Indoor Paint Colors:
Questions to Ask Yourself

When choosing indoor paint colors, most people need help in making a decision. If you find the process of selecting paint colors too difficult, ask yourself the questions below - they will help you solve some color dilemmas...

Think about it: when someone asks you for advice, you have to have more details about the problem, before you can give a suggestion that will be helpful.

It's the same when choosing indoor paint colors for your own home - you need to ask yourself some questions to determine what home paint colors will be appropriate for your rooms.

Questions to Ask Yourself When
Selecting Indoor Paint Colors

Lifestyle

• Do you like to travel? - Create a home decorating color scheme inspired by your adventures.

• What are your favorite activities and hobbies? - Use the colors associated with your hobbies for painting and decorating (green for golf, white for skiing, blue for flying, etc.).

• Are you a homebody? - Create a safe haven by surrounding yourself with paint colors that feel "nurturing" to you.

• Do you live a busy life? - Keep in mind that off-white walls have to be maintained and re-painted more often.

• Do you have a stressful job? - Avoid bold colors and jarring contrasts in your decor.

• How many children do you have and what age? - Choose mid-tones rather than pastels for practical reasons.

Living Room:

• Do you watch movies a lot? - Use deeper hues to mimic the cozy atmosphere of a movie theatre.

• Do you gather around a fireplace? - Emphasize the natural focal point by creating an accent wall.

• Do you entertain here? - Add some "Wow" factor with an accent wall or faux painting finishes.

Dining Room:

• How often is it used? - Walls painted in deep reds and oranges will encourage conversation.

• Is it only a "showpiece"? - Consider guilding your crown moldings for a dramatic effect.

Bedroom:

• Do you like to read in bed? - Go for mid-tone or pastel room colors.

• Is the room used in daytime or only at night? - Make sure the color supports the function of the room.

Bathroom:

• How many people use it? - Light paint colors may be impractical.

• Is it used for make-up? - Don't use green colors on the walls if you want to enjoy your complexion in the mirror.

• Is it small or large? - Dark indoor paint colors can make spaces appear smaller.

Kitchen:

• What is your cooking style? - Use it as a clue when creating a room color scheme.

• How many meals are prepared per day? - Light wall painting colors will be too high maintenance.

• Do you eat meals here? - Blue wall colors may supress your appetite.

• What are the adjoining areas? - Make sure the color flows throughout the space.

Family room:

• How many people use it? - Find a color that all family members will enjoy.

• What activities happen here? - Lighter wall colors will work better if you enjoy playing board games, for example.

• Do you eat in this room? - Soft greens, warm shades and neutrals will be the optimal choice for the walls.

Spend some time on these questions - your answers will guide you to the most practical and appropriate indoor paint colors for your needs.

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