Can you guess the most asked about design quandary?   That’s right, color!  “What color should I paint my house?”  “I just purchased new bedding and want to paint my bedroom.” “We are building our dream home, where do I begin?”  We’ve all been there, and while I don’t believe there is a right or wrong way to approach color there are a few do’s and don’ts that I think will make choosing color less stress and more FUN!  Color is something to be experienced, a compliment to the envelope you call home, an expression of your innermost self.  Let’s jump in…

Do…consider the interior architecture of your home.  I have a rule for choosing color in a house heavy in architectural detail; apply colors with low saturation.  A subtle color palette will compliment, not compete with the architecture.  Get your pop of color in your accessories, such as pillows and vases.  

Don’t…head to your local paint store empty handed with no direction.  Every design needs a jumping off point.  What is yours?  Your color palette can come from a number of sources.  It could be the piece of art you picked up this weekend, a throw pillow you’ve loved for years, or that favorite dress hanging in your closet.  I often ask my clients what colors they wear and what have their friends complimented when they wear it.  If the color looks good on you then it is a great starting point for what would look great on your house too.  

Do…consider your colors as a collection.  Colors in your home are an experience that is moved through in a sequence of layers.  One color is rarely enough when you view them as more than a vertical surface.  Even in the smallest of spaces you often have multiple rooms and/or surfaces in your view at one time.  These individual moments interact together to create the complexity of home and evokes the emotion that color can personally express.  

Don’t…be afraid to ask.  At any moment there may be a brilliant resource right across the paint store counter.  I don’t promote or utilize any one color brand or manufacturer.  In a world of color that can be overwhelming and daunting I choose to use all of it!  I never want to feel limited; in fact there are times when only a custom color mix will do.  All you have to do is ask!    

Are you afraid of color?  Test your color confidence first with an accessory or textile.  Adding mini-moments of color to your existing space can be the refresh you’ve been seeking.  Color combinations I’m crushing on right now:  yellow-gold and navy; sky blue and citrus yellow, grass green and creamy white, fuchsia and tangerine.  Now it’s your turn; go have an adventure in color!  

Shoot me an email with your color confidence for a chance to win something really cool!