Color is one of the most dynamic and versatile design elements for adding personal style to your home’s decor. It not only sets the mood and tone, but can also bring out a room’s architectural features. Wallpaper is also back in style and can help add depth and interest to any room.

Not sure where to begin when choosing a paint color or wallpaper pattern for your spaces? The following are some tips and creative ideas that we hope will inspire you.

1. Create Your Palette

• Start by considering your personal color preferences. Which colors do you gravitate towards – jewel tones, pastels, neutral?
• Collect images and swatches from Pinterest, Houzz, and other decor sources. Even consider your own personal experiences: vacations, nature, artwork, etc. that attract and inspire you.
• Group the colors and view them together in the room to see how they look with existing furnishings and during different times of the day (colors look different in the morning, afternoon and evening).

2. Define The Mood

• Narrow down colors based on the vibe they evoke.
• Decorate with intention by choosing colors that have personal meaning and give you a sense of satisfaction.
• Hues from nature such as blue, green and tan feel tranquil, soothing and renewing.
• Bright yellows, oranges and reds enliven a space with warmth and energy.
• Darker colors convey mystery, drama and formality while lighter colors are lively and optimistic.

3. Accent Your Space

There are many ways to highlight your home’s architectural features with color:

• Try lightening up a traditional brick fireplace by whitewashing it for a more modern look.
• Built-in shelving can be treated like furniture by using either the same color paint or a contrast color to the walls. Make a bookshelf pop by painting the back of the shelves a complementary accent color
• Try using contrasting color on stairway risers and/or spindles for a dramatic entryway.

4. Add Personal Style With Wallpaper

• Wallpaper can add style and dimension to any space. Consider using wallpaper as an accent wall in a small office or powder room.
• Keep the style of the wallpaper similar to your home’s decor – traditional, contemporary, rustic, etc.
• You should feel emotionally attached to the design so you won’t get tired of it quickly.
• In a room with many doors and windows, avoid large pattern repeats. Instead, choose a textured or solid color.

5. Still Overwhelmed?

• Consider consulting with an interior designer who can help narrow down paint and paper selections based on your taste and budget.

For more info please contact Patti Stern at 203.640.3762 or email patti@pjstagingdecorating.com.