For most people, choosing one paint color for a room is confusing enough; trying to come up with an entire color scheme is completely overwhelming. If you are confused by color, you are not alone. And who could blame you? With so many colors to choose from, it can be difficult to know which will look best, and even more challenging to select complementary shades that accent one another. But you don't have to! Use any of the can't-miss color schemes below.
Read this!
The # 1 most important thing to remember when choosing paint colors is this - If you see it in nature, it will work at home. Take a moment and think of the calming colors of the ocean, the earthy hues of the forest, or the invigorating yellows, oranges, and reds found in the fallen leaves of autumn. These color schemes from nature blend naturally and come together effortlessly.
Can't-Miss Color Schemes
Taking a cue from nature makes it simple to come up with can't-miss color schemes. Here are some of our favorites:
Romantic - To find the inspiration needed for a romantic color scheme, imagine the most brilliant sunset you've ever seen. This can open up a host of color combinations, depending on the sunset you envision. Pink, lavender, violet, and navy blue may be the colors that come to mind for you. However, a tropical sunset may include a bolder mix of colors that include red, orange, and yellow.
Tranquil - A tropical beach is a wonderful inspiration for a tranquil color scheme. The vibrant blue and green of the ocean, the brilliant blue sky, and an endless sandy beach is just perfect. These colors accent beautifully with fresh yellow, bright white, and a neutral sand.
Tropical - A kitchen with a tropical theme is fun, youthful, and full of color. Lime green walls matched with olive green kitchen cabinets are reminiscent of a dense forest patch. Accent with banana yellow accessories, a warm tangerine rug, and you have all the makings for a fun-filled tropical room.
Neutral - Neutral colors are very easy to put together, but can look dull and dreary if not accented properly. Seashells are a great inspiration for a neutral room, as their colors are all complementary to one another, but are anything but boring. Mixing a variety of textures and finishes is essential to making this type of room exciting. Think of how some seashells are rough and bumpy, others slick and shiny, while still others are hard and prickly.
Crisp and clean - A bedroom with a crisp and clean color scheme is refreshing, calming, and promotes a great night's sleep. Pale blue walls and bright white trim working against soft white bedding and periwinkle pillows is the epitome of clean. Flowing sheer curtains, sparkling crystal picture frames, and a fresh bowl of tulips will make this room the most comfortable in the house.
See it first - Want to know what a newly painted room will look like before you've even begun? Check out these fabulous virtual painting tools and see it first. Play with color placement, adjust accent colors, and much more.
More from Jennifer Wagner:
Get help choosing the right paint color
5 Apps for Home Decorating and Design
Pantone Announces the 2012 Color of the Year
Source: Personal knowledge and experience
