Color is the most difficult of design jobs

Let's talk about color schemes.

Monochromatic:  Various shades of a particular color.
Analogous: Connected colors, next to each other on the color wheel, related, harmonious
Complimentary: Across from each other on the color wheel
Split complimentary: The choice of three (3) colors next to each other on the color wheel.
Triad: Three colors equidistance from each other on the color wheel, forms a triangle.

To explain each:
Monochromatic is a quiet, serene or restful scheme.  People can lose interest in the room easily.  There is nothing for the eye to pick up.  This is where a great painting can set off the room.

Analogous is very comfortable.  It is easy to be around for a long time.  It can be easily updated with changes in accessories in a selected color range.

Complimentary creates visual excitement by it's contrast.  There is a lot of visual energy.  It is never static or dull.

Split Complimentary still retains your visual color excitement but I feel it is your best bet.  Success is achieved when the three colors are balanced, such as orange/red, blue/violet, blue /green.

Triad is not for the faint of heart.  Example is in the primaries: red/ blue/ yellow.  Red stimulates the brain, blue is for overactive people and yellow gives off energy.  Using any triad in pastel colors is so much better.

Many times a painting, an object in a room, a fabric you love, can start your scheme.  Look around your room and see if there is something that you dearly love.  Why?  Color, shape, texture?

Many rooms start with a painting that one loves.

My dining room started with a table that I loved and a painting.

 

This is one of  my paintings.  I sold the original and now have a perfect giclee.  Will let you know about that later.

 

Now try and pick out your scheme.