We’re often asked for advice on paint colours.
Choosing colours that you intend to stay on your walls for a long period of time, can be both an exciting and daunting task. With an endless array of hues, tones, and finishes available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options. At Anna Wakeham Interiors, we believe that selecting the perfect paint colour is a pivotal step in creating a harmonious and visually appealing space.
This guide will walk you through the process of choosing paint colours, from understanding colour theory to practical application tips, and provide evidence on specific paint colours to inspire your choices.
Colour Theory
Before diving into paint swatches, it’s essential to grasp the basics of colour theory. We use this in all our work both on paint and in creating colour schemes in fabric and wallpaper as the basics stay the same.
The Colour Wheel
The colour wheel is a visual representation of colours arranged according to their chromatic relationship. The primary colours (red, blue, and yellow) are at the core, with secondary colours (green, orange, and purple) created by mixing primary colours. Tertiary colours result from mixing primary and secondary colours.
Warm and cool colours
Colours are generally categorized as warm or cool. Warm colours, such as reds, yellows, and oranges, evoke feelings of warmth and coziness. They are often used in social spaces like living rooms and dining areas. Cool colours, including blues, greens, and purples, have a calming effect and are ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms.
While each project is individual, at Anna Wakeham Interiors we like our designs to be cosy and comfortable, and this generally leads to warmer tones being used although not always in paint – we use them in fabrics and soft furnishings too.
Complementary and analogous colours
Complementary colours are opposite each other on the colour wheel (e.g., blue and orange). These pairings create a vibrant, high-contrast look and we often use this technique in our work – it’s how you get colours to ‘pop’. Analogous colours are next to each other on the wheel (e.g., blue, blue-green, and green) and provide a more harmonious and serene effect, great for kitchen units for example as they create flow in a room.
Thinking about how and when a room is used
Each room in your home serves a different purpose, and the paint colour should reflect that.
Here are some guidelines for selecting colours based on the function of the space:
Sitting/Drawing room
The sitting room is a gathering place for family and friends and quite often used for watching TV. These rooms tend to be used later in the day, so in the winter it will be largely dark so go for a darker colour. Consider using Farrow and Balls Hague Blue for a sophisticated yet inviting ambiance. Edward Bulmer’s Jonquil is another total favourite and creates and elegant backdrop for a luxurious sitting space. Jonquil works well in Winter and Summer, and looks lovely in a West facing room as it gives a soft glow.
Bedroom
Bedrooms are personal sanctuaries where you unwind and relax. Calming colours like blues, greens, and lavenders are excellent choices. Edward Bulmer Aerial Tint would be a good colour to consider here, or even Farrow and Ball Lulworth Blue.
Kitchen
Kitchens are vibrant, active spaces. Bright, energizing colours like sunny yellows or fresh greens can stimulate appetite and conversation. Farrow and Ball Cooking Apple Green or India Yellow can bring warmth and vibrancy. For the walls, Farrow and Ball Wimborne White or Shaded White provide good base colours and a good backdrop for coloured kitchen units.
Bathroom
Bathrooms benefit from cool, refreshing colours like soft blues, greens, and whites. These shades evoke cleanliness and tranquility. That being said, a children’s bathroom in yellow, or even a bright green would provide a fun and unique touch.
Home Office
Productivity and focus are key in a home office. Light, neutral colours like soft grays or warm whites can create a professional, distraction-free environment. Farrow and Ball’s Shaded White and Shadow White are always good options and tend to look good whether then interior style is traditional or contemporary.
Considering Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in how paint colours appear. Natural light changes throughout the day, and artificial lighting can alter the perception of colour. Here’s how to account for lighting when choosing paint:
Natural Light
- North-Facing Rooms: These rooms receive cooler, indirect light. Warm colours like Edward Bulmer’s Trumpington can counterbalance this and make the space feel more inviting.
- South-Facing Rooms: These rooms benefit from warm, direct sunlight. Cool colours such as Farrow and Balls Skylight or Borrowed light can really come to life here and look stunning
- East-Facing Rooms: Morning light is soft and warm, ideal for both warm and cool colours. Think of a soft aqua or a light pink for here
- West-Facing Rooms: Evening light is warm and golden. Jonquil is always a favourite or Farrow and Ball’s Setting Plaster. It would be hard to go wrong with these colours here.
It is crucial to observe paint colour over time (test it on the wall and give it a few days before confirming your colour choice) and to ensure it blends with the furniture you either currently have or are planning on purchasing. For example, if your furniture is neutral in tone, maybe go for something bolder on the walls? Have you considered painting the woodwork a contrast or complimentary tone to really highlight the space and to create something unique? Don’t forget to also consider the flooring in the space, as these tones need to be taken into account too – a dark brown floor may lend more towards cooler colours for example.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect paint colour for your home is a journey that combines creativity, practicality, and a bit of science. By understanding colour theory, considering the purpose of each room, accounting for lighting, testing colours, harmonizing with existing elements, and selecting the right finishes, you can create a space that is both beautiful and functional.
At Anna Wakeham Interiors, we specialise in helping clients navigate the complexities of colour selection and create cohesive, stylish interiors that reflect their unique tastes and lifestyles. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply want professional guidance, consider booking a free consultation with us. Our expert team is here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring your home is a masterpiece of colour and design. Contact us today to start your journey towards a beautifully painted home.
Anna Wakeham Interiors offers a Colour Consultation service as part of our Interior Design services. This is available as a stand alone option or combined with other services. Please do get in touch for details.
studio@annawakeham.com