How Much Can Paint Color Increase Your Home’s Sale Price?

The impact of paint color on a home’s sale price has been the topic of numerous studies and analyses, primarily conducted by real estate companies and platforms who have access to vast amounts of sale data. One of the most cited sources on this topic is Zillow, an online real estate marketplace. Zillow released an analysis in their “Zillow Paint Color Analysis” that looked at how certain paint colors in specific home areas impacted the sale price compared to homes with white walls.

 

Painting walls in fresh light, neutral colors help buyers picture themselves living in the space because they are neutral enough to go with most buyers furnishings and they make the space look larger. Zillow found some colors in specific rooms, particularly light blues, increased the sales price in homes, and a lack of color or certain colors decreased the sales price. Why? Color affects emotion and buyers buy because of emotion!

 

Neutral colors are generally gray or beige. Picking the right paint is really about making sure the neutral colors and whites work with your fixed finishes. “Greiges” are a mixture of gray and beige that are versatile and will work with a wide variety of floorings, countertops and other finishes. Greiges are great for living and family rooms and exterior colors.

 

This color data makes sense when you think about the fact that universally, blue is a favorite color worldwide, and that the easiest way for most people to match their existing belongings to a color without having to replaint is if it is a neutral color.

 

 

Here are some highlights from Zillow’s findings over the years:

1. Front Doors:

1. • Homes with black or charcoal gray front doors sold for as much as $6,271 more than expected.

1. Living Rooms:

1. • Homes with living rooms painted in light taupe saw an increase of approximately $2,793.

1. Kitchens:

1. • Kitchens painted in light blue to soft gray-blue boosted the sale price by about $1,809.
   • However, homes with straw yellow or marigold kitchens reportedly sold for $820 less than expected.

1. Bedrooms:

1. • Homes with light cerulean to cadet blue bedrooms saw an increase in sale price by about $1,856.

1. Bathrooms:

1. • Bathrooms painted in powder blue to periwinkle had homes selling for $5,440 more than expected.
   • On the other hand, homes with white bathrooms sold for an average of $4,035 less than similar homes.

1. Dining Rooms:

1. • Slate blue to pale gray blue dining rooms boosted the sale price by roughly $1,926.

1. Exteriors:

1. • Homes painted in greige (gray + beige) on the exterior sold for $3,496 more than similar homes painted in a medium brown or with tan stucco.
   •  

These figures are averages and may vary depending on the local market, the overall condition of the house, and other factors. The numbers are also based on Zillow’s data and may not reflect the broader market as a whole.

Which Colors Are Best?

Several studies and real estate analyses have shown that certain paint colors can positively affect a home’s sale price. Here are some colors that have been recognized for their potential to boost home value, along with specific brands and color names where applicable.

 

Colors that become top sellers are often influenced by the annual “color of the year” selections made by major paint companies, as well as broader design and decor trends. I have added some additional choices similar to those recognized to boost home value based on top selling paint colors, color trends and personal experience. 

Front Doors

Navy Blue or Dark Gray: Houses with doors painted shades of navy blue to dark gray reportedly sold for a higher price. Here are top selling navy blue and dark gray colors that are popular and  could be good choices. Example: “Hale Navy” from Benjamin Moore.

The color trends for door colors in 2023 featured a lot of black and natural wood tones. Trends for 2024, you will see pops of color as well as traditional black and wood.  Personally, I think the front door is a great place to add a pop of color and make your home more memorable to buyers.  It is something they can easily change if they like.

Living Rooms:

Light Beige, Pale Taupe, or Oatmeal: Neutral colors in the living room can be appealing. Example: “Accessible Beige” or “Repose Gray” from Sherwin-Williams.

I have used Accessible Beige many times for home staging and found it to be a great color that works with a variety of fixed finishes and flooring.

Kitchens

Light Blue to Soft Gray-Blue: These colors in kitchens reportedly increase home value. Example: “Smoke” or “Pale Oak” from Benjamin Moore.

.

Bedrooms

Light Cerulean to Cadet Blue: These are reported to increase selling prices when used in bedrooms. Example: “Breath of Fresh Air” from Benjamin Moore.

Bathrooms

Powder Blue to Periwinkle: Homes with bathrooms this color reportedly fetched a higher selling price. Example: “Bit of Sugar” from Behr or “Atmospheric” from Sherwin-Williams.

Dining Rooms

Slate Blue to Pale Gray Blue: They can reportedly increase the sale price. Example: “Palladian Blue” from Benjamin Moore.

Exterior Colors

Greige (Mix of Gray and Beige): Homes painted this color often sell for more. Example: “Perfect Greige” from Sherwin-Williams.

Home Office

Light Gray: This can boost the selling price. Example: “Gray Screen” from Sherwin-Williams.

Putting it All Together

You might be wondering if you can simply choose your favorite colors from the recommended list and expect a higher selling price. The answer is not quite that straightforward. These recommendations serve as guidelines, but your entire color palette must work cohesively, starting from the exterior of your home and flowing seamlessly to the interior. Both exterior and interior colors should align with and complement fixed finishes that you don’t plan to change much, such as your roofing material, stonework, interior countertops, fireplaces, and flooring. It’s like solving a puzzle where each piece must fit together to create the whole picture.

When executed correctly, your color choices can be extraordinary, enhancing the overall appeal of your home. However, if the colors clash or feel disjointed, even if you can’t pinpoint the issue, potential buyers may sense that something isn’t quite right. The most effective strategy is to enlist the expertise of a certified color strategist who can curate a harmonious color palette based on your fixed finishes. By following these guidelines and working with a professional, you can increase your chances of selling your home faster and at a higher price.

 

Now that you understand more about color, why not let me help you get your colors right with a science based color consultation? Let’s get you the most possible on your home sale.

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Considering a fresh coat of paint for your home’s exterior? It’s amazing how a new shade can give both your home and your spirits a lift. However, this exciting change can sometimes lead to the all-too-common paint color dilemma.

It’s something every homeowner encounters. Whether you’re updating the entire exterior, adding a pop to a single room, or just revamping a door, choosing the right shade is crucial. The stakes? Picking a color that doesn’t match your vision, leaving you wondering if the neighbors are silently judging. But fear not, for every paint predicament, there’s a perfect solution waiting to be discovered!

Navigating the maze of paint colors can often feel like an unsolvable puzzle. Most people often resort to:

1. Choosing their favorite shade and crossing their fingers.
2. Seeking the collective wisdom of friends and family.
3. Posting on design forums like Houzz, only to get overwhelmed with diverse suggestions.
4. Going down the rabbit hole of color blogs and becoming perplexed by the term “undertones”.
5. Painting multiple sample colors on their wall and feeling like they’re in a never-ending loop of indecision.
6. Consulting a certified color strategist.

Among these, the last option is truly the game-changer. Here’s why:

• Your favorite color might not necessarily match your home’s permanent fixtures. Whether it’s your exterior finishes or your interior countertops and flooring, you need to ensure harmony.
• Everyone has an opinion, but remember, you’re the one living in your space. What’s aesthetically pleasing to others might not resonate with you.
• Online experts, though well-intentioned, aren’t privy to the specific lighting conditions and nuances of your home. Computer screens rarely capture true colors!
• The term “undertones” often muddies the waters. Colors in different lighting conditions can be deceiving. It’s essential not to get bogged down by the jargon.
• Using multiple swatches is a good start. But remember, colors can influence each other, and it’s essential to view each shade in isolation.
• A certified color strategist is your best ally. They blend the art and science of color, offering a trained eye and understanding the physics of color. This ensures your chosen shade complements the specific fixtures and lighting conditions of your home.

In essence, while color can be subjective, its impact on a space is tangible. With tools like a colorimeter, experts can objectively measure colors, aligning them perfectly with your home’s needs. So, next time you’re caught in the color conundrum, remember, there’s a science to it, and the right expert can make your colorful dreams a reality!

So what is this magical device? A Color Muse! While this device can be used by anyone to find paint colors to match an existing color, the real power comes from understanding what the color data means and how to use it.

Diving into a color dilemma is akin to playing detective. Let’s unravel one such case I encountered. Upon arriving at the residence, what greeted me was a splash of color swatches on the walls and the door. A classic sign of the homeowner’s quest and confusion in pinpointing that elusive perfect shade. The scene screamed ‘color dilemma’ loud and clear.

At the outset, the intention was evident: the homeowner wanted a fresh look but was overwhelmed by the options. They had tried multiple colors, hoping one would stand out and feel “right”. But instead, what they had was a mosaic of possibilities, with no clear winner.

Let me walk you through the art and science of solving this color dilemma. My clients had a vision of their ideal color palette: a hue that struck a balance between gray, green, and brown. They also wanted to preserve the natural wood and metal trim while introducing a vibrant front door. A classic scenario where husband and wife couldn’t quite agree on the perfect color.

The wood siding and metal trim had now transformed into fixed finishes, dictating the color harmony for the entire exterior. The roof color remained hidden from sight, so it didn’t play a role in the selection. Additionally, there was almost black metal trim on the deck railings and around the front door, which was not up for a paint makeover and thus became another fixed finish. To add to the equation, a stark white garage door stood prominently, making it the most eye-catching feature due to its lighter shade than the rest of the elements.

Applying the art of color, I decided to make the garage door recede by painting it a dark color. The trim color on the railings, determined by measurement, also seemed ideal for the window trim and garage to maintain harmony amidst the three other colors designated for the walls, wood, and metal vertical trim. This color turned out to be Sherwin Williams Caviar, aligning perfectly with the measured hue, chroma, and values of the wood and metal vertical wall.

Next, it was time to identify a wall color that would complement these fixed finishes in terms of hue, chroma, or lightness. Several options on the color wheel were considered, such as an analogous scheme (colors close to each other on the wheel), a complimentary scheme (opposite colors), or a triadic scheme (colors evenly spaced on the wheel). By narrowing down the choices, my clients ultimately selected Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray with a hint of “green” that aligned with their preferences.

The final piece of the puzzle was the front door. To create a harmonious connection with the landscaping, a color inspired by the vibrant green bushes in the front was proposed. Measuring a leaf with my trusty colorimeter led us to the perfect shade: Sherwin Williams Hep Green.

And voilà! The color dilemma was elegantly resolved, resulting in a stunning transformation.

Did they like the end result? Here is what they said.

Need Help with Your Color Dilemma?

Set up a color consultation today. I can work with you locally or online nationwide.  Easy, collaborative and fun!

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In my last post,  How to  Pick the Perfect Exterior Paint Colors for your Home, I shared the first steps in my process for picking exterior paint colors for my own home.  I mentioned this included:

• • • Consider what colors you like
    • Consider your limitations  such as your fixed finishes, landscape and surroundings.
    • Visualize the possibilities.
    • Test your choices to see them in different light conditions.

Here is the before photo of my home and the colors I had selected to test (Benjamin Moore Moscow Midnight, Lily White and Sunshine).

Like many homeowners, I initially thought I was ready to make my paint color selections and dive into painting my home’s exterior. However, something interesting happened along the way.

My journey began with thorough research into exterior paint brands, and I discovered that Sherwin Williams had garnered better reviews compared to Benjamin Moore. Both companies are undoubtedly reputable, and I often recommend colors from both to my home staging and design clients. For this particular project, I decided to give Sherwin Williams a try, a decision that naturally led me to reconsider my color choices.

What added an intriguing twist to this process was my recent certification as a color strategist. You might be wondering, what does that entail? Well, a color strategist is someone who possesses a deep understanding of both the art and science of color, enabling them to make well-informed color decisions. I delved into the scientific aspects of color, learning how to measure color data and apply insights on hue, value (lightness), and chroma (saturation) to make even more precise color choices.

Armed with this newfound knowledge, I began by collecting color data from my roofing material. This allowed me to discover an even more suitable teal color (Moscow Midnight) that harmonized beautifully with my roof. Additionally, I opted for a warmer white shade (Alabaster) for the trim, which complemented Moscow Midnight and didn’t appear overly bright on sunny days. To add a bold and vibrant touch, I selected “Forward Fuchsia” as the front door color, a choice that perfectly matched the color data of the roses in my front yard. I envisioned how this color would tie my home seamlessly to the blooming roses during the summer months.

However, there was a minor hiccup during my color selection process. I found that the color visualizer on the Sherwin Williams website didn’t perform as well as the one on the Benjamin Moore site. When I attempted to overlay “Alabaster” onto the dark stained decks of my house in my own photos, the color didn’t completely cover the existing surface and had a somewhat grayish appearance. To ensure I got a true representation of how the colors would look, I utilized a “sample scene” photo provided by the Sherwin Williams site rather than relying solely on my own images.

And, I have to admit, I was swayed when I read their description of the section of colors that “Moscow Midnight” was described in.

” Nature is so powerful, so strong. Capturing its’ essence is not easy- your work becomes a dance with light and the weather. It takes you to a place within yourself.”

Considering I am also a wildlife biologist and a dancer when I am not home staging or designing….that sealed the deal for me!

And here is the final result!

The key takeaway? Always delve into reviews before settling on your exterior paint choices and remember, it’s okay to pivot if something feels off. Engaging a certified color strategist can be a game-changer, ensuring your choice resonates from the get-go. After all, painting is an investment, so why not guarantee a result you’ll absolutely love?

Try a Color Consultation Today

Need help picking your paint colors? Whether you are starting from scratch or just want to run your color selections by a pro to make sure they will work, I can help you with an online color consultation wherever you live.

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Unlocking the Truth About Choosing Paint Colors

Choosing paint colors can be a daunting task, causing stress and potential costly mistakes. Why is it so challenging? The truth is, much of the advice out there on selecting harmonious paint colors is misleading. Making the wrong choice can either drain your wallet or haunt you daily in your living space. Let’s set the record straight.”

Seeking Answers in All the Wrong Places

Perhaps you’ve scoured blogs by renowned color experts or relied on the advice of your local paint store. Maybe you’ve taken to online forums like Houzz, seeking the perfect color for your space, only to receive a multitude of well-intentioned yet ultimately inconclusive responses. It’s possible you trust your own color intuition implicitly, thinking you’ve got it all figured out. But how’s that working for you?

I embarked on a personal journey to comprehend the intricacies of color, and I’ve come to a profound realization. I now understand more than ever why people grapple with paint color choices and why costly mistakes are nearly inevitable. I’ve been down that road myself!”

I’ve always had a deep love for color and a keen sense of what shades complemented each other. My exceptional memory for colors served me well when shopping for items that needed to match a particular hue. I relied on my innate ‘color sense’ for years.

 

When I started my home staging and design business, I quickly realized the significance of selecting the right paint colors to help homeowners sell their properties.

 

While I grasped the importance of neutral tones to appeal to a broader spectrum of buyers, the process of picking specific colors often boiled down to following guidelines created by others. These guidelines were often based on personal, subjective opinions and their own ‘color sense.’ Unfortunately, the rationale behind these color choices was rarely explained in detail.

Desiring a deeper understanding and grappling with the challenge of identifying ‘undertones,’ I decided to undergo color training to become a certified color expert. The training provided insights into identifying ‘warm and cool’ color schemes and recognizing ‘undertones.’ However, these insights were based on the trainer’s visual perception, leaving me without clear instructions on how to determine ‘undertones’ independently. Essentially, I was instructed to assess colors against a ‘white’ background and rely on my own visual perception.

My quest for knowledge led me to explore various blogs and podcasts by numerous ‘color experts,’ each of whom had developed their unique methods for explaining color relationships and their perceptions of what worked harmoniously together. The conflicting information left me feeling increasingly bewildered.

At one point, I even considered the possibility that paint companies held the secret to understanding undertones. I reached out to them, seeking answers about whether certain colors would complement one another. I spent hours examining color fan decks, convinced that hidden secrets lay in the arrangement of colors on those sheets. I couldn’t have been more wrong!”

My understanding of how color worked seemed to improve over time. I had accumulated a wealth of ‘rules of thumb,’ advice, and lists of harmonious color combinations from well-intentioned color experts. Yet, a sense of mystery persisted, and I felt like I hadn’t truly grasped the essence of color theory, especially given the divergent approaches of these experts.

The Turning Point: The Science of Color

My quest for answers eventually led me to the world of color science—a turning point in my journey. Here, I discovered how color truly operates, from the principles governing its behavior to the rules of color order, and how to solve intricate color puzzles.

I learned that the term ‘undertone,’ often used by those who lack an understanding of color science, is an inaccurate description. It merely represents a subjective opinion of color based on individual visual perception. Remarkably, we all perceive color in our unique ways.

 

My breakthrough came when I enrolled in ‘The Four Pillars of Color,’ a course taught by Lori Sawaya through Camp Chroma. This course introduced me to the Munsell Color System, a century-old foundation for comprehending color. It provides the framework for how colors are organized, how paint shades are determined, and how color remains consistent in various products. It specifies colors based on three properties of color: hue (basic color), chroma (color intensity), and value (lightness).

Each color can be likened to having its own ‘DNA,’ consisting of four distinct aspects that render it unique. While it may sound intricate, this system offers an orderly and logical approach to understanding color.”

I discovered that the fan decks from paint companies lack logical ordering, and the concept of ‘undertones,’ as most color experts use it, doesn’t hold water. Surprisingly, a significant portion of the color information available is simply incorrect.

While some artists and designers may dismiss the use of science as a fun spoiler, I challenge them to consider whether they’ve ever made color mistakes and wished they had a clear understanding of why. Are they aware that each person perceives color slightly differently? How can they be certain that their perception aligns with that of their clients? Relying solely on ‘color sense’ is a highly subjective approach. Even those who believe they’ve found a magic formula through color-measuring tools and apps can benefit immensely from comprehending the underlying data and its practical applications.

The True Magic Lies in Blending Art and Color Science

In truth, selecting appealing color combinations still hinges on your personal preferences and those of your clients. There exists a beautiful synergy between the art and science of color selection. A proficient color strategist possesses the ability to merge these elements seamlessly, offering not only a keen eye for color but also the scientific knowledge to refine selections. With the right expertise, the perfect colors become an achievable reality.

Get Your Colors Right the First Time

Now that you understand more about color, why not let me help you get your colors right with a science based color consultation?

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I Bet you. Why? Because most people do. Why? Because this bad advice is all over the internet. Why? Because people continue to repeat this bad information on blogs and in forums, so most people think it is true.

Mistake #1-Testing paint colors against a white background

People often think white is a perfect neutral background to see the true characteristics of the color they are testing.  Looking at your color against the old paint color can affect your perception of the new color. White seems like a great solution. Some believe that painting colors on a white background can magically make those mystical undertones appear.

The only thing that is true about the information above is that your perception of color can be influenced by adjacent colors. Whites are hues just like any other color, they just have so little chroma that it is hard to tell what hue family they came from. There are lots of shades of white, so of course a white can still influences how your color looks in comparison. In addition, there is no such thing as an “undertone” the way most people describe it. That is just a term people use when they are subjectively expressing their opinion of what hue family that white or gray came from. It is just an opinion that is often wrong and can easily be measured and determined scientifically in about 5 seconds without having to paint anything.

The biggest reason however not to test your color against a white background is that the “white” will make all colors look washed out. The intensity of the white can cause you to misread both the lightness and chroma or saturation of the color you are testing. The color will appear darker, duller or grayer, and less colorful than it is. So, it is deceiving and when you paint your room or house, it will appear much lighter, brighter and more colorful than you expected. See the example below in which I put  Sherwin Williams “Moscow Midnight” on a white background.

What if you put your color against a black background? It has the opposite effect, but still has the effect of distorting how your color may look in your room. Black makes your color look lighter, brighter and more colorful than it is, so when you paint your room you may be surprised with how much darker and duller the color appears than you expected. In the picture above, see how Moscow Midnight looks on a black background compared to on the white background.

So, what can you do then? Paint on a gray background! Gray is the most neutral and will have the least effect in changing how the color appears. Look at the example of Moscow Midnight on the gray background to see what I mean.

Of course, you can use this effect of the contrast between two colors in your designs if you choose as in the example above where the walls are painted Moscow Midnight and the ceiling and trim are painted a shade of white. It is just something to be aware of when you are determining your colors to start with.

Mistake #2-Testing several paint colors next to each other

People often take their white background and then paint a variety of colors next to each other in a line to compare and see what they like best. This is a totally ineffective way to compare color because each color is affecting the way you see the adjacent color.

This happens because of what is called “simultaneous contrast”.  This could happen when one color is laid on top of the other such as in the examples in “Mistake #1”, where for example you put Moscow Midnight on a white background and the white makes it look darker and grayer.

Or it can happen when you paint a bunch of test samples next to each other as in the picture below. If you place color compliments next to each other (colors opposite each other on a color wheel) like red and green, they each make the other look more colorful and brighter. So, in the picture below, the green next to the red is making the red look redder, and the red is making the green look greener.

If the two colors are not complimentary like the red and orange next to each other, each color tends to influence the other by add a touch of its own compliment color to the adjacent one. For example, the compliment of red is green, so the red is adding a slightly greenish tint to the way the orange looks. The compliment of the orange is blue, so it is adding a slightly bluish tint to the way the red looks.

I realize right now you are thinking, What the Heck is she Talking About??  Yes, I know. It sounds weird but it’s true. One of those cool things about color science you never knew!!

In any case, if you are trying to evaluate a color, do not paint a wall full of samples right next to each other. You are just making things harder on yourself!! Look at each color by its little lonesome self.

Mistake #3- Painting several test colors on your wall

Why is this a mistake? Well, for one, as I mentioned above, you probably confused yourself. But also, after you have chosen your new color and you paint over your test swatches, you may have raised streaks under the new paint job that are now visible.  Yes, it happens a lot.  The only way to get rid of these is to sand down the raised edges before painting or continue to put more coats on until they are not visible which is time consuming and expensive.

You can avoid this mistake by purchasing removable stick on swatches of the color you want to test rather that painting on the wall. Try Swatch Rite samples . Not only are they removable, but the shape (round) is easier on the eyes in terms of evaluating colors.

Is that Cussing I Hear?

Now that I have told you the three common mistakes I bet you have made, I can hear some of you cussing me through the computer because you may have made them all at the same time last time you painted.   You are not alone.

And you may be thinking, well, why should I listen to you since it was another “color expert” that told me to make these mistakes in the first place?

Bottom line, science is science. It is what it is. Most people do not know the science of color and many don’t want to know. They want to just use their “eyes” and the art of color, because it may appear to be more fun. I prefer to use both. It makes life a lot easier and quicker when trying to come up with great paint colors!

Sorry, There’s More

As a certified color strategist that uses the art and science of color, I regret to inform you that there is lots of bad color information out there on the internet besides what I have told you above. Yup, it’s true. But guess what?  The science of color can cut through all the BS and help you get your colors right the first time, saving you time, money and stress!   Are you ready to try a new approach? And, even though there is some science involved, it is still fun!!

Set up a color consultation today. I can work with you locally or online nationwide. To work together online, I will have you purchase a Color Muse and teach you how to use it to send me the data. Easy, collaborative and fun!

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Learn More About the Art and Science of Color

I am proud to say I am a certified color strategist! And, the only one in Alaska! As a design professional, I was truly impressed with the color training I received from Lori Sawaya​ of Camp Chroma. Finally, a training program that uses the scientific method of explaining how color works based on an established color system that skips all the subjective talk about undertones that leaves everyone feeling confused. Color is complex and this training explained color data so we can make informed decisions based on the science, rather than on subjective opinion or color sense.Click on the picture to find out more about the best training class on color available, the Four Pillars of Color!.

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Many people struggle with finding the perfect color scheme, often bound by the constraints of their existing finishes. But what if we make this more fun? Imagine magnifying and embracing your favorite color wholeheartedly. Welcome to the world of Monochromatic design!

Monochromatic schemes delve deep into one hue, exploring its diverse shades, tones, and tints. Visualize your cherished color transitioning from its lightest whisper to its richest depth, seamlessly incorporating white and black.

Why is it effective? The singular hue fosters visual harmony, resulting in a seamless design. Think of the design principle: “All greens blend” or “Every blue complements the other.” Their shared base hue unifies them, ensuring a cohesive look.

But isn’t monochromatic boring? NO! The absence of contrasting colors can be offset by using a range of “blue” hues for example rather than just one.  You can also create drama and interest with patterns and textures.

For instance, I could craft a monochromatic palette starting with the blue at 230 degrees on the color wheel. From there, I’d explore its spectrum, transitioning from pure white (unsaturated) to shades of light blue, deepening to dark blue, and ultimately black. To add richness, I might dabble with hues ranging from 235 to 250 degrees, all within the blue family, while experimenting with different saturation levels.

When I select my design pieces, I look for various materials, textures and patterns to add variety, such as mixing soft and hard, matte and shiny, smooth and rough, curves and straight lines etc.

Mastering Monochrome: A Singular Hue Living Room Transformation”

I created this living room design where I embraced a blue monochromatic palette. From pristine white to profound black, the spectrum features diverse blue hues manifesting in paint, furniture, drapery, lighting, and accents. Admittedly, the greenery introduces a dash of contrast, lending the space a touch beyond strict monochrome.”

This design incorporates some of my original fractal art in a collection called “The Sea”, which reminded me of white caps on the ocean and also uses variety of blue shades.

See More of My Blue Energy Art

See a collection of my blue energy art which could work beautifully together in creating your own blue monchromatic color scheme.

Benefits of A Monochromatic Color Scheme

• A monochromatic color scheme offers several benefits, including:
  1. Cohesiveness: By using variations of a single hue, the design inherently feels unified and harmonious.
  2. Visual Simplicity: Monochromatic designs reduce visual clutter, making spaces feel more organized and easier on the eyes.
  3. Flexibility: With one dominant color, it’s easier to mix and match patterns, textures, and shades without overwhelming the space.
  4. Depth and Dimension: By using tints, tones, and shades of a single color, you can create depth and dimension in a space without introducing multiple colors.
  5. Creates Mood: Depending on the color chosen, monochromatic schemes can evoke specific moods – blues for tranquility, reds for warmth, greens for rejuvenation, and so on.
  6. Easier Color Coordination: Choosing decor, furnishings, and finishes become simpler when you’re working within a single color spectrum.
  7. Timelessness: Monochromatic rooms often have a timeless quality and can stay relevant despite changing design trends.
  8. Highlights Architectural Features: In a monochromatic setting, architectural features can stand out more as they aren’t competing with varied colors.
  9. Enhanced Spatial Perception: In some cases, using a monochromatic scheme can make spaces seem larger or cozier, depending on the hue and its intensity.
  10. Focus on Texture and Form: With color variation minimized, there’s a greater focus on other design elements like texture, form, and material, allowing for richer tactile experiences.

  Using a monochromatic scheme can be a strategic design choice to bring tranquility, unity, and a unique aesthetic appeal to any space.

Celebrate Your Favorite Color

Imagine entering a room where every hue resonates with your spirit, instilling a profound sense of joy and tranquility. A sanctuary where you rejuvenate and spark inspiration. When your space mirrors your essence, harmony effortlessly follows.

Why not infuse the vibrant colors of summer into your dwelling? Or perhaps the palette of your cherished season?

Elevate your space with an Aligned Design Consultation today.

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People often struggle with creating a great color scheme.  Often, we start the conversation by talking about the limitations, or the box of colors you need to play with based on your fixed finishes.

In my last article, Celebrate Your Favorite Color- Go Monochromatic, we talked about how you could take your favorite color and celebrate it in all it’s glory with a monochromatic color scheme. Simple and easy!

What if you would like a little more color variety,  but still want something that is simple and easy to create?  Go analogous!

Analogous color schemes are based on three hues that are next to each other on the color wheel. They are friendly neighbors, they like each other and  play well together:)

Analogous colors are harmonious and often found in nature.

Why does it work? They go well together because one of the three colors is usually a combination of the other two as with the red, yellow and orange peppers above.

Analogous schemes offer more color variety than monochromatic schemes while still retaining that harmonious and often serene quality, although it can also be more dramatic too based on the hues you use. It is also a simple scheme to create by using your color wheel and picking three adjacent colors that you like.    

Which three adjacent colors are your favorites?

For example, in my last article, I created a monochromatic design using blues and blue/purples around the range of 250-270 on the color wheel.

If I wanted to take this monochromatic design, and create a more analogous scheme, I could go clockwise around the color wheel and add the neighbors of blue in including purple and red-purple.  Or, I could go counter-clockwise  and add blue-green and green. 

I could also pick neighbors on either side and add purple and blue green. Let’s play.

Analogous Color Scheme #1

This design starts with our base blue as in the sofas and moves counter-clockwise along the color wheel to include blue greens and greens. I set the tone for this design with a new rug in blue green and then changed the paint color, lamps, side chairs and some of the accessories. I maintained the sofas and art as the anchor of the main blue color I wanted to harmonize with.

This design still maintains a calm, serene feeling similar to the original monochromatic scheme, but feels a little richer and warmer with the greens and blue greens.

Fractal Art

This design, as with the monochromatic design, incorporates some of my original fractal art in a collection called “The Sea”, which reminded me of white caps on the ocean and also uses variety of blue shades.

Analogous Color Scheme #2

In this case, I again maintained the blue sofas as the base color from the previous design and went clockwise around the color wheel to include purple and red/purple.

I found a nice rug that contained the 3 main colors I wanted to work with to tie everything together. Then I switched the paint color, lamps, one accent pillow and some of the art to bring in some of the other colors.

This design is a little more dramatic due to the deep, rich moody wall color and the high contrast of colors against the white background of the rug. I still think it looks calm and relaxing too.

Fractal Art

Here is some fractal art I designed that could be used in this design. My Forest Floor designs were inspired by colors in the boreal forest here in Alaska which have a lot of water in them (streams, ponds, rivers, lakes), thus the blues.  The purples represent many of our purple wildflowers. Mystery is a mystery…..use your imagination of what it means to you.

Benefits of an Analogous Color Scheme

Analogous color schemes use colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel. These schemes offer a harmonious and visually pleasing palette. Here are the benefits of using an analogous color scheme:

 

• Harmony and Cohesiveness: Analogous colors have a natural harmony because they share common color components. This results in a unified and cohesive look that’s easy on the eyes.

• Subtle Contrasts: While the colors in an analogous scheme are similar, there are still subtle contrasts that can be used to highlight or differentiate design elements.

• Versatility: Analogous colors can be adapted to both vibrant and muted tones, offering flexibility in setting the mood or theme of a design.

• Richness and Depth: Using several shades and tints of a color range adds richness and depth to designs.

• Natural and Comforting: Analogous color schemes often mimic how colors appear in nature, making them inherently familiar and comforting to the human eye.

• Easy Color Matching: It’s easier to match colors within an analogous palette because they share similar undertones, reducing the risk of clashing hues.

• Reduced Visual Tension: Analogous colors create a more relaxed visual experience because there’s a lack of high contrast between the colors.

• Flexibility in Highlighting: One can easily highlight an element by choosing a color from either end of the analogous range, making it slightly more vibrant or darker than the surrounding hues.

• Aesthetic Appeal: This type of color scheme tends to be naturally pleasing and aesthetically appealing because of its harmonious nature. An analogous color scheme can look richer and add more color diversity and interest than a monochromatic color scheme.

• Enhanced Mood Setting: Due to their close relation, analogous colors can be effectively used to evoke specific moods or feelings, like warmth (reds, oranges, yellows) or calmness (blues, greens).  These are really nice for living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms. Analogous color schemes can also be more dramatic based on the hues you select, placement of colors and how saturated they are.

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While analogous color schemes offer many advantages, it’s essential to ensure adequate contrast within designs to avoid them becoming monotonous or washed out. Using a neutral color or even a complementary color in small amounts can help add interest and break up the scheme.

Celebrate Your Favorite Colors

Imagine stepping into your space where every hue resonates with your spirit. It’s not just a room; it’s a reflection of you – a haven of happiness and tranquility. In a world where everything aligns, your surroundings uplift and rejuvenate you. When your home mirrors your essence, harmony is effortless.

Purchase an Aligned Design  or Color Consultation today.

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What message does your home’s color broadcast to the world? Every facade tells a story about its inhabitants. Is your home a reflection of your personality? Does it uplift your spirits daily? Does it warmly welcome guests or potential clients for those with home businesses? And if you’re selling, does your home appeal to prospective buyers? The hue of your home reveals hints of your identity.

When it comes time to paint the exterior, you have a lot of options and some limitations you need to consider.

Limitations when Picking Paint Colors

Let’s start with the limitations. Just as with the interior, you need to consider the “fixed finishes”, the things which rarely change like the roof or stone features. Your wall and trim colors should complement these fixed finishes and each other.

Consider your Environment

Consider your surroundings when choosing colors. Ensure they complement your landscape and local views, and fit within the neighborhood’s color palette. While a vibrant hue might stand out in a neutral area, it could blend perfectly in a more colorful neighborhood.

Consider Guests and Clients

Do you run a business from your house, such as a vacation rental? What image will the colors project to your customers? Is it consistent with your brand? You may be using photos of your house to attract customers online. Will the photos attract your ideal customer?

Selling your Home? Consider the Buyer

Are you selling the home? Consider more neutral shades to appeal to a broader audience. However, a standout front door color can make it memorable and can be easily changed if the buyer prefers.

Make a Statement with your Front Door Color

Your front door color sets the tone for your home. Even neutral homes can pop with a vibrant door. Everyone perceives and feels about colors differently. Consider what emotions a color evokes for you. Do you want your home to relax, uplift, or energize you? Choose colors that reflect your desired ambiance.

Consider how Color Affects Your Home’s Comfort

The colors you choose can impact costs and practical factors. Dark colors might need more paint layers if covering a light base and can absorb more heat, potentially making deck areas too warm in the sun.

Consider how Color can Affect Your Home Based Business

I provided a color consultation for a Bed and Breakfast located in a residential area. The aim was to design a welcoming exterior that resonated with the mountainous and oceanic surroundings and blended with the neighborhood’s mix of homes. The garden was dominated by colorful flowers, especially fuchsia rose bushes. The house had a blue roof and no other fixed elements. I had previously enhanced the interior of this B&B, which increased their bookings and revenue. The target clientele were retired professionals keen on outdoor adventures, wildlife, bird-watching, and art. The brand was vibrant, luxurious yet earthy with a coastal style, reflecting its proximity to the ocean.

A rich teal (Sherwin Williams Moscow Midnight) was chosen for the walls to complement the roof, nearby mountains, ocean, and the neighborhood’s blue-toned homes. This deep shade enhanced the garden’s vibrant flower colors and matched the local greenery.

The trim was painted a warm white (Sherwin Williams Alabaster) to accentuate the teal and echo the natural hues of clouds and snowy peaks. The cedar trim and decks were transformed from their natural color to white for a more cohesive look and to ensure the upper deck remained cooler. This white backdrop makes colorful outdoor furniture and plants stand out, creating a peaceful retreat.

The front and back doors were painted in Forward Fuchsia, echoing the roses outside and offering a welcoming and distinctive entrance.

A sign with a trim-colored background and wall-colored lettering was designed, featuring two fuchsia lines. This subtle sign complements the balcony and discreetly showcases the business name in the residential area. A white metal sculpture of sea gulls, aligning with the brand’s wildlife viewing theme, was placed near the home’s peak.

A new white screen door with full glass was added to showcase the vibrant fuchsia door. Its border features a distinct alcohol ink design, mirroring the door’s colors and emphasizing the brand’s artistic flair. The outdated brass doorknob was swapped for a stylish satin nickel one.

Feedback on the new look has been overwhelmingly positive, with descriptions such as “bright”, “cheerful”, “artistic”, and “the most charming B&B in Alaska”. This refreshing transformation has even inspired neighbors to consider updating their own homes, potentially revitalizing the entire neighborhood.

The harmonious trio of colors was meticulously chosen using both artistic intuition and color science, ensuring they complement each other perfectly. If you’re thinking of repainting, consider consulting a certified color strategist. Choose colors that truly resonate with you and leave a lasting impression on everyone who sees them.

Are you ready to paint your house?

Get a color consultation today and get your colors right the first time so you avoid making costly mistakes and really love the end result. I can work with you wherever you live with an online consultation. Learn more.

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Some colors are just plain bossy. You might want to ignore them, but you can’t. And you shouldn’t.

It is not that they are overly bold or colorful.  They are just in your face. Every Single Day.

They are your fixed finishes. The things you rarely change unless you are doing some significant remodeling.

They are your countertops, your floors, and architectural features such as stone or brick walls or fireplaces, or other predominant features. 

They are the things that you do not plan to change any time soon.

 

They are “bossy” because they will be there for a long time, they take a lot of space and are often in your main living areas such as your kitchen or living room.

 

Hopefully, you like your fixed finishes. Everything really needs to work with them. 

As an example, say you have Clarino quartz countertops and wood cabinets and flooring, you might consider a light-colored paint that is harmonious with the exact colors in the countertop, and that is also harmonious with the hue family of the wood cabinets and flooring.

 

 

How do you do that? Have a color strategist measure the exact colors in both the countertop and your wood cabinets and flooring. They will consider the hue family, color saturation, lightness, and color relationships.

There is a range of color choices that could work. Most countertops have numerous colors in them that can be matched. Or, you could consider a color that is in the same hue family or has similar chroma. Or, you could try a complementary color

The key thing is to consider the color data of all the colors in your fixed finishes and develop your color choices on color data, rather than guesswork or considerations of imaginary undertones. Of course, it needs to look good too, and you can not rely on data alone. Extraordinary color is the perfect mix of art and science.

 

Once you know the options that could work,  consider which works best with the fabrics, art, and furniture in the rooms you are working with as well as the rest of the home.

It is all a big puzzle that needs to work together.  The first pieces you put down are your fixed finishes and you build from there.

 

Creating a home that not only looks great but feels great, comes from all the pieces working together in harmony. 

 

This includes the creativity of great design, the science of color, and the energy of how you relate to your space and the environment.  

 

People often want to do color consultations without considering the whole picture and the Interior Design of the rest of the house. Something will always be missing.

 

My tip to you is when it is time to pick your paint colors, hire a pro to help you, and take a holistic approach to look at color with the rest of your home’s design.

Are You Ready to Listen to Your Bossy Colors?

My philosophy of great Interior Design, which I call Aligned Design, considers three key factors which are art (creativity), science (color), and energy (connection). The intersection of the three is where the magic happens. Getting extraordinary color is part of the science of great design.  

Start with an Aligned Design consultation to create a plan to create your perfect space.

You can also start by just choosing paint colors for your room now, and think about a complete design plan later.

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 info@northernlightsstaging.com

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Being fearless with color can lead to incredible transformations in your home. Embrace colors, and you’ll be amazed at the transformation they can bring to the energy of your space.

Fear of getting it wrong often leads us to stick to safe options like white, gray, or beige. But here’s the thing:

1. Start Small: Test a bold color on a small wall or piece of furniture. It’s less commitment and gives you a feel for how the color works in your space.
2. Sample First: Before you commit, paint a small patch on paper that you can move around and look at in different lighting throughout the day.
3. Ask for Help: A color consultation with a professional color strategist can save you a lot of time and money and help you get it right the first time.
4. Trust Your Instincts: If a color makes you happy, chances are you will love the energy of the room every time you spend time there.
5. It’s Just Paint: Worst case scenario – you don’t like the result. It’s okay. You can always repaint.

Color is an opportunity to express yourself. Don’t let fear hold you back from creating a home that feels like you.

FEAR

Color Brings Joy

Your home should be a place that brings joy, and color is a powerful tool to create that feeling. Embrace the fear and go for it.

I am not saying that your walls should be wild and colorful, although that would be cool!

You could go wild and colorful in a small space.

Add Color in Accents

Your walls could be neutral and you could be brave with colorful accents, art or lighting!

Your walls don’t have to be bright. They could be pastel!

Play with Color Harmony

You colors could have lots of high contrast.

Your colors could be soothing and monochromatic.

They could be dark and comforting.

Invite Color from the Outside In

The could highlight the colors of the outdoors and bring the outside in.

Try No Color at All

You could even go dramatic with black and white!

Lose the Fear

Color should reflect what you love. Why let fear hold you back from exploring  new things?

Take the fear and uncertainty out of picking paint colors by relying on color science, rather than just using your eyes.

We all see things a little differently due to our vision. If we measure color and use color data, as well as our eyes, we can remove the guesswork, risk and fear.

Color science helps determine what colors work together perfectly because of their hue, chroma and values. Science helps solve color issues related to the light in your particular house. It brings your color to the level of extraordinary.

Are you ready to let go of fear? Think of how good you will feel to have extraordinary color in your home.

Aligned Design

My philosophy of Aligned Design, aligns art, science and energy in your space. The intersection of the three is where the magic happens.

When your space is better, you are better.
When you are better, the world is better. 

Your home is like your body, a system that works together to be healthy.

Start with an Aligned Design consultation to create a holistic plan to create your perfect space.

Imagine what that would feel like.

Curious about your Interior Design style? Take the quiz and find out.

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