Color is an impactful design tool due to its ability to create mood in a room. Depending on the paint color, pattern, and finish, a space can feel cheerful, calm, chic, dramatic, etc. 

Additionally, color can impact the overall size of the area. Darker colors can make for a more intimate setting, while lighter colors can create a larger and more airy feel.

Here’s how to choose the perfect paint colors & finishes for a sophisticated look…

Step #1: Set the Mood for Your Space

The colors you choose to incorporate into your home will set the mood for each space, so it is crucial to ensure that the tone and purpose of each room align. 

For example, if you're trying to make an overly large and open area feel cozy and luxurious, you may opt for dark and moody paint colors. It is important to determine how you want to feel in the space you are designing prior to choosing what colors to introduce.

Step #2: Find Images for Visual Inspiration

Visual inspiration is another wonderful design tool to take advantage of. Social media platforms, such as Instagram and Pinterest, have made it super simple to find and save images and videos that align with your vibe. 

Try to take note of the exact elements in each post you save so that you know exactly what you're targeting and can easily transition that into your home. Magazines and books are another great option to browse when you're looking for visual inspiration.

Step #3: Plan out Your Space

I highly recommend planning your space before shopping for it. Take some time to mull over the details from your inspiration images. Pinpoint what speaks to you so that you can facilitate assimilating features into your rooms. 

If you like a more hands-on approach, putting together a mood board is a great way to do this. This can be done with material samples you've collected in the process or with image snippets you've gathered over time. 

Whatever your aesthetic is, having a general visual aid at the start will be helpful in showing how your vision will transpire, saving you time and money.

Step #4: Edit & Assess...Then Implement

Don't forget it is necessary to edit and assess your plans as much as needed before you finalize and implement them. The "drawing board" is where you want to make any changes. 

When working with my clients, editing and assessing what I've created is imperative. Sometimes, my initial idea for a space ends up completely different by the time I'm ready to finalize my creative process. Whatever you decide, I recommend you feel confident before finalizing and implementing.

My final tip for starting your design process is to select what I like to call "your jumping-off point." This can look like:

1) Choosing a piece of furniture as your focal point
2) Going off of the way you'd like for a space to vibe
3) Creating flow
4) Manipulating the feel of the size of the room

Remember, creating color schemes and selecting design materials should be fun! As always, I'm happy to assist and support you in your creative process. 

Does trying to pick the perfect countertops, flooring, hardware, etc., have you feeling nervous? With the Interior Finish Selection Package, I can help you make smart decisions when it comes to selecting the right interior finishes for your home so you can avoid costly mistakes. 

Have a question about our process for creating cohesive spaces? Ask in the comments below or reach out!

Warmly,
Celeste