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Give Your Room a Makeover with Colorful Paint Ideas!
Spring is here and in the spirit of spring cleaning and starting fresh, why not consider a fresh coat of paint in your home? True, white is always an option, but why not spend an afternoon giving your favorite room a colorful facelift?
Whether you are looking for a serene spa feel for your bathroom, to turn your bedroom into a vibrant getaway, or kicking your kitchen up a notch, consider these new color trends for your quick makeover project.
Exotic Enhancements
Perhaps the most talked about trend for 2006 is the use of travel-inspired colors to decorate the home. Some families are starting to suffer from “bright color fatigue,” and now favor richer, deeper hues that evoke thoughts of far-off destinations.
This palette takes inspiration from the rich jewel-tones of Oriental rugs, or the vivid sights of a Moroccan market. Key colors include rich red-purples, deep browns and dark yellows, as well as ebony and ivory accents. This dramatic trend works especially well in family or dining rooms, and adds a feeling of warmth and excitement.
Skin Tone Neutrals
The exotic color trend finds its balance in another palette, skin tone neutrals, which include a wide spectrum of flesh-toned hues. These latest neutrals take their inspiration from the cosmetics counter in both color and purpose.
Just as a powder or liquid cosmetic can be used to enhance the skin, or serve as a backdrop for brighter colors, so, too, do the new skin tone paint colors. Applied on their own, these hues appear particularly fresh when used in an open floor plan. But they also serve as an ideal backdrop for any room where a bolder accent wall is employed. Pairing the skin tone colors with exotic tones in the bedroom gave give the room a vibrant feel without overpowering.
Earthly Comforts
For families who would like to add color to their home, but aren’t quite ready for the vivid hues of the exotic color palette, the mineral or earth hues may be the best choice. Drawing inspiration from lush forest landscapes, these earth tones have more “pop” and are a bit brighter than in previous years.
Dusty shades of blue and lavender, as well as rosy browns, echo colors found in nature. Because of their softness, and their welcoming appearance, they are especially good choices for use in the kitchen and bath.
Soulful Serenity
While the spa-inspired trend continues to be a hit with homeowners looking to create relaxing retreats in their own homes, the color schemes are now moving beyond the traditional blue and white. For those who would like to try something new for their bedroom or bathroom sanctuary, consider using true pastels, such as soft pink, pale yellow and misty lavender.
These tints offer a fresh twist on the spa concept, while still encouraging a relaxing atmosphere. And since the serene color schemes are now more diverse, they can even be expanded into family or sitting rooms.
Consider what feeling you hope to give your project room and choosing a paint color should be an easy next step. Just in time for Spring!
Article and photos courtesy of the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute. For more on painting projects visit www.paintquality.com. |
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