How to Select Bold Colors for Your Home

11 Dec How to Select Bold Colors for Your Home

Choose bold paint colors to inject drama and vibrancy into your home’s interior design. Paint colors are an excellent way to reflect your style and personality. And what better place than your home? Here’s how to embrace bold hues with confidence and style.

Use the 60-30-10 Rule

When selecting bold paint colors, maintain balance by sticking to the 60-30-10 Rule. While you can certainly paint an entire room in a bold color, typically, they’ll appear as an accent (30%) or pop of color (10%). Neutral tones (60%) anchor bold colors and prevent them from overwhelming the room.

Color Drenching

Now that you know about the 60-30-10 Rule, let us introduce you to a contrasting concept: color drenching, which has become very popular. Color drenching is when one color is used across the entire room on walls, trim, doors, and ceiling. Color drenching in a small room has a high-wattage impact and can be stunning.

Consider the Room’s Purpose

Colors influence emotions. Understand how you want to feel in a space before committing to a color. Vibrant reds and oranges add energy, making them ideal for social areas like the living room, family room, or playroom. Deep blues and greens bring calm, perfect for bedrooms or offices.

Start Small

If you’re new to bold colors, start with a single accent wall, a piece of furniture, or accessories like throw pillows and art. Testing the waters in smaller doses allows you to gauge how the color affects the room’s mood. If you like what you see, you can expand the color onto the walls throughout the space.

Pair Bold Colors Mindfully

Pair complementary colors, such as teal and orange or navy and mustard, to create striking combinations. If you’re hesitant, consult the color wheel or opt for a monochromatic scheme with varying shades of the same hue.

Draw Inspiration from Your Favorites: What bold colors do you love? Look at your wardrobe, travels, or favorite artwork. Bold colors often connect to personal experiences, so choosing a hue you love will feel natural and lends itself to creating a space you’ll enjoy.

Test with Paint Samples

Test paint samples on walls or furniture to see how they look at different times of day. Remember that natural and artificial lighting can dramatically change a color’s appearance.

Trust Your Gut

We always encourage our clients to trust themselves when selecting paint colors. Bold colors are all about making a statement. If a color speaks to you, go for it! Your home should reflect your unique style and personality.

Embrace bold hues to transform your space into a vibrant, expressive haven!

Photo: Alan Tansey from Clever Magazine

FAQ

1. How do I balance bold colors in a room without overwhelming the space?

To maintain harmony, use the 60-30-10 Rule: 60% neutral tones, 30% accent color (which can be your bold choice), and 10% as a pop of color. This ensures bold hues enhance rather than overpower your space.

2. What is “color drenching,” and is it suitable for every room?

Color drenching involves using the same bold color on all surfaces—walls, trim, doors, and even ceilings. This technique creates a dramatic, immersive effect, especially in smaller rooms. However, it may be too intense for larger spaces or if you prefer a subtler look.

3. How do I choose the right bold color for a specific room?

Consider the room’s purpose and the mood you want to create. For example, deep blues and greens can evoke calmness and sophistication, making them ideal for bedrooms or studies. Always test samples in your space to see how lighting and size affect the color’s feel.

4. Should I start with small accents or go all-in with bold colors?

If you’re new to bold colors, start with small accents like throw pillows, trim, or a single feature wall. This allows you to get comfortable with the shade before committing to larger areas or more permanent elements like cabinetry or furniture.

5. Are there any risks to using bold colors on furniture or cabinets?

Bold-colored furniture or cabinets can make a strong statement, but they’re a bigger commitment than paint. It’s wise to live with a color in smaller doses first, as repainting cabinets or replacing bold furniture can be costly and time-consuming if you change your mind.

Mike Katounas