05 Aug Handy Tips for Selecting Paint Color
Posted at 13:42h
in
painting
by Mike Katounas
Selecting a paint color can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. If your one of our current clients, you’re entitled to a one-hour, free consultation with our interior designer to help you select colors. If you’re choosing colors on your own, here are five tips to make the process easier for you.
1. Take your time.
Whether you’re moving into the house or already live there, take your time selecting a new paint color. Consider how natural light changes in the room throughout the day. Consider the space, how you use or plan to use it, and what mood do you want to create for the room? Consider the color of your furniture and how it will coordinate with new wall color. Try putting up some paint samples on various walls and note how the changing light affects the color.
2. Why are you painting?
Before you select a paint color, consider the reasons you are painting or repainting. That can help you choose a color. Are you painting one room, two rooms, or the entire home? The scope of the project can affect how you select a color or colors. If you’re painting more than one room, you need to be sure the colors coordinate or, at the very least, don’t clash.
3. Consider what’s already in the room.
Look at what you already own and love in the room. Note colors and patterns of any soft furnishings and objects. Use those colors to guide you in choosing a paint color. Just make sure the paint color matches things in the room – unless if you plan on replacing those things.
4. Choose a color scheme: Once you’ve considered all of the above, it’s time to create a color scheme.
It starts with the connecting color, the color that will carry through as the most significant color in the room, or even your home. Typically, that’s a neutral color used throughout the most frequently used rooms in the house such as the living room, entrance foyer, and even the kitchen. A neutral color as your connecting color allows you to insert bolder colors through secondary colors. Those are the colors you’ll often find in soft furnishings such as curtains, pillows, or rugs. The connecting color should coordinate rather than clash with the secondary colors.
5. The bigger picture of color.
The connecting color connects the entire house to create a cohesive look. This doesn’t mean that every wall color throughout the house has to be the same. But the connecting color should appear in each room in some way. That’s how you create a cohesive look and color scheme throughout your home.
This is where the 60-30-10 general rule of color comes in handy.
- 60% of the room should be one color. Typically, that’s the wall color.
- 30% should be a supporting color. You can incorporate that with an accent wall, floor coverings, or furniture.
- 10% is the highlight color. These will be your soft furnishings, such as throw pillows, accessories, and other items.
Hopefully, these tips will be helpful. If you’d like us to assess your project and provide a free estimate, please give us a call. We’d be happy to schedule an appointment for you.
FAQ
What is the best way to start choosing a paint color for my home?
Begin by finding inspiration within your space. Look at your existing décor, favorite furniture, or a piece of artwork to guide your color selection. These elements can help you narrow down colors that naturally complement your home’s style and furnishings.
Why is it important to test paint samples before making a final decision?
Paint colors can look dramatically different depending on lighting conditions and surrounding décor. Always test several paint samples on your walls and observe them at different times of day to see how natural and artificial light affect the color’s appearance.
How can I ensure my chosen paint color coordinates with the rest of my home?
Consider the color palette of adjoining rooms and any permanent features like cabinets, flooring, or brickwork. Select colors that harmonize with these elements, and try to keep your overall palette to a few complementary shades to maintain flow throughout your home.
Are there any colors I should avoid for home exteriors or interiors?
Be cautious with bold, bright, or stark colors, especially for exteriors. While these can work in certain settings, most homes look better with muted neutrals or softer shades. Bright whites, for example, can appear too harsh in sunlight and may not deliver the desired effect.
What role does lighting play in paint color selection?
Lighting is crucial. Natural sunlight and the type of artificial lighting in a room can change how a color looks. Spaces with lots of sunlight may wash out lighter colors, while dim rooms can make colors appear darker. Always consider the room’s light exposure and test colors accordingly.
Mike Katounas is the owner of Home Works Painting, a painting business in Northern Virginia. He has over 15 years of experience in residential interior and exterior painting, drywall installation/repair, carpentry, wallpaper removal, power washing, commercial painting, color consultation, and staining/sealing. Their service areas include Chantilly, Fairfax, Herndon, Oakton, Reston. Mike takes pride in his work, and he always follows a strict code of conduct that includes the use of quality paint, a clean workspace, and an honest, respectful approach to his customers.
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