DECORATING WITH BRIGHT & BOLD COLOURS

When it comes to redecorating, many of us hesitate about the use of bright and bold colours within an interior scheme. Many of us tend to shy away from using vibrant shades and statement patterns, but why? Knowing how to successfully pull this off can lead to the creation of the most beautifully striking interior spaces. So, if you’ve been considering redecorating for a while and just need a little gentle persuasion, read this guide on how to be brave and push the boundaries…

Don’t dwell on your decorating choices too much – it’s important not to think about it as a long-term thing. The choices you make now, don’t necessarily have to  stand in your home forever and ever. Remember this!

Use the purest hue you can. Forget any wishy-washy pastel colours. If you’re going to go for it, then GO FOR IT! Be daring. A room full of pale pink tones is less striking than one flamingo pink accessory screaming “Look at me!”

Choose a dominant colour, then add a contrasting colour which will create impact. For example, if you’ve chosen to paint the walls in a vivid lime green, don’t let this sway you into choosing pastel green accessories etc. Go for another bold colour, such as violet – the contrast will work brilliantly in producing something unique and eye-catching.

Keep some natural ‘white space’ in the room. Combining the bright colours with white flooring and ceilings will create definition and avoid the risk of the colours being too overpowering.

Add some geometric designs or oversized florals to the mix – bright colours work well with strong pattern, helping to create that WOW factor. Always make sure the patterns you use are large-scale; by using large scales an interior space starts to ‘open’ itself. Generally, stick to just one type of graphic.

Choose suitable lighting – bold colours really come alive under bright lighting. Use pendants and task lights to help to enhance the colour scheme further.

Use the 70/20/10 rule – keep 70% of the elements (ie. walls) as one colour, 20% of the elements in a second colour (ie. cushions, curtains) and the use a vibrant accent for the remaining 10% (accessories, art). This will ensure you end up with a well-balanced scheme which can have an immediate effect on your well-being as the user of the space, due to the fact that the colours are responsible for the predominant mood and atmosphere within a room.