It may seem like the resurgence of white in home décor has claimed much of the attention this season. However, this past weekend Janice Fedak from Color Marketing Group introduced her audience to an entire spectrum of on-trend hues during her talk at The GTA Home & Reno Show.
“There is no right or wrong when it comes to colour,” Fedak reassured. An incredibly important sentiment for homeowners to embrace, since the prospect of decorating in anything outside of safe neutrals can strike fear in the hearts of so many.
Where to begin
Fedak stated that the initial step in adding colour to a room should be to consider “big ticket” items. Take a look at the room’s flooring, couches and other expensive focal points, and then design with them in mind.
This is because most people aren’t going to tear out their hardwood simply because it doesn’t work with the new colour they’ve splashed onto the walls.
A look at the colours for 2016
This year’s colours seem to be brighter and livelier than they have been in recent seasons. Even the darker shades have vibrant undertones. Many of this season’s hues play nicely with metallics, woods and glass, allowing for a lot of flexibility when it comes to incorporating them into a home’s existing design language.
Here is a look at the colours for 2016:
More colours to look out for in 2016
Green with yellow undertones
Black – not flat black, but black with colour undertones. The key here is to choose a black with undertones that match the existing colours in your home.
Warm grays with yellow undertones
Pastels –newer and more mature – most notably Pantone®’s Rose Quartz and Serenity
Brights –Particularly due to the resurgence of handcrafted décor items and artisanal textures
Choose your inspiration
When planning out a room design, consider people, objects and experiences that evoke good feelings. Then build a colour story around them. This could mean pulling colour inspiration from something like a plate inherited from a cherished relative, a child’s favourite toy, or a collection of souvenirs acquired while traveling.
In terms of where a new paint colour should be placed, Fedak mentioned using it to highlight a featured object in the room, such as a large clock, a piece of art or a mirror. Additionally, the ceiling (sans popcorn, of course) is now being considered a 5th wall and can be painted with a colour that differs yet plays well with what has been placed on the walls.
So, be bold and try out this year’s colours! Paint an entire room or simply add colour in the form of some decorative accents, whatever you do, make sure that it delights you.
