Color Pairing

One of the questions I receive most often from clients is, “Do these colors work together?“ The answer is both simple and complex. Simple, because almost any colors can work together, IF (the complex part) done correctly.

So how do you put colors together correctly? There are lots and lots of ways, but here are a few of my simple tips:

• Create a neutral backdrop (beiges, ivories, whites, blacks, browns, grays, metals, wood tones) with your main pieces (sofa, rug, chairs, walls), then add one accent color of your choice via accessories (pillows, art, blankets, decor, etc.). Since your backdrop is neutral (i.e. not considered “colors”), any accent color will work great. In the living room moodboard below, the majority of the items are neutral, and I used navy as the pop of color.

Coastal Living Room Moodboard by Black Cat Interiors

In the bedroom moodboard below, I created a neutral backdrop with the main items, and added a pop of sunny yellow.

Transitional Bedroom Moodboard by Black Cat Interiors

• Another fail safe method is to pair analogous colors–that is, colors that are next to each other on the color wheel such as blue and green. Colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel will almost always create a harmonious palette.

Coastal Living Room Moodboard by Black Cat Interiors

Back Patio Deck Interior Design 3D Rendering by Black Cat Interiors

• If you’re more bold and want to pair colors that aren’t as commonly found together but aren’t sure how to do it, start with one main item that already has the colors–such as a rug, or wall art–then pull those colors into the space via accessories. In the moodboard below, the art above the bed establishes the seafoam green and orange color palette, then I repeated those colors throughout the space.

Seafoam Green and Orange Bedroom Moodboard by Black Cat Interiors

• Rely on Mother Nature. In the moodboard below, I paired pink with green, a combo we’re used to seeing in nature via flowers, fruit, birds, etc.

Blush and Green Bedroom 3D Rendering by Black Cat Interiors

So, the short answer is, “Yes. The colors do work together.” Or, I should say, they can work together, IF paired correctly. Still not sure? Contact me – I’m happy to help!