Pulling a palette of wall colors from the textiles featured in the room is a foolproof way to create cohesion. In this case, the area rug was our inspiration. The result is a warm welcome with a bit of drama achieved by using the darkest hue in the tray ceiling.

Add stripes to any plain white wall for instant personality. For a contemporary look, opt for equally spaced horizontal stripes in bold contrasting colors—like classic black and white. Or amp up the fun factor with a dynamic yellow, red or blue.

Even in a compact eat-in kitchen, you can make a statement. A feature wall with a strong accent color and attractive art will draw attention to the seating area. This also helps create a dining space that’s separate from the rest of the kitchen.

Is white too plain for your liking, but you’re hesitant to commit to color? Start by getting comfortable with a soft, light shade of a favorite hue. All it takes is a subtle addition of color to transform a plain room into an airy, sophisticated retreat.