How to Choose Interior Color Combinations

Choose colors that complement your furnishings and otherwise suit your space.

Choosing interior color combinations is based upon the look you desire, the effect you are trying to achieve and how well colors work with any existing furniture or materials you are keeping in the space. The type of space you are coloring determines the color combinations suitable to decorate with. The actions performed in the space affect the color combinations chosen because different colors affect mood and productivity. Certain colors work well with certain styles. Researching decorating styles and color psychology will also influence the colors you choose.

Things You'll Need

• Color wheel

Instructions

1. Consult a color wheel. Colors directly opposite each other on the color wheel are complementary colors. Complementary color combinations are contrasting. Play with complementary color combinations by moving in either direction on the color wheel. For example, violet and yellow are complementary colors. Move to the next color on the color wheel and see how yellow and blue work together. Paint manufacturers offer decks of color schemes in different values and chromes to further experiment. Pale and muted colors will work differently together than colors that are very bright. Colors next to each other on the color wheel are analogous. Analogous color schemes introduce depth and dimension into a room by having colors of the same or similar families in different intensities.

2. Consider the mood you are trying to achieve for your space. Red is energizing. Cool colors such as blue and green have a soothing effect. In places for relaxation and meditation, cool color combinations will work well. For work spaces, warm, stimulating combinations are a better option.

3. Assess existing fixtures, furniture and materials in the space. What colors will work well with these? Consider complementary and analogous colors to anything that is existing and that will be kept in the space. Also consider how color combinations will contrast and make furniture and accessories stand out. Colors that are too similar will result in a murky, bland-colored space.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint and finish manufacturers offer color schemes to aid you in selecting suitable combinations. Shopping these will help in deciding what interior color combinations work best for your space.

References

• Tiger Color: Basic Color Schemes - Introduction to Color Theory
• Pantone Color Think Tank: How Does Color Affect Us?

Resources

• Art Sparx: Basic Principles of Color