Color is the most important tool in the toolbox,
say experts, who often add that one of the easiest and most inexpensive
ways to infuse the home with color is with paint.
"People often feel intimidated by this type of
expression and that's why so much of our country is beige and
off-white," says Genevieve Gorder, a renowned interior designer and
color expert for Valspar Paint. "We need to
remember that color is a great balancer in a space; it's a juggling act
between neutrals, grounding shades, highlight and accent."
When choosing a paint
palette for any room, Gorder notes, there are four key components to
ensure powerful effects while keeping a harmonious balance: neutrals,
which are the beige or creamiest versions of any color; the grounding
shades, like blacks, browns and grays; the highlights, like the bright
white on moldings and window trim; and the all-important saturated pops
of color which add life to any room.
"You might want your pop of color to be a
powerful accent wall," Gorder continued. "Then, you can complement it
with neutral upholstery and grounding accents in the accessories to
balance it all."
For additional guidance, inspiration -- and even liberation -- here are this decorator's favorite tips.
* If you want to incorporate a trendy color into your home but feel intimidated, start small with paint
or decor accents that are inexpensive. This way, you can always change
your mind if you fall in love with something new or want to refresh the
look of your room.
* Use the chip rack at your retailer to find
color families and their complementing shades. A popular way to find an
accent, for example, is to go a few shades darker in the same family.
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