In praise of the blues
Some colours are renowned for their ultimate flexibility and compatibility; white and black are perennial favourites. But bringing in the blues is just as enabling when it comes to creating versatile interiors.
Consider some of the advantages of choosing the blues
+ Dark colours blur the edges of the walls
Though often thought to make a room feel smaller, this isn’t always true when it comes to dark, dramatic paint colours. In fact, dark colours minimise corners and edges, making a space look more expansive and generous.
+ Dark colours enhance colour contrasts for maximum effect. Choose accessories that contrast with the intensity of the dark shades. Light, white and cream accessories will pop against beautiful moody walls.
+ Create an illusion of height
Paint the ceiling a neutral white, such as Resene Alabaster, to keep the room from feeling too heavy, and to add visual height.
+ Morph the furniture and the walls
For tall or overheight furniture such as cupboards or shelving units, go darker to blend in with the walls. Visually this will add extra space to the room.
+ Get reflective
Try placing a long mirror on the opposite side of the room to the window. It will bounce wonderful, natural light around the room.
Try before you make the decision to buy
Always test a paint colour in your room. Every room has different lighting and colours can appear quite different from room to room. It’s important to know you are happy with the darker colour before applying it.
Never test paint on the wall! Use a Resene testpot and paint a large A2 card leaving an unpainted border around the edge, then move it around from wall to wall. If you paint directly on the wall, the existing colour will cloud your judgement of the new colour. Or order drawdowns – painted pieces of A4 card – from Resene ColorShops to try at your home.
