This is the question I get asked probably the most frequently – how to choose the right colours for your home. The answer is that there isn’t a right colour – it’s all about discovering what colours resonate with you on a personal level and making those colours work in your space. It isn’t about following the latest trends or picking hues that are en vogue.
So, how do you go about finding out which shades make your heart sing? Let’s dive in!
Start With How You want to Feel in the Room
Many start with “what colour is right for this room?” – but a much better place to start is “how do I want to feel in this room?”
Colour can profoundly impact how you feel. You might find blues and greens incredibly soothing, perfect for bedrooms where calm is key. Or, you might find a blue to feel a bit cold. On the other hand, vibrant colours like yellows or oranges bring a burst of energy and might be just the thing for a kitchen or a workspace where you want to feel creative. Or, you might find them too stimulating.
It’s such a personal thing… and the key is getting to know yourself (listen to that podcast for more on this).
Then Go To Your Wardrobe
Really? Yep. One of the easiest ways to figure out which colours you’re naturally drawn to is by looking at your wardrobe.
What colours do you wear the most? Which shades make you feel confident and happy? These are undoubtedly colours that you should consider incorporating into your home.
…but bring it back to how you want to feel in the room.
For example, do you want to feel cosy in your living room? Go to your wardrobe and pick out what you’d wear if you wanted to feel cosy. What colour is it? what is the texture? Bringing that colour into that room will likely be a good idea. And you can bring the texture in with cushions or other soft furnishings.
Consider the Light
Lighting plays a crucial role in how colours look and feel in a space. Natural light can make colours appear lighter and more vibrant, whereas artificial light can alter the way colours look depending on the time of day.
It’s always a good idea to test paint samples at different times of the day to see how they change with the light. I paint A4 sheets of paper with the colours and pin them up around the room….moving them around until I feel I’ve tested them in all the different lights.
A bit too nervous to go full on with colour?
If you’re drawn to neutrals but worry about your space looking a bit flat, consider adding a splash of bold colour through accessories like cushions, throws, or artwork. This way, you can experiment with colours without the commitment of painting an entire room.
Reflect Your Personality
Your home is a reflection of your personality, so let it tell your story through colours. If you’re a serene soul, soft pastels might be your go-to. If you’re all about drama and flair, deep, rich tones like burgundy or navy could be more your style.
I always go back to….what colours do you wear? If you stick to these, your home will feel like more of an extension of you. And you’ll naturally feel more at home.
Create a Mood Board
Before making any final decisions, you might want to create a mood board that includes fabric swatches, paint samples, and pictures of furniture. Seeing all these elements together can help you visualise the final look.
Practical Tips for Colour Success
- Test your colours: Buy sample pots and paint large patches on different walls to see how the colour looks in varying lights and next to furniture.
- Start small: If you’re nervous about colour, start with a small room or an accent wall. It’s less of a commitment but can still make a dramatic impact.
- Balance with neutrals: If you choose a bold colour, keep your floors, ceilings, and large furniture pieces in neutral tones. This balance will let the colours pop without overwhelming the space.
Choosing the right colours for your home should be a fun, creative process that results in a space that feels uniquely yours. Take your time, experiment, and most importantly, have fun with it! Remember, there’s no right or wrong here; it’s all about what makes you feel good.
