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It’s a question our interior designer Sophie hears all the time.

It seems like everyone is colour-confused these days. There are just so many options (have you ever tried to choose a basic grey?) and picking a paint colour from a tiny swatch feels impossible. It’s no wonder people stick with magnolia!

In this blog, Sophie shares how she helps clients ditch the guesswork and choose colours that actually work—for the room, the mood, and the people who live there.

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Start with what’s already there.

First off, ignore the trends or whatever’s hot right now. Begin by looking around your room and taking stock of what you already love.

Ask yourself:

• What colours are in my furniture or accessories?
• Are there pieces I want to build the room around?
• What colours run through the rest of the house?

Your comfy teal sofa or vintage rug could be the perfect starting point, so can the colours in adjacent rooms. Think of your home as a flow, not a patchwork. Choosing complementary tones will help create cohesion from room to room.

What’s the room used for?

What’s the purpose of the room? Relaxing? Working? Hosting wild dinner parties? Understanding how you intend to use the room can guide your colour choices:

• Relaxation: Soft, muted tones like sage green or dusty blue can create a serene atmosphere.
• Productivity:  Energizing colours such as warm terracotta or gentle peach can stimulate creativity and focus.
• Entertainment: Rich, vibrant hues like deep navy or emerald green can add a sense of sophistication and drama.

Remember, colour can influence mood and functionality. Choose shades that align with the room's intended use.

Embrace creative techniques

If you’re colour-shy you don’t have to go full-on feature wall or repaint the whole room. There are more playful, purposeful ways to bring colour into your space:

• Colour zoning: Define different areas within a room by using varying shades or tones. This technique is especially useful in open-plan spaces or multifunctional rooms.
• Painted shapes: Arches, blocks or stripes can highlight zones or architectural features. Paint an arch above the bed or a block behind your desk for an instant focal point.
• Ceiling treatments: Extending colour to the ceiling can soften a space or add drama, depending on the shade.

These techniques create interest and individuality—without the overwhelm of four painted walls. They’re also a great way to ease into colour confidence.

Test Before You Commit

Paint looks different depending on lighting, surface and time of day. So always test—properly. It's essential to:

• Go big: No more stamp-sized swatches. Paint at least 2ft x 2ft samples on multiple walls.
• Test in different light: Check how it looks morning, noon and evening. Light can dramatically change the feel.

One of Sophie’s clients loved a colour in theory, but when they painted it on both her sunniest and shadiest wall, the tone shifted dramatically. She ended up choosing a lighter version that worked beautifully across the space.

• Consider finish: Matte finishes are soft, subtle and great for hiding imperfections. Gloss and satin reflect more light and can feel bolder.

Here’s how non-designers can start making good colour decisions.

1. Pinterest is your friend. Type in “bedroom colours” or “cosy living room” and see what catches your eye.
2. Use paint brand apps like Little Greene or Paint & Paper Library. You can explore colours by mood (calm, bold, earthy) and they suggest matching shades too.
3. Match your home’s vibe. Do you live in a Regency townhouse or are inspired by Bridgerton style? Little Greene (and other paint brands) have guides that match colours to different eras.
4. Choose your mood: Natural and calming? Go greens and  blues. Want bold and funky? Think natural hues like terracotta, rust, and ochre.
5. Sample generously. Big squares. Multiple walls. Check it in different lights throughout the day.

And remember, you don’t have to paint a full room. A single shape or zone can make your space feel brand new. And don’t be afraid to experiment, paint isn’t permanent!

Still not sure where to start? Get in touch with Sophie - your future walls will thank you!

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