Today’s array of paint colors offers more options than ever. Set the perfect tone for your living space by choosing the right colors.
“There are a lot of new trends in colors, but they come and go,” explains New York-based designer Cathleen Davidson. “It’s more important to follow your gut.”
Instead of chasing trends, choose colors that fit your lifestyle, Davidson recommends. For example, if you want a relaxing, spa-like environment, avoid vivid colors. For a lively entertaining space, ramp up the drama and choose bold over neutral. “You have to know what direction you’re going,” she says, “and understand the mood you’re creating.”
Need help? Look to your accessories as a clue. Accent pieces in your home (think pillows, throw rugs, or artwork) help pinpoint which colors you’re attracted to and will best complement your space.
Painting with your soul
Davidson says that, as is the case in most things in life, selecting paint colors is a process that should involve your home’s body, mind, and soul. Looking at these three elements will help define what colors to use:
Body — What fixed components (like cabinets and fixtures) share the space?
Mind — What is the function of the space?
Soul — What kind of mood do you want to create?
“Once you know these answers, you can start looking at colors,” she says. “Think about how your choices will flow from room to room, too.”
You should use colors you love to tell your personal story, regardless of trends or tradition.
“It’s the experience you get from that color that matters most,” Davidson says. “It comes down to how that color makes you feel and what experience it creates in that room.”
Choose the right paint colors
By Paula Felps
Today’s array of paint colors offers more options than ever. Set the perfect tone for your living space by choosing the right colors.
“There are a lot of new trends in colors, but they come and go,” explains New York-based designer Cathleen Davidson. “It’s more important to follow your gut.”
Instead of chasing trends, choose colors that fit your lifestyle, Davidson recommends. For example, if you want a relaxing, spa-like environment, avoid vivid colors. For a lively entertaining space, ramp up the drama and choose bold over neutral. “You have to know what direction you’re going,” she says, “and understand the mood you’re creating.”
Need help? Look to your accessories as a clue. Accent pieces in your home (think pillows, throw rugs, or artwork) help pinpoint which colors you’re attracted to and will best complement your space.
Painting with your soul
Davidson says that, as is the case in most things in life, selecting paint colors is a process that should involve your home’s body, mind, and soul. Looking at these three elements will help define what colors to use:
“Once you know these answers, you can start looking at colors,” she says. “Think about how your choices will flow from room to room, too.”
You should use colors you love to tell your personal story, regardless of trends or tradition.
“It’s the experience you get from that color that matters most,” Davidson says. “It comes down to how that color makes you feel and what experience it creates in that room.”