Do you want your home to look like every other basic neutral home in your neighborhood, or do you want your home to be different and reflect your fun personality? If you tend to wear khaki pants and a white polo shirt on the weekends, then decorating your home in bright and bold colors is probably not for you. If you wear fun colors and bold prints when away from work (or maybe even at work), then you should probably decorate your home the way you dress yourself. Decorating your home with bright and bold colors can give it personality and make it unique & special, but it requires careful planning to avoid it looking juvenile or having an overwhelming look. Many people love vibrant bold & bright colors, however are hesitant to use them in when decorating their homes because they are afraid of their home looking like a preschool classroom or a clown college. Perhaps you are scared of decorating because you are afraid that you might not like the result in a few years, however you know that you don't like what you have now. Here are some tips & tricks for decorating with bright and bold colors in a sophisticated manner that does not look juvenile. Unique ColorsWhen decorating your home with bright & bold colors, avoid using exclusively primary colors (red, yellow, blue) as much as possible since they feel childish, juvenile, and simplistic. You can use one or two primary colors, but make sure to mix in other colors to give your home a more mature feel. Also use fewer plain secondary colors (orange, purple, green) since they also look a bit basic. For the best results, decorate your home with more unique variations of colors, such as vibrant turquoise, aqua, emerald green, butter yellow, electric orange, camel, fuchsia, mauve, teal, chartreuse, lime green, pink, rust, mustard yellow, steel blue, bright navy, and gold. These colors are truly unique and special, which makes an interior design feel more mature and sophisticated. Don't be afraid to mix things that don't seem to go together to see how they look. Sometimes decor looks great together, however it is not following any of the typical design "rules". Colors As AccentsIn order to keep your room from looking over stimulating, consider decorating your room using larger furniture pieces in basic solid neutral colors (white, black, gray, brown, beige, wood tone) and add in your bright and bold colors using accent pieces and unique accessories. You can decorate with bright and bold colored pillows, an accent chair, an ottoman, curtains, and accessories. Your bold and bright accent colors should be approximately 1/4 of the colors you see in your room (unless you are daring, then feel free to make 1/2 or more of the room bold & bright colors). Pattern and TextureTo make your bright & colorful home feel more adult and less juvenile, decorate with more mature patterns (paisley, damask, large scale floral, tartan, chevron, animal prints in accurate colors, and solids) instead of juvenile patterns (polka dots, basic small scale plaid, small repeating floral, cartoon style animal silhouettes, animal prints in unique colors). Avoid the overuse of patterns that reference your geographic location, such as fish patterned wallpaper at a home near the beach or bear graphic pillows at a home in the woods. Some pattern that references your location is charming if well constructed, however you don't want to go overboard and make your home look like a tacky gift shop, do you? Mix and match patterns in coordinating colors to create a dynamic and eclectic look that reflects your unique style and personality. Place things together that don't typically complement each other and see how it looks. It might look amazing and different and wonderful or it might look weird - you never know! Experiment until you love it. Texture is very important for adding depth and visual interest to your decor, especially when working with bright & bold colors. Decorate your room using a variety of textures such as velvet, leather, wool, and metallic finishes to create a rich and layered look that add sophistication to your home. Instead of decorating with a plain and basic cotton or polyester fabric, consider using a more mature textural velvet, chenille, or satin. Don't forget to add neutral colored textural items, such as a wicker basket, wood floors, a collection of hard back books (remove the paper jacket unless it is precious), exposed brick, or metallic candlesticks to offset some of the bold colors. Unifying PieceFor the best result, decorate your room with something that creates a unifying color palette. That item can be a large piece of colorful art, colorful wallpaper, or a colorful rug. The unifying piece should have many colors in it that are repeated throughout the room. Decorate your room using at least 3 colors from your unifying piece and use each of those colors in at least 3 places in your room to create a cohesive color story. Also consider adding lighter and darker versions of each of your 3 colors for a more complex color palette. You can add colorful accessories to repeat colors in throw pillows, books, lamps, vases, flowers, or whatever other accessories you prefer. Consider the Lighting When decorating with bright and bold colors, you must have above average lighting in your home in order to highlight your decor and add sophistication to your space. Opt for plenty of natural light by ensuring that your curtains are hung where they cover the wall and only the tiniest bit of window when opened to maximize the lighting in your room. At night, and to supplement natural lighting during the day, use artificial lighting such as pendant lights, floor lamps, and wall sconces. Refer to this article for more information about lighting.....How to Use Different Types of Lighting in Your Home to Make It More Interesting. Select the same color temperature of light bulb for all light fixtures in your room to set the mood that you want and create a nice even glow. You can even get light bulbs that you can change the color temperature with an app on your phone to change the mood without changing the bulb. Accessorize Thoughtfully When decorating with bright and bold colors, make sure to use accessories very carefully so you don't overwhelm your space or make it over simulating. Start by adding a few special and unique accessories with vibrant hues that complement your color scheme and add visual interest, however don't overpower the other decorative elements in the room. Your accessories should add your personality to the space and maybe even create focal points in your room . For more information on creating a focal point in your room, see the article How to Create a Focal Point in a Room. After incorporating a few special decor pieces, stand back and see how you like your room. You might want to move a few things around or remove certain items that don't have the look that you are after. After you have your special items in place, you can then start incorporating other pieces, one by one, and evaluate as you go to see if you like the look or if it is too much. Experiment with different items in different places to create the perfect combination for you and your home. Remember that your home is never really finished being decorated. Just as you add and remove clothes from your wardrobe over time, you should also add and remove items from your home decor occasionally. Make sure to stand back and evaluate each room in your home on occasion to keep it looking fresh.
Decorating with bright colors is a fantastic way to infuse your home with energy, personality, and vibrancy. If you find the colors beige, gray, white, and creme boring, you might want to decorate your home with bright and bold colors. Consider your wardrobe when decorating your home.....do you wear khaki pants and a white shirt regularly, or do you dress in bright and bold colors? Do basic off-white colored walls make you feel comfortable and safe, or do they look extremely drab and boring to you? People are often intimidated when decorating because they are afraid to make a mistake or they want to play it safe for the next potential buyer of their home (even though they have no intention of selling anytime soon). Your home is yours, not the next owner, so make it what you want it to be (else you are basically renting your house from the next owner). Don't be afraid to do something different, even if it is not typical for your neighborhood. People will appreciate your unique approach to interior design and they might be inspired to use bright and bold colors in their homes also. It's crucial to approach decorating with bright colors strategically to avoid overwhelming looking interiors. Here are a few interior design tips, tricks, and techniques for mastering the art of decorating with bright colors to create stunning and impactful interiors that reflect your unique style and personality.. Less is MoreWhen decorating with bright and bold colors in your home, select 3 different dominant colors per room that will be your color scheme, but be cautious of using more. If you have more than 3 bright and bold colors in your room, it can start to feel like a circus and be overwhelming. Use the 3 colors in different proportions, such as your #1 color can be 50% of the dominant color in the room, your #2 color can be 35% of the dominant color in the room, and your #3 color can be 15% of the dominant color in the room. For a more interesting interior design, also consider using a lighter and darker version of each color to create more depth of color. Once you have 3 dominant colors in your room, consider adding 1 more color at a time as an experiment, but make sure you are willing to remove that extra color if the interior design is no longer what you desire. Skip Primary ColorsFor a more sophisticated look in your home, consider skipping the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) and decorate with blended colors instead. Decorating with exclusively primary colors in a home can often give the look of a preschool. Select color shades (a darker version of the color + black), tones (a more muted version of the color + gray), and tints (a lighter version of the color + white) for a more sophisticated color scheme. Opt for more unique colors, such as emerald green, rust, mustard yellow, deep purple, teal, turquoise, coral, fuchsia, saphire blue, burnt orange, lime green, aqua, and plum. Add Some Neutrals for ContrastBalance is key when decorating with bright colors. Black, white, and gray help accentuate the bright and bold colors by creating contrast and keeping the colors from being overly stimulating. Avoid decorating with too many other neutrals that have a light brown undertone, such as beige and khaki, which may make the bright and bold colors look muddy. You can also decorate using colors that are almost black to help your bright and bold colors pop, such as dark navy or dark teal. By using neutral backgrounds for walls, floors, and larger furniture pieces, you can prevent the space from feeling overwhelming and allow bright colors to take center stage. Natural ElementsTexture plays a crucial role in adding depth and visual interest to your decor, especially when working with bright colors. Add a few natural elements to your home decor for added texture and a touch of nature. You can add hardwood floors, a wicker basket, a bamboo tray, a rattan box, or a stone fireplace. Mix and match natural textures to add dimension and complexity to your decor, creating a visually engaging and dynamic space. Don't Overdo ItBright and bold colors are very powerful, so don't go overboard decorating with a million different colors, else your room might be overly stimulating and uncomfortable to spend time in. Decorate with your powerful colors in moderation. Think of how you want the room to feel in addition to how you want the room to look. Consider decorating with at least half of your room neutral and use bright and bold colors in the other half. You can keep the ceiling white, the doors black or white, and the flooring stained wood or a neutral carpet or tile. Keep Expensive Items NeutralThe bold and bright colors you love today may be the colors you hate tomorrow. Consider using your colors on lesser expensive decor items that you can change out in a few years, such as wall paint, pillows, and accessories. You can also use bright colors on dining chair seats (not backs) since they are relatively inexpensive to reupholster (you might even be able to do it yourself) and will probably be worn enough to need reupholstery in 5-10 years when you are ready for a color change. Keep your big ticket items, such as your sofa or dining table, a neutral color that will work with your next color scheme also. Not Too BusySince bold and bright colors demand so much attention, make sure the decor in the rest of your room is more subdued so your color choices can take center stage. Consider keeping decorative accessories to a minimum to avoid clutter on surfaces, unless you love the maximalist style. If you choose to decorate with many bright and bold colors, then consider using minimal patterns and embellishments. If you use fewer bold colors, feel free to use multiple patterns for interest. Furniture should typically not be too ornate when using bold colors since the colors will be the star of the show. Don't Forget LightingSince bold and bright colors can be darker than plain white, make sure the room is lit properly from multiple lighting sources. You can use a fabulous chandelier, wall sconces, lamps, accent lighting, tast lighting, table lamps, floor lamps, and more. Dimmer switches are a great option for being able to adjust light levels to set the appropriate mood, yet be very bright for cleaning purposes. Also consider using mirrors since they bounce light around a room. Ensure that your light bulbs are all the same color temperature, which is marked as K on the back of the package. The lower the number, the warmer (more yellow) the light. The higher number, the cooler (more blue) the light.
Maximalism is a design style that uses an abundance of wonderful items all on display at the same time. Bordering on cluttered, maximalism is all about surrounding yourself with the stuff you love. Here are a few tips & tricks for how to decorate in a maximalist style without your home looking too messy. Embrace Bold ColorsOne of the most popular elements of maximalism is the use of bold and vibrant colors. Use colors that make you happy and wake you up in the morning instead of colors that are "safe" and boring that everyone else uses in their homes. Don't be afraid to mix and match colors that are not often paired together. Uniqueness is appreciated in a maximalist style. If you're not sure where to start, pick one large item with many colors (such as a large rug or piece of art) and decorate your room using the colors in that item. Select at least 3 colors and repeat those colors in at least 3 places in your room. For an added designer touch, also add in colors that are lighter or darker versions of your 3 colors for added depth of color. For example, one of your colors might be turquoise. You can decorate your room with turquoise lamps, some art with the color turquoise, and some turquoise candle holders. In addition to turquoise, you can add accessories in the color aqua (which is a lighter version of turquoise) and other accessories in a dark turquoise color. Do not have an equal amount of each color visible in your room else your room might look overly styled and not natural. For best results, select a certain color to be 60% of the color in your room, another color to be 30% of the color, and the 3rd color to be only 10% of the color in your room. Mix and Match PatternsMaximalism is all about mixing and matching different patterns to create a one-of-a-kind look. Avoid mixing and matching patterns from the same store - select items from different stores so you don't end up with the same style as your neighbors. Don't be afraid to decorate using stripes with polka dots, florals with animal prints, and/or geometric shapes with abstract designs. When it comes to mixing patterns, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.... First, try to choose patterns that are a similar color which will help to tie the different patterns together and create a cohesive look. Second, mix patterns of different scales, such as a large-scale floral with a small-scale geometric print so the patterns don't try to compete with each other. Use Texture to Add DepthMaximalism is not just about using a wide range of items with different color and pattern, it is also about using a mixture of textures. Rooms without much texture tend to feel sterile and boring, so feel free to add as much texture as you want. Some popular textural fabric include velvet, leather, wool, and fur. You can also use textured wallpapers, rugs, and/or pillows to add warmth to your room. Also consider addig some rough textures to contrast with your soft textures, such as wicker, exposed brick, and vintage hard back books with fabric or leather binding. Mix and Match Furniture StylesMaximalism and eclectic furniture go hand in hand. Don't be afraid to mix and match different styles of furniture to create a space that's unique and full of your own personality & style. Consider pairing a vintage sofa with a modern coffee table or mixing mid-century modern chairs with a rustic dining table for a one-of-a-kind unique aesthetic. When mixing furniture styles, make sure to consider scale and proportion since your items should feel like you picked them exclusively for your home, not just thrown together hand-me-downs. Using an eclectic mix of furniture is a great way to ensure that your home does not look like your neighbor's and it is uniquely yours. Don't Forget the ArtUse unique, collected, and/or bold pieces of art to add personality to your maximalist space and repeat your color scheme. Consider using oversized pieces of art to make a bold statement. You can also use a gallery wall, which is a collection of different pieces of smaller art that is hung together to create the feeling of one larger piece of art. Also consider using sculptures in your room, which are especially dramatic with an uplight. You can use basically any art piece that you love, but make sure that you love it and didn't just buy some generic piece of art to fill the space. Don't be afraid to mix and match different styles of art, as long as they create a cohesive look and feel. When hanging your art, make sure to consider the height at which you hang your art. In general, the center of your art should be hung around eye level, which is typically around 60 inches from the floor. Add Layers with AccessoriesThe use of many accessories is vital in maximalist design. Select accessories that repeat your room's color scheme and style to create cohesion. Feel free to paint items that you already own but whose color doesn't quite suit your needs. Metallic spray paint is a favorite for bringing new life to old accessories. Use accessories in a variety of textures and materials to create visual interest and depth. This can include different materials like wood, stone, metal, paper, and woven items. Include unique vintage and antique items of interest that not only look good but are a good conversation starter. Collect your home accessories over time, not just in one shopping trip to one store, to ensure that you find unique items that you love and not mass produced items that simply fill the space. Use Unique LightingMaximalist spaces require maximalist lighting. One light fixture in the center of your ceiling is not good enough! You need to have multiple light sources for aesthetics and to be able to light your room according to the occasion. Consider upgrading your ceiling light to something more decorative or ignore it and only use it when you need maximum light while cleaning that room. Add unique light fixtures (such as chandeliers, wall sconces, and pendant lights) to add personality to your home. Beautiful colorful lamps or lamps that have a sculptural shape are a great unique addition to a maximalist space. For the best lighting in your home, consider adding each of the following....... Ambient lighting is the general lighting in the room, but it can also be decorative if you add a chandelier or pendant light as the main source of light. Task lighting is lighting directed towards an area where a certain task will be performed, such as a piano light for reading sheet music or a desk lamp. Accent lighting is lighting that accentuates an item of interest, such as an art light shining on a piece of art, an uplight in the pot of a tree, or light inside a china cabinet highlighting the gorgeous china.
Decorating with bright colors is a fantastic way to infuse your home with energy, personality, and vibrancy. If you find the colors beige, gray, white, and creme boring, you might want to decorate your home with bright and bold colors. Consider your wardrobe when decorating your home.....do you wear khaki pants and a white shirt regularly, or do you dress in bright and bold colors? Do basic off-white colored walls make you feel comfortable and safe, or do they look extremely drab and boring to you? People are often intimidated when decorating because they are afraid to make a mistake or they want to play it safe for the next potential buyer of their home (even though they have no intention of selling anytime soon). Your home is yours, not the next owner, so make it what you want it to be (else you are basically renting your house from the next owner). Don't be afraid to do something different, even if it is not typical for your neighborhood. People will appreciate your unique approach to interior design and they might be inspired to use bright and bold colors in their homes also. It's crucial to approach decorating with bright colors strategically to avoid overwhelming looking interiors. Here are a few interior design tips, tricks, and techniques for mastering the art of decorating with bright colors to create stunning and impactful interiors that reflect your unique style and personality.. Less is MoreWhen decorating with bright and bold colors in your home, select 3 different dominant colors per room that will be your color scheme, but be cautious of using more. If you have more than 3 bright and bold colors in your room, it can start to feel like a circus and be overwhelming. Use the 3 colors in different proportions, such as your #1 color can be 50% of the dominant color in the room, your #2 color can be 35% of the dominant color in the room, and your #3 color can be 15% of the dominant color in the room. For a more interesting interior design, also consider using a lighter and darker version of each color to create more depth of color. Once you have 3 dominant colors in your room, consider adding 1 more color at a time as an experiment, but make sure you are willing to remove that extra color if the interior design is no longer what you desire. Skip Primary ColorsFor a more sophisticated look in your home, consider skipping the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) and decorate with blended colors instead. Decorating with exclusively primary colors in a home can often give the look of a preschool. Select color shades (a darker version of the color + black), tones (a more muted version of the color + gray), and tints (a lighter version of the color + white) for a more sophisticated color scheme. Opt for more unique colors, such as emerald green, rust, mustard yellow, deep purple, teal, turquoise, coral, fuchsia, saphire blue, burnt orange, lime green, aqua, and plum. Add Some Neutrals for ContrastBalance is key when decorating with bright colors. Black, white, and gray help accentuate the bright and bold colors by creating contrast and keeping the colors from being overly stimulating. Avoid decorating with too many other neutrals that have a light brown undertone, such as beige and khaki, which may make the bright and bold colors look muddy. You can also decorate using colors that are almost black to help your bright and bold colors pop, such as dark navy or dark teal. By using neutral backgrounds for walls, floors, and larger furniture pieces, you can prevent the space from feeling overwhelming and allow bright colors to take center stage. Natural ElementsTexture plays a crucial role in adding depth and visual interest to your decor, especially when working with bright colors. Add a few natural elements to your home decor for added texture and a touch of nature. You can add hardwood floors, a wicker basket, a bamboo tray, a rattan box, or a stone fireplace. Mix and match natural textures to add dimension and complexity to your decor, creating a visually engaging and dynamic space. Don't Overdo ItBright and bold colors are very powerful, so don't go overboard decorating with a million different colors, else your room might be overly stimulating and uncomfortable to spend time in. Decorate with your powerful colors in moderation. Think of how you want the room to feel in addition to how you want the room to look. Consider decorating with at least half of your room neutral and use bright and bold colors in the other half. You can keep the ceiling white, the doors black or white, and the flooring stained wood or a neutral carpet or tile. Keep Expensive Items NeutralThe bold and bright colors you love today may be the colors you hate tomorrow. Consider using your colors on lesser expensive decor items that you can change out in a few years, such as wall paint, pillows, and accessories. You can also use bright colors on dining chair seats (not backs) since they are relatively inexpensive to reupholster (you might even be able to do it yourself) and will probably be worn enough to need reupholstery in 5-10 years when you are ready for a color change. Keep your big ticket items, such as your sofa or dining table, a neutral color that will work with your next color scheme also. Not Too BusySince bold and bright colors demand so much attention, make sure the decor in the rest of your room is more subdued so your color choices can take center stage. Consider keeping decorative accessories to a minimum to avoid clutter on surfaces, unless you love the maximalist style. If you choose to decorate with many bright and bold colors, then consider using minimal patterns and embellishments. If you use fewer bold colors, feel free to use multiple patterns for interest. Furniture should typically not be too ornate when using bold colors since the colors will be the star of the show. Don't Forget LightingSince bold and bright colors can be darker than plain white, make sure the room is lit properly from multiple lighting sources. You can use a fabulous chandelier, wall sconces, lamps, accent lighting, tast lighting, table lamps, floor lamps, and more. Dimmer switches are a great option for being able to adjust light levels to set the appropriate mood, yet be very bright for cleaning purposes. Also consider using mirrors since they bounce light around a room. Ensure that your light bulbs are all the same color temperature, which is marked as K on the back of the package. The lower the number, the warmer (more yellow) the light. The higher number, the cooler (more blue) the light.
Decorating with bright colors is a fantastic way to infuse your home with energy, personality, and vibrancy. If you find the colors beige, gray, white, and creme boring, you might want to decorate your home with bright and bold colors. Consider your wardrobe when decorating your home.....do you wear khaki pants and a white shirt regularly, or do you dress in bright and bold colors? Do basic off-white colored walls make you feel comfortable and safe, or do they look extremely drab and boring to you? People are often intimidated when decorating because they are afraid to make a mistake or they want to play it safe for the next potential buyer of their home (even though they have no intention of selling anytime soon). Your home is yours, not the next owner, so make it what you want it to be (else you are basically renting your house from the next owner). Don't be afraid to do something different, even if it is not typical for your neighborhood. People will appreciate your unique approach to interior design and they might be inspired to use bright and bold colors in their homes also. It's crucial to approach decorating with bright colors strategically to avoid overwhelming looking interiors. Here are a few interior design tips, tricks, and techniques for mastering the art of decorating with bright colors to create stunning and impactful interiors that reflect your unique style and personality.. Less is MoreWhen decorating with bright and bold colors in your home, select 3 different dominant colors per room that will be your color scheme, but be cautious of using more. If you have more than 3 bright and bold colors in your room, it can start to feel like a circus and be overwhelming. Use the 3 colors in different proportions, such as your #1 color can be 50% of the dominant color in the room, your #2 color can be 35% of the dominant color in the room, and your #3 color can be 15% of the dominant color in the room. For a more interesting interior design, also consider using a lighter and darker version of each color to create more depth of color. Once you have 3 dominant colors in your room, consider adding 1 more color at a time as an experiment, but make sure you are willing to remove that extra color if the interior design is no longer what you desire. Skip Primary ColorsFor a more sophisticated look in your home, consider skipping the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) and decorate with blended colors instead. Decorating with exclusively primary colors in a home can often give the look of a preschool. Select color shades (a darker version of the color + black), tones (a more muted version of the color + gray), and tints (a lighter version of the color + white) for a more sophisticated color scheme. Opt for more unique colors, such as emerald green, rust, mustard yellow, deep purple, teal, turquoise, coral, fuchsia, saphire blue, burnt orange, lime green, aqua, and plum. Add Some Neutrals for ContrastBalance is key when decorating with bright colors. Black, white, and gray help accentuate the bright and bold colors by creating contrast and keeping the colors from being overly stimulating. Avoid decorating with too many other neutrals that have a light brown undertone, such as beige and khaki, which may make the bright and bold colors look muddy. You can also decorate using colors that are almost black to help your bright and bold colors pop, such as dark navy or dark teal. By using neutral backgrounds for walls, floors, and larger furniture pieces, you can prevent the space from feeling overwhelming and allow bright colors to take center stage. Natural ElementsTexture plays a crucial role in adding depth and visual interest to your decor, especially when working with bright colors. Add a few natural elements to your home decor for added texture and a touch of nature. You can add hardwood floors, a wicker basket, a bamboo tray, a rattan box, or a stone fireplace. Mix and match natural textures to add dimension and complexity to your decor, creating a visually engaging and dynamic space. Don't Overdo ItBright and bold colors are very powerful, so don't go overboard decorating with a million different colors, else your room might be overly stimulating and uncomfortable to spend time in. Decorate with your powerful colors in moderation. Think of how you want the room to feel in addition to how you want the room to look. Consider decorating with at least half of your room neutral and use bright and bold colors in the other half. You can keep the ceiling white, the doors black or white, and the flooring stained wood or a neutral carpet or tile. Keep Expensive Items NeutralThe bold and bright colors you love today may be the colors you hate tomorrow. Consider using your colors on lesser expensive decor items that you can change out in a few years, such as wall paint, pillows, and accessories. You can also use bright colors on dining chair seats (not backs) since they are relatively inexpensive to reupholster (you might even be able to do it yourself) and will probably be worn enough to need reupholstery in 5-10 years when you are ready for a color change. Keep your big ticket items, such as your sofa or dining table, a neutral color that will work with your next color scheme also. Not Too BusySince bold and bright colors demand so much attention, make sure the decor in the rest of your room is more subdued so your color choices can take center stage. Consider keeping decorative accessories to a minimum to avoid clutter on surfaces, unless you love the maximalist style. If you choose to decorate with many bright and bold colors, then consider using minimal patterns and embellishments. If you use fewer bold colors, feel free to use multiple patterns for interest. Furniture should typically not be too ornate when using bold colors since the colors will be the star of the show. Don't Forget LightingSince bold and bright colors can be darker than plain white, make sure the room is lit properly from multiple lighting sources. You can use a fabulous chandelier, wall sconces, lamps, accent lighting, tast lighting, table lamps, floor lamps, and more. Dimmer switches are a great option for being able to adjust light levels to set the appropriate mood, yet be very bright for cleaning purposes. Also consider using mirrors since they bounce light around a room. Ensure that your light bulbs are all the same color temperature, which is marked as K on the back of the package. The lower the number, the warmer (more yellow) the light. The higher number, the cooler (more blue) the light.
For all of the decorating styles out there, the one that is the most misunderstood and challenging to create is Eclectic interior design. So often, a room that is a hodge-podge of colors and styles is referred to by this moniker, but it is just a mess. So what does define Eclectic design? We have […]
Master the art of accessorizing for a polished home. Elevate your interior design with expert tips and tricks. Click to enhance your decor effortlessly!
Discover the top 27 living room colors for 2024! Dive into trending color schemes, style ideas, and furniture tips to revamp your space with elegance. From cozy hearthside vibes with luxurious brown couches to minimalist chic and playful geometrics, find the perfect palette to reflect your personality and stay ahead in home decor trends. Transform your living area into a modern sanctuary of comfort and style with our expertly curated guide.
Decorating with bright colors is a fantastic way to infuse your home with energy, personality, and vibrancy. If you find the colors beige, gray, white, and creme boring, you might want to decorate your home with bright and bold colors. Consider your wardrobe when decorating your home.....do you wear khaki pants and a white shirt regularly, or do you dress in bright and bold colors? Do basic off-white colored walls make you feel comfortable and safe, or do they look extremely drab and boring to you? People are often intimidated when decorating because they are afraid to make a mistake or they want to play it safe for the next potential buyer of their home (even though they have no intention of selling anytime soon). Your home is yours, not the next owner, so make it what you want it to be (else you are basically renting your house from the next owner). Don't be afraid to do something different, even if it is not typical for your neighborhood. People will appreciate your unique approach to interior design and they might be inspired to use bright and bold colors in their homes also. It's crucial to approach decorating with bright colors strategically to avoid overwhelming looking interiors. Here are a few interior design tips, tricks, and techniques for mastering the art of decorating with bright colors to create stunning and impactful interiors that reflect your unique style and personality.. Less is MoreWhen decorating with bright and bold colors in your home, select 3 different dominant colors per room that will be your color scheme, but be cautious of using more. If you have more than 3 bright and bold colors in your room, it can start to feel like a circus and be overwhelming. Use the 3 colors in different proportions, such as your #1 color can be 50% of the dominant color in the room, your #2 color can be 35% of the dominant color in the room, and your #3 color can be 15% of the dominant color in the room. For a more interesting interior design, also consider using a lighter and darker version of each color to create more depth of color. Once you have 3 dominant colors in your room, consider adding 1 more color at a time as an experiment, but make sure you are willing to remove that extra color if the interior design is no longer what you desire. Skip Primary ColorsFor a more sophisticated look in your home, consider skipping the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) and decorate with blended colors instead. Decorating with exclusively primary colors in a home can often give the look of a preschool. Select color shades (a darker version of the color + black), tones (a more muted version of the color + gray), and tints (a lighter version of the color + white) for a more sophisticated color scheme. Opt for more unique colors, such as emerald green, rust, mustard yellow, deep purple, teal, turquoise, coral, fuchsia, saphire blue, burnt orange, lime green, aqua, and plum. Add Some Neutrals for ContrastBalance is key when decorating with bright colors. Black, white, and gray help accentuate the bright and bold colors by creating contrast and keeping the colors from being overly stimulating. Avoid decorating with too many other neutrals that have a light brown undertone, such as beige and khaki, which may make the bright and bold colors look muddy. You can also decorate using colors that are almost black to help your bright and bold colors pop, such as dark navy or dark teal. By using neutral backgrounds for walls, floors, and larger furniture pieces, you can prevent the space from feeling overwhelming and allow bright colors to take center stage. Natural ElementsTexture plays a crucial role in adding depth and visual interest to your decor, especially when working with bright colors. Add a few natural elements to your home decor for added texture and a touch of nature. You can add hardwood floors, a wicker basket, a bamboo tray, a rattan box, or a stone fireplace. Mix and match natural textures to add dimension and complexity to your decor, creating a visually engaging and dynamic space. Don't Overdo ItBright and bold colors are very powerful, so don't go overboard decorating with a million different colors, else your room might be overly stimulating and uncomfortable to spend time in. Decorate with your powerful colors in moderation. Think of how you want the room to feel in addition to how you want the room to look. Consider decorating with at least half of your room neutral and use bright and bold colors in the other half. You can keep the ceiling white, the doors black or white, and the flooring stained wood or a neutral carpet or tile. Keep Expensive Items NeutralThe bold and bright colors you love today may be the colors you hate tomorrow. Consider using your colors on lesser expensive decor items that you can change out in a few years, such as wall paint, pillows, and accessories. You can also use bright colors on dining chair seats (not backs) since they are relatively inexpensive to reupholster (you might even be able to do it yourself) and will probably be worn enough to need reupholstery in 5-10 years when you are ready for a color change. Keep your big ticket items, such as your sofa or dining table, a neutral color that will work with your next color scheme also. Not Too BusySince bold and bright colors demand so much attention, make sure the decor in the rest of your room is more subdued so your color choices can take center stage. Consider keeping decorative accessories to a minimum to avoid clutter on surfaces, unless you love the maximalist style. If you choose to decorate with many bright and bold colors, then consider using minimal patterns and embellishments. If you use fewer bold colors, feel free to use multiple patterns for interest. Furniture should typically not be too ornate when using bold colors since the colors will be the star of the show. Don't Forget LightingSince bold and bright colors can be darker than plain white, make sure the room is lit properly from multiple lighting sources. You can use a fabulous chandelier, wall sconces, lamps, accent lighting, tast lighting, table lamps, floor lamps, and more. Dimmer switches are a great option for being able to adjust light levels to set the appropriate mood, yet be very bright for cleaning purposes. Also consider using mirrors since they bounce light around a room. Ensure that your light bulbs are all the same color temperature, which is marked as K on the back of the package. The lower the number, the warmer (more yellow) the light. The higher number, the cooler (more blue) the light.
Decorating with bright colors is a fantastic way to infuse your home with energy, personality, and vibrancy. If you find the colors beige, gray, white, and creme boring, you might want to decorate your home with bright and bold colors. Consider your wardrobe when decorating your home.....do you wear khaki pants and a white shirt regularly, or do you dress in bright and bold colors? Do basic off-white colored walls make you feel comfortable and safe, or do they look extremely drab and boring to you? People are often intimidated when decorating because they are afraid to make a mistake or they want to play it safe for the next potential buyer of their home (even though they have no intention of selling anytime soon). Your home is yours, not the next owner, so make it what you want it to be (else you are basically renting your house from the next owner). Don't be afraid to do something different, even if it is not typical for your neighborhood. People will appreciate your unique approach to interior design and they might be inspired to use bright and bold colors in their homes also. It's crucial to approach decorating with bright colors strategically to avoid overwhelming looking interiors. Here are a few interior design tips, tricks, and techniques for mastering the art of decorating with bright colors to create stunning and impactful interiors that reflect your unique style and personality.. Less is MoreWhen decorating with bright and bold colors in your home, select 3 different dominant colors per room that will be your color scheme, but be cautious of using more. If you have more than 3 bright and bold colors in your room, it can start to feel like a circus and be overwhelming. Use the 3 colors in different proportions, such as your #1 color can be 50% of the dominant color in the room, your #2 color can be 35% of the dominant color in the room, and your #3 color can be 15% of the dominant color in the room. For a more interesting interior design, also consider using a lighter and darker version of each color to create more depth of color. Once you have 3 dominant colors in your room, consider adding 1 more color at a time as an experiment, but make sure you are willing to remove that extra color if the interior design is no longer what you desire. Skip Primary ColorsFor a more sophisticated look in your home, consider skipping the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) and decorate with blended colors instead. Decorating with exclusively primary colors in a home can often give the look of a preschool. Select color shades (a darker version of the color + black), tones (a more muted version of the color + gray), and tints (a lighter version of the color + white) for a more sophisticated color scheme. Opt for more unique colors, such as emerald green, rust, mustard yellow, deep purple, teal, turquoise, coral, fuchsia, saphire blue, burnt orange, lime green, aqua, and plum. Add Some Neutrals for ContrastBalance is key when decorating with bright colors. Black, white, and gray help accentuate the bright and bold colors by creating contrast and keeping the colors from being overly stimulating. Avoid decorating with too many other neutrals that have a light brown undertone, such as beige and khaki, which may make the bright and bold colors look muddy. You can also decorate using colors that are almost black to help your bright and bold colors pop, such as dark navy or dark teal. By using neutral backgrounds for walls, floors, and larger furniture pieces, you can prevent the space from feeling overwhelming and allow bright colors to take center stage. Natural ElementsTexture plays a crucial role in adding depth and visual interest to your decor, especially when working with bright colors. Add a few natural elements to your home decor for added texture and a touch of nature. You can add hardwood floors, a wicker basket, a bamboo tray, a rattan box, or a stone fireplace. Mix and match natural textures to add dimension and complexity to your decor, creating a visually engaging and dynamic space. Don't Overdo ItBright and bold colors are very powerful, so don't go overboard decorating with a million different colors, else your room might be overly stimulating and uncomfortable to spend time in. Decorate with your powerful colors in moderation. Think of how you want the room to feel in addition to how you want the room to look. Consider decorating with at least half of your room neutral and use bright and bold colors in the other half. You can keep the ceiling white, the doors black or white, and the flooring stained wood or a neutral carpet or tile. Keep Expensive Items NeutralThe bold and bright colors you love today may be the colors you hate tomorrow. Consider using your colors on lesser expensive decor items that you can change out in a few years, such as wall paint, pillows, and accessories. You can also use bright colors on dining chair seats (not backs) since they are relatively inexpensive to reupholster (you might even be able to do it yourself) and will probably be worn enough to need reupholstery in 5-10 years when you are ready for a color change. Keep your big ticket items, such as your sofa or dining table, a neutral color that will work with your next color scheme also. Not Too BusySince bold and bright colors demand so much attention, make sure the decor in the rest of your room is more subdued so your color choices can take center stage. Consider keeping decorative accessories to a minimum to avoid clutter on surfaces, unless you love the maximalist style. If you choose to decorate with many bright and bold colors, then consider using minimal patterns and embellishments. If you use fewer bold colors, feel free to use multiple patterns for interest. Furniture should typically not be too ornate when using bold colors since the colors will be the star of the show. Don't Forget LightingSince bold and bright colors can be darker than plain white, make sure the room is lit properly from multiple lighting sources. You can use a fabulous chandelier, wall sconces, lamps, accent lighting, tast lighting, table lamps, floor lamps, and more. Dimmer switches are a great option for being able to adjust light levels to set the appropriate mood, yet be very bright for cleaning purposes. Also consider using mirrors since they bounce light around a room. Ensure that your light bulbs are all the same color temperature, which is marked as K on the back of the package. The lower the number, the warmer (more yellow) the light. The higher number, the cooler (more blue) the light.
In this gallery, we navigate the tension between absence and presence in the interplay of Minimalist and Maximalist elements. These living spaces, captured in
Whether you have walls that are painted a dark color or are a dark wood tone, you can lighten the feeling of the room using furniture and furnishings so it doesn't feel like a dark cave. You might be wondering how to make a dark room feel brighter on a budget. Whether you love your dark walls but they are feeling overwhelming, or perhaps you are renting and are not allowed to change the walls, here are several ways to lighten and brighten a room with dark walls. FloorsIn order for your home to not feel like you are living in constant darkness with dark walls, make sure that the floor is not also dark. If you have dark wood floors or dark tile floors in your room, consider adding a white or light colored rug on top of those floors to break up all of the darkness and add brightness to the dark room. If you have dark carpet in your room, you can also add a rug on top of the carpet to lighten the room, but make sure that the rug is not a trip hazard. Make sure that the furniture sitting on top of your dark floors is also a light color in order to break up the sea of darkness created by your dark floors and walls. If your room has a bed, use white or light colored linens to add brightness to your dark bedroom. If your living room has a sofa, select a light colored sofa for your dark room, or consider getting a light colored slip cover for the sofa to lighten the room. Basically, try to reduce the amount of dark flooring that is showing to make your dark room feel lighter. WallsIn order to lighten a room with dark walls, you can add light and/or bright colored artwork or light colored furniture. Tall furniture, such as a white storage cabinet or a bookcase filled with colorful or light colored books, is especially helpful in covering large portions of dark walls. Adding light colored furniture, decor, and accessories will cover some of the darkness on your walls and lighten your room a bit. Also consider adding bright white crown molding and other millwork (like a fireplace surround and tall baseboards) to lighten your dark room. Basically, cover your dark walls with as much lighter colored stuff as possible to reduce the amount of wall that is showing. CeilingTo add lightness to your room with dark walls, consider painting your ceiling a bright white color to contrast with your dark walls. Ceilings are typically painted with a paint that has a flat paint sheen to reduce the visibility of texture imperfections, but consider using a more glossy paint sheen to bounce light around (assuming your ceiling texture is not too ugly). Consider making your ceiling a focal point to draw attention to the ceiling instead of the walls. To create a focal point, you can use an amazing chandelier, a unique pendant light, or interesting wallpaper on your ceiling. Also consider adding a ceiling medallion to your chandelier or maybe paint your ceiling an unusual light color for added drama. LightingIn rooms with dark walls, make sure to use plenty of lighting, in addition to natural light, to brighten your space. To make a dark room feel less like a cave, use multiple light sources scattered around the room. You can have a central light fixture in the ceiling (such as a chandelier or pendant light), several table lamps at seated eye level for most of the areas where someone might sit, an uplight that shines light on the ceiling in corners that feel a bit dark, accent lighting that shines light on a particular object or art in order to showcase its beauty, and under cabinet lighting to light work surfaces. A room will often feel dark, even if it is not, if there are visible shadows. Look around your room and hunt for shadows. Either eliminate the item causing the shadow or add lighting to that area to eliminate the shadow and make your room feel lighter. The best lighting for rooms with dark walls is to have more lighting than you think you will need coming from multiple different fixtures that are all on dimmers so you can change the lighting to many different configurations depending on the time of day or your activity in your room. Metallics and MirrorsIncorporating metallic items and mirrors into your dark room can decrease the amount of dark wall that is visible while adding glamour and sophistication. Shiny metallic items will bring sparkle and glimmer to your room. Metallic items will add life and bounce around light to make your dark room feel more light. Choose furniture and decor pieces with metallic finishes (such as silver, gold, or chrome) to add shimmer and sparkle to your space while reflecting light. Metallic decor elements (such as metallic vases, or chrome table lamps) brighten your space by breaking up all of the darkness from your walls. You can also decorate with mirrors to increase your room's brightness by bouncing light around and creating the illusion of space behind the mirror. Use large mirrors located across from windows or light fixtures to maximize light reflection. Also consider adding mirrored furniture for a glam look that reflects light. If you are on a budget, consider looking for mirrors at garage sales, estate sales, and thrift shops. You can paint the frame in a neutral color, such as black, to update it and make it more modern. WindowsOne of the most effective ways to lighten a room with dark walls is to use as much natural light as possible. Avoid using heavy curtains and keep other things away from your window that might be blocking the light, especially if you have small windows. Consider installing sheer or lightweight curtains that diffuse natural light while still providing privacy and softening the harshness of direct sunlight. If curtains are necessary for privacy, select white or light colored ones that do not block out all of the light, however you might need blackout curtains (blackout refers to the thick lining inside the curtain that blocks out the light, not the color of the actual curtain) to block out all of the light in your bedrooms. Whatever curtains you are using, but especially blackout curtains, make sure to hang them so they mostly cover the wall and barely cover the window when opened all the way so that the sunlight can flood the dark room during the daytime. In addition to curtains covering windows, they also partially cover the dark walls, adding softness and lessening the darkness of the wall color. Additionally, trim back any foliage or landscaping outside your windows that may be blocking sunlight from entering the room. Make sure to keep your windows clean, inside and out, to maximize the light inside your home. Accent ColorsAccent colors can make or break your entire room's decor style, especially if your room has dark walls. When selecting accent colors for a dark room, your colors should contrast with the existing dark walls while complementing their rich tones. If you like bold colors, consider decorating with emerald green, bold orange, mustard yellow, sapphire blue, or ruby red to add a fun energy to your room. If you prefer a more calm environment, you might choose softer accent colors (like blush pink, soft yellow, or lavender). You can add accent colors in throw pillows, area rugs, artwork, lighting, and/or upholstered furniture. Experiment with different color combinations and textures to create the exact look that you are after.
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