Understanding color part 2:


Warm vs. cool neutrals – which choice works best for your home.


One of the best ways to take a room in a cooler or warmer color direction is by bringing in cool or warm neutrals. Warm neutrals consist of tans, gold and beiges, as well as warm blacks. Cool neutrals include white, ivory, gray and silver. Blacks can come together as a cool neutral if the undertone is cool. Also, ivories that lean toward cream become warm neutrals. When you’re not sure if a neutral is warm or cool, look for the undertones: blue for cool and orange or yellow for warm.


Neutrals are like the sky in a landscape painting – giving you room to let the colors of your space stand apart, and letting the eye rest. If you want to take a chance with a monochromatic room in neutrals, think carefully about textures to add the variety and personality that color normally provides.


The term neutral sounds like the tones can be combined without thought, but clashing neutrals is possible. Compare all the neutrals with each other when developing a room’s color palette. A neutral flooring choice frees you to experiment with color in paint, furniture, accessories, and other easier to change decorating choices. Be sure to bring samples home when making the final decision, or bring a room’s color samples with you when making your selection. Choose the right neutral, and you are well on your way to creating a room that works for you.

Did you miss part 1? If so, click here to read part 1 and stay tuned for part 3!