Simple ways to experiment with colour in your home
Hello my loves,
Let me ask you a question.
How do you feel about colour? Does it make your heart happy or does the thought of decorating with anything brighter than Greige fill you with dread?
In days gone by, the world was covered in a beige hue which was considered calming, timeless and safe. Although it’s going through a resurgence right now, with tasteful comforting and warm tones, a decade ago beige had become a bit drab and unimaginative.
The good news? Adding colour to your home doesn’t have to mean painting every wall bright pink or filling your living room with clashing prints.
In fact, some of the most beautiful, colourful interiors are created with simple accents, rather than a maximalist approach.
whether you’re colour curious or ready to embrace your inner maximalist, here are three simple ways to experiment with colour and bring a little more personality into your home.
Read more to find out how.
1) What's that one colour you would love to experiment with but are a bit scared to commit to?
How about painting one wall?
Paint is a safer option to wallpapers, is a contemporary alternative- even in a traditional home and depending on the size of the room and height of the ceilings is quite forgiving.
Colour: Stiffly blue- Farrow & Ball
2) If the idea of bold colour gives you the ick- how about trying a pastel shade? As pastel colours are less saturated, they are often associated with calm and peaceful environments. They have a soft, understated look which is soothing but they add a little something to a space. Even one or two pastel elements will draw attention.
Roman blind fabric: John Lewis
3) Accessories.
Here is the cheapest and quickest way to experiment with colour in your home. The benefit to accessories is that if you get bored, you can pack them up and try a different colour scheme. This is especially useful throughout the change in seasons when you may want something bright and cheerful during the summer months but a bit more moody and textured in the winter. Just pop your textiles in a vacuum bag and store until you are ready to use again!
For a touch of maximalism, choose accessories in a range of complimentary and contrasting colours. Bring nature in to the home by introducing floral or leaf patterned fabrics or house plants which are not only good for air quality but also for mental well being.
1- Grey & orange herringbone striped throw- The British blanket company
2- Yellow & white ceramic pot- B&Q
3- Riviera striped yellow ceramic vase- Oliver Bonas
4- Pink palm feather cushion- Mayajoy
5- Aron chair, blush house weave- Swoon
As you can see, it doesn't take much to add colour in to the home. Start by introducing your favourite colour and see where it takes you.
The colours were drawn to are often connected to memories. A bright yellow kitchen might remind you of childhood holidays. A deep blue could bring back memories of the sea. For me, colour has always been connected to family, food, celebration and my heritage.
If you try any of these tips, don't forget to tag me on socials so I can share your success.
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Lots of love
Maya x
FAQs
How do I add colour to my home without painting?
Textiles, artwork, cushions, table linen and accessories are all easy ways to introduce colour without committing to decorating.
What colours make a home feel cosy?
On paper- warm terracotta, ochres, dusty pinks, rich greens and soft blues all help create welcoming spaces- but you don’t have to say goodbye to your faithful grey and off whites. Lighting plays a huge part here, along with the size and style of the property you are decorating. Quick tip- always buy a tin of sample paint and live with swatches on more than one wall, and examine at different times of day.
Can you mix patterns in a room?
Absolutely. start with a common colour palette and vary the scale of your patterns for a balanced look- think larger prints for your curtains and a ditsy print on the cushions, with a stripy table cloth.