Choosing the perfect paint color for your home can feel like a daunting task. With so many shades and hues available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or doing a full home makeover, choosing the right paint color is crucial to setting the tone and atmosphere of your space. At DL Rich Designs, we’re here to help you navigate this colorful world and find the best shade for your home.
First, let’s begin with some quick definitions of terms often used when referring to color:
Hue: Simply put, Hue refers to the color, i.e. red, blue, yellow, green, orange.
Tint: A tint is made by adding white to a color to make it lighter, as when a pastel color is created, i.e. light green, sky blue, peach.
Shade: A shade is made by adding black to a color to make it darker, think navy blue, forest green.
Tone: Tones are created by adding both white and black to colors to create more nuanced, muted effects. Many grays are very tonal, which is why they are often referred to as a “blue” gray or a “green” gray, etc.
All hues come in different tints, shades and tones, including white and black, so there are almost unlimited color choices for your walls. That’s why it is ideal if at all possible to choose your paint color as part of your decorating plan to ensure that your décor is cohesive. It will be a lot easier to find the perfect paint color to match your furnishings and finishes than to find the perfect fabrics to match your paint.
1. Understand the Power of Color
It’s helpful to understand the psychological impact of color. Each color evokes a specific mood and can influence the feeling of your space. In general:
- Cool colors like blues and greens promote relaxation and calm, making them ideal for bedrooms or bathrooms.
- Warm colors like reds, yellows, and oranges bring energy and warmth, perfect for living rooms or dining areas.
- Neutral colors such as beige, gray, and white are versatile and timeless, giving your space a balanced, airy feeling.
This is general guidance. Keep in mind that the tint, shade or tone of the color can change its impact. A tinted blue can be fresh, light and airy, while tonal electric blue can be vibrant and energizing.
2. Consider Your Existing Furnishings and Décor
When selecting paint colors, consider the furnishings, finishes, and features you already have in your room. You don’t want the paint to clash with your furniture or hard finishes like kitchen tile or cabinets (be mindful that whites, grays and beiges all have undertones).
So begin by choosing a paint color that complements your existing pieces. For example, if you have a bold, patterned sofa, you might want to choose a solid paint color to keep the room feeling balanced. Select a solid color that matches a color that is included on the sofa fabric, with the goal of matching it as closely as possible. Alternatively, if your furniture is more neutral, a statement paint color (or wallpaper, but that’s a blog for another day), can add personality and flair. When selecting the statement paint color, ensure that the tones are compatible. For example, if you have a cool gray sofa, don’t select a warm gray paint.
Once you have a better understanding of the general mood you want to create, it’s time to think about your current furnishings, finishes, and overall décor. The paint color you select should complement these elements to create a cohesive and harmonious look.
3. Test Before You Commit
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s crucial to test the colors in your space before making your final decision. Lighting can drastically change how a color appears, so make sure to paint a small patch on the wall and observe it at different times of the day. This will allow you to see how the color reacts to natural light and how it fits with your room’s other elements. One way to ensure that the paint color will work in your space is to first ensure that the works with the other colors in the room: furniture, fabrics, tiles, etc. The light will impact the entire room in a similar way. Ensuring that the colors work together, will ensure that they will look cohesive regardless of the changes in light. Be very mindful of competing undertones.
4. Don’t Be Afraid of Bold Choices
While neutral shades are safe, don’t shy away from bold or dark colors! A rich navy blue or forest green can create a luxurious, cozy feel in any room. If you’re unsure about making a bold choice, start with one wall or a small area like an accent wall or a feature like trim or cabinetry. Just make sure to repeat it in some other feature in the room so it makes since – artwork, pillows, rugs, etc.
5. The Role of Accent Walls
Accent walls can help break up a space and add visual interest without overwhelming the room. If you’re hesitant to commit to a bold color on all four walls, try adding a deep accent wall in a color that complements the rest of the room.
6. Use a True Color Expert
Choosing the right paint color might feel like a science experiment, but DL Rich Designs is here to take the guesswork out of it. As True Color Experts, we specialize in helping you choose the right paint color that not only match your existing décor but also enhance the entire design of your home. Working with a professional helps to ensure that your paint choice will be one you’ll love for years to come.
Choosing the right paint color is a personal decision, and it’s all about finding what works best for your space and style. If you’re feeling unsure, don’t hesitate to call DL Rich Designs. Our team is here to guide you through the process, from choosing the perfect shade to creating a space you’ll love.
Ready to get started? Contact DL Rich Designs via our online form, give us a call at 301-678-9657, or schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation today!
