JANUARY 01, 2024
First off, it would be rude for me to begin this without saying, "Happy New Year!" Now, with that out of the way, one of the most frequently asked questions on Google regarding home design for 2023 was, "How to choose a paint color?" I myself might have been guilty of asking Google that, as if a magical being on the other side of the screen would say, "Julia, please use Farrow & Ball Light Grey. That is the answer you seek."
Wouldn't it be great if that actually happened? I digress.
But this goes to show that we are all seeking the perfect answer, that we are all confused about which colors work and which colors don't. I am often asked, "How do you know how to decorate?"
Truth is, I don't.
What I do know how to do is understand the sensation of intrigue. And successful interior design is ALWAYS about intrigue, balance AND intrigue. While I don't necessarily abide by all the rules of interior design, I do know the feeling when I see something that inspires me. That little spark happens, and then I know how to interpret that feeling into a home's design.
I frequently pull color inspirations from my own garden. This quick arrangement I created helped inspire the green I used for the cabinet in the dining room.
When it comes to successful interior design, I have always found it to be more about representing yourself through the design than whether the curtains match the carpet. I know what you're thinking at this point, "Ok Julia, but I don't even know what my design style is." And to that, I say phooey. Yes, yes, you do. If you pass by a vase at TJ Maxx and it calls to you, THAT is your design style. If you choose to pair a red flat with an all-black outfit for work, THAT is your design style. If you adore wallpaper and anything that screams nostalgia, then yes...you guessed it, THAT is your design style.
I'll go ahead and tell you something a lot of designers don't want you to know: it's really not that hard create a successful design. Once you have decided on your personal style then you can decide on your room's basic layout. And then comes the fun part—where YOU get to infuse YOUR tastes into the space. You get to choose a color that speaks to you. That makes you feel giddy, happy or comforted.
And yes, this is a learned skill, but the pressure is off because your tastes and who you are are constantly evolving. So don't think too much about the longevity of design. Incorporate classic elements alongside the trends, and you will always be pleased. Keep the room's furnishings classic and pair it with a daring, trendy color!
I am currently renovating my dining room and while in the early stages of the renovation, I started to realize how much I loved a vibrant green. Just like that car model you're considering purchasing, I began to see it everywhere I went. So, I went for it! I grabbed a sample of Benjamin Moore's Sap Green in Advance Satin, and went full steam ahead. Zero regrets.
I'm writing this to offer you some encouragement. We all experience moments of indecision when it comes to making choices for our homes. The key is to take action and just make a decision. If it turns out to be the wrong one, you can always make adjustments later. It's as simple as that. Embrace your choice until it no longer serves you. This is especially true when it comes to something as trivial as paint. Trust your instincts, and you'll consistently make the right decisions.
Helpful Links
This blog post by Apartment Therapy will forever be bookmarked on my computer. Whenever I need a re-set I refer to it as a basic guideline.
This Old House is such a great resource for old house lovers (if you missed it, our home is a 1860s farmhouse under constant renovation). And they nailed it with this article about picking paint colors for your home.
If you're truly dedicated to transforming your home into a personalized oasis of comfort and style in 2024, I highly recommend considering a masterclass on the subject. But before diving in, take a moment to explore their essential 5-point checklist for interior design. It might just spark your interest! Check it out here!
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