21 April 2024
COLOUR CONSIDERATIONS FOR INSIDE
**1. Light and Space Perception:**
- Lighter colours, such as soft blues, greens, and beiges, can make a room feel larger and more open.
- Darker shades, like charcoal or navy, can bring a cozy and more intimate feel to a space but may make it appear smaller.
**2. Colour Psychology:**
- Blue is calming and serene, suitable for bedrooms and bathrooms.
- Green, symbolising nature, is restful for the eyes and works well in almost any room.
- Yellow can be energising and uplifting, ideal for kitchens and dining areas.
- Red can stimulate conversation and appetite, making it a popular choice for dining rooms.
**3. Lighting:**
- Consider the room’s natural light exposure.
North-facing rooms can benefit from warm colours to lift the space, while south-facing rooms might handle cooler tones well.
**4. Functionality:**
- Kitchens benefit from clean and fresh colours like whites or light grays.
- Bedrooms often suit calming shades like soft blues or greens.
- Living areas can vary widely depending on personal taste and the atmosphere you wish to create.
COLOUR CONSIDERATIONS FOR OUTSIDE
Choosing the right colour for painting the exterior of your house involves several considerations that balance aesthetics, practicality, and the surroundings.
Choose a colour that you like of course, but also a colour that enhances the functionality and that will appeal to your visitors.
Here are some things to help you decide:
**1. Architectural Style:**
- Different architectural styles often suit particular colour schemes. For instance, older more ornamental homes might look great in bold, complex colour schemes, while modern minimalist homes often feature monochrome or neutral palettes.
**2. Local Climate:**
- Lighter colours reflect more sunlight and can keep your home cooler in hot climates.
- Darker colours absorb heat and can be beneficial in colder climates but may fade faster under intense sun.
**3. Neighbourhood Context:**
- Consider the prevailing colour schemes in your neighbourhood. Choosing a colour that complements the surrounding homes can enhance aesthetic harmony and could potentially affect resale value.
**4. Durability:**
- Some colours tend to maintain their appearance longer. Earth tones, tans, and beiges are less likely to fade than darker shades.
- High-quality exterior paint in a suitable finish (e.g., satin or semi-gloss) can help colours last longer and provide easier maintenance.
**5. Personal Preference and Trends:**
- While personal taste is crucial, it's also wise to consider current trends if resale value is a consideration. Neutral colours like whites, grays, and gray-browns are generally safe and popular choices.
- Bold colors can be used for accents on doors or shutters to add character without overwhelming.
**6. Landscaping:**
- Consider how the house colour will look with your garden and the surrounding landscape. Green, earth tones can blend beautifully with natural settings; brighter colours might complement a more cultivated or floral landscape.
Testing paint colors in a small area before committing to the entire house can also be a practical approach.
