May 312012
Color greatly impacts the way we see the world; it is one of the most dominant characteristics in a room. So when we’re talking about remodeling – whether it’s our home or business – updating the color can give you the biggest bang for your buck. But choosing the right color scheme can be challenging, given the wide range of paint colors available to you. The following tips should help make the paint selection process a little less daunting and a little more fun.
- Gather sample chips and tape them to the wall. Or better yet, buy small samples of the paint and paint sections of your walls. See how the different colors look under different lighting; in the morning, afternoon and night.
- Compare the color with your wood work. Sometimes we can fall in love with a color or the idea of it—a warm orange in a south facing sun-room or a mint green in a bathroom. But pay attention to the colors inherent in cabinets, flooring, furniture and any other permanent objects or features in the room. You may not realize that your ideal color will actually get washed out or fight with what’s already there.
- Beware of trends. You may be seeing the same lime green color all over town in interiors as well as in advertisements and accessories—but try not to get caught up in the trend. Trends are temporary- and should not be the deciding factor when you’re selecting the color for your interior. Instead take the time and pay attention to the colors that make you feel good and that compliment other elements of your space.
- Consider the building’s architectural style. If you live in a traditional southwestern home, tried and true colors are the neutrals and browns reminiscent of the desert, with occasional accents of turquoise that remind us of the blue sky. In a Victorian home, you may look to period colors that acquiesce with the structure’s history.
- Art as muse. Do you own a really great painting? Or do your upholstered furniture or draperies have a beautifully patterned fabric? You may need to look no further for inspiration—base your color selection on a palette that will enhance your art or other items that you know you love.
- Don’t disregard the visual effects of color. Dark, warm hues tend to advance towards us while cool, lighter colors tend to recede. If the room you’re working with is small and you’d like to make it seem less so, don’t go with a dark, saturated hue. Instead opt for a cool hue in a light shade to make the space appear more open. By the same token, use darker colors in large rooms to make them appear cozier.
- Recognize that whatever color you choose does not need to remain on your walls for long if you don’t want it to. Sometimes our fear of making the wrong color choice is enough to send us into a several-month-long period of procrastination. But knowing that a coat of paint can simply be covered by another may well be all you need to actually go forward with it. Yes painting will require an investment of time and money- but as far as home improvement goes, it’s a minor one. Add the fact that you can most likely do it yourself- and presto- this weekend’s disaster can be the next weekend’s redemption. Don’t procrastinate any longer—if you know you dislike the color of your bedroom, change it! Be fearless because you can be.
If you’re considering updating your home or commercial space with a new coat of paint, Advance Concept Construction a call for a free estimate! Our design professionals can help you with color selection too!