A good rule of thumb when coordinating colors is to stick to neutral shades. Unlike bolder, trendier colors, neutrals never go out of style and complement a wide variety of colors and styles. If you’re just starting to plan a color scheme, we’d recommend starting with white.
Find white too boring? Try experimenting with different undertones. In most cases, pure white isn’t the best white—it’s usually reserved for modern homes. The best shades of white are the ones tempered with a bit of color. White paint can come with bluish, reddish, yellowish and greenish undertones. Which shade of white goes best with the room you’re renovating? Here are some tips.
Compare Undertones Side-by-Side
It’s easy to miss the many subtle nuances of white, which is why it’s best to compare them side-by-side against a sheet of white paper. Looking up the different undertones on the web is a good start, but there are certain nuances that you can only pick up when you’re examining colors up close. To pick up samples, visit your local paint shop or consult an interior remodeling contractor.
Consider How the Room’s Furnishings Can Affect the Perception of the Color
Choosing colors is mostly a matter of preference. However, if you want to narrow down your options, consider other factors that can affect how a certain color looks. One of these factors is furnishings. Do the furnishings in the room you’ll be renovating lean towards warm or cool colors? If it’s the former, it’s best to choose white paint with warm undertones such as pink, orange, red and yellow. And if it’s the latter, we recommend going with cool undertones such as blue, green and purple.
Don’t underestimate the impact furnishings could have on color perception. White paint doesn’t need to have warm undertones to be considered on the warm end of the color spectrum. Sometimes, all it takes are a few furnishings with a warm undertone.
Check the Amount of Natural Lighting in the Room
Everyone knows natural lighting can affect how a particular color is perceived. What’s less well-known is how the direction of the room can affect natural lighting—and, by extension, the color scheme—in a room. A room facing north, for instance, receives cooler light that should be offset by white paint with warm undertones. On the other hand, a room facing south receives brighter light which is more suited to white paint with cool undertones.
Keep in mind coordinating colors can be tricky, which is why it’s best to consult one of the home remodeling contractors at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Huntsville if you’re having trouble settling on a color scheme.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Huntsville offers a wide range of professional home renovations. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (256) 203-9451 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Huntsville, Owens Cross Roads, Hazel Green, Redstone Arsenal and the surrounding communities.