We all know how certain colours make us feel, and this blog will take you through using colour for harmony in your home.
First of all, according to my research, colour theory is interesting but there is still much to learn about how and why colour affects us. So these are my top tips for you to consider and adapt in your own unique style.
#1 What is the purpose of the room?
Bright, warm colors stimulate energy and optimism, while cool, subdued colours are soothing and calming. It seems pretty obvious that the colours you use in a restful bedroom will be different from a living room where there is activity and positive energy.
#2 Warm energising colours
Red, orange, yellow and pink can all be used to lift the energy of the room. That said, painting an entire room in one block of vibrant colour could be a bit overwhelming. If your walls are a neutral shade, you can easily switch the ambience up a few degrees with carefully selected accessories – rugs, cushions, lamp shades, blinds or curtains, even art work that you love. If you are looking at repainting, an accent wall can work well, with other walls in a softer complementary colour. And don’t forget wallpaper on a focus wall. There are some incedible designs available – it all comes dwn to your taste and the vibe you want to create.
According to mhsnational.org, pink is the calmest of the warm colours. ‘Bright shades like fuchsia are linked to higher energy and confidence, while lighter shades give feelings of care and quiet strength.’ Pink is not recommended for dining rooms and yet… My daughter painted one wall in her dining room a bright pink (which is startling when you first see it) and the other walls are a deep blue. The furniture is also dark. The overall effect is surprisingly positive – and, interestingly, dinner times with the family are often full of lively conversation. Makes you think, doesn’t it!
#3 Cool colours for bedrooms, home offices, snugs and studies
Green is popular this year for bedrooms – soft shades that suggest calm, peace and harmony. It signals a return to nature and all the benefits that brings. Blues and purples are associated with serenity, while also increasing feelings of creativity and inspiration – ideal for your home office!
#4 Neutrals
These include grey, brown and white. They are colours of wood and stone – grounding, stable and comforting bases to support brighter, more stimulating colours in contrast. (Would I have a brown wall? Probably not – not my taste! But the brown of natural wood in furniture, brown bouclé or velvet throws or cushions have lovely warmth and comfort, especially in winter)
What about black? I’ve seen photos of living rooms painted entirely in black, with gold fittings and fixtures. Very classy and sophisticated – and if that’s to your taste, that’s your choice. However, my instinct is to use black with care – to complement rather than dominate a room’s décor. In my view, black has so many associations with gloom, and dark feelings that the risk is to depress the energy of a room, and not in a good way!
Whatever you decide, your home will be a reflection of your character and uniqueness. It’s where you work, rest and play – and your own instincts about colours will make it what you want it to be. And of course, if a particular idea doesn’t quite work – nothing is set in stone. Step back, reflect and have another go! Have fun!
By the way….
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