Basic colour theory is pretty simple; red, yellow, blue and that is where the simplicity ends.  There are countless theories attempting to explain colour dynamics; complimentary colours, colours found in nature, and even colours within the context of other colours.  Knowledge of complimentary colours and tertiary colours may prove to be helpful, but you do not need a background in advanced colour theory to make the right choice.

 

Colours You Like and Function of the Space

Being surrounded by colours that make you feel the right way in the right place are exactly what painting your space is all about. Consider how you respond to certain colours; red for example, you love the colour, but if red makes you feel energized you may want to reconsider whether or not you want it where you sleep.

Make a Statement

Bright saturated colours will make an impression, and sometimes that is exactly the reaction you are going for.  Cobalt Blues, Canary Yellows, and Royal Purples are decadent and will dramatically change the feel of any room.  For many, painting an entire space or even a feature wall in deep or bright colours is too intense. Whites and neutrals can be equally dynamic when punctuated with bursts of colour from what you choose to accessorize the space.

Colour Preference is Subjective

Consulting with a designer, friends and associates, reading magazines and researching can be helpful but colour preference is subjective.  Having conflicting opinions on colour can easily make things more confusing. There is not a colour wheel in the world that can tell you whether or not you like green.  Simply consider and combine colours that are pleasing to you, and you will be off to a good start.

Better Safe than Sorry

Sometimes it just takes a little trial and error to figure out the best colour to suit your space.  Sample sizes are available for every colour.  Choose a few that you like and try them out on the wall.  Because light has the largest impact on colour perception your opinion of how it looks can change from morning to night.  Most sample sizes are less than $5, which is a small price to pay when you consider the cost of paint and the time it takes to coat an entire room.

Colour Matching

Recoating a space with the original colour is a common situation.  You do not require an expert eye to get the exact same colour.  Paint stores use colour matching technology such as a spectrophotometer to match colours with precision; the better your sample the more accurate the measurement.  This is done most frequently by cutting out a piece of paint coated drywall about the size of a Loonie and taking it to your local paint store.  If you have hired PFB Contracting to provide painting services we will do the colour matching for you.