Many factors come into play when deciding upon an interior color scheme for your home.  It should reflect your likes and personality, as well as compliment your existing décor and the architectural style of your home.

The psychological benefits of color should also be considered: Calming colors may be more desirable in bedrooms and cheery tones better for a kitchen. Here are some tips on how to determine the best color scheme for you based on both your interests and the character of your home.

Consider Your Home’s Design and Location

Keep in mind both the style of your home and where you live when choosing an interior color scheme.  For example, for houses in the style of Colonial architecture, consider traditional Williamsburg color schemes of creams, blues, golds, greens or reds.

For a more contemporary build, consider a cooler color palette of whites or gray tones and add a splash of bold color to create interest. Consider accenting with yellow, orange, rich brown or even lime green. If you wish to remain more traditional, select creamy neutral shades or pale browns and natural shades of green.

It’s also important to consider your locale when choosing an interior color scheme.  If your home is situated near a beach, consider a crisp white-washed palette with accents of blues or greens, reminiscent of the surrounding water. For mountain dwellers, warmer shades of browns and dark greens pair well with the environment. For those who may have compromised square footage – whether it be in a small home or a loft in the city – choose a lighter and brighter color palette, as it tends to organically offer a larger look and feel to any space.

Start with Statement Décor

Another method for choosing an interior color scheme includes starting with a statement piece of new or existing décor, such as a sofa, bedspread or oversized piece of art, and then selecting a complimentary palette. You will choose a color that flatters and showcases your décor piece. Do this by selecting a background color from your statement item or one of the softer, less prominent hues in the piece. Be careful not to create a look that’s too busy or drown out your décor by selecting too bold a color.

Play Off the Psychological Benefits of Color

The reported health benefits particular colors provide the body and mind should also be evaluated when selecting an interior color scheme for your home. Some studies even show that certain colors can stimulate a desired effect; conversation, as a prime example.

Shades of blues, greens or pale purples are great options for bedrooms as they are naturally calming. Yellows are great for kitchens or bathrooms, as they emit energy and induce cheery, happy feelings. Reds are perfect for family rooms or dining rooms, as they are known to increase heart rate and blood pressure, therefore crafting a gathering place where conversation is naturally stimulated.

Let Your Personality Shine Through

Individual personalities should also be considered when selecting an interior color palette. Select bolder, brighter colors if you’re the highly-energetic, social type. Go for more earthy tones or shades of blues or greens if you’re more introverted or quiet and seek a more tranquil dwelling. Pair colors appropriately to establish harmony and contentment in your home.

By being mindful of these tips as you select your interior color scheme, you’ll not only create an aesthetically pleasing environment; you’ll also devise a healthy space for your mind and body and a home you enjoy living in.

Sources:

http://www.housebeautiful.com/kitchens/colorful-kitchens#slide-1
http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/colors/colorful-bedroom-decorating-ideas#slide-1
http://www.countryliving.com/homes/beach-house-decorating-0409#slide-1