5 Easy Ways to Inject Color Into Your Home
When it comes to decorating your home, choosing the right color palette can be a daunting task. But it doesn't have to be! Understanding the science behind color can help you create a cohesive and inviting space that reflects your personal style. To learn how to think outside the box with color, it's essential to understand the basics of color theory.
Bold complimentary colors magenta and green used in Project Hidden Grove’s bar
Creating color contrast
The color wheel is a visual representation of the relationship between different hues. Colors opposite to each other on the wheel, such as blue and orange, are considered complementary. When used in the same space, these colors create a dynamic contrast and balance that makes a room feel lively and energized.
When putting a complementary color palette into practice, you should be aware of the balance between the opposing two colors. Your space should not have a 50/50 split between the two colors. Instead, it is best to decide which one will be the dominant color and which will be the secondary or accent color. A great way to determine what color will be your dominant color is to think about the feeling you want your space to emit. Take the complementary colors blue and orange, for example. A dominant orange will bring a bold, fun, and energizing mood to your space. A dominant color of blue will give a more calm, subdued, and relaxing feel.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Complimentary colors create a dynamic contrast and balance that makes a room feel lively & energized
Your space should not have a 50/50 split between the two colors. Instead, it is best to decide which one will be the dominant color and which will be the secondary or accent color
2. Adding dimension with similar colors
The monochromatic color scheme
Adding a pop of color to your space can be a great way to give it a fresh look, but have you ever considered using variations of just one color? That's where a monochromatic palette comes in! By using different shades, tints, and tones of a single color, you can create a cohesive and stylish look that feels both calming and sophisticated.
Think about the color wheel for a moment. A shade is created by adding black to a hue, a tint is created by adding white, and a tone is created by adding gray. This means you can easily adjust the intensity and mood of a single color by switching up the shades, tints, and tones you use.
A monochromatic color scheme is an excellent choice for small spaces because it can help make the area feel more spacious and open. Additionally, the consistency in color creates a seamless flow, making the space feel more unified. And because you're only using one color, it's easy to add accent pieces and accessories without worrying about clashing colors.
What’s the secret to making a monochromatic palette look cohesive?
Consider the undertones of the colors you're selecting. Undertones are the hidden hues that can affect how a color appears in different lighting. For example, a "white" paint may have cooler undertones of blue or warmer undertones of yellow.
You want to balance the varying color values you choose to give the palette depth and contrast. The dominant green in your palette may be a shade with hints of black, whereas the secondary or accent color contrasts this as a tint with a white base or a green with a warmer yellow undertone. They all stem from the same hue, but combining greens with varying warmth and saturation levels brings harmony to the space when used together.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Monochromatic palettes create a sense of cohesion
They are perfect for making smaller spaces feel larger
The analogous color scheme
Another popular color scheme is the analogous palette, which consists of colors next to each other on the wheel, such as blue, blue-green, and green. This creates a harmonious and soothing effect that is perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms.
An analogous color scheme can bring a calming and soothing vibe to any space, making it a popular choice for bedrooms and bathrooms. It's called an "analogous" palette because it consists of colors next to each other on the color wheel, such as blue, blue-green, and green.
Analogous blues, greens and yellows in Project Hazeltine’s Dining Room
The idea behind an analogous palette is to use closely related colors to create a harmonious and balanced look. This can be especially helpful in smaller spaces where you want to bring a sense of coziness and relaxation. The smooth transition from one color to the next creates a serene atmosphere that will help you unwind after a long day.
Incorporating an analogous palette into your home decor is easy. Simply choose a dominant color and then select two to three additional colors next to it on the color wheel. You can use these colors in a variety of ways, such as painting walls, adding throw pillows, or incorporating patterned textiles. The key is to maintain a consistent balance of the colors throughout the space.
So whether you're looking to create a peaceful retreat in your bedroom or a spa-like bathroom, an analogous color scheme is definitely worth considering. With its harmonious and relaxing vibe, it's sure to create a space that you'll love spending time in.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Analogous palettes create a serene & relaxing atmosphere
Perfect for use in bedrooms and bathrooms
3. Mix in pattern & texture
Finally, feel free to mix and match patterns and textures to add depth and interest to your space. A mix of varying patterns and textures can add visual appeal and make your room feel more expensive.
Mixing and matching patterns and textures is a fantastic way to add depth and interest to any space. It can take your decor to the next level, making the room feel more layered, expensive, and visually appealing. With the right combination of patterns and textures, you can create a dynamic and eye-catching look that will keep your guests talking.
To get started, think about the various elements in your space and how you can add texture to them. For example, consider a soft, plush rug paired with a crisp, patterned duvet cover or a smooth, polished table paired with a chunky knit throw blanket. Combining different textures will create a sense of depth and interest that can make even the simplest spaces feel more dynamic.
Another great way to add texture to your space is by incorporating patterned elements. Whether it's a bold geometric print, a delicate floral motif, or a playful polka dot pattern, incorporating patterns into your decor can add visual interest and make your room feel more lively. Just be sure to choose patterns that complement one another and balance out the textures in the room.
In conclusion, feel free to mix and match patterns and textures in your decor. With a bit of creativity and a good eye, you can create a space that feels rich and sophisticated without breaking the bank. So don't hesitate to add some depth and interest to your space with patterns and textures today!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Mixing various textures can add visual appeal and make your room feel more expensive
Incorporating patterns into your decor can add visual interest and make your room feel more lively
4. Don’t forget the 60-30-10 Rule
Another decorating tip to keep in mind is the 60-30-10 rule. This rule is a simple and effective way to create a balanced and harmonious look in any room. The idea behind the rule is to divide the room into three parts, using 60% of one dominant color, 30% of a secondary color, and 10% of an accent color.
The dominant color should be the one that covers the largest area of the room or grounds the space, such as the walls, flooring, or sofa. The secondary color should be used for smaller to mid-sized furniture, like an ottoman or armchair. Finally, the accent color can be incorporated through smaller accents such as throw pillows, curtains, or artwork.
Using the 60-30-10 rule is a great way to ensure that your space feels cohesive and balanced. It gives you a basic structure to work with and helps you choose colors that complement each other. Plus, it takes the guesswork out of decorating and makes it easy to create a stylish look that you'll love.
So, give the 60-30-10 rule a try the next time you're redecorating. Whether you're working with bold, bright colors or subtle, neutral hues, this rule is sure to help you create a balanced and harmonious look that you'll love.
Remember, have fun with it! Decorating is all about expressing your personal style and making your space feel like home. But by keeping these tips in mind, you can confidently choose the perfect color palette for your home. Happy decorating!
BONUS: Color Scheme Guides
Save these cheat sheets for easy reference when you’re feeling stumped!
Remember, have fun with it! Decorating is all about expressing your personal style and making your space feel like home. But by keeping these tips in mind, you can confidently choose the perfect color palette for your home. Happy decorating!
