How to Decorate with Complementary Colors

In interior design, decorating with complementary colors is used to create visual contrast. Complementary colors are two colors that are opposite one another on the color wheel. The opposition of the two hues, rather than conflicting with one another, produces harmony within the space. One example of contrasting colors is red and green. Opposite one another, the two colors generate energy and bring visual depth to the space.

Difficulty:

 

Moderate

Instructions

1. • 1
     Look at a color wheel to aid in your decision as to which pair of complementary colors work best for your space.
   • 2
     Note that complementary pairing consists of one warm color and one cool color. For example, red is a warm color while green is a cool color. This promotes balance within the color scheme.
   • 3
     Select one of the two colors as a dominant color, allowing the other to act as a supporting color in the design scheme. The dominant color may be applied as wall color and be the primary color in fabrics. The supporting color acts as a strong accent and pops against the dominant color.
   • 4
     Match the intensity of the colors throughout the space. For example, if you choose yellow and purple as your complementary pair, match creamy yellow with lavender, sunny yellow with reddish purple, and neon-glow yellow with deep purple.
   • 5
     Use several shades of the two colors throughout the space. Keep the balance between the two by adding more shades of the dominant color and keeping the supporting color spectrum to a minimum. Though this sounds contrary to the word "balance," the dominant/support structure maintains visual appeal. Neither color fights for attention.
   • 6
     Create areas within the space for the eye to rest. A complementary scheme is visually stimulating. Bring in a third, neutral color to direct and break up the flow of colors. White, gray and brown applied to flooring and area rugs, used in fabric patterns and on trim, aid in directing the eye and preventing the space from appearing overly colorful.
   • 7
     Expand on the complementary color scheme by adding a second pair of contrasting colors to the design. For example, bring blue and orange into a yellow and purple scheme using accessories, artwork or as fabric on an occasional chair. This is referred to as a tetrad scheme, and when done correctly, creates a dynamic design that is at once stimulating and sophisticated.

     
     

     Tips & Warnings

     • Use wood stained in natural wood colors as part of the neutral colors in your design.

Posted in: Home Design and Decorating