Are you afraid of color? In a consultation a little while ago, I walked into a beautiful, white modern kitchen and everything was clean, crisp, bright and very white. There was no accent color. My client said she wanted color but didn’t want to commit to one because she wasn’t sure which one was the right one. I explained that white can provide a clean canvas for showcasing other elements to create an enchanting and functional room. Wood finishes contrast against white, printed fabrics pop, and chandeliers and pendants stand out as sculptural elements against the neutral backdrop. White can be used primarily, but it may not be your preference.
When I’m on the phone with potential clients booking our consultation, they often say they want to get away from white. I ask which colors they are currently decorating with or what color appeals to them. Most are reluctant to say. A common remark is: “I’m not afraid of color, but I’m very afraid of the wrong color.”
I find clients are basically in two camps. They love color and want it everywhere. Or, they go for the beiges and whites. In either case, I find that the designer is the guide for the color palette answer. Even though the theory that painting is the cheapest way to change a room, it can be very costly when three or four choices are attempted. On the other hand, what an impact color can make for a space if you choose correctly.
For those who love color, I show suggestions of a toned down version of a bright orange or a shocking blue. For the neutral camp, I attempt to push them out of their comfort zone with muted tones or vary the white/neutral tones with textures, scale, and patterns.
Be fearless! Spring is around the corner. It will soon be time to start those interior design projects. For more decorating tips, visit Sophia at
www.sophiadesigns.com.