Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Paint Colors - Light vs Dark

Happy Sunny Wednesday!



Do I dare say...I think Spring is finally here! Shhhh...don't say it too loud or Mother Nature may change her mind. I think those of us here in the Midwest have had enough of this crazy, colder than normal, weather. It seems to be a unanimous thought with everyone I speak to, we are READY for Spring.


I was watching HGTV one night. I know you are thinking why are YOU watching HGTV? It is my favorite channel. Some good things, some not so good in my opinion, but none the less a lot of variety. On came "Designed to Sell". I was pleasantly surprised by the designer, her name is escaping me at the present moment, but some of her ideas were exactly what I would do. Specifically, the use of a milk chocolate brown in the guest room. Hence, the idea for this entry.




The majority of people think using dark colors on the walls creates a cave like atmosphere. I completely disagree. I am not saying dark paint colors are for everyone. They are not. I however prefer dark over light. In my opinion, it makes a warmer, cozier space. In my master bedroom, I have used chocolate brown. I have also used a brick red in the hallway and header wall between my living room and dining room. Brick red and "tree bark" are in my lower level. If you are thinking, "You are crazy!" You are only partially correct. I prefer the term "daring". Just remember, paint is a very inexpensive element to experiment with. If you want to change it, it costs $30 - $50 depending on the brand of paint and your time. I love to paint, as most of you know, so the physical painting doesn't deter me one bit.



I lean toward dark colors in general, especially in my own home. I think there is a great balancing act one has to do in order to pull off dark colors successfully. Here are a couple of examples from the current issue of Elle Decor - May 2011. Aparently, I am not the only one who is crazy. Take a peek. I can't force clients to use dark colors when they are light people. However, if you are on the fence, I can try to sway you to the Dark side! Enjoy!

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