How to use color blocking to enliven your decor

Have you ever looked at a space and wondered what makes it look so beautiful? Why do the colors work? Why the space feels so inviting? Color is one of those design tools that can often make or break a space. Choose the wrong colors and a room feels disjointed. Choose the right colors and the same space comes to life and feels cohesive.

A designer technique called “color blocking” or “color mapping” is a trick of the trade that if used effectively can help to create a space that is colorful and cohesive without being overwhelming.

Color blocking must haves

Pick a color to serve as the foundation for your color story.

Repeat the color in various ways throughout the space.

Create interesting opportunities to repeat color such as through artwork, upholstery, accessories and accents.

Color blocking do’s

Do begin by choosing the colors in which to create your color palette. Typically selecting two to three colors is best.

Do incorporate other elements in the space that include your color palette, such as artwork, area rugs, accessories, accents and even books.

Do repeat and “map” your colors, sprinkling them throughout a room.

Color blocking don’ts

Don’t choose colors that are all the same shade. It is acceptable to choose tints, tones and shades of a color.

Don’t forget to incorporate negative color space in a room. Leaving “open” color opportunities will help those colors that are present to shine.

Don’t avoid colors such as black and white. These colors not only help to create an elegant sense of contrast but are also great foundation colors for modern design.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/vacation home designer with offices in New York City and The Hudson Valley. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.