House Design Colors

Study Practical Neutral Colors

• Educate yourself about neutral shades. For example, light tan, taupe or beige are neutral colors that can blend with many other colors. However, pale green or light salmon are also considered neutral. To envision combining these shades, drive around neighborhoods under construction to get an idea of current trends. For example, a house that features exterior walls of light tan stucco looks good with beige overhangs and taupe shutters.

Mother Nature Has Good Colors

• Natural stone and stone veneers create pretty exterior colors. A home with a stacked stone foundation with brown brick walls looks appropriate with medium brown trim and shutters. Colors such as gray, black, tan and light sand found in Mother Nature can give a home a very upscale look.

Create a Drawing First

• Use colored pencils to draw your house in various color combinations. You don't want to go ahead and paint large sections of your house without seeing the end result first. For example, you might choose a salmon color for stucco walls, but, in reality, the salmon hue might be too pink or too orange. Try to define the exact hues on paper before you begin the painting process.

Use Neutrals Inside the House

• Interior paint shades work well in neutral hues too. You don't want to paint every room tan or taupe, for example, but these colors do work well in large living rooms and bathrooms. A kitchen, on the other hand, will probably need light yellow or light green to give it more appeal. Bedrooms will need at least one wall painted in a bright color if children sleep there. Hallways can be painted beige or parchment, but rooms where you spend a lot of time will need more color on the walls or in furnishings.

Pick Color for Its Impact

• Study color to learn what impact it has on you. For example, a black tile floor can create an elegant feeling, but it may seem cold and boring to you. Use paint colors that you personally like if you will live in the home for several years. On the other hand, you might choose colors that are universally appealing if the house is up for sale. Color is a powerful decorating tool, so realize that it will have an effect on potential buyers.