Interior & Exterior Colour Tips.
Choosing the right colours for interior and exterior painting can dramatically impact the atmosphere and curb appeal of a space. Here are some tips to guide you:
Interior Colour Painting Tips:
Understand the Room’s Purpose: -
Warm Colours (reds, oranges, yellows): Great for spaces where you want energy and stimulation, like living rooms, dining rooms, or kitchens.
Cool Colours (blues, greens, purples): Ideal for relaxation areas like bedrooms and bathrooms.
Consider Lighting: - Natural Light: Colours can look different in natural versus artificial light. Test paint samples on your walls and observe them at different times of the day.
Artificial Light: Cool white lights can make colours appear crisper, while warm yellow lights can make colours seem more muted or warmer.
Use Neutrals as a Base: - Neutrals like whites, beiges, and greys are versatile and timeless. They make a room feel larger and more open and provide a great backdrop for bolder accent colours.
Accent Walls: - Consider using a darker or contrasting colour on one wall to create a focal point in the room. This adds depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Ceiling and Trim: - A lighter colour on the ceiling can make the room feel taller. For trim, white or a slightly lighter shade than the walls create a clean, defined look.
Match Paint with Furniture and Decor: - Ensure that your wall colours complement the furniture, flooring, and decor in the room. If you have bold or patterned furniture, a more subdued wall colour might work best.
With such a wide range of colours to choose from it can always be difficult to choose the right one.
Exterior Colour Painting Tips:
Consider the Surroundings: - Take into account the natural surroundings, including landscaping, neighbouring homes, and the environment. Earthy tones might blend well with nature, while bright colours can make a house stand out.
Regional Influences: - In coastal areas, lighter and more vibrant colours are popular due to their reflective properties. In contrast, earthy tones might be more suitable for desert or mountain regions.
Match the Architectural Style: - Choose colours that respect and enhance the architectural style of your home. For example, historic homes often look best in traditional, muted colours, while modern homes can pull off bolder, more contemporary hues.
Test Before Committing: - Just like interiors, test exterior paint samples on different parts of your home. Observe how they look in different lighting conditions throughout the day.
Accent Colours: - Use accent colours on doors, shutters, and trim to add character. Bright doors, for example, can make a welcoming statement without overwhelming the overall colour scheme.
Weather and Durability: - Choose high-quality, weather-resistant paint for the exterior to ensure longevity and resistance to the elements. Also, consider the fade factor—darker colours tend to fade faster in direct sunlight.
General Tips: -
Sample First: Always test paint samples before fully committing to a colour. This helps you see how the colour interacts with your space.
Use Colour Apps: Many paint companies offer apps that allow you to visualize colours in your space before purchasing.
Don't Overdo It: Stick to a colour palette of three to four colours to maintain cohesion, especially in open-concept spaces. By keeping these tips in mind, you can create an inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment both inside and outside your home.