THE TOP 3 TRICKS FOR USING BOLD COLORS AND PATTERNS IN A SMALL SPACE

One of the biggest myths in design is that you must go light and bright in a small room or risk the walls caving in. The truth is, painting the walls a dramatic, dark hue creates the illusion of a bigger space because it retracts the walls, opening up the room. Using a deep shade such as a rich charcoal gray or classic navy can also establish the ideal backdrop to creating an intimate space. Here are three easy tricks for painting small spaces that every homeowner should try:

1) Choose a classic dark color and pair it with white accents. I cannot get enough of charcoal gray and navy blue walls. These classic shades work with any interior scheme, from modern to traditional.

Clark+Kensington® Smooth Slate 5042 is not only the perfect shade of gray for a home office but can create drama in any powder room. Pair this shade with floor-to-ceiling crisp, white bookshelves in an office, or fresh white monogrammed towels in a powder room for a sharp, modern look.

For a lovely shade of dark blue, try painting the walls with Clark+Kensington Blue Bayou 1014.

2) Use bold patterns in large scale. Yes, even in the smallest rooms this is a fantastic effect. Think oversized chevrons or stripes for a modern look. Clark+Kensington Morning Espresso 5038 is just the right shade of rich, dark chocolate to pair with my personal favorite shade of classic white, Clark+Kensington Designer White 1066 (hint: bright red accents look amazing with chocolate and white.)

In a small bedroom, try a large pattern on the headboard wall for maximum impact, or consider using two shades of blue on the walls or ceiling of a small nursery. I love Clark+Kensington Harbor Lane 1044 with Clark+Kensington Ocean Breeze 1042. Mix up the finish, alternating between high gloss and flat sheens, for even more impact.

3) Choose a bright hue to add a “pop” of color for a focal point. The best way to make the most out of a small space is to go bold but keep the palette simple. Choose a harmonious pairing of colors such as a dark, rich color for the walls and a fun, bright color for the accent that you use in smaller areas.

In a small office or powder room with dramatic charcoal walls, paint the ceiling or a door in a high gloss bright. I love charcoal with a warm shade of caramel, like Clark+Kensington Caribou 2064. Add in a couple pillows or a vase in the same caramel accent color to complete the look. Voila! A small space with big impact.

Clark+Kensington® paint+primer in one is available exclusively at Ace Hardware. Our easy-to-live-with, designer colors harmonize perfectly and let you mix and match with confidence.

Posted: July 31, 2012 in Simply Stated™, a blog from Real Simple®

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