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The Basic Principles of Light & Color in Your Home

Are you hoping to revive the look and feel of your home with a fresh burst of color?

Choosing the right shades can be tricky, but understanding how lighting impacts them can make all the difference.




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Bright room for office and guest


Changing Lights & Colors

Colors can take on different hues when viewed in varying lighting conditions, meaning the shade you love at the paint store might look completely different in your home. Or the fabrics you choose could look very different in the lighting in your home. Color can change from room to room or even based on the time of day, with natural and artificial light each casting their own unique effects on the color.


Sunlight's Significant Impact

Natural light showcases a color's true hue, which can be either flattering or unflattering. When selecting colors for a room, it's essential to consider the size and number of windows, as well as the room's directional placement, since these factors influence how light enters the space. Additionally, climate and seasons can affect how colors appear throughout the year, making it important to choose shades that work well in various lighting conditions.





Effects of Artificial Light

Light bulbs are rated by color temperature, [ Kelvins ] with lower temperatures (2700K-3000K) emitting warmer, yellowish tones, and higher temperatures (4000K-5000K) producing cooler, bluish light. Warmer bulbs can enhance cozy, rich tones, while cooler bulbs can make colors appear crisper and more vibrant. For showing paint colors in their best light, I suggest using bulbs around 3500K-4000K, as they provide a balanced, natural light that compliments most color palettes.



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Sherwin Williams Sensible Hue, and Illusive Green

Stress-Saving Swatches

Before committing to a paint color it's essential to preview it in your home by painting swatches on the walls. Let the samples dry, then observe them in different lighting conditions and at various times of day to see how the color truly behaves. This careful approach ensures you'll choose a shade that looks perfect in every light. And for fabrics I love letting my clients 'live' with their new fabric swatches so they can see them in varying light throughout the day before committing.


Your Professional Partner

With my expertise in color theory and design, I can help you choose a color palette that you'll love as it evolves throughout the day's changing light. I love color!! But, it has to be used in just the right placement and value. Let's work together to find the perfect shades and fabric textures that will enhance your home's beauty in every setting.


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If you're ready to enhance your home with an elegant color palette, reach out! We can't wait to hear about your project!


Warmly,

Sharon

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