The do’s and don’ts of selecting a new colour scheme for your home

Do you go for the trendiest colour scheme? Or stick to something more classic? Should you include a feature wall? Or just decide when you get to your local Resene ColorShop?

There are so many things to think about when picking out a new paint colour scheme at home, so we've simplified it all with a few easy do's and don'ts!

Do: Give yourself enough time to decide

Life can certainly get busy sometimes, so it may be tempting to pop into the store during your lunch break to pick out new colours. While this is certainly one way to get started quickly, it may result in regret. If you're feeling rushed, you won't have enough time to look at the myriad of colours on offer, or consider how your current furnishings will look with your final decision. When you give yourself plenty of time, you'll be able to think about your choice, talk to a Resene colour specialist, and try out some colours with testpots.

This means that when it comes time to paint, you'll be absolutely certain that you love your final choices – and will continue to love them after years of seeing them on your walls!

Don't: Go with the first colour you see

Should you opt for the first one you like, you might be missing out on something you love just around the corner. There are so many paint colours and options that you will no doubt naturally be drawn to many of them. Instead, check out all the options, narrow them down to a list of ones you like, then start considering how each one might work in your space at home.

Do: Try before you buy

Back in the day, it was more of a gamble when you wanted to redecorate your home. Today, there are plenty of tools to help you imagine how colours and schemes will look! Resene's EzyPaint allows you to 'test' out colours without so much as one drop of real paint. This piece of software lets you imagine how two shades might look together in your home, and it's a great way to see how you feel about it before making a purchase. Once you have narrowed down your options, remember to try them out using Resene testpots.

Don't: Go for whatever's trending, even if you don't like it

Trends will come and go, but it's more important to make yourself happy than to be on par with whatever the interior designers are currently into. After all, you're the one who is going to have to live with the palette for years to come! Treat the fashion colours as new inspiration. Just as you might add a new trendy item to your wardrobe to jazz up what you already have, you can also use the new fashion colours as fresh inspiration for your colour palette.

Do: Ask for help

Resene paint and colour specialists are always on hand whenever you need it. Whether it's for advice, an opinion or information about a certain paint, there's no question too big or small. It's vital that you ask any questions you have, as it may ultimately help you make the right decision for your home.

Of course, you can always ask a trusted friend or family member what they think of your colour options. After all, they're the ones who know you and your home the best. Remember every home is different though – so what works colour wise at your friend's house with their things, may not work so well at your house with your things.

December 07, 2016

Visit your local Resene ColorShop for expert advice and all the products and accessories you need to make the most of your home.

Book a colour consult | Ask a Colour Expert | Ask a Paint Expert

Resene's decorating blog

Paint your home beautiful! Discover the latest decorating trends, tips and colour news.