How to Choose a Paint Color Scheme

Palette shown above is Rejuvenation for Spring/Summer 2021 by Sherwin Williams: https://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/find-and-explore-colors/rejuvenation-collection

Many paint companies offer limited color collections of 3-12 of their paint colors, offered as a set. They are often professionally-developed color schemes that are curated to look great together. 

Should you use one? 

Before you do, ask yourself these questions:

1. Do you already have some of these colors in YOUR stuff?

If paint colors do not relate to other elements in your home, the walls will look off, period. This is the biggest mistake people make when selecting paint colors.  

2. Are you willing to buy some stuff in these colors?

The concept of a color palette encompasses everything, not just paint. So if you answered “no” to the question above, ask yourself if you’re willing to invest in some new items. It can be as simple as adding a couple vases, trays or throw pillows in repeating colors from your palette to pull your space together. 

3. Will you use all the colors? 

Since the colors are designed to work together, the palette can fall flat if you cherry pick. Play with different combinations of the colors. If one or more are missing, does the palette still look good? 

4. Is this palette too trendy?

Interior design trends move quickly, just like fashion. Challenge yourself to pick colors you truly like, not just colors you are used to seeing. You may think gray is a timeless neutral, but it’s not. The safe choice today will look dated tomorrow. (I’m not saying there aren’t timeless grays, but you should chose a gray because it supports other colors in the space and you like how it looks, not just because it’s the default choice.)

5. Do you know how to apply the colors? 

A color consultant understands how light and surrounding colors interact. They understand that some colors jump out at you, while others recede. If you need to make a room feel more spacious, or are concerned about the flow of your house, it’s a good idea to hire a color consultant to help you determine where the colors should go. 

Bottom line:

Pre-designed color schemes are a great starting point, but they’re not a fool-proof solution. Have fun with it, but don’t be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck. There are infinite ways to use a palette and a color consultant can help you make the best of a color palette you love.