Gertrude Jekyll, in her book “Colour in the Flower Garden,” says that if you stare for 30 seconds at the bright-orange flower of the African marigold and then look at the green leaves, the foliage seems blue.
Check this out when you’re at the garden center or add a few marigold to your own summer garden.
Use color to divert attention away from an awkward or unattractive area in a room. For example if your view is less than attractive you can take the attention away from the window and into another part of the room by painting a wall in a bright or unexpected color. You could also strategically place a vivid poster or boldly colored wall hanging to draw the eye to another part of the room. Our eyes are naturally attracted to bold pops of color.
By putting color on the inside of a bookcase, cabinet or niche, whatever is displayed inside will stand out. Paint is often the easiest way to add color, but if you don’t want to make a permanent change, you can also add color or maybe even a pattern by covering foam core cut to fit into the space with fabric or paper.
When purchasing furniture, if you select a neutral color for larger pieces, you can easily update your color schemes by changing the paint and/or accessories in the room without breaking the bank.
To freshen up a tired accent piece of furniture or accessory, paint it black. A black accessory piece will add a bit of flair to any room. It works well in just about any space and with any color combination, when used in moderation.
If you have a color in mind, but don’t know what other colors to add to combine with it, just start looking around. It’s amazing how once a color (or anything, for that matter) is top of mind, we see it everywhere. Your color scheme inspiration may come from nature, a man’s shirt, or a hotel lobby. By keeping your eyes open, you will probably find a color scheme that you love, but may not have thought of by just playing with color swatches.
17th Jun. '07 · Kate's Daily Tips ·
Authored by Kate Smith
For a floral arrangement that is cool and refreshing, choose a simple white and green palette and display in clear, unadorned vases.
