Pick the Perfect Paint Color

Giving a room a fresh paint job is a great way to start clean and give the room a whole new theme and feel, according to Doreen Schofield, a Sales Design Consultant with Callen. She explains how to choose the perfect paint color to give it a brand new vibe, as well as when you’re planning an extensive interior remodel.

“Color accounts for 60 percent of our response to an object or place, so it’s important to pick a color that will set the mood for the room,” said Doreen.

When it comes to bedrooms, blue is a favorite choice because it is calming and a logical choice for slumber-inducing relaxation. Soft, cool colors and neutrals create a quieter feeling while stronger colors are more for drama.

“The dining room is another story. Warmer, contrasting, and somewhat brighter colors add to a sociable atmosphere while deeper blue-greens will give it a more formal ambiance.”

Doreen also mentioned the importance of lighting. “Natural daylight shows the truest color, incandescent lighting brings out warm tones, and fluorescent lighting casts a sharp blue tone.” While keeping this in mind, a strong color may be too bright and overpowering when used on all of your walls or walls next to large windows. Strong colors will be more effective when used on an accent wall with indirect light.

“Consider choosing a color for one room and painting the adjacent space two shades lighter or darker using tones from the same color chip.” Doreen explained this creates a smooth, seamless transition between the spaces.

One way to decide on a paint color is to find inspiration around you and build off key elements in your house. A painting, rug, or piece of furniture may inspire the theme for the entire room. Once you decide on a color scheme that reflects your mood, start small by experimenting in a bathroom or in a hallway to see if the paint captures the look you were going for.

“Remember, think of the vibe you want your room to hold, take lighting into account, and always fall back to the trusty color wheel for making complementary and color cohesive choices.”

For more information or to arrange an initial Design Center consultation, call Callen at 414-529-5509.