Colour can  –  Make a small room appear larger

                          Lighten a dark room

                          Create mood

                          Link areas and objects

                          Evoke a particular period

                          Make a room feel ‘warm’ or ‘cool’

This ‘warming’ and ‘cooling’ effect is done by using variants of three basic colours known as primary colours: blue, yellow and red. You can see these on the colour wheel. From this we get secondary colours, violet, green and orange, which is a combination of two primaries. Going further, and mixing a primary and secondary colour then gives you, what is known as tertiary colours: blue-green, blue violet, red-violet, red-orange, yellow-orange and yellow-green.

 

An important point to remember is this; colours that appear on the ‘cooler’ side tend to have a

receding effect and those on the ‘warmer’ an advancing one. So, if you want to open a space up, to make it appear larger in dimension, then it is best to use a receding (cooler) colour. If you wish to make an area more intimate and enclosed, then chose one of the more advancing (warmer) colours.

 

Outlined below is a brief summary of the effects various colours can have:

 

Neutrals

Combining these can create a simple yet warm space and also act as a base for bolder shades. An ideal range to mix and blend with other colours to produce a modern look.

 

Creams

These are a very useful palette from which to choose from. They give the appearance of elegant timelessness and are extremely versatile whether aiming for a classic or contemporary look.

 

Yellows

An instant pick me up, they open up small spaces and introduce the sunshine. Used with a neutral it is an uplifting combination.

 

Oranges

The richness of this colour can bring warmth to a room and a terracotta shade will bring the Mediterranean right into your home. It is also a good shade to combine with dark furniture for a feel of the African desert.

 

Pinks, Reds and Violets

Used with a rich intensity they can be very seductive colours. Or put together in their more pastel shades they can by dusky and subtle. With ease they can transform the mood of a room from intimate space to personal sanctuary, just by a change of hue.

 

Blues and Greys

Probably the most versatile of the colours. Cool and elegant or striking and dramatic, there are not many rooms these colours will not work in; from bathrooms to kitchens, studies to bedrooms. The shades can significantly change the mood depending on its purpose and are good for use in masculine orientated spaces.

 

Greens

 A natural and fresh colour, which can be nurturing and calming or dynamic and refreshing. It is excellent for bringing the outside in, with its restful shades and tones.