Chapter 11 Using Color Effectively
307
Function of the Room
While teens may sleep, study, and
socialize in their bedrooms, most adults
use their bedrooms for rest and relax-
ation. In this case, cooler colors and less
drama are more conducive to good sleep.
A den or family room where everyone
meets and socializes is often more appro-
priate in warm colors. For a writer or an
accountant that works alone from home,
the home offi may be best in cool colors. fice
In contrast, a salesperson who talks on
the phone most of the day may perform
best in warm colors. When choosing
colors and color schemes, give thought-
ful attention to colors that support the
function and purpose of a room.
Items in the Room
Anotherwaytochoosecolorharmonies
is to consider the usage of all items in the
room plan. For instance, plans for a room
may include an area rug, couch, or favorite
picture. To create a color scheme around
any of these items, you need to select one
color used in the object. This color becomes
the base, or main color. After choosing the
base color, use your knowledge of color
harmonies, values, and intensities to pick
colors to go with it, 11-18.
You also need to consider the
type of lighting used in the room. The
colors you select must work well during
both day and night. This means you
must view the intended colors during
daylight hours in natural light and at
night under the infl uence of artificial fi
light. Always make your final color fi
selections in the actual room and under
11-16
By using a CADD program, you can test how a paint color will look in a room to see the
warmth or coolness it creates.
Courtesy of Software by Chief Architect
11-17
The use of primary
and secondary
colors in this
child’s room give
the room a
feeling of fun and
excitement.
Photography Courtesy of
JELD-WEN Windows and
Doors