You’re ready to elevate your house into a home—a harmonious blend of style and comfort. However, there’s one important decision ahead: selecting the perfect colours and finishes. Don’t worry, you’re not alone in facing this design challenge. Let’s walk through some key points to consider, ensuring your home reflects your unique style and feels exactly how you envision it.
Start with what you love: the palette of you
Before diving into a sea of paint swatches, pause and consider what truly resonates with you. Does the serenity of a beachy blue bring you peace, or does the boldness of a deep red set your heart aflame? Start with colours that speak to you— it’s your home, not the paint clerk’s, who might suggest “Eggshell White” as the default choice.
The 60-30-10 rule: because balance is key
Have you ever noticed how some rooms just feel right? That’s usually the magic of the 60-30-10 rule. Here’s the secret formula:
- 60%: Your dominant colour, usually for the walls. Think of this as the anchor that holds the room together.
- 30%: Your secondary colour, used for upholstery or an accent wall. This one should complement, not compete.
- 10%: Your accent colour, for pillows, art, and those quirky knick-knacks you can’t live without. This is where you can have a little fun—go wild with a pop of pink if you dare.
Finishes: more than just a shiny coat
Once you’ve nailed down your colours, it’s time to talk finishes. Yes, it’s tempting to go for the glossier options (who doesn’t love a bit of shine?), but different finishes have different jobs.
- Matte: Great for hiding imperfections and smudges, such as fingerprints. Ideal for bedrooms where relaxation is the vibe and for areas that see frequent touch, like kids' rooms.
- Satin: A bit more shine and very versatile. Perfect for high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms.
- Semi-Gloss/Gloss: The diva of finishes. They stand out, but they’re also a bit high-maintenance. Save these for trim, doors, or kitchen cabinets—areas where you want to make a statement.
Test before you commit: the tale of two swatches
Colours can be sneaky. They look one way in the store and another way in your living room at 3 pm (Hello, 50 shades of beige). Get sample pots of your top choices and paint a large swatch on the wall. Observe it in different lighting throughout the day.
Don’t forget the flow: one room leads to another
Your home should have a united colour story, not a series of disconnected scenes. Ensure that the colours in adjacent rooms complement each other. A bold red in the dining room might clash with a serene green in the living room unless there’s a transition shade to smooth things over. Remember, it’s all about creating a flow, not a jarring contrast.
The finishing touches: it’s all in the details
After choosing your colours and finishes, don’t forget about the details that bring everything together. Door handles, light switches, and even window treatments play a role in your home’s overall look. These finishing touches might seem small, but they pack a punch.
Final thoughts: trust your instincts
In the end, your home should reflect you. Creating a space that reflects your personal style, needs, and lifestyle will spark joy every time you come home — whether that’s a little quirky, a bit sophisticated, or entirely unique. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to break the rules. After all, it’s your canvas; make it a masterpiece.
Find your forever home in 3 easy steps with our customisable design tool! Simply choose your favourite Clarendon Homes design, personalise it to match your style, and download your no-obligation estimate. It’s the perfect way to see how your vision fits your budget.
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