3 Ways Color Choices Can Make or Break Your Home Design

My client finds it hard to leave her bedroom! The natural pale green tones make her feel content and peaceful, while whimsical blush accents add a subtle, charming accent.

I love using color tricks to enhance your home life. A dramatic color in a game room can amplify the excitement of the activities. Painting the ceiling a specific color can make it visually recede, making the room feel larger. A dark color in a tiny powder room can add depth and create a striking contrast with adjoining rooms. Here’s how it works…

1. Understand the Common Associations of Each Color

Colors can evoke emotional reactions based on associations and cultural experiences. For example, primary colors often evoke childhood memories, while high-contrast colors can create excitement. Low-lit soft red or rosy walls can feel romantic, and colors reminiscent of the ocean and sky can evoke a sense of calm, similar to a spa.

Your personal experiences also shape your color preferences. For example, a gray-blue space might remind you of your grandmother's loving embrace, while light yellow walls can bring the sun's warmth into your space.

2. Exploring the Range of Color Variations Available

Because primary colors often have a juvenile association, I prefer using colors with a hint of gray. Secondary colors tend to be more interesting. For example, I opt for teal instead of plain blue, and a rusty red is more appealing than a bright red.

When I visit your home, I look at the colors you're wearing, the colors in your artwork and furniture, and the colors on your walls. I might ask you what you like in your favorite room and what you dislike about another.  I use these observations to narrow color options to two or three choices rather than overwhelming you with the entire paint deck.

3. Creating a Personalized and Cohesive Whole-Home Color Palette

No color is off-limits. Bolder colors are often most powerful when used sparingly as accents.  Monochromatic schemes can be highly effective when they incorporate varying tones and textures. Inspiration can sometimes come from multicolored fabrics, paintings, or throw blankets, guiding the color palette for an entire room or house.

I always feel that we should commit to color! Change the accent pillows or repaint your walls.  Have fun and play with it.

We specialize in providing great color advice and beautiful home inspiration. Reach out, we’d love to help you with your next project.

Until next time,

Christie