Choosing Complementary Colors
Fresh paint on the walls can instantly transform a room, and a new look really comes together when you choose harmonious colors for the ceiling, trim or architectural features. It signals the occupants to be at ease and gives your home a sense of permanence. This video by Ace Hardware presents advice for choosing complementary colors:
A pre-selected palette is one of the easiest ways to decide which colors will go with your main color. The palette colors complement one another from wall to trim or room to room. You can also find brochures that show color combinations. Designers usually choose these, so it’s like having an expert helping you with what goes together.
To create a balanced look, you actually want to make sure the amounts of color in a room are not equal. Too many colors will compete for attention, especially if they’re intense. So choose a dominant color and stick with one to two others. To get the proportions right, shoot for about 60% of your color coming fronm walls or cabinetry. 30% comes in from the floor, window coverings or ceilings. The other 10% comes in from accent items.
Nature never gets proportions wrong, so look outdoors for examples of colors working together as dominant and accent colors. You can’t go wrong choosing a palette that’s inspired by your surroundings, especially if you live near a beach, desert or mountains.
A color wheel is also a great guide. Complementary palettes are made up of colors opposite from one another on the color wheel. Analogous palettes are made up of side-by-side colors. Monochromatic palettes use different values and hues of similar colors to create a harmonious or even a neutral palette.
You can also start with something you love, like a photo or a piece of artwork. Think about what you love about it. Is it moody, fresh or exciting? Develop your palette based on those feelings. Textiles, rugs and fabrics with lots of color can be a great inspiration. Choose one main color and pull other colors in as accents. A favorite object that’s the star of the room could inspire a palette. For example, look at the colors in a painting or accent tile.
Whichever way you choose to combine colors to create harmony in a room, remember to go with your instincts. If it makes you feel good, you’re probably on the right track.
But if you’re stuck and need some go-to advice, try these helpful tips:
- Choose a dominant color for 60% of the room.
- Limit yourself to one or two complementary colors for furniture, trim or accessories.
- If you can’t decide, a pre-selected paint palette takes away some of the guesswork.
- Any color bold or soft looks good with white. Select a warm or cool tint to complement the main color.
