Choosing the right exterior paint color can be daunting; it’s not just about personal preference but about making a choice that the entire neighborhood sees! Plus, a misstep can be pricey to correct. Why is exterior paint selection so challenging?

First, determine your purpose: are you painting to sell or are you refreshing your home’s look for your own enjoyment? If selling, you’ll likely lean towards universally appealing shades rather than personal favorites. On the other hand, if you’re painting for yourself, choose a hue you’ll adore for years to come.

Next, consider any fixed elements like your roof. If you’re not updating these, your new paint should complement them. Additionally, take a glance at neighboring homes. You don’t need a carbon copy of their colors, but you also don’t want your home to clash or be overly conspicuous.

Lastly, think about the natural surroundings. Will your chosen color vibe with your garden or the broader environment? Decide if you want your home to stand out or seamlessly blend with its surroundings.

When it was time to paint my own house,   I knew I planned to stay in my house for a long time. Here was my method for picking my paint colors. It started with determining what options I liked, and what limitations I needed to consider to narrow down some options.

Determine What you Like

During a leisurely drive around my town with a friend, I paid keen attention to house colors, aiming to understand my preferences. Interestingly, it was the combinations I didn’t like that offered the most insight. For instance, there were numerous homes where the colors seemed at odds with the roof. Others had trim or door shades that didn’t harmonize with the primary wall colors. A surprising number opted for neutral hues for their walls, trim, and doors, resulting in a forgettable facade—just a splash on the front door would have made all the difference! Then there were those homes that went the other extreme: they were so vividly colored that they’d be blindingly bright on a sunny day. Such saturation seemed too intense for long-term appeal; I was more inclined towards deep, rich colors.

Among the vast sea of colors, a few schemes did stand out for me: a charcoal/blue home with white trims, a gray/green one also with white, and a house that sported a light teal/gray combination. To ensure my choices were not just passing whims, I viewed these homes under varying light conditions. It’s fascinating how light, whether from a clear sunny sky or a cloudy one, can alter the perception of color.

Consider Your Limitations

I took into account my “fixed finishes,” particularly my roof, which resembled Benjamin Moore’s “November Skies” with its blue-gray hue. Given its relatively inconspicuous appearance, this color wouldn’t significantly influence my overall palette. Additionally, I had wooden decks and railings, initially stained but now requiring a decision: should I continue with staining or opt for paint? Ultimately, I chose to paint them. Had I gone with staining, I would have needed to regard this color as one of my enduring design elements.

Visualize How Your Choices will Look

I decide to try some of the color combinations I liked using the visualizer on the Benjamin Moore website. I selected some body and trim colors I liked. I also considered colors in my landscaping and flowers for inspiration for a front door color.

Test Your Colors to See How they Look in Different Light Conditions

Next, I tested these colors on the back of the house, assessing their appearance under different lighting conditions. Curious about the results? Discover what happened in “How to Pick the Perfect Exterior Paint Colors Part 2!”

If you’re gearing up to sell rather than stay, grab your free report on the “Top Paint Colors for a Speedy and Profitable Home Sale” to guide your color decisions.

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Take the GuessWork Out of Picking Your Perfect Paint Colors

Get your colors right the first time with my expert science based color consultation.

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Preparing to sell your home? Assemble a top-tier team to optimize your chances for a swift and profitable sale. This indispensable trio should comprise a seasoned home stager, a skilled real estate photographer, and a Realtor whose top commitment is your interests. In Part 1, we delved into choosing the perfect home stager. Now, let’s navigate the search for the ideal Realtor. Drawing insights from two Realtors I’ve collaborated with, we’ll explore the hallmarks of a commendable Realtor. These professionals not only recognize the worth of staging but also prioritize their client’s needs above all els

Robin Smith- Ten Tips for Choosing Your Realtor

Robin Smith, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Dynamic Properties, Anchorage, AK 99503907.903.8808,  ak.robinsmith@gmail.com

1. While years of experience often equate to increased skills, it is certainly no guarantee that a long-time agent is skilled or, unfortunately, adheres to a Code of Ethics.
   • An agent with less than five years’ experience can be very skilled if they have had past work experiences that required the same kind of skills as selling real estate.
   • Less experience often equates to a smaller client base, so the agent will have more time to devote more attention to you, the buyer or seller.

2. A great Realtor®, regardless of how long in the business, is one that conducts his/her business with the aim of connecting with clients and developing a relationship with them – it’s not just about the immediate transaction. Important qualities are:
   • honesty
   • integrity
   • concentrates on the client’s needs (above and beyond the minimum)
   • communicates regularly with the client

3. Ask the agent what their marketing plan/strategy is and what kind of activities or events can be expected (e.g. Agent and Public Open Houses, Staging Consultation, online & social media marketing).

4. If you’re interviewing several agents, don’t be swayed by the one that says he can list your home for more than the other agents – this is known in the industry as “buying a listing.” You as seller will pay the price for this as the property will likely sit unsold on the market longer than necessary because it is overpriced.

5. A good Realtor® will be knowledgeable about the current real estate market and the trends.
   1. Is it a Seller’s or Buyer’s market? Are prices increasing or decreasing?
   2. The agent should be up on community neighborhood areas and the types of homes and price ranges typical in those areas.

6. If credentials are important to you as buyer or seller, look for designations that are earned through performance and productivity.
   • CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) It takes some time to acquire the CRS designation, so agents in the business for less than five years may not yet have accomplished the required components.
   • GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute)
   • ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative)
   • SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist)
   • There are many more designations out there, but these are the most sought after.

7. If the agent calls herself a Realtor with a capital “R”, that means she’s a member of NAR (National Association of Realtors).
   1. By hiring a Realtor®, you get an agent who formally pledges to support the NAR’s stringent Code of Ethics – this is very important! Honesty and integrity in a Realtor’s character are the foundation for trust.

8. Ask the agent to provide a list of properties they have sold for past clients and their contact information so you can verify client satisfaction for this agent. If the agent won’t do that, then move on to one who will.

9. Ask business associates, friends, co-workers, or family members (i.e. someone you trust) to refer a Realtor® or real estate licensee to you and ask the person referring what their experience was like working with that agent.
10. Personality!  Skills are not the only attribute that’s important. As a buyer or seller, you will be working closely with an agent for several months so you want to choose someone that you like! Two–way communication between Realtor® and client is essential for managing expectations, outcomes, and the future of this relationship.

Kris Bohman

Real Estate Brokers of Alaska. Sales Associate
Cell Phone: (907) 250-6238.  krisbohman@hotmail.com. 

Kris Bohman  is a licensed agent with Real Estate Brokers Of Alaska and a local entrepreneur.

“Real estate agents, politicians, lawyers, insurance agents – are among the least respected professions on earth. But the reason why certain people in certain industries are not respected is because they have wrongly tried to master a craft that does not serve their audience. Take my industry, real estate, for example, since I see it daily and have an intimate understanding of what takes place. Real estate agents work their tail off to master the craft of self-promotion. They practice and practice and practice scripts and dialogues, to use when cold-calling homeowners. They spend thousands of dollars on websites to market themselves, etc., all self-interest orientated, but when it comes to their customers – where the majority of their time should be spent – why have they not worked equally as hard to master the craft of achieving a superior result?

Kris advises home sellers watch out for Realtors that use some of the typical approaches that have given the industry a bad name.  He outlines some fundamental mistakes not to make when selling your home and looking for a good Realtor including:

• Not taking the time to learn how to protect yourself from the biggest threat to your home sale profit and the greatest source of unnecessary risk: Real Estate Greed and Unethical Agents.
• Don’t fall for gimmicks or bait and switch advertising.
• Don’t assume an agent is good just because they do alot of full color advertising or sell alot of homes
• Don’t make pricing decisions based on a “free home evaluation
• If it sounds like “hot air”, it probably is
• Not taking the time to diagnose the proper route of attack

“Here is what I have come to learn: Those who are respected, regardless of industry or person,…, are those who have focused on mastering the craft that will yield their audience a superior result first, not on their own self-interest. Then utilize that mastered craft… to serve only those who can most benefit.”

“To achieve something special for my clients, I want to work with clients who are as committed to the success of their home sale as I am.”   

A great Realtor should be doing some of the following for you:  

• Get an accurate and comprehensive diagnosis to determine the best prescription to maximize the return on your investment.
• From the diagnosis, make an informed, educated decision about how to prepare your home for sale, not based on hype but on research and common sense.
• Recommend home staging, super-cleaning, professional photographs, great social media advertising, eliminating negotiations and low ball offers with a pre-listing inspection, and increasing your negotiating power with a home warranty.

Helpful Resources

Hereare some publications you may find helpful related to home staging.

Buy Now



Buy Now

Ready to Sell? Let’s Get Your Home Staged

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Welcome to Saturday Night Live Art Shows. I’m Mary Ann Benoit, an energy artist and Interior Designer from Seward, Alaska. In this show, I share five fractal art designs in my “Path with Heart” series and a beautiful living room I created highlighting 2 of these pieces. This fractal art inspires you to take that path in life that lights you up. My fractal art is sacred geometry. It represents the building blocks of life and what energy might look like if you could see it. Everything is Energy. Why not raise the energy around you to a higher level with art, for your health and well-being? All paths lead to the same place in the end. The important thing is that you pick a path with heart, do what you love, and enjoy the journey. Are you?

Learn more about each piece of art and how it affects the energy of the room below. All combined create a living room that is supportive and inspires you to live joyfully and stay in alignment with who you are meant to be.

See the Show

Thanks to Saturday Night Live Art Shows creator, artist Brooke Harker and her co-hosts Joan Marie of Joan Marie Art, Sheryl Benjy, and Nichole McDaniel for making this possible.

Be sure to check out all the other artists from around the world, having art shows in their Facebook and social media feeds at 6-9 pm in their time zones. Follow Saturday Night Live Art Shows on Facebook by searching #snlartshows.

“A Path with Heart” Aligned Energy Art

If you have watched some of my previous shows, you know everything is energy.

“The Path with Heart #7”  is inspired by the idea that all paths lead to the same place in the end. The important thing is that you pick a path with heart, do what you love, and enjoy the journey. Are you?

The room also highlights ” A Path with Heart”, the first piece in the series inspired by the same idea.

 Aligned Energy Art  is another layer of meaning beyond the visual beauty in creating your perfect space that is  aligned with who you want to be.

Get the Look

Here are a few of the other products I used in the design. Contact me to work together and create a design that is perfect for your space.

What is Fractal Art?

Fractal art is digital art I create on my computer. I love creating fractal art because it allows me to work with brilliant colors, interesting textures, and incredible detail. Learn more about how it is created in my Saturday Night Live Art Show, ” A Passion for Purple” where I show some videos of the process.

See more of my Fractal Art/ Sacred Geometry designs on Fine Art America or Society 6.

Are You Ready to Create Your Perfect Space with Art?

Isn’t it time to create a space that is aligned with who you truly are?

My unique Interior Design philosophy combines:

The ART of beauty

The SCIENCE of color

The ENERGY of well-being

Art + Science + Energy = Magic

Get an Aligned Design consultation which includes an Interior Design, Color, and Energy consultation, and custom fractal art to tie it all together.

What is Your Design Style?

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Has your home become the backdrop for most of your day? Whether you are working out of the house rather than in the office or skipping restaurants in favor of home-cooked meals, these tips from Northern Lights Home Staging and Design can help you refresh your living space and make it as cheery and welcoming as possible.

Declutter Your Space

Many home improvements are simple enough to be done without professional help. For example, decluttering is a DIY job that can make an enormous difference in the appearance and energy of your space. Moreover, research shows that clearing clutter from your environment increases your ability to focus, process information, and be productive. Additionally, keeping things clean and organized can help eliminate dust, which can reduce the symptoms of breathing conditions such as asthma (wheezing, feelings of breathlessness, etc.).

To begin, set realistic expectations and pick a method that appeals to you. You can attack the problem with the KonMari process, which encourages you to keep things that spark joy and get rid of the rest, or try a longer-term approach, such as getting rid of at least one item per day. The method is not as important as the commitment, so choose an approach that resonates with you to increase your chances for success.

Decluttered living spaces also contribute to a home’s feng shui, or positive energy that aligns with and supports your life’s natural balance and rhythms. As Architectural Digest notes, it’s a simple way to improve the vibes of your home’s interior, taking steps like strategically arranging furniture (which is difficult to do if clutter abounds) and integrating vertical shapes and lines in each room.

Let in More Light

Exposure to natural light can offer many benefits, including better sleep, improved mood, and increased productivity. Aim to increase the amount of natural light in your home by replacing heavy curtains with sheers or blinds that allow the sunlight to shine in. Adding a few strategically placed mirrors can increase the amount of daylight in your room through the power of reflection.

If your windows are outdated or too small to allow enough light, consider replacing them. Unless you have advanced renovation skills, you should hire a professional for the job.

Carve Out a Workout Space

Being home every day can take a toll on your health if you allow yourself to be sedentary for long stretches of time. To offset this, consider devoting a room or space to be used as your at-home gym. Having a designated workout spot increases your likelihood of maintaining a consistent exercise regime.

While it doesn’t need to be large or fancy, your workout space should provide:

• Privacy while exercising
• Enough space to move around
• Adequate storage for your equipment

Make Strategic Changes

When you are making home improvements, it always pays to think strategically and focus on changes that can increase the value of your property. For example, repairing or replacing your roof is a sure-fire way to reap a good ROI, so look into nearby roof replacement companies to get the job done right. This is especially true if you are planning to sell your home soon.

With this in mind for the home’s interior, invest in renovations that give you the most return for your money. Experts suggest that you can get 10% more for your home if you invest in kitchen and bathroom upgrades, including:

• Modern bathroom fixtures, such as a freestanding tub, a glass shower enclosure, or a frameless LED vanity mirror
• A kitchen island or breakfast bar, especially one with contrasting surfaces or interesting architectural details
• New, energy-efficient appliances
• Updated cabinets, often achievable with a simple coat of paint and new hardware
• A kitchen backsplash that features contrasting colors or textures
• A whimsical touch in the bathroom, such as a chandelier, a waterfall showerhead, or a black-and-white mosaic tile floor

While you can tackle the smaller jobs yourself, large-scale projects are best left to the professionals. Document any major home improvements with before and after photos as well as receipts.

Investing time, energy, and money into your house can pay off both now and in the future. In addition to enjoying your revived space right away, you can also benefit later when you decide to sell.

This article was written by Suzie Wilson of  Happier Home for Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

Ready to Create the Perfect Space?

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.

I like to start with a look at what you already have and how we can re-arrange or re-purpose to create your perfect space. This is part of the art of great design.

Learn more about Global style design in my article, Tell Your Story with Global Style Interior Design.  Curious about what Global Style might be right for you? Take the quiz below. Ready to try to get the look in your own home? Try one of my Edesign packages.

Check out My Fractal Art Studios

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

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Welcome to Saturday Night Live Art Shows.

Animals have much to teach us if we just listen.

Do you need more harmony and integrity in your life?

Crows know all the mysteries of creation and are the keepers of sacred laws. Crows can see the past, present, and future, as well as our inner and outer reality. Crow medicine teaches us to live with integrity, walk our talk, and speak our truth.

Crows are omens of change. What is out of harmony and balance? Crows symbolize transformation, embracing change, and new beginnings.

My art, a collage of AI and fractal energy art supports you in living with integrity in this Edesign I created.

See it on the walls, pillows, and dining chairs.

This collection is “Crow Medicine”. Remind yourself to live with integrity and embrace change. See it here.

Raise the vibe in your space today. Great design starts with energy. See all my AI/ fractal art here.

Surround yourself with art that reminds you what is important and enhances the energy of your space.

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

My unique Interior Design philosophy combines The ART of beauty The SCIENCE of color The ENERGY of well-being.

Art + Science + Energy = Magic

See the Show

Thanks to Saturday Night Live Art Shows creator, artist Brooke Harker and her co-hosts Joan Marie of Joan Marie Art, Sheryl Benjy, and Nichole McDaniel for making this possible. Follow Saturday Night Live Art Shows on Facebook by searching #snlartshows.

“Crow Medicine” Aligned Energy Art

Everything is energy. The energy of your space affects how you feel and can support you in reaching your potential. Energy art can serve as the basis for the design of the room, and how it feels. The same art can support different color schemes, based on your preferences.

My “Crow Medicine” Collection

 Aligned Energy Art  is another layer of meaning beyond the visual beauty in creating your perfect space that is  aligned with who you want to be.”

Get the Look

Contact me to work together and create a design that is perfect for your space.

What is Energy Art and How Can it Change Your Life?

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of my digital art, where the fusion of AI and Fractal art unfolds in mesmerizing harmony and supportive energy. Guided by the power of language, and the ingenuity of algorithms, I communicate my artistic vision to the AI, refining and perfecting it until it resonates with my vision. Then, a captivating dance begins as I craft intricate energy infused fractal art which I add in layers to the design.

My computer screen becomes the playground where I interlace my AI-generated images with the bewitching patterns of fractals, creating a symphony of colors, textures, dimension and detail. But my art goes beyond the beauty. Embedded within each creation lies a unique energy message, carefully crafted to support you. My own energy infuses every stroke, enveloping the artwork with a positive force that resonates with you and what you need to support you in your space.

I love exploring the endless possibilities and pushing the boundaries of digital art to unveil the unseen, weaving threads of meaning and energy into the essence of the art.

My art transcends into the extraordinary, offering an immersive experience that helps you reach your potential to be who you truly are. With colors that bring you joy, textures that beckon to be touched, and intricate details that unravel like secrets, my art invites you to embark on a transformational journey.

See more of my Fractal Art/ Sacred Geometry designs on Fine Art America or Society 6.

Are You Ready to Create Your Perfect Space with Art?

Isn’t it time to create a space that is aligned with who you truly are?

My unique Interior Design philosophy combines:

The ART of beauty

The SCIENCE of color

The ENERGY of well-being

Art + Science + Energy = Magic

Get an Aligned Design consultation which includes an Interior Design, Color, and Energy consultation, and custom fractal art to tie it all together.

What is Your Design Style?

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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.

What is Your Global Design Style? Take the Quiz

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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.

•  

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.

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Crafting the perfect color palette can be a daunting task for many. Often, the starting point revolves around fixed finishes and certain constraints. In my recent blog posts, we’ve delved into constructing color schemes from a favorite hue, like blue. We’ve explored monochromatic and analogous palettes, and today, we’re diving into complementary color schemes.

Complementary colors are a pairing of hues that sit opposite each other on the color wheel. When juxtaposed, they amplify each other’s vibrancy and intensity. The beauty of complementary colors lies in their mutual ability to enhance one another’s brilliance.

Complementary color schemes, offer several benefits when used in design:

1. Visual Contrast: The stark contrast between complementary colors makes each hue stand out distinctly, creating an eye-catching and vibrant look.

2. Balanced Visual Stimulation: Complementary colors provide a sense of balance; one color might be warm (like red) while its complementary color is cool (like green).

3. Enhanced Vibrancy: When placed next to each other, complementary colors can make each other appear brighter and more vivid.

4. Versatility: Complementary color schemes can be adapted to fit various moods and styles. For a bold and energetic look, you can use the colors in their full saturation. For a more subdued and harmonious look, you can use toned-down versions of the colors.

5. Focus and Attention: Because of their contrast, complementary colors can be used to draw attention to specific elements in a design or space.

6. Harmony: Even though they’re opposites on the color wheel, complementary colors inherently work well together and create a harmonious design.

7. Flexibility in Decor: A complementary color scheme allows for flexibility. For instance, if you have a room with predominantly blue decor, introducing some orange accents (like pillows, art, or rugs) can instantly invigorate the space.

8. Depth and Dimension: In art, especially painting, complementary colors can be used to create depth, with one color serving as a shadow or highlight against its opposite.

9. Enhancement of Features: Complementary colors can be used to make features stand out. For example, putting orange flowers in a blue vase draws attention to the arrangement and makes both colors pop.

The key to a successful complementary color scheme is balance. Use in moderation and pair with neutral tones to provide a visual rest.

Complementary colors can create interesting optical illusions. For example, if you stare at a square of color for thirty seconds to a minute, and then look at a white paper or wall, you will briefly see an afterimage of the square in its complementary color. Try it with this blue square and see if you see an after image of yellow.

Why does it work? Leonardo da Vinci observed that the finest color harmonies were those between colors exactly opposed. Maybe that is where the saying opposites attract came from?

So, let’s create a complementary color scheme with the blue we have been working with in several other articles, as you  see the  sofas. See these other color schemes see my articles Celebrate Your Favorite Color- Go Monochromatic and Create a Harmonious Color Scheme- Go Analogous.

It’s opposite or compliment on the color wheel is yellow, which ranges from Yellow/red to Green/Yellow and can have varying degrees of saturation or chroma, and lightness. In other words, there are lots of yellows we can work with:)

The Design

Here are examples of two living rooms I created using a blue and yellow complimentary color scheme. The first is bright and dramatic. The second is more relaxed and neutral.

Complimentary color schemes don’t have to be bright and colorful. They can use darker, less saturated or more muted tones of opposite colors for a more understated look. The design below uses an area rug with muted yellows and blues, and wallpaper with minimal yellow. Otherwise everything is the same.

Benefits of A Complimentary Color Scheme

Navigating the world of complementary color schemes is easy and straightforward. Begin by pinpointing your favorite hue on the color wheel, then locate its direct opposite. This partnership is where the magic happens.

Complementary colors inherently possess a dynamic tension, making them ideal for spaces meant for lively conversations and gatherings, such as living rooms and dining areas.

However, this boldness can be tempered using muted or desaturated versions of these hues. Then you can craft a serene and sophisticated palette, perfect for spaces meant for relaxation and introspection.

Whether you seek vibrancy or tranquility, complementary color schemes offer versatility to match your vision.

Create Beauty with Color in Your Space

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Click on the picture to find out more about the best training class on color available, the Four Pillars of Color!.

Considering selling your 1980’s home? Want to modernize it to attract younger buyers without breaking the bank? It’s crucial to identify updates that yield a return on investment. Consult with your realtor on worthwhile upgrades.

On one home staging project, I revitalized an ’80s home by painting the interior, updating the carpet, lighting, master bath countertop, and some hardware. I swapped out older furniture for trendy rental pieces, added modern art, and introduced vibrant colors.

The outcome? A rejuvenated, contemporary space that resonated with younger families. It sold on its first day at the full asking price! Which version would you choose?

Are You Ready to Stage Your Home?

Let’s get your house looking like one that buyers will love. Call today for a consultation.

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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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