There is no such thing as a “correct” color palette to use in a space, but there are definitely wrong ones! As an interior designer, one of the most essential decisions I help my clients make is the color palette of their space. The right colors can transform a room, elevate a home’s style and add a touch of luxury. However, choosing the perfect color scheme can be an overwhelming process. Here are three of my top tips:
Reflect on your personal style.
Your personal style is a reflection of your personality, preferences, and taste. I ask my clients to consider the colors that make them feel comfortable, relaxed, and happy. Some may have a preference for bold bright hues while others prefer organic earth tones. Often in yacht design we find ourselves drawing inspiration from nature as well – the blue hues of the sea, the golden sun and sand, and the serenity that only comes from bringing the beauty of the outdoors inside.
Determine the mood and purpose of the room.
A room’s purpose affects the color selection process. Bedrooms may require peaceful and relaxing colors, while living rooms need more social and stimulating hues. You may need energetic and uplifting colors in a home office or muted colors in a media room to minimize glare. Consider the mood and emotions that the room needs to convey when selecting the color palette, and then consider your lighting in the space as well. Light and shadow will always affect the colors and mood in a room.
Use a varied palette of shades and tones.
Sometimes you need a multitude of colors, and sometimes it can be very chic to use different shades and tones of the same color.
When choosing a variety of colors, it can be helpful to follow the 60-30-10 rule. 60% of the design is the main color, 30% is a complementary color and 10% are pops of an accent color. With color trends often changing, I recommend keeping the 60% a neutral, the 30% a complementary color, and keep the trending colors to 10% of the design.
If choosing instead a single color, you can keep it from feeling boring or lacking in charm through patterns and textures. Tonal differences in one color on a wall, trim and ceiling can also add a unique touch to a space otherwise lacking in architectural features.
When we find the right combination that creates a comfortable and sophisticated aesthetic that fits the client’s lifestyle and tastes, the rest of the design begins to fall into place. What colors do you find yourself most attracted to in a luxury space? Comment below!