How to choose the right colors for your home

If you're giving your home a makeover, be careful when making color choices. Color is so powerful that it can dictate the mood of an entire room. While it may be tempting to decorate using only your favorite colors, it is more important to match the right colors to the right room.

The following guide offers insights about how the emotions evoked by certain colors should play a role in the interior design choices you make. If you're interested in gaining a more in-depth understanding of these principles, you could consider taking a few interior design classes. The classes can open your eyes to decorating and design techniques that can improve the look of your home.

A helpful guide to using color in your home

White

When white is used in abundance, it carries a clean, modern feel. While this look may be appropriate in a hospital or an IT office, it is generally too sterile for use in the home. Because white is so clean, however, you can use it as a foundation to make other colors pop.

Black

Since black is a combination of all the hues, it is the strongest color you can use in your home. Black is sleek and mysterious, but can also be depressing if overused. When used sparingly, black is a simple way to add elegance to your home.

Blue

Blue is considered the most relaxing and tranquil color. Because of this, blues are often used in bedrooms and bathrooms. There are obviously a wide range of shades to choose from, but it is generally best to stick with lighter shades when trying to achieve tranquility.

Red

Red is a powerful color that evokes a passionate emotional response. Like black, it can be used effectively as an accent. Because it is such an emotionally strong color, avoid using too much red in the bedroom. Instead, use red to add drama to rooms where guests will be entertained.

Green

Green symbolizes growth, harmony and balance. Because it is at the center of the color spectrum, green can easily be combined with many other colors, making it a versatile choice for most any room.

Yellow

Yellow and orange are both cheerful and energetic colors. While they can be overwhelming when used in excess, they can also dramatically brighten a room.

Additional colors

If you're considering adding other colors to your home, you may want to consider these choices:

Purple

Purple is associated with royalty, wealth and creativity, and can be used effectively either in a living area or in the office of a creative person.

Brown

Because brown is the color of the earth, it conveys stability and age. If you want to add this kind of stability to your home, incorporate dark wood furniture or flooring into your decor.

Pink

Light shades of pink convey calm and nurturing and are perfect for children's rooms. Bright pinks, on the other hand, are romantic and should be used as an accent.

This color guide is only the tip of the interior design iceberg. If you are interested in home decor and design principles, interior design school is a great way to expand your knowledge and gain relevant skills. If it's something you're passionate about, you may even be able to turn your interest into a career.

Information in this article was provided by the International Academy of Design %26 Technology - Sacramento. Contact IADT - Sacramento today if you're interested in developing marketable knowledge and career-relevant skills with an industry-current degree program. (IADT - Sacramento does not guarantee employment or salary.)

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