.

For bed, press mute

If you want your bedroom to be a haven of peace and relaxation, muted, washed out pink together with natural materials such as wood, rattan and cream boucle can create a calmly stylish effect.

‘Baby pink linens, accent cushions, sheets and throws can soften bedrooms and can be coupled with richer tones of red, ochre, burnt orange and warm brown tones for a more luxurious feel,’ says Alysha Alli, interior designer for housebuilder Redrow.

Pink or swim

Balance is the key when using pink in the bathroom, says Ruth Foster, interior designer at Victoria Plum. 

‘Start by selecting a shade that resonates with your personal taste, such as dusty blush. 

‘Combine the shade with complementary colours and materials like subtle neutrals or brushed brass hardware for a sophisticated touch.’