Decorating Tips - Picking Colors

Color is a powerful symbol in our world. It has meaning which is deeper and more subtle than just contrast and form. Every tone evokes particular emotions, brings to mind specific images and events, and alters the way we react to, and interact with, everything around us. When choosing color in your home setting, it is important to be aware of these effects, so that you can create a space which enriches the mind as well as the eye.

In general, darker colors will tend to be more subdued. Shadowed tones will cast a room in a night time atmosphere, making people feel laid back and lethargic. This is good if you want a room to feel comfortable or relaxing. That can be useful in a living room or den, or even in a bedroom.

The problem with darker colors is that they will also depress a room and can make a space seem gloomy. This can be offset to some extent with brighter colored accessories, which can add life and color to what otherwise might be a dull and lethargic state.

Contrasting tones will usually add energy to a space. If you have two colors which work together, but in opposite ways, they can play off of one another, the inherent body of the one framing and popping out the color nature of the other. This dynamic tension tends to add inherent energy and life to a room. However you have to be careful about clashing tones, which can make a space seem garish. Also if you use contrasting effects too much the room can start to feel cluttered and chaotic.

By understanding the inherent nature of color, as well as peoples personal reactions to them, you can take deeper and more subtle control over the environment around you. This allows you to shape the world around you in deep and complex ways.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/