Décor is a fascinating subject that most of us take a great interest in.
It is one of those topics that is easy to talk about and form an opinion on, but when it comes to styling our own homes, a lot of us flounder.
With interior design programmes and property shows permanently available on tap, and even re-runs from the early 2000s seemingly an enjoyable way to spend a free hour, it’s fair to say we are a little obsessed. Because home really is our castle. We feel safe in our fortress and we love to decorate it with objects that make us happy.
So how do you go about the task of making your home somewhere to luxuriate and destress? In this article, we are going to focus on colour, so you can avoid any mishaps when selecting your paints and furniture.
THE SCIENCE BIT
People often like to use neutral yellows, beiges or creams to provide a subtle backdrop without fear of ugly contrasts, but you can certainly have more fun than simply reaching for the magnolia.
We are brought up on the belief that you either have a designer’s eye or you don’t. However, by actively looking at your surroundings, you can train your own eye to see which colours look best. Although, until you do, the good news is you can apply a bit of science to get you started. Simply access the colour wheel to start creating sensational colour schemes and you’ll be well on your way to interior design success.
Here are our options for creating your colour schemes.
OPTION 1: PAINT IT ALL WHITE
If you’re feeling risk-averse, you can simply paint everything white. Nothing will clash with this colour, and you’re guaranteed a light, airy feel.
Accessories in black will stand out against this white backdrop incredibly well.
Also, plants and small pops of colour will lend personality to a white room. For example, white walls and black furniture and a red wall hanging can be quite dramatic.
The great thing about using white is that when you get sick of your current room, you can easily breathe new life into it by just changing your accessories and soft furnishings.
OPTION 2: MONOCHROMATIC (But not monotonous)
A monochromatic colour scheme means you are using the same hue (i.e. blue) in light or darker variations. So, if you’re opting for blue, try navy and sky blue as alternatives.
Don’t forget to contrast your monochromatic room with a few neutrals, metallics or wood to make it less samey.
OPTION 3: COMPLEMENTARY (Opposites attract)
Choose your main colour and find its opposite on the colour wheel for an accent colour (i.e. the colour that will be saved for your focal point accessories).
If you’re crazy about orange, try complementing it with blue or turquoise accents.
OPTION 4: ANALOGOUS (Best friends sit next to each other)
The colours next to each other on the colour wheel don’t produce high contrast but they do blend well together producing some excellent effects.
So yellow, green and orange as a spring nature theme would set an interesting tone for a lively, fun-loving space.
OPTION 5: TRIADIC (Like a triangle)
Using the colour wheel to create a triangle, you can find some eclectic combinations.
Think pink, blue and yellow or your primary colours in different tints and shades to create something unusual. If you’re going for a vintage look with a lot of miscellaneous items, a triadic scheme could be a good bet.
DON’T FORGET ABOUT YOUR NEUTRALS
Your neutrals are black, white, grey, browns, cream, and beige. So while you’re going mad splashing out on brightly coloured furniture and cushions, remember that neutrals can keep everything under control.
So instead of having all your walls painted turquoise, why not paint one wall or your chimney breast in the stand out colour, and use a lighter neutral for the remaining three? Or buy all your accessories in wood or metal?
Some of us are phobic about decorating and getting the paints out, but most of us do a decent enough job of getting dressed in the morning, so just remember, if it makes a good outfit, it will probably make a good colour scheme for your living room too.
If you’re getting your room ready for the winter season and you think you may need some space to keep your furniture safe, check out our household storage options.