Finding the Right Match
Selecting the correct colours in a room is an essential step in creating your dream space. There are some basic rules to follow that will keep the process simple and easy. A colour wheel will be your best friend when deciding how to add colour to a space.
Whether you’re looking to create a maximalist bedroom or a low-key dining room. Here are some key rules to follow to keep this often-daunting task, somewhat easier…
The Colour Wheel
There are three main ways to use a colour wheel when designing your scheme:
Opposites Attract
The simplest approach to adding colour is choosing opposing or complementary colours. Once you have picked your key central colour in your scheme, take a look at what sits opposite on the wheel.
This colour will provide a perfect match, in a variety of shades that will sit well with your original colour choice.
Tone it Back
If a more subtle approach is your chosen method, take a look at what sits next to your chosen colour. This colour should be closest in shade and tone. Otherwise known as analogous, this is a great way to add colour in multiple areas in a more subtle way.
Take two or three analogous colours and you can create a subtle and relaxing scheme, perfect for reception rooms and bedrooms.
Monochrome Moments
Monochromatic schemes are some of my favourites to play with. A simple, yet effective way to create an impactful space is by taking varying shades and tones of the same colour.
Make it stand out
Adding different shades of your base colour will allow you to add contrast in highlights and shadows easily and cohesively.
60-30-10
Most designers will use the 60-30-10 rule when adding colour to a space. The basics of this rule are that 60% of the room will be your base colour, 30% your accent colour and 10% a pop of colour…
For example, if using a complementary colour scheme, your 60% (bulk items of furniture, rugs etc.) may be a light cream colour, acting as a canvas. To this, you can add your 30% accent colour (through window treatments, feature chairs, bedding etc.). If your chosen accent colour is blue, we simply have to look opposite blue on the colour wheel and add your 10% pop of colour – a splash of orange/mustard yellow in cushions, artwork accessories etc. Et voila, in three simple steps, you have a perfectly complementary colour scheme. Of course, this can work in varying degrees of colour and also using analogous and monochromatic colour schemes.
Most importantly, choose colours that work for you. If the scheme of your dreams doesn’t work with a complementary, analogous or monochrome colour scheme, focus on the 60-30-10 rule to ensure your space feels balanced and welcoming!