Design Tip: Working with Bright Colors

It’s February and, even though it’s technically the shortest month of the year, it can sometimes still feel like the longest. Not quite winter but still too far from spring. It causes us to crave some color in our day.

Our eyes naturally catch bright colors. Brilliant, engaging shades make you stop and stare. Even if bright colors aren’t really your style, they can still be incredibly captivating.

So what might happen if you took the plunge and incorporated brighter colors in your decor? Will they fit in? Or will they overwhelm your senses? Too much color? Not enough?

Have no fear, our color-averse friends! We have a few tips that might help you change your tone.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

For starters, keep it simple. Like reeeeally simple.

Start with one key accent piece. Give it a test drive to make sure you’re still on board with brighter colors. Doing too much too soon can quickly turn into a giant waste of time and money.

BRING IN THE ACCESSORIES

Some quick, easy, cost-effective ways to bring color into a room is with decorative pillows. (Yes, that sound we just heard was the collective groan of husbands bemoaning the suggestion of more pillows.) They’re simple additions that you can find virtually anywhere, like department stores, online, or even the nearest thrift shop.

Other easy pops of color come in the form of area rugs or decorative artwork. These accessories are great for a quick splash of color and can be easily swapped out if a particular shade doesn’t work for you. They don’t break the bank or require a weekend painting project. (That sound we just heard was the husbands’ collective sigh of relief. You’re welcome.)

KNOW WHEN TO STOP

Take your time and incorporate various simple elements at the level you’re most comfortable with. Let your first piece influence each subsequent color to create a cohesive look.

But if you sense that one more pillow may be too much, STOP! Second-guessing is a sure-fire sign that you won’t enjoy that new color as much as you thought you would.

There is no magic number or maximum amount of color to add to a room’s palette. Simply gauge your level of enjoyment every time you walk into a color-filled room. And remember, there’s a fine line between cozy and cluttered.

Ready to up your color game? We can help!