The Meaning of Color

An essential design component, color affects almost every space in the house.  Color may have an impact on each room’s energy as well as the moods and feelings that are present. Knowing the purpose and function of a room is often the first step in discerning which direction of color you should pursue. A home office may benefit from a calmer color choice since we tend to spend much time there staring at a screen or sitting in meetings. A family room could enjoy a brighter color scheme of reds and even pops of orange since this is where we gather to have fun and connect.  Understanding the significance of the various hues can also help you choose the most appropriate color for a specific region of your home. Choosing the right color is crucial. Let’s investigate the numerous connections each color conjures up and how to apply them in your home.

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The color red

Arguably the most attention-grabbing color on the spectrum, red often signifies passion, excitement, and even adventure. Red is a refreshing color that works great as an accent color on a wall or woven in a room with pillows, art, or a sofa as a focal point. The many shades of red mean it can fit into various design styles, from contemporary to classic traditional or with a charming rustic look. From the brick tones to the bright and flashy accent colors, red covers all the bases of emotions. Because it is such a strong color, designers tend to limit its use in a room to not overpower the senses.

The color yellow

Sunshine, joy, and friendliness. Yellow can be described using any of these terms. Just a few accents of this lovely color will make a space welcoming and upbeat. It is also considered a flexible color due to the various shades used to accomplish a design task. Pale yellows give off a calm ambiance, and the brighter hues add warmth to a space. Because of the differing shades, it is important to select the right one for the space; it needs to integrate with the furniture and other colors you choose to have in the room. You can easily bring in a touch of yellow through window treatments, area rugs, artwork, and more. Bring your sunshine indoors with some yellow.

Farmhouse dining room yellow paint

The color orange

Orange is positioned between red and yellow, so it makes sense that it combines the greatest qualities of the two. Orange is a robust yet friendly color that works well with others in the spectrum.  It is an intense color that, like red, can overpower the senses if applied excessively. Orange tones can make a great seasonal choice to add a touch of fall in your space with a few pillows, a throw blanket, and even some wall art. Using it in areas like a family room or a sunroom works well and brings out fun energy. A more muted shade of orange or terracotta color can also be a good option for upholstery, wallpaper, or accent pieces.

The color green

Green is a color of nature often associated with growth and newness. It gives a sense of stability and security to any space. Green communicates harmony and balance, making it a great option for bathrooms and bedrooms. Bolder shades like emerald and hunter green bring a touch of luxury to your home, while the more muted tones of olive and sage bring a sense of calmness. As with any area of the house, evaluating the primary purpose and function is essential because the answer will help guide your color selection. For instance, the home office can use a brighter shade of green in the design to boost energy, but a softer green can work better in a nursery setting where a more serene atmosphere is needed.

Living room living room lighting green and gray living room

The color purple

Associated with royalty, purple conveys a sense of luxury but is also considered a color of creativity. It is typically seen as an accent color and subtly woven into the design through wallpaper, accent pieces, or even furniture like a sofa. It can be combined with colors such as greens or grays to form stunning and sophisticated designs. Lighter colors like lavender and heather make a space feel brighter and happier, while darker colors like violet and plum create distinct focus points or depth.  Because it is associated with fantasy and fairy tales, it is a color that works well for children’s and craft rooms, too.

The color blue

Located across from red on the color wheel, blue is the opposite of this strong color in many ways. It is a color of calm and certainty.  It is also a versatile color that can be used practically everywhere in the home. Blue remains a popular color choice with interior designers. It was used for thousands of years by Chinese dynasties and the Greeks, which speaks to its endurance. It is a color that can be used to contrast, especially when paired with white or blend in seamlessly with other colors to create harmony. For those who enjoy coastal vibes, blue is the natural go-to color to create a sun and sand-relaxed atmosphere in the home. The sky’s the limit when you use blue, a true classic.

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Don’t forget about neutrals

Though color is often thought of in rainbow terms, neutrals are also a part of the color wheel, including white, black, and gray, and others like tan, beige, and cream. Perhaps lacking in the bright and glamorous tint as their more colorful companions, neutrals play a big role in interior design. They can accomplish a bold, luxurious look with an emphasis on blacks and dark grays or a more warm and inviting feeling with soft whites and creams, depending on the requirements of the room. Neutrals also work well with nature’s materials like wood, glass, and metal, creating elegant designs. There is also a simplistic beauty when working with mostly a neutral color palette, especially if a minimalist style is your goal. Whether blended with the brightest of colors or standing on their own, never underestimate the power of neutral colors.

Bringing it all together

Many different design components come together in a home to express what a place is to you personally. Color is one of the key components in expressing your unique style because it is in everything from fabric to finite details. Browsing places like Pinterest can help spark creativity or help you discover what color or combination of colors best tells your story. When you start planning your makeover, you can get help from our design staff.

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