Colour plays a far greater role in our homes than we often realise. It quietly shapes how a space feels, influencing mood, light and the overall atmosphere of a room. The right colours can make a room feel calm and restful, warm and inviting, or dramatic and full of character. They also help tie together the many elements within a space, from furniture and fabrics to artwork and lighting. When used thoughtfully, colour has the power to transform a house into a home that feels deeply personal and truly reflective of the people living in it.
Why Colour Matters So Much
Colour affects how a room feels. Darker tones can make a space feel cosy and atmospheric. Softer neutrals can create calm and balance. Warmer shades tend to feel more welcoming, while cooler colours can make a room feel fresher and lighter. Even small shifts in tone can completely change the mood of a space. It's not just about the colour itself either, things like natural light, undertones and surrounding materials all play a role.
A Simple Place to Start
If you're choosing colours for a room, it can help to begin with a small palette rather than focusing on just one shade. Why limit yourself! I often suggest choosing three or four colours that work together, for example: a main wall colour, a secondary tone, a deeper accent shade, and a lighter balancing colour. This creates a sense of cohesion and helps a room feel thoughtfully designed rather than accidental.
Something I'm Currently Experimenting With
In our own home I'm currently playing around with different shades of blue for the boys' bedroom. We're planning a whimsical room with panelling, a mural and plenty of pattern, so finding the right shade has involved a fair few paint samples on the wall. But as I don't want their room to feel 2D I am bringing in different tones through fabric, wallpaper and decor items to give a more layered designer look.
Some Very Exciting News
I'm just about to launch my Colour Bible E-book. This guide dives into everything from colour theory and paint finishes to real project examples showing how colour can be used to create homes full of soul and charm. It's designed to help take the guesswork out of choosing colours and give you confidence when designing your spaces.