PAINT COLORS: Dos and Don’ts
Thinking about giving your space a facelift without shelling out a bucket of money? Paint is your answer! But before you head out to the paint store, let’s dig in to some logistics you should be aware of to better prepare yourself for a successful color choice.
DO: Decide how you want your space to feel.
When you enter your space, what emotions do you want to experience? Are you looking to feel eased, calm and a sense of tranquility? Or would you rather a burst of vibrance and playfulness? Another way to assess which route to take is the functionality of the room. Are you using this space to relax? Or are you using this space to let the good times roll? Softer, earthy tones exude relaxation and restfulness, on the other hand, bold hues create a sense of alertness and activity.
DO: Take a peek inside your closet.
Fashion and Design are very closely related. Having a look at the clothes and styles you wear is helpful in determining a paint color you’ll love. Which colors are you most comfortable in? Which colors do you feel look best on you? If you’ve been loving a trendy Sunflower yellow paint color but don’t gravitate towards it in your wardrobe, it may be best to search for another option. This way, five years down the road, that Sunflower yellow won’t get tired or dated and, more importantly, the alternate option will speak true to YOU.
DO: Take into consideration the colors of the neighboring rooms.
There is a lot (A LOT) of science behind colors. When choosing a color for a specific space, think about the color in the room nearby. An industry term called “Simultaneous Contrast” is used to describe the effect adjacent areas of color have on one another. This comes into play because you don’t want the colors to clash, be too close in color that it looks as if the paint wasn’t mixed properly, etc. For instance, when you’re gathering an outfit together, you don’t choose your pants separately from your shirt or blouse. They must complement each other and harmonize.
DO: Consider the view when you look out the window.
Designers consider all aspects of a situation and this includes your exteriors (contrary to the word “interior” in our title). Consider that maybe if you have a window view staring directly at another building or something that is, dare I say, booooring, perhaps you want to splash your walls with a fun or exciting color that gives you that boost of energy and makes you feel alive.
DON’T: Paint one wall an “accent” color
There once was a time where accent walls were all the rage. And I have to admit, some of them were successful but there’s a time and a place for them so please proceed with caution in this department. Generally, when only one of the walls is painted a contrasting color just to be different with no real intention behind it, it unfortunately tends to become a bit of an eye sore. When or if you’re creating an accent wall, have a plan ready to rock and make it a focal point – the most important part of the space. The wow-factor.
DON’T: Choose paint first.
Whaaaaat?? Yes, it’s true. Choosing your paint color before your furnishings or selecting furnishings to complement your already-applied wall color will only cause headaches. Rather, select your furnishings (this includes any area rugs!) prior to your paint color. By doing it this way, you’re way more likely to find a paint color that’ll work with your pieces of furniture and accessories quite nicely. Typically, designers choose paint colors (close to) last.
DON’T: Rely on Paint Chips
When seeking out colors, consider painting samples on your wall OR a board that you can move around the space. I say this because colors look quite different on a paint chip or fan deck than they do in the actual space you plan to use it in. It may be a beautiful color but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will look the same in YOUR home as it does on the fan deck or your best friend’s living room walls. Sample, sample, sample. You’ll thank yourself for it and you’ll save yourself the hassle of possibly having to repaint your space 2 years later because the original color you chose “doesn’t feel right”.
When it comes to paint, there are SO many options; I get it, it can be overwhelming. Rather than having a minor panic attack while examining a paint deck, follow these helpful tips and you’ll be sure to settle on a color that you’re not only ecstatic about but will harmonize with the space perfectly. But if you’re still apprehensive and need guidance, I’d love to assist. Hit the button below to schedule a discovery call with me!
