Color Wheel: How To Choose Gorgeous Colors for Your Living Space
Selecting colors can be a bit challenging, do you opt for the safe option neutrals, or the more risky, mistake prone bold colors?
Objective: Select a main color, opposite color, and hue, that work together harmoniously:
Use the Color Wheel as Your Guide
Correct utilization of color in interiors – while a natural and minimalistic style is perfectly acceptable, some individuals desire a touch more than just neutral tones; they aspire to infuse bold colors and textures into their homes. If you’re considering incorporating vibrant colors into areas like your living room, kitchen, bathroom or bedroom, you’ve come to the right place. Everyone possesses a unique taste, which can make selecting colors a bit challenging. Unlike the safe option of neutrals, opting for bold colors carries a higher risk of mistakes. There’s no definitive right or wrong color for interiors; it’s all about selecting a main color, opposite colors, hues, and textures that work together harmoniously. Let’s dive in. When it comes to selecting colors, the color wheel is your guide. This tool helps you navigate color schemes effectively. Let’s begin by exploring the concept of the main color.What is Your Main Color?
Your main color is the most dominant hue you choose for your interior space. For instance, in your living room, the main color will be the hue that appears most frequently across items. It sets the tone and will be prominently featured in various elements within that space. Look at the color color wheel for your main color – it serves as your roadmap in this creative journey…
Next choose either Monochromatic, Analogous or Complementary Colors to go with your Main Color:
We will primarily focus on three color schemes that will help you select colors that complement your main color:
1. Monochromatic = different shades of 1 color.
2. Analogous Analogous = 3 colors in a row on the color wheel (including your main color).
3. Complementary = 2 colors on opposite sides of the color wheel (opposite your main color).
Stick to one of these 3 schemes, each provides a balance between creativity and control. These approaches—Monochromatic, Analogous, and Complementary—provide a solid foundation for effective color selection in interiors.
Remember that the harmony and flow of your space are achieved by ensuring every chosen object, from furniture to accessories, pulls colors from your selected palette. Whether you’re aiming for a chic and serene environment or a vibrant and energetic one, these strategies will guide you in using color to its fullest potential within your interiors.
Monochromatic Color Scheme
Monochromatic color scheme involves selecting various shades and tints of the main color. Imagine a living room adorned with shades of yellow, where yellow is the main color, and secondary and tertiary colors are different variations of yellow. This approach maintains a cohesive look while offering subtle variations.
Photo by Yoshihiro Makino, designed by Jake Arnold
Analogous Color Scheme
Analogous color scheme, you choose one main color and two adjacent colors. This creates a smooth transition with minimal contrast between the colors. For example, you could work with purples, reds, pinks, and oranges. The key is to maintain the main color’s dominance while incorporating the adjacent colors for accents and decorations.
Photo by Jeroen van der Spek, and styling by Cleo Scheulderman
Complementary Color Scheme
Complementary color scheme involves selecting two colors that are opposite on the color wheel. There should be a noticeable contrast between these two colors. For instance, if you opt for turquoise as your main color, yellow could be your complementary color. To maintain cohesion, it’s essential to primarily feature these two colors across your furniture and decorative items.
Photo by Ty Cole, Designed by Joan and Jayne Michaels
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