A paint scheme is one of the most influential factors in any interior design plan. This is because it has a dramatic influence on the appearance of the entire room. It can change the look of a room by influencing; room size, proportion, mood, light and style. The following article is an analysis on how paint influences each of these design elements.

Room size

Light and cool colored paints can help make a space appear larger because these colors recede. In contrast dark and warm colored paints advance towards us and make a space look smaller. If your room is small, it is beneficial to choose a light colored monochromatic paint scheme. In reverse if your room is very vast you might like to use deeper shades.

Proportion

Paint not only has the ability to influence the overall space in a room, it can help correct any proportional differences. If your room is too tall, short, wide, or narrow you can use paint to alter this appearance. For example, a dark ceiling will seem lower and a bright white ceiling will seem taller. If you want to make a room seem wider, try choosing a light color paint that is an exact match to the paint on the skirting boards. If you want to make a room seem narrower, you could instead try a darker, contrast color on the walls.

Mood

Color has a powerful emotional impact, so it is important to select a paint scheme that matches the mood you are trying to create. If you want to reduce stress, you should choose calming colors like; earth tones, green and blue. Blue has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, green invokes freshness, and earth colors are generally calming. If you would prefer an energetic room, then try stimulating colors like red, orange and yellow. Pinks and reds can create a romantic feel, white will bring out other colors and black can help balance the energy of other colors.

Light

Paint can either accentuate lighting, or make it appear dimmer. Therefore, the orientation of your room has an influence on what sort of paint scheme you should select. A North facing room may benefit from a sunny color, whereas a south facing room will probably require a cooler color. This is because light colors reflect more light. An east facing room typically benefits from soft, but muted colors.

Style

Paint can help enforce a specific style of interior design. For example, if you are trying to create a modern, minimalist look; cools colors, free from texture will work well. If you are trying to create a period look, you might like to try richer colors and perhaps a textural effect. Texture can add interest and depth in a variety of ways. Some of the most common paint effects include; Antiquing, mottling, crackling, distressing, glazes, wood look, leather look, sponging, granite effect, marble effect, metallic, suede and velvet.

Paint is a quick and cost effective way to change the look of a room. However, make sure you consider the design aspects discussed, because it has the ability to make or break a design.

Learn more about this author, Kimberley Heit.
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