A Beginner’s Guide to Color Theory

It’s undeniable that color influences the way that you feel. Whether you’re toying with the idea of painting a room inside your home or are ready to repaint the exterior of your house, the color you choose is a huge decision. You will want to select a color that complements your space, captures your style, and reflects your personality. But that can be easier said than done. 

If you’re searching for a paint color but aren’t sure where to start, we’re breaking down our beginner’s guide to color theory to help you find the perfect hue that checks all the boxes. From brights pops of color to relaxing neutrals, prepare to learn about what each color means and how you can utilize them throughout your spaces. 

And for all of your unanswered questions, our team is here to help. Our color experts are only a call away

Warm Tones

Warm colors do just as they say: they evoke the warmth and radiate colors associated with heat. From fire and flames to the sun shining bright, warm tones includes hues in the red, orange, and yellow tones. These vivid shades can bring energy, joy, and positivity into any space. If you’re looking for a welcoming and uplifting feeling in your home, a warm color may be a perfect choice!

Red: A symbol of strength and power, red is a great statement color that can be as bold as you want it to be. The spectrum of red can take on many feelings from bright bursts of energy to dark, welcoming environments. 

Orange: Friendliness is endless when working with orange hues. This color is perfect for gathering spaces where people come together. The vast range of shade from citrus to clay can be paired with many different design styles. 

Yellow: Yellow is cheery by nature and triggers thoughts of happiness and sunshine. If you want to make guests feel welcome in your home, consider a muted soft yellow in your guest bedroom or bathroom.

Cool Colors

Cool colors, including blues, greens, and purples, are often connected to nature. Green grass, the blue sky, and the colors of the ocean may all come to mind. Feelings of calmness, serenity, relaxation, and tranquility are all tied to these cool hues. Cool tones are great for spaces that are meant for rest or relaxation and can instantly make rooms feel larger than they are by the way the colors reflect. 

Green: This balanced hue combines vibrant yellow and calming blues. Green is a natural and earthy color that resonates with energy and anchors any room to the ground. From earth tones to bright pops of foliage, green is a great color to highlight features in a home you want to emphasize. 

Blue: Tranquility is in no shortage when using blue hues. Blue is a fresh and friendly color that is both sophisticated and serene. Blue is a universal color that can be used in many different spaces. 

Purple: The personality of red and the relaxing quality of blue come together in this hue that bursts with imagination and poise. Purple is often associated with royalty, nobility, and power. Purple can be calming and uplifting, making it a great color in spaces used for creative works or that need focus. 

Neutral Colors

For spaces where warm or cool tones don’t feel quite right, neutral hues can be a perfect option. Neutrals are a perfect blend of warms and cools that falls right in the middle. Neutral colors are easy to pair with accent colors or can be used to stand on their own. Either way, these transitional hues are tried and true thanks to their timeless appeal, classic pairings, and endless versatility.

Black: This neutral is synonymous with power and elegance and pairs perfectly with any aesthetic. While black tones are most commonly used as accent colors, dark shades of black can create rich and dramatic dimensions. 

White: While white is technically the absence of color, the options of hues can be overwhelmingly endless. There are a variety of tints and tones that make white more complicated than you may think. These tones can be used to create a space that feels bright, clean, and spacious.

Beige: Beige is a naturally warm neutral that takes on the undertones of soft browns and earthy colors. It captures comfort and calmness while having the ability to work with other warm or cool energies, depending on what’s around it. 

Have Other Questions? 

What colors do you gravitate towards? It’s hard for us to pick a favorite! Regardless of your style and vision, color can be used to make or break the look you’re going for. If you have any questions about color theory, color matching, or general design questions, let us know! Our team is happy to answer your questions and provide expert recommendations on all things color. 

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