Mastering Color: How to Select the Right Palette

Making the right color choices can seem like a daunting task. The colors you select set the tone for your space because colors affect us humans in an emotional way (this is why lighting is also very important, more on that later...).

Whether you're designing a cozy living room or working to pick the right colors for your business, selecting the right hues can make or break that emotional connection you're hoping for. Below, we are breaking down the simple tips and tricks to help you choose the perfect color palette.

Step 1: Use Color Theory

I'm not breaking out the color wheel, don't worry. But remember, color affects our mood, so your first task is to write down 3 key words of how you want to FEEL when you walk into your space.

If you're designing a new home, maybe those feelings are: relaxed, peaceful, calm.

On the other hand, if you're getting ready to open up a children's center, the feelings you may want would be: excited, curious, joyful

Once you have those down, head to your paint store and pick up some samples. Each sample you pick up should illicit those feelings you wrote down.

Step 2: Create Harmony

Now you have all these paint samples - it's time to decide how you're going to use them. Now remember, these paints should not only represent paint on the wall, but also represent lighting, drapery, upholstery, etc. We like to choose one color to anchor the space, then select at least 3 more that we feel 'melt' into one another.

Here is an example. If you selected colors that looked like these:

Then you may end up with a space that looks like this:

If your colors look like this:

Your space will likely follow this color pattern:

Each color is used, but there is a base to hold it all together and make it feel cohesive.

Step 3: Testing

You have your anchor in mind, now it's time to test. First, request a draw down from your local paint store. If you can't get one, order a quart of the paint you like and get the supplies you need to paint a couple of test walls. Painting a 2'x2' square is usually more than enough.

Next, take it on site and see how the color fairs in your own space. Lighting makes a huge difference in the way a color takes so please do not skip this step!

If your anchor is looking good, it's time to take those other colors you had in mind to help you select the other materials (counters, flooring, lighting, etc.). If you are ever unsure if the selection you are making is going to be cohesive, go back to your color samples! They will keep you on the straight and narrow as you make the rest of your selections.

Now, if all of this sounds great but you don't have the time to create your own color palette, you may want to book a professional color consultation.

You can do that with us right here!