Colour is immensely important and can completely change our mood. Different colour induces various emotions and feelings. With colours you can set a mood, attract attention or make a statement.

 

Combined colour trends for 2010 are natural shades such as off-whites, strong greys, brown earthen tones combined with warm oranges, burnt red, indulgent purples, silver and gold accents.

 

There are three main types of colour combinations you can apply to help you create a unique and striking space:

 

Combining adjacent colours on the colour wheel is known as analogous colour harmony and is easily achieved by combining colours such as yellows, orange and red shades or turquoise and green tones or even violet, indigo and blue tones.

 

Monochromatic colour combination is when you use one colour in different shades and hints. Natural shades are best used for this type of colour combination. Toasted Almond and Antique Cream or Avantgarde and Mink are an excellent way to create a tranquil and understated ambience while making the room appear calm and spacious.

 

Complementary Colours consist of two colours from opposite ends of the colour wheel which can be visually stunning thanks to their strong contrast. It is a great idea to combine a subtle shade with a dominant colour when trying this type of colour combination. Yellow and violet are very complementary colours.

 

Violet is calming for the mind and body, heightens awareness and can strengthen the feeling of dignity and purpose. Yellow is a colour which stimulates mental activity and is good for studying or reading, whilst promoting self confidence.

 

When combining yellow and violet you need to be careful to use only subtle shades of one colour and to use it in moderation. This colour combination is the perfect choice for a room where your children do their homework or for a home office.

It is possible to recapture the stunning shades of nature as the basis for unique and memorable colour schemes. As I mentioned in a previous blog, green and purple are reminiscent of flowers and when they are used together, particularly in a nursery, it can create a soothing colour combination.

 

Sometimes the starting point for interior decorating is with the colour of your furnishings (such as your sofa and rugs) from which your chosen colour combinations can then be applied to your walls. By decorating this way you can choose a wall colour that is a lighter or darker shade from your sofa or a complete contrast depending on the type of colour combination you are trying.