The Dos and Don’ts of Decorating with Color

Color is one of the most powerful tools in interior design. It can create mood, drama, harmony, and personality in any space. But it can also be tricky to use color well, especially if you don’t know the basic rules and principles of color theory. Here are some dos and don’ts of decorating with color that will help you avoid common mistakes and achieve stunning results.

Do: Use the 60-30-10 rule. This is a classic guideline for creating a balanced color scheme. It means that you should use one dominant color for 60% of the room (such as the walls), a secondary color for 30% (such as the furniture), and an accent color for 10% (such as the accessories). This way, you can create contrast and interest without overwhelming the eye.

Don’t: Use too many colors. A common mistake is to try to incorporate every color of the rainbow into one room. This can result in a chaotic and cluttered look that lacks cohesion and harmony. Instead, stick to a limited palette of two or three colors that complement each other and suit the style and mood of the room.

Do: Consider the psychology of color. Color can have a significant impact on how you feel and behave in a space. For example, red can stimulate appetite and energy, blue can promote calmness and relaxation, yellow can boost happiness and creativity, and green can evoke nature and freshness. Think about what kind of atmosphere you want to create in your room and choose colors accordingly.

Don’t: Ignore the lighting. Lighting can dramatically change how colors look in a room. Depending on the source and intensity of light, colors can appear brighter or darker, warmer or cooler, more saturated or muted. Before you paint your walls or buy your furniture, test how the colors look in different lighting conditions throughout the day and night. You might be surprised by how much they change.

Do: Have fun with color. Decorating with color is an opportunity to express your personality and style. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations, patterns, textures, and accents that reflect your taste and preferences. You can also use color to create focal points, highlight architectural features, or add some whimsy and surprise to your space.

Don’t: Forget about neutrals. Neutrals are not boring or bland. They are essential for creating balance and harmony in any color scheme. Neutrals can act as a backdrop for more vibrant colors, or as a contrast for softer hues. They can also create a sense of spaciousness, elegance, and sophistication in a room. Neutrals include white, black, gray, beige, brown, cream, and taupe.