Having Fun With Color

In the last 15 years of working as a decorative painter, I have come across many clients that proclaim that they are color-phobic! All the walls, furniture, and accessories are a hue of beige or builder’s white. There is nothing wrong with staying neutral, but in some instances, color is warm and can be fun.

Large areas that are light and have the same color woodwork sometimes need a separation of color to do that area justice. A shot of color can add life to a dull surrounding, whether it is a kitchen, hall or children’s room.  Think of it as adding a little blush to a pale face.

The photos in this article are examples of how color changed the look of the rooms. These local homeowners were excited to see the change.

Remember, not every room in the home needs to be bright and as colorful as these - just appreciate the changes and look around your own home to see if there is an area that can use a little pop or warmth that color would add.

Some simple ways to add color without going wild can be decorative pillows, florals, paintings, accessories, or maybe just repainting an old end table, or reupholstering  an old ottoman or chair. An obvious solution is painting the walls.   

Just remember the situation must work for you and not because it is the happening trend, because the trends change yearly and most clients do not want to paint yearly. Whatever you decide it has to be something that you want to live with and what fits your style.

Remember, have fun and keep in mind color can set a mood in the room.

This weekly Patch column, which looks at different homes in Mahwah for design inspiration, is written by Gina Avino, a Mahwah resident, interior designer and decorative painter, and Linda Wetterau, a Mahwah resident, floral designer and event planner, of Gina Avino Artistic Designs at 103 E. Main Street in Ramsey.

If you have a design question you'd like to see addressed in a future article, email the authors or visit their website.