Coordinating Color

One of the most common reasons that many home interior decorating projects get scrapped before they even see the light of day is fear.  Many people have great ideas but are afraid they will end up choosing the wrong color or end up with fabric and wallpaper patterns that clash with each other and with the paint. The fear is real, but with a little guidance, it can be overcome and you can actually paint and decorate the interior of your home with confidence, using designs and colors you love.

Some Basic Ideas That Are Foolproof

Believe it or not, there are a few simple and effective methods of choosing paint and decorating colors that will work together well consistently.

As ideas swirl around in your head and you plan your design for a specific room, decide first on the mood you want to set for that particular space. Is relaxed and mellow your style, or are you more inclined to want the space upbeat and energetic? An energetic room needs warm colors, like choices from the red, yellow and orange groupings. If relaxed is what you're looking for, then the cooler colors from the families of blues and greens as well as violets will be good choices.

Capitalize On The Pros' Research

Once you have the mood chosen, check out fabric or wallpaper border patterns that are comprised of at least three colors you really like. Professional interior designers have already researched color combinations, so if you go with one of their color coordinated choices, you can't miss. Be sure to note a fabric or wallpaper that really grabs your attention and then spend some time really checking out all of the colors in the pattern.

Now, pick out a light color (it doesn't have to be the lightest one), a medium color, and a bold color. This selection is the basis for your color and pattern design. The hard part is now completed.

Creating The Canvas

The light color is the one you should put on your walls. It's the base color of the canvas of your room and it will accentuate your furnishings. You can jazz it up by applying the color as a faux finish. If your color choice is beige or tan, then a special finish is highly recommended. If you don't brighten the paint up with something special, it can appear cold and subdued. You can really brighten your room by painting the trim and doors white. Using this concept can tie all of your space together and create continuity. Add drama by painting the ceiling, either one or two shades lighter than the walls, or-if you're really feeling brave-go for a darker color on the ceiling.

Using Medium And Bold Colors Professionally

Your furniture will pick up the medium color by ensuring there is plenty of the color in the pattern of the fabric. It isn't necessary to have the furniture in a solid color-unless that's what you really want to do.

Accessorize in the bold color. Throw pillows, window treatments, throws, art, area rugs, and table coverings can all be sources of accent with the bold color of your choice.

Pull It All Together With Patterns

To pull everything together, use a pattern that has the color combination in it, and apply it at least three times in the room. For instance, you can use the pattern you love for your drapes and have some throw pillows made of the same fabric. If you have a chair that is close in pattern to the new fabric, you're good to go. If not, wallpaper borders can do the trick. If you still feel the room needs a lift, add another pattern-just be sure it blends well with the first one you chose.

Now, stand back and admire your work. It wasn't so hard after all and the finished product looks pretty professional!