Many of us would have made a pilgrimage to Japan around this time of the year to enjoy the cherry blossom season – sitting under the canopy of blooming flowers, palest pink petals fluttering all around us as we enjoy our bento and matcha. Alas, it will take some time to be able to do hanami like we used to. But we can take inspiration from it for our spaces.

Photo courtesy of Kare.

“Pink is generally a joyful colour, and this gentle sakura shade can be incredibly calming and comforting,” says Wong Liangyuan, colour specialist at Haven Lifestyle. “When applied to a space, this colour will help create a very tranquil and serene atmosphere.”

Photo courtesy of Montana.

For instance, this entryway furnished with shelves from Danish brand Montana, which features a blush-toned neutral called Oat that brings out the warm pink undertone of the timber flooring.

“Go tone-on-tone across different materials, like timber, textiles or even leather to create a very sophisticated, layered look.”

wong liangyuan, haven lifestyle

This nourishing shade of pink pairs well with darker natural wood colour, as well as a fluorescent accent like the chartreuse of the stool. Go tone-on-tone neutral to keep it soft and mellow, or go bolder with the accent colour to keep things fresh.

Photo courtesy of Montana.

“Here we see it paired with a pop of bright contrast, but it could also be matched with a paler yellow or even olive or fern if we did not want a stark contrast,” says Liangyuan.

As it is almost white, the sakura shade can serve as a neutral colour, allowing it to be matched with many shades and tones across the colour spectrum. 

Photo courtesy of Kare.

“This almost-white sakura pink is beautiful when applied as the main colour. Go tone-on-tone across different materials, like timber, textiles or even leather to create a very sophisticated, layered look,” says Liangyuan.

“As an accent, it pairs well with neutrals and monochromatic. Pops of pale pink against white or dark grey or black make for a chic look.”