Now that we talked about Color Terminology and Basic Color Schemes, we are on to What to Consider when Using Color.   When planning a paint project, the things that should also be considered when choosing the perfect hue are:

Architectural Features: What features are you dealing with in an interior room?  A fireplace, built-in bookshelves, cove ceiling, lots of windows, tile, cabinets, or wood trim could be contributing factors to the finished project.  What style of decor is being used to compliment these features?  Country, Modern, Traditional or Victorian?  If you are doing an exterior application- what style of home is it?  California Craftsman, Colonial, Cottage or Contemporary?  The trim and color story to each of these styles is very distinct and recognizable. 

Fixed Colors: The color of a room, home or entire building should be compatible with the “fixed” or surrounding colors.  Those “fixed” items are things that cannot or will not be moved or painted.  In an interior room, consider: carpet or flooring, furniture, window coverings, artwork, wood trim, tile or stone, and cabinetry.  On exterior projects, consider: roofing, wood trim, brick or stonework. 

Surroundings: When painting an interior space, take into consideration those colors not only in that room, but in rooms adjacent to it.  This is crucial in establishing a harmonious color scheme.   Ignoring this one “rule” can quickly create an amateur look in your decorating.  For exterior applications- it is also important to consider the hues of your landscaping, any fencing or hardscaping, and even the homes and buildings nearby.  (Painting your home green with a red house next door can spell disaster!) 

Color Restrictions: This rule applies mostly to those homes and areas that are in historic areas or preservation projects, but if you are trying to achieve an authentic look, you should learn about what your restrictions could be. 

Optical Effects of Certain Hues: Did you know that a paint color can actually alter the dimensions of your room?  It can’t literally do that, but it can visually alter how the dimensions are perceived.   A light-colored paint will most often enhance a small space.  A darker shade usually creates a more intimate, cozy feel to a room.  Use this to your advantage, instead of to your room’s detriment.  Ceiling too low?  Raise it by painting a lighter color on your walls and wrapping it up onto your ceiling.  (No there is NO rule that ceilings must be white!)   Room to narrow?  Widen it by painting the shorter walls deeper than the longer walls.  (Just a shade or two deeper.)  Faux painting and tromp’loi techniques use this perception to their advantage!

Range of Sheen Choices: The correct sheen or finish to a paint is both important visually and practically.  Most brands come in at least 4 or more levels of sheen. Gloss paint reflects the most light: then in declining order of sheen are: semi-gloss, eggshell, satin, low-luster, and flat (with no sheen).  Using gloss or sheen can make trim, ceilings or walls have more depth and are much more noticeable that a flat finish.  From a practical standpoint, the correct sheen can help extend the life of a paint project.  Higher sheen levels offer the most durability, while lower sheen levels offer increased hiding capabilities.  Ex:  a semi-gloss paint would be good for a mudroom, a bathroom or a child’s room; while a low-luster paint finish would be better suited to a dining area or master suite.  So many of my clients have to repaint because the correct finish hasn’t been used in the appropriate space.  Save yourself time and money by choosing correctly with each project.

WOW.. that was a lot of info!  I promise tomorrow’s post will be shorter and even more fun, as we’ll talk about Color Psychology!

Let me know what your greatest challenge has been in choosing paint color…