Color as Emotion: Hues That Tell a Story
In every project I design, color is one of the earliest and most important decisions. It’s not just about choosing a “pretty palette.” Color sets the mood of a home, defines the energy of a space, and quietly guides how each room feels to live in.
This is where nuance and deft skill are key, and years of working as a professional designer make a difference.
A strong color story is subtle yet potent. The palette unifies a home and taps into a silent language that speaks volumes to guests and homeowners alike.
Neutrals are often the foundation. When layered correctly, they create a sense of calm and timelessness—ivory walls, soft taupe rugs, pale gray stone. These hues don’t demand attention; they allow texture, architecture, and light to shine. A well-executed neutral palette always feels fresh and enduring.
There are times, however, when depth and saturation bring a home to life. A dining room wrapped in navy feels intimate and refined. A velvet sofa in emerald or oxblood instantly anchors a living space. These richer tones add drama and atmosphere, and when placed with intention, they elevate a room from simply beautiful to truly captivating.
Continuity is key. A home should flow, and color is one of the most effective tools to create that connection.
A soft gray introduced in the kitchen might repeat in upholstery in the living room. A blush accent in one space might reappear as art in a hallway. These subtle echoes allow each room to have its own personality while still belonging to a cohesive whole.
And then there are the unexpected notes—the accents that keep a home from feeling predictable. A powder room in moody charcoal, a piece of art bursting with color against a neutral backdrop, or a single chair upholstered in plum velvet. These moments of surprise are what give a home its individuality.
