CREATING COLOR AND BALANCE IN AN OPEN-FLOOR SETTING
Open-floor plans appeal to young families, empty nesters and anyone who appreciates a sense of continuity in living spaces. When it comes to paint, the first thought is to play it safe and go with an all-white scheme, but adding colors helps to define specific areas of an open-floor plan. The key is to use color without making the space seem choppy. Follow these tips for achieving color and balance in an open-floor setting.
1). CHOOSE YOUR MAIN COLOR
This will be the color that you build off of when creating your palette. A cheery, warm hue makes an open space feel cozier. You may decide to paint all of the walls in this color, or to use it on the walls in the living or dining area. Incorporate the main color into fabrics, rugs and large artwork throughout the space.
2). ADD A HARMONIOUS ACCENT COLOR
In an open-floor setting, clashing colors can lead to chaos, so choose accent colors from the same color family. Use them for trims or to define one of your favorite areas of the space. For example, to play up a cabinet, paint the piece in the accent color instead of the main color. Be sure to bring the accent color into every area of the open-floor space for continuous flow.
3). GET PLAYFUL WITH SPLASHES OF COLOR
If you have a rug or a fabric with a gorgeous hue, bring it out with special paint details. Use the same color on chair rails, an accent wall or the island in your kitchen. This color should be fun without creating too much contrast. Add a chair, knickknacks and accessories in the same color to bring it all together.