Thursday, May 17, 2012

How do I choose colors for my home?

Is Beige really Beige?  Is White really White?  The truth is…No!  Just about everyone, when they are choosing colors for their walls, floors, or furniture, will say “I want a neutral color”…frequently meaning beige or off white.  The problem is there are so many different beiges and whites!  Walk into any paint store and count how many different beige and white paint samples are displayed on the wall, they are so similar to each other…but also so different, right?  Right…and the difference is the ‘hue’ or undertone.  Some beiges and whites will have very strong yellow or green (warm) undertones others will have a hint of red or blue (cool) undertones.  All of these beiges and whites are neutral…but with different color undertones.


The challenge is distinguishing the color undertones you want to have in your home.  I know this may sound a little excessive but, my first step in determining the colors I want inside of my own home is knowing what colors I look best wearing.  Sounds like it is all about me?...well in truth, it is!  And, it should be about you when it comes to your own home as well!  For instance, I know that I look like I died 2 days ago if I wear anything with a yellow undertone.  So, why would I surround myself with big walls and furniture colors, that don’t help me look my best?  Just as we dress ourselves to accent our best features, we need to use our homes to flatter us…don’t you want your home to make you look extra fabulous at your next dinner party??


The first step that I would suggest to get you started is to determine what colors look best on you.  These colors will serve as your accent colors (furniture, fabrics, artwork and accessories).  These colors will also help determine your “neutral” color for the walls and floors etc.


For example, the accent colors that I prefer to use in my home are burgundy, sapphire blue and chocolate brown.  Since all of these lean toward the ‘cool’ undertones, my neutral will be a beige or white with blue or red undertones.  I must emphasize that the undertones are very subtle…the beige will look beige, but will enhance my accent colors.


Your second step will be to ALWAYS carry fabric swatches with you when shopping for your paint and flooring selections.  It isn’t a good idea to just guess which is the right green, blue, red or terra cotta in your sofa fabric.  It will save you a lot of time and reduce your stress to be prepared when searching for all the right colors.


I have more suggestions to share with you about choosing the right colors and accent items for your home.
Be sure to check out my weekly posts, so I can help you create a home...where Design meets your LifeStyle.


Talk to you soon…Laura