One of the most important aspects to consider when redoing or updating a room, is the colour balance. To some, the instinct for putting colours together comes naturally. For others, like myself, not so much. So, for those who need a little guidance on how to overcome this predicament, here are a few tips on balancing the colour in a space that really pops!
First, a few do’s and don’ts:
• DON’T be afraid to use the colours you love, even if they are intense. There are many ways of adding a colour to a space without being overwhelmed by it, from a scatter cushion to an intense green painted cabinet. Finding colours that compliment your choice is the key to making it work.
• DO consider thee colours that are already present in a room – and how much you want to invest or change. Depending on the scope of the change you have in mind, remember to work these colours into the overall palette.
• DO learn how to spot the difference between warm and cool colours. Knowing the colour temperature will help you to make decisions regarding colour combinations that much simpler. (And this includes colours we know as ‘neutral.’)
• DO always test a paint colour in the room you are considering painting. If you are shopping online, the appearance of the colour will depend on the quality and resolution of your computer monitor. Similarly, the colours you view on paint strips in the store reflects how it will look in the store’s light, and not necessarily your living room.
• DON’T be intimidated by conventional decorating wisdom that you must use light colours in small spaces. Dark colours with light accents can create a truly stylish effect in a small space. Rather than worry about making a small room look larger, focus on making it feel amazing.
To bring all of this together in a breath-taking space to match your vision, use the timeless decorating 60-30-10 rule:
The 60 is the 60% used of your main colour in the room. This is mostly made up of walls, area rugs and large furniture like a sofa. The main colour serves as the anchor colour in the space.
The 30 is the 30% of your secondary colour. This literally means using half as much of this secondary colour as you did of the primary or main colour. Think, throws, accent chairs, painted furniture or even an accent wall. The idea is that the secondary colour supports the primary colour but differs enough so that it gives the space interest.
The 10 is the 10% accent colour – and this is where the fun really lies. Your accent colour is found in your scatter cushions, accessories, lamps candles or even the artwork. To add extra style, pull the accent colour from the artwork or printed fabric that is prominent in the room.
Use the colour wheel when applying this decorating rule and it will make choosing complimenting colours simple and help you achieve balance in your spaces.
Fabric Love
Essops
www.essopskld.co.za