Well, I can't pick your colours for you, but I do have some time-tested suggestions that should make the job a lot easier. And I promise you that the right colours in your home will have a powerful and positive impact on how you feel every day.
How do I choose a colour?
When I start designing a space, I always work on the mood I want to emulate first, then I fill in all the blanks such as the colour and furnishings. Colour is so powerful that a can of paint will immediately change the mood of a room.
Vintage colours have a touch of black in them -- murky greens and reds, greyish blues, and ocher yellow. They will create a traditional palette that is warm and welcoming. Bright, cheerful colours -- pink, periwinkle, orange, lime green -- will make you smile and are ideal for kids' or family rooms. Pastel, earthy Zen shades are soft and calming, whereas strong, bold colours add a sense of drama. It's all about first deciding on the mood for your room, then working with the colours that will build the ambiance.
How do I handle colour in a room with awkward angles?
Use the angles to create interest. Light changes the way we see colour. Choose a colour that you like and paint the room. You will see many shades of the colour, depending on where the shadows fall; the mood of the room will change in day and night lights. The living room seen here has been painted a medium shade of blue. Although it's just one colour, the corners appear darker, giving the whole space an air of whimsy. The black furnishings bring drama to the space and ground each little section.
What colour should my sofa be?
When you are decorating a room, it's best to make the expensive selections first. A sofa is a major investment. There's no rule about the colour you choose; rather, make your selection according to how you use the room and what pleases you. If you fall in love with a red sofa, then go for it; a vibrant colour will rule the room, but that's fine. Once you have chosen your sofa, then choose the room colours; a good sofa will last through a few paint jobs.
My daughter wants a purple room. Help.
Children have wonderful imaginations and haven't yet been beaten down by what colours are socially acceptable. They choose a colour because they love it. There's a lesson there for all of us. If the colour choice is too heavy or energetic for a bedroom, show your child how you can have one solid accent wall of colour, or a lighter version. You can always repaint. Splurge on a few accessories such as a purple lamp or small area carpet with a bold design and invite your child to help you.
Debbie Travis' House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please e-mail your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com
