Calm Classroom Decor Themes for a Tranquil Feel

After the craziness of the past 2 years, we could all use a little tranquility. Am I right? Especially with all of the school disruptions so many of us have faced. It can feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions! Not to mention how challenging it is to keep students focused and productive amidst all the changes. But what if your classroom could help? What if it was a place to recharge, refocus, and feel peaceful in? If that sounds good to you, read on for some of my all-time favorite calm classroom decor themes to give you that retreat-like vibe you deserve!

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Colors and Lights

Two of the best ways to influence the atmosphere in your classroom is by using color and light to your advantage.

First, choose your color scheme purposefully. When you tie your room together with a common theme, it feels purposeful and ordered. The less chaos the better when you’re going for a calm classroom, so you want your colors to match a common theme. This means that your accent pieces match the tones of your wall decor. And your furniture, pillows, pictures frames, etc. all compliment that color scheme as well.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to which colors to use. In general, natural hues (like earthy greens, browns, and even blues) tend to create a sense of peace and calm. Like the colors in this Coastal Classroom Decor Theme. Doesn’t it just take you right to the ocean, with a salty breeze blowing gently by?

But don’t rule out bolder colors like magentas and golds just yet! Using bold, deeper colors can also create a tranquil vibe. In this Boho Desert Classroom Decor Theme, the darker colors create a sense of warmth and calm. Like being in a quiet desert during a spectacular sunset that lasts indefinitely!

Next, let’s talk about lighting. Natural light is the goal, but obviously you can’t go around installing new windows in your classroom to let more light in. So, the next best thing is to use soft light, and more of it! Most of our schools are full of that harsh, overhead lighting that doesn’t do our calm-environment-goals any favors. If you add lamps throughout your space, and even string lighting, you can dramatically change your classroom ambience for the better!

Choose your bulbs wisely – they make all the difference. I like light bulbs that give a soft white glow, creating a warm and cozy effect. Also, easily create a magical quality using tiny string lights! Add these to your reading corner or book nook – wherever students go for a quick retreat during the day.

Use a Nature Inspired Classroom Decor Theme

Nothing says peace and calm better than nature. So bring the outdoors in with some intentional greenery! Here are 4 unique examples of nature inspired classroom decor in action. While each design has a distinct style from the others, they all create a sense of calm through elements found in nature.

This on-trend Plant Life Classroom Decor Theme is the picture of modern chic while still being warm and refreshing. And it’s so easy to compliment this theme with live plants throughout your space!

Use this inspirational Scandi Mountains Classroom Decor Theme to create a mountain-side retreat! Not only is the color scheme calming, this theme features motivational messaging that encourages students to reach their goals. It’s uplifting and peaceful at the same time!

Let’s face it. When most of us think of tranquility, we’re going to picture ourselves somewhere in the tropics. So, going with that peaceful impulse is this Modern Tropical Classroom Decor Theme. Palm leaves and tropical vibes are the perfect way to bring a calming effect to your classroom!

The rustic yet stylish simplicity of this Modern Farmhouse Classroom Decor Theme is timeless. It features greenery and wood accents to create a minimalist feel while still being warm and welcoming. This decor creates a sense of peace and calm through natural plant and wood elements.

Create a Calm Environment with Your Classroom Decor

Through a combination of your chosen decor theme and your use of color and light throughout your space, you can create the perfect calming environment for you and your students.

I hope these calm classroom decor themes have given you some fresh inspiration! I’d love to see the peaceful atmosphere you create in your classroom. Share your photos with me on Instagram @ashleymckenzietpt. Enjoy!