September 2006, Volume 4, Issue 11
September 2006, Volume 4, Issue 11
When
you go to the paint store, you can pick up charts that show sample colors and
very often show three-color schemes using these sample colors.
Multiple colors can look very nice. But, the first thing to take into account if you are considering such a color scheme is whether or not the house is for sale. Your color preferences for yourself will be different than what might be the best for sale. Typically, more conservative color choices work better when selling a home. Care should be taken both inside and out in terms of paint choices so they increase the aesthetic and value of the property without being too busy.
Three
or more colors on an exterior can work very well on some houses, but not all.
Victorian houses often have very nice multiple color schemes. These houses have
a lot of trim and decorative wood elements that when accentuated with different
colors look very appealing without looking too busy.
The
keys on multiple color use:
 | Take
the size of the house into consideration. If it’s a large house, it can
carry more color. Too many colors can make smaller houses look too small and
busy. |
| Consider
the type of materials and architecture. As mentioned above, Victorian houses
work well with multiple colors. If it is a stucco house, look for any
appealing trim points that can be accentuated with multiple colors without
looking too busy. |
| Are
there any existing colors that must be taken into consideration when
choosing the others? (Stone, chimneys, the roof, etc.) |
| Use the color wheel. We’ve talked about the color wheel in earlier newsletters. Get one at an arts and crafts store. The backside will give you ideas on three-color harmony. Also, most paint stores now have booklets on how to use color. |
| If
you are painting for sale, usually it is best to keep a very simple
monochromatic scheme throughout a house to avoid an impression of the house
being small and choppy. If you want to paint a room or two for accent,
ensure you use a color that harmonizes with the other spaces. |
| If
this is your own home and you’ve decided to give each room different look,
consult the color wheel and choose a transition color for the hallways and
common areas that will tie all the rooms together. Also choose a trim and
ceiling color that will work the same for all rooms, which will also tie
them together. |
| It
is always best to paint color samples on the walls. If you want to save
money, first, purchase one of the paint software programs that most paint
companies now offer. This will allow you to look at different color schemes
and get some idea of how it will look before spending money on paint
samples. |
| Pick colors that evoke the feeling or mood that you are looking for in each space. (e.g., Do you want your bedroom restful – try cool colors, like blues. Are you looking for a warm feeling in your family room – you could consider warmer colors like reds and oranges. And so on.) |
Ciao,
Kevin Connetta Molto Bene License No. 739710