by Bruce W. Coffman

Created on: July 22, 2008

The best rule of thumb in choosing interior design color combinations is to go with what you like rather than what anyone tells you you should choose. Start by thinking of your favorite color. Even if you don't choose to design around that color, it will at least give you a good starting point.

For example, my favorite color is purple, but I know that an entire room done in shades of purple would probably make me a little ill. Plus, I like strong, vibrant purples but cannot stand lighter shades of lavender, so I've never decorated a room entirely in shades of purple.

What I have done in the past is to start with a shade of purple that I do like and decorate around it by adding complimentary or coordinating colors. Don't bother with the color wheels and rule books on style unless you're color blind. Take a trip your local paint store and go crazy with the paint samples. You'll actually probably be pretty amazed at what colors look good together that you'd never imagined combining.

Something else to keep in mind is to keep it simple. Don't try to put more than about 3 colors together in the same room unless you're an expert and mixing and matching. Most people can safely handle trying to balance three colors. With more than that you risk making a visual mess and creating a look that is anything but put together. You can get the variety you crave even within the limited color palette by mixing different shades of each color and mixing and matching different textures and prints in the fabrics you choose.

Another important consideration when choosing colors for interior design are the effects colors have on people. Yes, it's true that color can effect our mood and our emotions, even our appetites. You've probably noticed that many fast-food restaurants use a lot of red in their advertising, packaging and even in the decor of their restaurants. That's because it is a proven fact that the color red triggers something in our brains that increases our appetites. Other colors have other effects. Have you ever wondered why almost every hospital waiting room is the weird shade of blue? That's because shades of blue are supposed to be calming, soothing colors. So, while you might just be wild about red, it might be a good idea to reserve it for use in the kitchen or dining room instead of the bedroom. A red bedroom would probably be very pretty, but don't plan on getting much sleeping done in it.

The bottom line is to do what makes you happy and comfortable in your own home. Ignore the home decor magazines, the so-called experts and even this article if you want. If the colors in your home are pleasing to you and make you feel like you're in a comfortable, relaxed environment, that's all that truly matters. Enjoy!

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