When it comes to painting, the color palette is one of the most important decisions you will make. However, choosing the right colors for your home can be overwhelming.
You can use visuals such as furniture, artwork, or fabrics to help guide your color selection process. You can also use a variety of lighting scenarios when selecting paint swatches.
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A fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest ways to impact a home dramatically. However, it’s a project with unique challenges. Color selection is difficult when a whole house is involved, and a mistake can cost much money.
Exterior painting is also a public design decision: neighbors can see your house, and they will notice if it’s the wrong color. You can’t camouflage an exterior like you can an interior room, and repainting costs significantly more than a simple touchup.
Choosing the right colors can set your house apart from its neighbors without being too dark. Look at the houses around you and choose a shade that’s lighter or darker but still looks natural.
Light and Darkness
Choose a lighter paint color if your building is exposed to direct sunlight. Darker colors fade more quickly in strong sunlight and may require routine touchups.
Consider the landscaping and other features that you won’t be able to change, such as roofing or brick. These elements can cast large shadows on your walls for hours each day, so consider that when choosing a paint color.
Also, remember that light bulbs emit different heat temperatures and can affect paint colors differently. Fluorescents and halogens typically have a more extraordinary glow that pairs well with blue and green paint colors. At the same time, incandescent bulbs can give a warmer, reddish glow that pairs better with yellow and orange paints. Always check sample colors under both types of light to see how the color will look.
Texture
When choosing paint colors for your home Interior painting, it’s important to remember the texture of your house and any fixed elements you can’t change. You also want to remember the climate and how your home will be affected by it. For example, if you live in an area with lots of sun year-round, lighter colors will help your home fade less and absorb less heat.
It’s also crucial to drive or walk around your neighborhood for inspiration. Please take note of the colors that appeal to you and look at how they pair with other houses. Taking time with this step will make the difference between a successful and disappointing painting job. You’ll be able to choose a color that matches well with your surroundings and will stand the test of time.
Color Combinations
A home’s color scheme is a big part of its curb appeal. Choosing a palette that complements and harmonizes with the natural environment around your home will help it look more balanced.
Look at the colors in your landscaping and hardscape, and consider what colors are used for other features you can’t change, such as brick or stone. Then try to find colors that will complement those colors.
You can also look at the colors of homes in your neighborhood and ask your local paint store for suggestions. A good rule of thumb is to start with neutral shades and work your way up from there. You can test swatches on poster boards outside in full sunlight before making your final choice.
Natural Light
How a paint color looks at different times of day is an essential factor to consider. That muted green you fell in love with at the store can become a lavender hue at home, especially when the sun goes down and artificial light kicks in. It is a phenomenon called metamerism.
Many paint experts suggest viewing potential paint colors under various lighting conditions, including natural and artificial, before making your final choice. Clare, a paint company, even offers repositionable swatches like large stickers, allowing you to move them around a room until you find the perfect hue.
Finally, remember that some building parts, such as the roof color or existing stonework, are still the same. Choose paint colors that complement these elements to create a cohesive look.
