The colors in your home are more than decorative choices. While the science behind it can get complex, the basic idea is simple: colors have a powerful impact on our emotions and perceptions. They set the mood, influence emotions and create a unique atmosphere in each room. Whether you want to energize your mornings, calm your evenings or inspire creativity, using color strategically can completely transform your living space.

Warm shades like red, orange and yellow can energize and stimulate conversation, while cooler tones such as blue, green and purple promote relaxation and serenity. Neutral colors provide a blank canvas for flexibility, while bold accents add personality and flair. Understanding this dynamic allows you to choose hues that fit the function and mood of each room.

Ways to Incorporate Colors into Your Space

ACCENT WALLS: Choose one wall to paint a bold color and keep the others neutral. This can create a striking focal point without being too overpowering.

THROW PILLIOWS & RUGS: If you’re hesitant about painting, introduce color through textiles. Colorful throw pillows, rugs or curtains can add a pop of personality and make the space feel vibrant.

FURNITURE: If you’re willing to take a bigger leap, colorful furniture like a bright couch or a statement armchair can serve as the room’s focal point.

ART & DECOR: Artwork and decor pieces like vases, lamps or picture frames are another excellent way to infuse color into your room without committing to a full-color scheme.

Tips for Choosing the Right Color

1. START WITH THE MOOD: Think about the type of mood you want to create in the room. Do you need energy and creativity or is a calm, relaxing environment what you’re after? Choose a color that reflects that mood — vibrant shades for energy, cool tones for relaxation.

2. USE COLOR ACCENTS: If you’re hesitant to commit to a bold color, start small. Throw pillows, artwork or even fresh flowers can introduce a pop of color without overwhelming a space.

3. CONSIDER LIGHTING: Remember that lighting plays a significant role in how colors appear. Warm lighting can enhance cozy tones, while bright white lights highlight cooler shades. Test colors in different lighting to get an accurate sense of how they will look.

4. GO FOR TIMELESSNESS: For walls and major furniture, stick to classic shades that won’t feel dated and use trendy colors for accents that are easier to swap out.

When we stage a home we always opt for white, specifically, Benjamin Moore White Dove. White is best so potential buyers can visualize themselves in the home, bringing in their imagination. If a home is already too specific in regards to color and style the buyer cannot place themselves in the home and might walk away without even examining the home. With that said, when we design for ourselves, of course, go wild! Enjoy your home. I opted for PINK throughout my home, and in a few months it might be re-imagined using a beige, tan and white color palette. Whatever you opt for, be creative, express yourself. However, when the time comes to sell don’t be upset when I suggest we paint it all out. I know I would have to do the same to my home.

If you are interested in understanding what sells when the time comes in terms of lighting, paint color to counters, knobs, handles, pulls, and faucets, even sinks, I’d be happy to stop by. I can also tour with you on Zoom or Facetime. Reach out, Debbi DiMaggio 510.414.6777 call, text or email – Debbi.DiMaggio@corcoranicon.com www.DebbiDiMaggio.com | www.DebbiPodcast.com