Sometimes the biggest decorating challenge is where to begin. Whether you start
with a gallon of paint, an area rug, or a handful of accent pieces, one thing’s for sure: the colors you choose can make or break a space. Here are a few tips
on selecting colors to stop you from getting stuck in a rut or getting too
carried away.
Living Room
If your furniture is mostly neutral, there is no end to what you can achieve in
this highly visible area of the home. A number of elements, such as pillows,
rugs, slipcovers, and accessories, can be swapped seasonally to create a whole
new look. If you’re considering a particular shade for the walls but are feeling a bit unsure, go
a few shades lighter on the color swatch or opt for an accent wall instead.
TRY: Pumpkin, sage, or taupe
Kitchen
Contrast works wonders in the hub of the home. For instance, mixed woods for the
flooring and cabinetry make one material easily distinguishable from the next.
Pops of color can be introduced in window treatments, dishes, countertops, and
rugs. Though cheerful colors are particularly popular in the kitchen, go with
your gut and what speaks to you.
TRY: Yellow, green, or gray
Dining Room
Many people tend to go dark in the dining room with various shades of red,
purple, and other rich hues, but there’s no reason why you can’t bend the rules. If you’d like to brighten up the space, go with a dramatic metallic ceiling or a
crystal chandelier that will reflect candlelight. Hang a mirror directly across from a china cabinet for a
reflection that is sure to entice you and your guests.
TRY: Blue, taupe, or gold
TRY: Blue, taupe, or gold
Master Bedroom
This is where it makes sense to select a different palette from the rest of the
house. Soothing colors reign supreme in spaces intended for rest and
relaxation. But remember, the neutrals you choose don’t need to put you to sleep. Instead, stay away from beige and opt for a pretty
pastel or a cool contemporary color.
TRY: Soft pink, powder blue, or gray
Bathrooms
This is a place to make your mark. While you may want to continue with a neutral
palette in the master bath to mirror a serene scheme in the master bedroom, the
powder room or guest bathroom can be a place to go a little crazy with color.
Use high-gloss white on moldings and trim as a contrast to all that color.
TRY: White or cream for master and lavender or black for guest bath
Photography provided by ©iStockphoto.com/Ruud de Man, ©iStockphoto.com/benz190, ©iStockphoto.com/mm88, ©iStockphoto.com/Rob Broek.
Foyer
Think long and hard about the way you want to feel when you first enter your
home after a long day. Do you want to wipe the slate clean (white) or would you
prefer to be greeted with a bright smile (yellow)?
TRY: Yellow, white, or taupe
Family Room
In a room that tends to be more casual, it’s OK to do the unexpected. Add a pop of color with something bright, such as
orange or lime green accent pieces. Happy hues make for a happy home. In the
end, remember that the purpose of color is to set a scene, and the ambience
should always create a positive reaction for you and your family.
TRY: Orange, bright green, or navy
Written by Jeanine Matlow.
