Some people enjoy trying to stay on the cutting edge of design, but many others worry that they’ll fall into the trend trap. It’s disappointing to find, for example, that the paint on your walls will be deemed “out” long before you’re in the mood to repaint.
Classic Selections. Fortunately, there are alternatives to picking hues based on trends. We’ll help you discover wall colors that fit your personality and your home’s architecture, so you won’t have to worry about them going out of style.
Choosing a neutral color scheme doesn’t mean you’ve raised the white flag and reached for “builder’s beige.” Understated neutral wall colors can be as beautiful as they are subtle. They offer a lot of flexibility in decor, creating unobtrusive backdrops for both casual and elegant furnishings. Since they go with everything and clash with nothing, you can often update furniture and art without having to repaint the room.
Black, white, and all shades in between are considered “true neutrals.” While they don’t appear anywhere on the color wheel, true neutrals are valued for their ability to create visual relief in decor. Gray can be used to create a monochromatic palette that looks crisply modern and sophisticated.
There’s another no-fail way to choose colors that defy trends: Look to the natural world. We’re all inspired by the beauty of pure white sand against an aqua-blue sea, and a sunset’s swirls of yellow, orange, and red. The infinite range of greens found in nature feels restful and rejuvenating. Nature’s palettes always feel comfortable, so you won’t want to repaint every time you need a new calendar.
Another approach to choosing colors that will stand the test of time is to consider your home’s architectural lineage. Various periods in our nation’s history saw the rise of new home styles, including classic Colonials, ornate Victorians, and clean-lined Craftsmans. Several paint manufacturers have created guides to help you choose color palettes based on architectural styles.
If you still haven’t settled on a long-term wall color, maybe it’s time to get personal. Remember that different colors have their own personalities. Whether you are painting your kitchen, family room, or bedroom, you’re probably hoping to create a particular mood. Get in touch with which colors strike you as relaxing, inviting, luxurious, or lively. The “right” color is the one that evokes the atmosphere you want to achieve, whether peaceful or cheery.
