When it comes to interior color design and choosing the right color for your home, one of the most significant challenges many homeowners face is dealing with elements of their they can’t change.
It’s also something most people rarely think about when determining their paint colors.
In this conversation with Carla Hedman, a 20-year expert in color consulting and interior color design, we explore how to work around these fixed features to create a harmonious and beautiful space.
This one color design tip can really help you on your journey for picking the right paint colors.
Let’s get into some of the key ideas we discussed, particularly focusing on how to choose the right paint colors for your home that complement existing elements.
Understanding Fixed Features
When you move into a new home, you might find yourself in love with the space but confronted with features you can’t easily change.
For instance, you may have inherited a perfectly good carpet in a color you don’t like, such as pink.
Instead of trying to ignore this color, which often results in emphasizing it even more, Carla suggests a more strategic approach.
This makes your interior color design choices easier.
Color Strategies for Unchangeable Elements
Carla emphasizes the importance of selecting colors that can help tone down or camouflage existing elements you dislike.
If you’re dealing with a pink carpet for example, she advises choosing wall colors that incorporate a hint of red.
This doesn’t mean you have to paint everything pink, but introducing shades like beige or taupe with red undertones can help create a more cohesive look without drawing attention to the carpet’s color.
Moreover, when choosing paint colors, it’s crucial to consider the overall color scheme of your room. If you have a pink carpet, avoid colors with green undertones, as they will only highlight the pink.
Instead, opt for warm tones that harmonize with the pink, creating a more intentional and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Fixed Exterior Elements
Carla also points out that this principle applies to exterior painting and color design. Many homeowners encounter fixed elements such as the roof color or brickwork that dictate the color palette they can work with.
For example, if you have a red roof or red brick on your home, it’s wise to incorporate these colors into your exterior design scheme.
By doing so, you create a more cohesive look that feels intentional rather than accidental.
Another fixed element that often presents itself when choosing exterior paint colors is the window color themselves (aka window sash).
Whether you have modern white vinyl windows or a heritage home with wood sliders (and storm windows), it’s important to consider IF you want to paint these items.
Painting items that are not already painted can lead to unnecessary future maintenance, and sometimes should not be painted.
For example, while technically you can paint vinyl windows if you use the right primer and paint combo, it’s usually not recommended. Painting vinyl windows can cause functionality issues and can affect your warranty, if applicable.
So if you don’t want to paint your white vinyl windows, the color white would be considered a fixed item (color) that will add to your color palette.
Another item of your home that you cannot change is the color of your roof.
If you’re not planning on replacing your roof anytime soon, don’t forget to add this color in to your palette.
Making Intentional Choices
One of the most powerful takeaways from this discussion with Carla, is the importance of making intentional color choices.
By acknowledging and incorporating fixed features into your interior color design, you can create a home that feels more personalized and welcoming.
This approach not only enhances the visual appeal of your space but also helps you feel more at home.
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Professional Interior Color Design Consulting
For those who find the process overwhelming, working with a professional interior color design consultant can be a game-changer, and remove a lot of unneeded stress.
Carla Hedman offers her expertise to help clients navigate the complexities of color selection, ensuring that every aspect of their home reflects their style while working with existing features.
If you need dedicated help for your interior or exterior painting project, Carla provides online virtual color consulting advice.
Simply call our toll-free hotline to connect with Carla Hedman at 1-866-724-6818 or send us a message at su*****@tr*****************.com
Conclusion – Interior Color Design Tips
Choosing the right paint colors is an essential part of creating a beautiful home. But there’s usually 1 or 2 items in your home that you cannot change.
By embracing the elements you can’t change and incorporating them into your design, you set the stage for a harmonious and inviting space. Remember, the goal is to feel good in your home, and with the right approach, you can achieve just that.
For more insights and tips on interior design and color consulting, connect with us at Trusted House Painter. Let’s paint the world a better place, one home at a time!