One of the most challenging aspects of decorating is selecting a color scheme. Once chosen, the other elements of the decorating “puzzle” fall into place more easily. However, many of us struggle with where to start. Should you pick a color you love and paint the walls? Or opt for something safe like white or beige and live with it? The answer is both yes and no. You should choose a color you enjoy, which might indeed be white or beige, but it’s crucial to select the “right” color for the space. Let’s explore how to simplify this process.
To begin, understanding the psychology of color is essential. Numerous studies have explored how colors influence our moods and behaviors—too many to cover in detail here. Even the ancient Chinese practice of Feng Shui assigns colors to five elements—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water—believing that the combination of element and color impacts one’s surroundings. With a basic understanding of color’s effects, you can choose a scheme that creates the perfect atmosphere for your family and visitors.
Exploring the Color Spectrum
Colors are categorized into warm (red, orange, gold, yellow), cool (blue, green, purple), and neutral (tan, brown) tones. Although not true colors, black and white also play significant roles in decorating schemes.
Red is associated with passion, power, heat, and energy. It acts as a stimulant, making it a popular choice for dining rooms, where it can enhance appetite and conversation. However, this stimulating effect may not suit a living room intended for relaxation or entertaining. Instead, use red in accessories or upholstery and pair it with a calming wall color like sage or tan.
Blue is a perennial favorite in home decorating due to its calming effect. It’s often used in bedrooms for both children and adults. For a serene living room, selecting the right shade of blue is key. A bright blue with red undertones might feel too vibrant, but a soft blue with gray undertones can serve as a neutral, calming backdrop that complements various upholstery colors.
Green remains a popular choice in home décor, evoking tranquility and self-control. The right shade is critical. For a tropical-themed living room, a green with yellow undertones, like lime or grass green, may work well. For a more relaxed ambiance, consider sage or moss. In traditional settings, hunter or emerald green pairs beautifully with reds and blues commonly found in such schemes.
Yellow is tricky to use. It can brighten a dark room and encourage conversation, making it ideal for living rooms. However, it may increase anxiety in the elderly or young children. Choosing the right intensity is crucial—deep Tuscan gold complements dark woodwork, while a creamy white with yellow undertones feels warmer than stark white.
Neutrals like brown, gray, and tan symbolize wholesomeness and stability, often associated with nature. They gain popularity during economic challenges. However, selecting a neutral can be complex, as light gray may appear almost white, and tan can have pink, yellow, or gray undertones. A dark brown might resemble deep moss green. Testing multiple samples is essential before deciding.
White is the most common wall color in homes, symbolizing cleanliness and freshness. However, matching white walls to trim reveals that white comes in many shades, which may appear gray, yellow, or pink when compared. If you choose white for your living room, ensure it matches existing trim, such as door surrounds, baseboards, and window frames.
Ultimately, color affects everyone differently. The key is to consider how a color makes you and your family feel. If a vibrant red wall energizes and delights your household, go for it. If dark brown creates the moody ambiance you seek, embrace it. There are no strict “rules” in decorating—if it works for you, it’s the right choice. However, understanding how colors influence the look and feel of a space can guide you toward the perfect choice and help avoid costly mistakes.
