by P M Mitchell

Created on: May 28, 2008   Last Updated: September 20, 2011

Interior designers have yielded to consumer tastes in 2008 allowing personal style to influence color choices. Among the choices available are those that synthesize the consumers' renewed interest in eco-friendly color schemes corresponding to growing environmental concerns. Soft green hues act as the background for crystal blue, tulip red and rich earth tones. The color palettes seem lifted from a botanical garden mimicking the lush green of ferns, grass and pine with flower petal colors and rich shades of brown. Other eco-chic collections capture the drama of nature imitating the stirring shades of sunrise, ocean waves and desert-scape. These color schemes works well in living rooms and bedrooms where a serene ambiance and sense of nature are the desired affect.

In complete contrast to the nature-friendly color scheme, designers have re-introduced the popular black and white scheme reminiscent of the glamorous 1940s and 50s producing an elegant, art deco feel. Bold prints, like zebra stripes, and clean contemporary lines are added to create freshness and drama. This scheme also incorporates a third contrasting color, usually deep red or pastel tones, for punch and flair. For a more masculine sophistication metallic and high gloss surfaces are also brought into the decor. Since the color scheme creates an exciting, intense affect it works the best in formal living rooms and master suites.

Designers have also offered an eye-soothing palette for those suffering from the sensory fatigue that can result from our high tech, computer dominated society. The "crewel" color scheme works in tandem with the craftsmen style reminiscent of Grandma's homemade afghan. Like comfort food it invokes that homey, family friendly element with rich tapestry colors such as cranberry, warm brown and pumpkin. The goal is to personalize the space with simple, comfortable colors that are restful to the senses. The colors work well with handcrafted wares and create a soothing atmosphere for family rooms, dining rooms and kitchens where family members can gather for respite after a busy day.

Experimenting with these color schemes can be an exciting adventure that's only a mouse click away. The prominent paint websites offer a cavalcade of design ideas. One in particular, Valspar, provides some of the most masterfully crafted color samples available, complete with their origins of inspiration. These websites allow the consumer to paint their own scheme right there alongside their designers' creations. Whether you prefer soft, comfortable tones or dramatic, bold shades you'll find a bevy of selections available for 2008 with the consumers' personal preferences in mind.

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