5 Designer Tips for Decorating with Color
Straight from the source.
Color doesn’t need to be scary! Whether you’re looking for paint color inspiration, living room color ideas or simply want to shake up a too neutral space, it’s easier than you think to infuse your home with more bold hues. Use some of these easy to implement tips from interior experts.
Will Taylor, Bright Bazaar
Try the 60-30-10 rule
“The 60-30-10 rule is a great way to balance color in a room. Essentially, it’s a guide that says a room should be 60% primary (or base) palette, so all the main surface areas of the space — walls, ceiling, floors etc. Then 30% secondary palette, such as upholstery, textiles and so on; and 10% should be left for the introduction of accent color, which could be a single piece such as a statement artwork or a cumulative 10% made up of smaller accessories like pillows, a lamp, and a vase.” – Will Taylor
Blogger and author of Dream Decor: Styling a Cool, Creative, and Comfortable Home Wherever You Live.
Ariel Okin, Founder of Ariel Okin Interiors
Embrace subtle color
“Don't be afraid to use color—it doesn't always have to feel busy or loud. If you’re looking for a more relaxing vibe, try cool toned pastels; light blues and greens evoke feelings of calm and relaxation, and provide a grounding element to spaces. Choosing a pale hue for your walls can create just as big of a statement as lipstick red or a lacquered aubergine, just in a different way. Instead of "look at me!" the room will gently invite its guests to stay and linger for a while. Pair this shade with natural textures and various plants as accents, and you've got yourself an instant sanctuary, ocean view optional.” – Ariel Okin Founder of Ariel Okin Interiors.
Image by Lea Hartman
Opt for bold color in small doses
“Although there are a lot of people who shy away from the use of color because of fear that the look might not work or because of inexperience—don’t let that stop you! Adding color doesn’t have to be such a stressful process. If you don’t want to paint a wall, adding colorful accessories is a sure way to enliven a space until you’re more comfortable with painting a wall.” – Stacey Blake Blogger at Design Addict Mom
Image by Lauren Bradshaw
Match your colors to your mood
“We really love how color can influence your entire mood and the vibe of a space. Choose a soft serene color or clean white—and you are instantly relaxed and calm. While bold and darker palettes tend to add excitement and drama. For example, we always love a clean white main bathroom palette, but in a powder room we want it to be memorable and make a statement!” – Genifer Sohr Interior designer and co-owner of Pencil & Paper Co
Dan Mazzarini , Principal designer at BHDM Design
Opt for complimentary color schemes
“I love to use tone on tone colors—monochrome is always an impactful way to infuse a space with any color. And while I love a neutral space, I like to use greenery and florals to bring color into a home. It’s a cheap and cheerful way to update color in a seasonal way. I also love to use color in triads. The color wheel has so many complementary colors but the triangulation of color seems to always be pleasing to the eye.” – Dan Mazzarini Principal designer at BHDM Design
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