Pantone picks an annual color of the year (this year, it’s the elegant Cloud Dancer) that’s used by interior designers, Pantone picks an annual color of the year (this year, it’s the the fashion industry, and beyond. Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore also forecast color trends each year. Colors are important, and picking the correct one takes some knowledge and time.
There are a few essential steps to take when adding colors to most any space. Enlisting the assistance of a design professional can facilitate your decision process by determining which route to take and what colors to use, ultimately making the most of your time and money. If you are thinking of adding color to your space, there are considerations to be made. What do you want the room to convey? How do you want it to feel?
Cozy and restorative? Energetic and fun? Do you want to have an elegantly dark and moody space, or do you want to experience a fresh and bright feeling? Do you have special elements you want to highlight, like art, or a special piece of furniture? Creating contrast between wall color and art can make the art stand out and become more noticeable, or pulling a color from art and using a shade of it on the wall can pull everything together and create a pleasing a nd cohesive look.
Review the existing colors in the space and determine how potential additions of color can enhance the overall feel of the room. Would bringing in more of a color that is already present (in art, furnishings, and more) create visual consistency that helps all the elements shine and be appreciated? Could an accent wall help to visually define an area? Would changing the colors on your architectural trim and doors elevate the look and feel of the space?
Consider colors that look good on you, that feel flattering to your personal coloring and style. The emotions you feel when wearing certain colors can translate to spaces as well. Think about how the colors in spaces make you feel. The color that surrounds you can enhance or detract from your appearance and experience.
How you review your color samples is important. Looking at paint samples in the store, or laid out on your dining room table, will not provide an accurate representation of how it will look in your home on your walls. Lighting can dramatically affect how colors look. Review paint samples in sunlight, on a cloudy day, in natural and artificial lighting, during the daytime, and at night.
Color can evoke a wide variety of feelings and emotions, and affects how you experience spaces. Colors can induce relaxation and peaceful comfort, or excitement, creativity, and energy.
Scotti J. Campbell is an interior designer and owner of SJC Design & Interiors.Molly McCabe, is the principal designer and owner of McCabe By Design.
