One Room Challenge: Week 3, Picking the Paint!
Welcome back! This week, I talk about the process of how I select paint colors for my projects. Last week, I walked you through my vision for the space, and how I started sourcing product that tied into the design direction. Once I've sourced most of the furniture items and I get a feel for the mood of the space, I start thinking about paint colors. In some instances, I might start with the rug and then create the color story around that item. Ultimately, the way I approach finalizing a color story depends on the scope of the project.
For my Modern Parisian theme, I'm going for a color scheme that's equally sophisticated and inviting. Last week, I took a trip to the Benjamin Moore showroom to look at paint color swatches to start narrowing down choices.
The cool thing about visiting the showroom, is that designers can actually look at paint swatches under a true daylight light source so that you get a feel of what the color will actually look like against any materials you have on hand. I usually bring materials with me whether it be fabric swatches, flooring, or a picture of a painting that I plan on working a color scheme around. For my design theme, I'm leaning towards a warm white and gray color palette for an inviting, clean and modern aesthetic. I think that this color scheme will tie in nicely with the brushed brass bookshelves and deep rust sofa I plan on purchasing.
Once I've narrowed down my choices, I then purchase sample cans of the selected paint colors to start testing in the space. I usually leave the paint colors on for at least 3 days so that I can see how they look in different lighting throughout the day. Once I'm close to making a final decision, I usually like to see how the paint colors look in a rendering to see how the color combination ties in with all of my selected furnishings and accessories.
Color Inspiration
I'm a true believer that inspiration can be discovered anywhere in the world! During my travels to Mexico this week, I stumbled upon this seating area that had a warm gray color scheme, similar to what I've selected in the showroom. The colors at the resort are warm, clean and sophisticated. Stay tuned for next week's post as I show you how these colors come to life in my space!
In the coming week, I plan on testing some paint colors and work towards completing the rendering so that I can complete all of my purchases and start painting! Stay tuned!
This project is part of the One Room Challenge. Click here to go back to the ORC Blog page to see what other designers are brewing. Posts for my project will be posted weekly and linked to their page. Media partner for the ORC is Better Home & Gardens.
XOXO,
Mercedes