HOME & DESIGN

Design Trends & Tips - Cramped for Space

Reprinted from: StyleChicago.com
Published: December 2007

Photo by Sarah Barnard Design

Color Choices can Define a Space

If you've been shying away from color in your modest-sized room for fear it would draw the walls inward, you'll be happy to know that when used properly, some colors can actually define, heighten or lengthen a space.

Janet Davidsen of Details in Design, Inc., a Wheaton, Ill. design firm, says the use of rich wall color can add warmth to any room and only becomes dark when lighting is limited.

"It's not that you can't use dark color in small spaces, but you have to take the characteristics of the space into consideration," agrees Yvette Piaggio, owner of Piaggio's Loft and a featured guest on HGTV'S design show "Curb Appeal"

White walls will amplify the fact that the space is small while painting the walls and the ceiling a richer color will bring the eyes to the color instead of to the corners in the room. However, stick with richer hues, says Lowell, since primary colors make the walls feel as though they are coming towards you.

Barnard uses bright and saturated hues in small spaces. Barnard adds that if you must have a single patch of color, consider doing so on the ceiling rather than on just one accent wall.

Not certain what color to use? Monica Pedersen, host of HGTV's “Designed to Sell,” suggests viewing sample cards at your local paint store.

"Paint stores spend a ton of money and research finding out what types of colors work with different homes, so ask,” she explains

This is especially important if you are trying to locate unique colors, such as those used in older homes that will reflect an historical period.

For those afraid of color, try a monochromatic scheme. Choose the darkest and lightest shade of one color on a paint strip and then decorate using hues that fall between the two.