Choosing a colour scheme is one of the most important steps in interior decorating. The right palette can completely transform a room—adding light, warmth, personality, or sophistication. But with thousands of shades to choose from, where do you begin?
At Emporium Decorators, we guide homeowners across London and the South East in choosing colours that feel both timeless and personal. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create a space that reflects your style while complementing your home.
Before selecting colours, think about how the space is used. Bedrooms typically benefit from calm, soothing tones like soft blues or warm neutrals. Living areas can support bolder hues, while kitchens and bathrooms often lean towards clean, bright colours.
Ask yourself:
Begin with one central colour that you genuinely like and can live with long-term. This could be the shade of your favourite cushion, a paint swatch, or an element of your existing décor.
Once your base colour is chosen, we help clients build around it by adding complementary tones, contrast shades, and texture-enhancing neutrals.
Need help creating a balanced palette? Contact us for expert colour consultancy.
A tried-and-tested formula in design is the 60-30-10 rule:
This method ensures the space feels cohesive, not cluttered. Our decorating services often follow this principle for beautifully layered results.
Lighting—natural and artificial—has a huge impact on how colours appear. North-facing rooms may feel cooler and benefit from warmer tones. South-facing rooms can handle bolder, cooler shades.
Always test paint samples on your walls and observe how they look at different times of the day.
When choosing colours, don’t view each room in isolation. Think about how one space flows into the next. This is especially important in open-plan homes or properties with connected hallways and staircases.
We often recommend creating a core colour palette that’s echoed throughout the home, creating continuity while allowing for variation in individual rooms.
Colour isn't just about paint—fabrics, flooring, and finishings play a vital role. Matte, gloss, and satin finishes all reflect light differently. Combine colour with textured materials like linen, wood, or velvet for a layered, luxurious feel.
We help clients coordinate textures and tones to bring out the full potential of their chosen palette. Get a free quote today to start planning your design.
A statement wall in navy, forest green, or even charcoal can add drama and character—if used wisely. Balance bold colours with neutral backgrounds and softer textiles.
Our team at Emporium Decorators can help you find the perfect balance between bold and beautiful.
Colour can influence your mood, enhance your lifestyle, and add significant value to your property. Whether you're redecorating a single room or reimagining your entire home, choosing the right palette is key to creating a space you love.
Looking for colour inspiration or design support? Reach out to Emporium Decorators today for professional guidance and a personalised decorating experience.
