How a Color Expert Can Transform Your Home and Life
Frank Lloyd Wright is one of my all-time favorite architects. I love how he seamlessly incorporates nature into his designs, often using splashes of orange or red. I instantly feel a sense of relaxation and comfort whenever I tour one of his homes. Living in one of his creations would be a dream! Though I must admit, some of his furniture designs don’t look too comfortable, haha!
I encourage my clients to refrain from following color trends but to focus on how colors make them feel. We can often tell which colors they’re drawn to by the clothes they wear, and this is usually reflected in their home decor as well. Here’s our process to help you find the ideal color for your space…
Step 1: Understanding the Common Associations of Each Color
We often associate colors with how they make us feel. For example:
Green is calming and invigorating
Red symbolizes power (ever notice how many politicians wear red ties?)
Purple is linked to luxury and creativity.
Another example is the color blue. Next time you go out to eat, look around and see if you spot it. It's rare in restaurants because blue suppresses appetite rather than stimulates it. Psychologically, blue is often associated with calmness and cleanliness, but since it’s uncommon in natural foods (aside from blueberries and a few others), it’s considered less appetizing.
However, not everyone has the same associations with color. Personal experiences shape our preferences. For example, the colors you’re drawn to in clothing, the cars you've owned, or even the color of your grandparents' living room that makes you feel at home can all influence your choices. As designers, we look beyond furniture styles and dig deeper into our clients' personal experiences to understand what truly resonates with them.
Step 2: Exploring the Wide Range of Color Variations Available
Selecting the right shade of cream or gray is crucial to a home's overall style. Clients often tell us they love a wall color they saw in a friend’s house, but that same color might look completely different in their own space. Factors like the direction the home faces—whether it’s North, South, East, or West—can dramatically alter how a color appears. Even flooring can reflect light and influence how a wall color looks.
During our design consultation, we listen closely while going through our questionnaire and observing what’s already in your space. Even if some elements are outdated, they can tell a story and guide us toward creating an updated, cohesive look. Your lifestyle also plays a significant role in color selection—whether you love the outdoors, prefer being near water, or feel more at home in the woods. These details help us choose colors that resonate with you.
Step 3: Creating a Beautiful, Personalized Whole-Home Color Palette
As we age, the lens of our eyes yellows, which can affect how we perceive colors, especially in the blue-green range. Bright yellows may appear more washed out or harsh, making them less suitable for spaces where comfort and clarity are important.
Through conversations, observation, and our detailed questionnaire, we get to know our clients and can narrow down the ideal color scheme. We believe a home should have a cohesive flow rather than each room featuring completely different colors. This doesn't mean every room must have the same shade, but rather a common thread throughout with a variation to evoke interest.
As an interior designer, my focus goes beyond following trends when choosing colors. I believe your home should reflect your personality and lifestyle. When we work together, we will take the time to understand who you are—what energizes you, calms you, and makes you feel at home.
We specialize in providing excellent color advice and beautiful home inspiration. Contact us; we’d love to help you with your next project!
Warmly,
Trisha