Choosing Color Schemes

Decorating Color Scheme

Choosing color Schemes can be a lot of fun. Here we will look at a variety of ideas for using a decorating color scheme. You will see how easy it is to start decorating with color!

When choosing room color schemes you will want to look at the decorators color wheel. We will be referring to it through out this page.

Room Color Schemes

Complimentary Colors are:Colors opposite each other on the color wheel Red & Green, Blue & Orange, and Violet & Yellow. These are combinations of cool and warm colors brought together to form a perfect compliment.

Here is an example of a modern version of a red and green decorating color scheme.

Analogous Color Schemes are: Colors side by side each other on the decorators color wheel. When choosing color schemes you may want to put a trio of these shades together to form a soothing and harmonious palette.

Here is an example of all cool shades would be: Blue, Aqua Blue, and Green.
Here is another example combining cool and warm colors of Orange, Yellow, and Green.

Here is a warm and cozy cottage room, using an example of this same color combination. Notice the green, yellow, and orange used in this charming living room.

You can also use all warm shades such as: Red, Orange,and Yellow. As shown in this photo of a red couch, orange pillow, and gold curtains.

Monochromatic Color Schemes are: When you take one single color and put all shades of that color together. Such as all Greens, Blues, or Reds. These are easy to create, just be sure you accent them with a neutral color of white, black or beige.




Neutral Color Schemes are: Very popular for there soothing effect. If you want to create a neutral color palette, then make sure you vary the shades of white, beiges, browns, etc...

For example use a range from pure white to more creamy shades. Also use a variety of textures within your home decor accents. Notice the textures and interest in this sitting area.

The brown wicker, the wrought iron plant stand and mirror frame are all different textures put together to add interest.

Single Color Schemes are very easy to achieve. They are just one color added to white. This is always a winner, you can't go wrong in starting here. Here is an example of a green and white combination.


Another example is white with blue. This combination is cool and bright, giving a spacious look to this cottage bedroom. Single color schemes are easily changed.

Maybe there is a new trendy color out that you love. Just add it in with your neutral white or cream room, and you've got an instant punch of color!

Room Color Scheme Tips

Tip #1 Every room needs some elements of black or brown. It has been said by decorators that every room should have a touch of black in it. Black as mentioned above, helps other colors stand out. If black is too harsh for you, than consider brown for the same effect.

Tip #2 When choosing color schemes make sure you select one color to be the "start attraction". Then make sure all other shades are accents. This keeps the room from looking too busy or confusing.

Tip #3 Pick one single color that you can weave through your entire home like a ribbon. This keeps your home from looking "choppy". This is easily achieved with woodwork being consistent. Or one single neutral color shade that you pull through your entire home. In my house all my doors and woodwork are white. This does the trick quite well.

So now you have all the color basics you need for choosing color schemes that are perfect for you! Adding color can be a lot of fun. So go for it. Find your favorite color palette and start living with color.

Now you might like to return to Decorating with Color from Choosing Color Schemes. Or you can go to The Meaning of Colors Page. Then you can also learn how to choose colors in three easy steps! Or just return to Home Page to look around..