Easy Steps To Achieve a Beautiful Colour Scheme In Your Home

With so many choices and factors to consider, creating an aesthetically pleasing tone throughout your home can feel like a daunting task. But with a little understanding of colour principles and how to approach applying them to your house, you can select shades that best suit your style, helping you accomplish the perfect atmosphere for each room.

Learning the fundamentals of colour theory

Before you even think about paint samples, it’s beneficial to grasp the basics of colour theory. The colour wheel is a great starting point. Using this, you can begin to recognise primary colours, secondary colours and tertiary colours, and how they all work together.

Ones that are complementary together sit opposite each other on the wheel; for example, blue and orange are opposites, so pairing these together will display the ideal visual juxtaposition and effectively carry off a balanced and bold look.

Finally, think about colour temperature. Warm colours like reds, oranges and yellows tend to give off an energetic and inviting ambience, while cool colours like blues, greens and purples often evoke a sense of calm and serenity.

Different colours can also subtly influence mood, so let that influence what you pick.

Acknowledge existing features and light

When figuring out your ideal colour scheme, you can’t forget to look at what is already there. Your flooring, kitchen cabinets and any noticeable architectural details are fixed elements that should impact your colour choices.

Aim for colours that complement or contrast intentionally with these present details.

Light also plays a crucial role. Natural light can intensify colours, while artificial light can alter their appearance. This is why you should contemplate the orientation of each room to understand what lighting is most prominent for you to work with.

For example, south-facing rooms tend to receive warm light, allowing for a wider range of colours, while north-facing rooms with cooler light might benefit from warmer tones to give a sense of cosiness.

You should try out colours in different rooms and at various times of day to see how the light interacts with them.

Defining your style and preferences

Your home should be a reflection of you. Take some time to look at your style and the overall vibe you want to attain.

What colours do you gravitate towards? Do you prefer a minimalist, modern aesthetic, a cosy, traditional feel, or something more niche? Look for inspiration in your wardrobe, your favourite artwork, or even the natural landscapes you admire.

Considering your taste in other areas can help you understand what you like and ensure your home feels authentically yours. 

Building a colour palette for the whole building

Constructing a sense of flow throughout your new house or existing property involves designing a cohesive colour palette. A common strategy is to choose a neutral base for walls and larger furniture pieces. Then, two or three accent colours in varying proportions will be introduced through accessories, textiles, and artwork. You might also use different shades of the same pigment for a refined, harmonious effect.

The ”60-30-10 rule” is a helpful guideline to use. 60% of the room is the dominant colour (often walls), 30% is a secondary colour (e.g. upholstery, curtains), and 10% is a feature colour (e.g., cushions, artwork). This guideline helps to establish balance and visual interest.

Testing and implementing your options

Before committing to painting an entire room, always sample your choices. Purchase sample pots and paint large swatches on different walls in the room, observing them under a range of lighting conditions throughout the day.

This will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you actually like the outcome. When it comes to application, consider the finish of your paint – matt for a soft, non-reflective look, silk for a subtle sheen, or gloss for a durable and high-shine glaze. With careful planning and trialling, you can confidently implement your chosen colour scheme and create a home you love.