The Art of Colour: A Conversation with Halleroed

Halleroed’s design language speaks in contrasts, blending daring choices with quiet restraint. Masters of layering, they weave textures, colours, and patterns into a finely tuned harmony, always drawing attention to a space’s most compelling features. With a thoughtful approach to spatial design and meticulous attention to detail, Halleroed creates environments that feel as inviting as they are intentional — a true testament to the power of considered design.

There’s a quiet charm to Ruxandra and Christian of Halleroed, a Swedish design studio with a portfolio that reads like a who’s-who of contemporary luxury brands, including Toteme, Acne Studios, Saman Amel and Byredo. But for all their well deserved acclaim, they remain unassuming, their work reflecting a balance of daring and restraint. From the subtle interplay of natural materials to the boldness of a red-painted beam or lacquered detail, Ruxandra and Christian Halleroed’s designs are imbued with a sense of place and purpose.

“Every space has its story,” Ruxandra shares, “and our role is to bring that narrative to life.” This philosophy extends to their thoughtful use of colours and textures — from a flagship store in Shanghai to a serene archipelago cottage in Sweden, Halleroed’s approach is at once bold and nuanced.

Here, Ruxandra and Christian share their insights on design and colour: where to start, how to balance textures, and why sometimes, adding a touch of gloss is the right choice.

Understanding Your Surroundings

The foundation of Halleroed’s colour philosophy lies in observation. “Alot depends on the space, the light, and the people who will use it,” Christian explains. Whether designing a cosy living room or a large retail space, they consider every detail: how the sun moves through a room, the client or brand’s personality, and the function of the area.

For Halleroed, this understanding shapes the colour palette. “A social space like a kitchen might call for bright, energetic tones, while a more introspective area could benefit from warmer, more inviting hues,” says Ruxandra. Colours aren’t chosen in isolation — they emerge from a dialogue with materials, textures, and even the artwork that will occupy the space.

Choosing Focal Points

“Decide on three or four key elements,” Ruxandra advises. “Too many, and the space feels overwhelming. Too few, and it can lack depth.” Halleroed’s mastery lies in their restraint. Neutral tones often serve as the backdrop, allowing bold accents — a cabinet in blush pink or structural elements in a classic red — to take centre stage.

This principle is evident in their work with Acne Studios, where steel frameworks painted in striking colours contrast against otherwise fairly neutral interiors. “Balance is important,” Christian adds. “A single colour or element used in the right way can transform a room without overpowering it.”

The Power of Layering

Colour isn’t just about paint — it’s all in the textures, patterns, and contrasts. In their designs, glossy finishes are paired with matte surfaces, and natural materials like wood and stone are juxtaposed with sleek, lacquered elements. The result is a space that feels rich and inviting, where every detail contributes to the overall harmony. 

Using Dark Colours in Small Spaces

Halleroed challenges the conventional wisdom that small spaces should be light and bright. “Dark colours can create a sense of intimacy,” says Christian. In a narrow corridor or guest bathroom, deep hues can evoke a cocooning effect, transitioning beautifully to lighter, larger spaces. “People often think dark colours make a space feel smaller,” Ruxandra adds, “but in fact, they can often hide imperfections and create a nice, cosy feeling where you least expect it.”

Neutrals: The Unsung Heroes

While Halleroed is known for their bold accents, neutrals remain the backbone of their palette. Creams and beiges provide a versatile base layer, their subtle undertones shifting with the light. “Even small variations in neutral tones can dramatically affect the mood of a room,” Christian explains. The team recommends testing multiple shades in situ, paying attention to how light and shadow interact throughout the day. In spaces with northern light, for instance, warmer undertones can counteract the coolness, creating a more inviting atmosphere.

Floor-to-Ceiling Colour: A Bold Move

Halleroed often advocates for painting walls and ceilings the same colour - especially when it comes to neutrals, to create a seamless, enveloping effect. “When you paint the ceiling white and the walls a different colour like beige, it breaks the flow and can make the ceiling feel lower,” Ruxandra explains. Experimenting with different shades of neutrals in adjoining rooms can also be very effective, especially when they’re applied floor to ceiling - even very small nuances to the choice of neutrals can achieve a subtle but powerful effect.

Framing and Focus

In retail spaces, framing is crucial — highlighting key products without overshadowing the environment. This principle also translates to home design. “It’s a bit like getting dressed for a party - you’re trying to draw attention to your best features,” Ruxandra says. “You frame a piece of art or a standout piece of furniture in a similar way, to draw the eye.”

Halleroed achieves this by playing with contrasts — matte finishes beside high gloss, stone door frames against neutral backdrops or a dark blue ceiling contrasted with lighter walls. “It’s all about directing attention to a particular object,” Christian explains, “while keeping a sense of balance.”

Halleroed’s designs remind us that colour is more than decoration — it’s an emotional tool that shapes how we experience our environments. By thoughtfully layering textures, framing focal points, and embracing the power of contrast, they create spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.

“Colour,” Ruxandra concludes, “isn’t about being loud. It’s about being intentional.”