Choosing the perfect paint colour for your home can be a transformative experience, setting the tone and mood for each room. With countless options available, it can be overwhelming to find the right shade that reflects your style and complements your space. Here are some practical tips to guide you in selecting the perfect paint colour.

Understand the Room’s Purpose

Before choosing a colour, consider the function and atmosphere you want to create in the room. Is it a bedroom where you want to promote relaxation and rest? Or a kitchen where you want to inspire energy and conversation? Different colours evoke different emotions: blues and greens are calming and ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms, while warm colours like red and yellow are stimulating and can be great for dining areas or kitchens.

Consider Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in how a paint colour appears on your walls. Natural light will show the truest colour, while fluorescent lighting tends to cast a blue tone, and incandescent lighting brings out warm tones. Before making a final decision, test your paint samples under different lighting conditions at various times of the day to see how the colour transforms.    As an example, checkout the images of our console tables.  Most of those images have been taken by customers.  Notice the slight colour changes depending on the angle that the camera was at which would affect the light.

Sample Before You Commit

We have found that the best way of doing this is to go to your local paint store and buy some sample pots of all of the colours that you have shortlisted. Remember, that you have probably chosen the shortlisted colours from the manufacturer’s colour swatch, these are far too small to get a good representation of the colour.

Once you have your tester pots get an A4 size piece of cardboard, the inside of a cereal box is a great use here.  Paint two coats of the tester pot on the entire piece of card allowing the paint to fully dry between coats.

Next, take the dry cards and pin them to the wall in the room that the piece of painted furniture will live.  Now, watch the colours throughout the day as the sun rises and sets.  Look at the colours under your room lights so that you can see how they look.

You will now have a full understanding of the colour and how it looks under all light conditions.  By doing this there will be no surprises and you will get the exact results that you were expecting.  We have seen many customers that chose a colour only to realize that they only liked that colour in the morning when the sun was strongest and the room was flooded with natural light but did not like the colour in the evening or under their artificial room lights.

Harmonize with Existing Elements

Consider the existing elements in your room, such as furniture, flooring, artwork, and even architectural features. Choose a paint colour that complements these elements rather than clashes with them. For a cohesive look, you might want to use a colour wheel to select complementary or analogous colours that harmonize well with existing hues in your room.

Use Neutrals Strategically

Neutral colours like beige, grey, and white are versatile and timeless, providing a backdrop that allows furniture and artwork to stand out. They can be a safe choice if you’re unsure or plan to frequently change the room’s decor. Neutrals also offer flexibility, enabling you to experiment with bold accents and accessories.

Take Note of Undertones

Colours have undertones that might not be immediately obvious but can dramatically affect how a colour appears on your walls. For example, a grey might have blue undertones, giving it a cooler feel, while another grey might have brown undertones, making it warmer. Always consider these subtleties when choosing a paint colour to ensure it matches your vision.

Trend vs. Timeless

While it can be tempting to jump on the latest colour trends, remember that trends can quickly become outdated. If you love a trendy colour, consider using it in a less permanent way, such as in accessories or an accent wall, allowing the main colour of the room to remain timeless and adaptable.

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, the best colour for your space is one that resonates with you and makes you feel comfortable and happy. Trust your instincts and choose a colour that you love, rather than one you think you should choose. Personal taste is key to creating a space that truly feels like home.

Choosing the perfect paint colour involves a balance of practical considerations and personal preference. By taking the time to sample and observe how colours interact with light and existing decor, you can find a shade that not only enhances your room’s aesthetics but also elevates your living experience. Whether you opt for calming neutrals or vibrant hues, the right paint colour can breathe new life into your space.

Choosing Colours for your Furniture

When it comes to home design, furniture plays a crucial role in defining the style and feel of a space. While the structure and form of furniture are essential, the colour of furniture can have a profound impact on the aesthetics of a room. Whether you’re looking to revamp an old piece or buying new furniture, choosing the right paint colour—or deciding to stick with natural wood—can be a rewarding challenge. Here’s how to navigate this process.

Assess the Space

Before you decide on a colour for your furniture, consider the existing colours in the room. Look at the walls, flooring, and other furniture pieces. Your furniture should complement these elements rather than clash with them. Neutral rooms offer more flexibility, while colourful spaces might require more thoughtful colour coordination. Determine whether you want your furniture to stand out as an accent piece or blend seamlessly into the background.

Understanding the Role of Furniture

Think about the purpose and functionality of the furniture piece. A dining table might benefit from a natural wood finish, adding warmth and richness to the room. In contrast, a bright paint colour on a small side table can add a playful touch to a child’s room or a bold accent to a minimalist living room.

Choosing Paint Colours for Furniture

Neutral Colours

Neutral paint colours like white, grey, or beige are versatile and timeless. They can help create a serene and cohesive look, making them ideal for larger furniture pieces like dressers or wardrobes. Neutrals are also perfect for spaces where you want to add colourful accents through decor and textiles. Additionally, they work well in modern and contemporary designs, providing a clean and streamlined look.

Bold Colours

For those who love a splash of colour, bold hues like teal, mustard, or coral can turn a simple piece of furniture into a statement piece. Consider using bold colours on smaller furniture items or pieces that naturally draw the eye, like an accent chair or a coffee table. Bold colours can add personality and create a focal point in a room, especially in neutral or monochrome settings.

Pastels

Pastels offer a soft, subtle pop of colour without overwhelming a space. Colours like pale pink, mint green, or powder blue can add a gentle and inviting feel to a room. These shades are perfect for creating a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, particularly in bedrooms and nurseries.

 

Embracing Natural Wood

Natural wood finishes bring warmth, texture, and an organic feel to any room. The choice to leave furniture unpainted often highlights the beauty of the wood grain, showcasing its natural patterns and variations. This can be particularly appealing in rustic or traditional interiors where the warmth and authenticity of wood are celebrated.

When to Use Natural Wood

Classic Appeal: Natural wood is timeless and can be easily integrated into various design styles, making it a great choice for heirloom pieces.

Warmth and Texture: Wood adds warmth and texture to a room, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

Durability and Longevity: Wood is durable and ages gracefully, often looking better over time with proper care.

Sustainability: Using reclaimed or sustainably sourced wood is an eco-friendly option that adds character and history to your home.

 

Final Considerations

Ultimately, whether you choose to paint your furniture or embrace its natural wood finish, consider your personal style and the atmosphere you want to create. Sampling paint colours on small sections and observing them in different lighting conditions can help you make an informed decision. For natural wood, consider applying finishes or stains to protect the surface and enhance its natural beauty. The right choice can transform your furniture into a piece that not only serves a functional purpose but also elevates the design of your space.