IN THIS POST:
Understanding the Power of Color
As an interior designer with a passion for creating spaces that resonate with personality and emotion, I’m always excited to dig into color theory and how color overall affects our mood and mental state. Today, I thought it would be fun to share more about how exactly certain hues have the power to influence us, and share some examples.
Choosing the Perfect Palette
When selecting colors for your home, consider not only your personal preferences but also the mood you want to evoke in each space. Soft, neutral tones like warm beiges and creamy whites help to create a space that is calming. I’m impartial to neutral, more earthy tones. However, if I was to choose where these types of colors really do their jobs, it would be bedrooms and living areas. Meanwhile, bolder hues are great for home theaters, dining rooms, powder rooms, and foyers.
Farrow & Ball's "Pigeon"
One of my favorite paint colors for creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere is Farrow & Ball’s “Pigeon.” It might even be my all-time favorite in the green family. This beautiful shade of gray-green exudes elegance and charm, making it ideal for bedrooms, home offices, or even kitchen cabinets. Pair it with crisp white trim and accents of brass or copper for a timeless, classic look, and you have my heart.
Sherwin Williams' "Repose Gray"
When seeking a timeless and versatile hue that effortlessly transitions between spaces, Sherwin Williams’ “Repose Gray” is a top contender. This soft, neutral shade embodies understated elegance, serving as the perfect backdrop for a variety of design styles. Whether decorating the walls of a cozy living room or gracing the cabinets of a modern kitchen, “Repose Gray” exudes a sense of calm sophistication that harmonizes effortlessly with any decor.
Benjamin Moore's "Simply White"
Benjamin Moore’s “Simply White” emerges as the ultimate expression of refined elegance. This crisp, clean white brings a sense of purity and lightness to any space, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to create a bright and airy atmosphere.”
Harnessing the Power of Contrast
Incorporating contrast into your color scheme can add depth and visual interest to your space. Pairing light and dark hues creates a sense of balance and drama, while mixing complementary colors adds a pop of excitement. Whenever I mention this, clients say they have a difficult time finding contrasting colors. If you fall into this team, I suggest looking at a color wheel. You likely wouldn’t use the specific colors within a color wheel, but it acts as a sort of visual cue to start training your eye.
A Little Experiment
If you follow some interior design accounts on instagram, you may have noticed that red is increasing in popularity. I have to say, I love how striking this color can look in interiors, but have also noticed that you really stop and take in what you’re looking at and tune into your body, what do you feel? Probably not a wave of calm. Go on, try it. Side note, yes I know I should have added a red room here but I would just feel too mean putting a perfectly beautiful red room on blast.
Creating a Harmonious Flow
When designing your home, a good rule of thumb is to follow the 60% 30 % 10% rule. This is where 60% of your color palette is in your “main” color. 30% is in a secondary color and 10% is in an accent color. This can fluctuate, but acts as a road map to ensure you’re on the right track.
Color Psychology is a powerful tool that can help you create a home that not only looks beautiful but also feels uplifting and inspiring. Whether you’re painting walls, choosing furniture, or selecting decorative accents, remember to consider the emotional impact of color and trust your intuition as you bring your vision to life. With a little creativity and a lot of heart, you can transform your home into a vibrant reflection of your unique personality and style. Happy decorating!
difficult time finding contrasting colors. If you fall into this team, I suggest looking at a color wheel. You likely wouldn’t use the specific colors within a color wheel, but it acts as a sort of visual cue to start training your eye.
