Tips for Choosing Interior Color

Color is dynamic and compelling and can make a personalized statement about your home. It's one of the least expensive ways to change an existing room's décor and one of the most powerful.

1. Neutral colors offer classical appeal and are the most soothing. Darker colors can define a room and add enormous drama.

2. Blending and muting colors can give a room old-world appeal.

3. To make a room cozy, try painting walls and ceilings in the same color shade to give that all-embracing feel of warmth.

4. Richer color tones will tone down height in a room, as lighter colors will add spaciousness.

5. Paint that has a glossy finish will attract light and give a room a luminous disposition.

6. A "clean" look can be accomplished by using white paint, but for a softer appeal try using a neutral shade of camel, soft beige, or a very pale shade of yellow.

The Neutrals

White ~ The basic elegance of white is forever. Furniture, art and darker accessories seem to "pop" with the backdrop of white. White is so versatile, it can work with pale shades to give a romantic look or darker colors to give a room contrasting drama.

Cream ~ A darker shade of white that can be easier on the eye. A cream shade of paint can work with a multitude of scenes. Cream is also very soothing and great for use in a bedroom or main living area.

Gray ~ Often this paint color is overlooked, but can also work with many different styles. A silver gray can enhance a room and give it a rich appeal. Think urban-chic. Gray cement counter tops in kitchens are becoming the trend with new interior designers.

Black ~ Black is quite often used as a neutral shade in modern design. Black is classic and can add strength and is frequently used with contrasting white to add excitement to any home décor.

The "Cool" colors

Blue ~ Blue conjures up thoughts of the sky and of the ocean. There are so many different shades of blue that it may pose difficult to decide, but once the decision has been made, it will prove to be your most soothing room. Blue represents calm and serenity and can transform a room into a haven.

Green ~ When you think of green, you think of nature. From a deep jade green to a luminous shade of emerald, green is a favorite among many for it's nurturing qualities. Green can inspire your creativity and open your room up to become a healing sanctuary.

Purple ~ Purple is not the first color you think of when you think "cool", but it is becoming one popular color of choice to drench a room in. There are many different shades of purple that can range from the sublime lavender to the darker eggplant. For richness think about adding pillows, curtains, or bedspreads with this enhancing royal appeal.

The "healing" warm colors

Red ~ Painting a room red can be a scary thought. Fire engine red can seem like a rather loud choice and only the most brave would attempt to paint an entire room this color. This is highly not recommended, by the way. Think about painting one wall a deep shade of red to make a self-assured statement. Grand hotels and restaurants sometimes go this route because of the high glamour and proven fact that red is mood-enhancing that can lead to eating more and spending more.

Yellow ~ Yellow is thought to be a smart color, using this color as a paint choice can be intellectually stimulating. A happy color that can make any room seem more inviting and cheerful. It's often associated with kitchens and can add sparkle to the heart of the home. Think about the effect of adding a bouquet of yellow roses or sunflowers into a room. The dynamic energy yellow can bring would change a room instantly.

Orange ~ A room that has an orange wall can be whimsical and definitely a conversation starter. Infusing orange in subtle places can bring out thoughts of Autumn leaves and warm country charm. Orange is uniquely refreshing and gives a room a "feel good" atmosphere.