Picking the right colors for your home is one of the most exciting parts of designing your space, but it can also feel challenging. With so many shades and tones out there, how do you pick the ones that make your home feel both stylish and uniquely yours?
Here’s how we approach color selection as a luxury interior decorator.
1. Start with a Mood in Mind
Colors have a tremendous influence on how a space feels. Before you pick up a single paint swatch, think about the mood you want to create in the room. Are you going for calming and serene, bold and energetic, or warm and inviting? For example, soft blues and greens are perfect for creating a peaceful bedroom retreat, while jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue can add drama and elegance to a formal living or dining room.
2. Use Nature as Inspiration
When in doubt, look outside! Nature offers endless inspiration for stunning color combinations. Think about the warmth of a sandy beach paired with the light beige of driftwood and soft blues of the ocean. Or consider the rich, earthy hues found in a forest. Borrowing from the natural world ensures your palette feels classic.
3. The 60-30-10 Rule Never Fails
This classic design rule is a lifesaver when you’re pulling together a room. The idea is simple. 60% of the room should consist of your dominant color (typically the walls), 30% is your secondary color (like furniture or upholstery), and 10% is the fun accent color (think throw pillows, art, or accessories). Following this breakdown helps keep the space cohesive while still adding interesting layers.
4. Don’t Forget Lighting
Lighting can completely change how a color looks. That soft cream paint may appear warm and cozy in natural daylight but could lean yellow under artificial light. Always test your colors in the space itself, at different times of the day and under various lighting sources. Spending a little extra time here can save you from future disappointment!
5. Make It Personal
Finally, your home should be a reflection of you. If you adore a particular color, there’s a good chance you can incorporate it in a sophisticated way. Tap into what speaks to you personally, whether it’s a dramatic, moody black accent wall or a bright pop of coral, and don’t be afraid to take chances. Design is about creating a space that’s uniquely yours.
