I’ve heard that darker colors will make my home look smaller. Is this true?
Yes. Darker colors will help to make your space look smaller because they are somewhat overwhelming to the eye. Though they can be pleasing to look at, the darker colors eliminate a sense of space and true depth that lighter colors can offer. Lighter colors bring in more light; thereby brightening your space and making it feel more opening. Lighter colors, however, can be daunting, as they are often too bright for may living spaces that should be more neutral and comfortable.
What color should I decorate my bedroom if I want to be able to sleep well?
According to the practice of feng shui, you should choose passionate colors, such as reds and oranges, for a relaxing and yet, exciting, bedroom. Avoid calming or neutral colors, such as green and beige. Calming colors will be too overwhelming and will not inspire good sleep – only light sleep. Darker colors will not only absorb sunlight in the morning hours, but they will help to make you feel as if you are in a smaller, more incubating space.
How do I decide what colors to use throughout my house?
There are many books available about the effects of colors on psychology. Before repainting your entire house, it would be a good idea to study the effects of different colors. Next, visit you local home decorating store to select some paint colors. Take the paint samples home and live when them for a few days before selecting a color. In general, when painting a large portion of your home, it is a good idea to select colors that blend well together. Many decorators advise painting the same color on all surfaces on the same floor of your home that will be open to guests, such as your living and dining room.
Is there such a thing as using too many bright colors?
Yes. The colors that you place on your wall with either stand out or blend in. If you want your colors to stand out, then, by all means, paint with bright colors. However, most people agree that the best colors to use on the wall are the colors that will take a back seat to the other decorating that you do in your space, such as your furniture and accessories. Visit some homes with brightly colored walls and visit home with neutrally colored walls before making your final decision on which paint style you should choose.
What’s so wrong with having a plain white wall?
There is nothing wrong with having a plain white wall. But having a pale yellow wall is better. White, by nature, has the effect of feeling sterile, unfriendly, and unfinished. Therefore, many homeowners and decorators prefer to paint with a plain pale yellow or cream rather than a stark white wall. If you are going for a minimalist look, or perhaps are making a statement, then a plain white wall is fine. Otherwise, consider adding a little dressing to give your space more personality.