Table of Contents
Consider the Neighborhood and Surrounding Environment
In addition to the house’s architecture, as interior designers we must also consider the neighborhood and surrounding environment when selecting exterior colors. Say, what?!?!
Yeah, you heard that right friend.
Considering Your Neighbors When Selecting Exterior Colors For A House
The color scheme should complement the colors of neighboring homes, while also standing out in a positive way. Sometimes that’s complimenting the colors of neighboring homes by selecting a similar color palette but we can also make your home stand out (positively of course) by selecting contrasting colors. Obviously, this is a balance between standing out and fitting in with the surrounding homes.
Considering The Natural Surroundings When Selecting Exterior Colors For A House
The natural surroundings, such as trees, landscaping, and even the color of the sky, can also play a role in the color selection process. Yep, you read that right.
Sometimes this manifests itself by selecting colors that blend in with the natural surroundings or contrasting color to create a visual statement.
For example, a house surrounded by lush greenery may benefit from a more neutral color palette to allow the natural surroundings to shine, while a house in a desert landscape may benefit from more earthy tones to blend in with the natural environment.
Considering Zoning + HOA Restrictions When Selecting Exterior Colors For A House
It’s also important to consider any zoning or HOA restrictions on exterior colors. Many neighborhoods or communities have specific rules or guidelines for the colors that can be used on the exterior of homes. We don’t view this as a negative — it’s simply the design considerations that we need to assess before beginning.
Determine The Mood + Style
This is the part of curation we absolutely love. What’s unique about working with Elegant Simplicity is that while our designs are rooted in functionality, they don’t turn a blind eye to emotionality.
In fact, we believe that creating home is about inspiration, not replication.
Selecting Exterior Colors By Feeling
Ok, stick with us. When considering the mood you want to convey, certain colors evoke an emotional response. For more on how color evokes an emotional response check this out. Furthermore, certain colors are even good selections for positive energy.
For example, warm and inviting colors can create a cozy and welcoming mood, while cool and calming colors can create a more peaceful and relaxing mood.
Determining Primary And Accent Exterior Colors For A House
After settling on a mood and a style for the exterior of your home, the next step in selecting the color scheme for the exterior is to decide on a primary color and accent colors.
Selecting A Primary House Color
Accent colors are used on details such as trim, shutters, and doors, whereas the primary color is the main color that is used on the exterior of the house.
When choosing a primary color, we believe the architectural style of the home as well as the desired mood and style play a significant role in the selection. The primary color ought to be one that not only feels right, but harmonizes with the natural setting and any of the houses that are visible in the surrounding area.
Considering Accent Colors
After deciding on the primary color, a specific accent color or colors is considered to embellish architectural details such as doors, shutters, and trim. It is important that the accent colors not only coordinate well with the primary color but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of the home.
When selecting accent colors, we consider what the contrast may be between those colors and the primary color. A color scheme with a high contrast can produce a striking and attention-grabbing appearance, whereas a color scheme with a low contrast can produce a look that is more muted and cohesive.