Contrast: The Attention Getter
Using color to draw attention toward something or away from something is a trick as old as the animals. (Think of the brilliantly colored males of many species luring predators away from their nests and families.)
In the top photo, the yellow of the shades does a few things:
It draws the eye toward the shades and away from the room. It also contrasts with the rest of the decor, even though it would be considered to be a similar color in the range of the rest of the room.
If you are designing a room that will focus on the restfulness of the chaises, you have missed it, because my attention is first drawn and continues to be pulled by the yellow of the shades. On the other hand, if drawing attention to your shades is your goal, for instance if you are the shade manufacturer, you want your ‘audience’ to notice your shades, your design is a success.
Consider what you are trying to accomplish with your colors and patterns; for instance a tan shade would calm the room more or a deeply patterned shade would compliment the room and draw attention away from an unwanted view of the carpet or furniture that needs to be re-upholstered but might not be in the plans for a few years.
Like Goldilocks, we like it “Just Right!” and need to consider this when we are designing a space: consider how much contrast we need to turn up the volume or calm it down for the purpose for which we are designing. Too much contrast can quickly cause tension and physically exhaust us. Too little contrast can can make us feel like we are lost in a bowl of oatmeal.
Color contrast is necessary. It helps us also know the difference between the floor and a step, the window or door and the trim, the trim and the wall. Contrasts, even slight, help define the space we are in.
When designing with color, remember to train your eyes to take a look at the collection of colors, the collection of shapes, as well as the collection of furnishings and fixtures. When you do that, you enter the world of the artist and can enjoy our work…not only that you have just upgraded your value once again!
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Check in to see how you feel when you look at both of these rooms–notice how color and shape reach out to your body and make you feel.
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Deco Candy Colors offer lots of contrast but don’t be fooled: it’s also very busy here because of the shapes and the amount of pattern created by the many lines and juxtaposition.
Room by Origami Mobilya Charlie Marshall is the owner of Custom Draperies by Designers Touch of Louisville Ky. Charlie has helped hundreds of home owners beautify their homes and would love to help you as well. Charlie will come to your home and help you with your selection of draperies, pleated shades, blinds or any of the wonderful new products available to you through Custom Draperies by Designers Touch. Check our web site at WWW. designers-touch.com or call at 502 905 2368 and make your home more beautiful.
Charlie can be reached at charlie@designers-touch.com . Custom Draperies of Louisville Ky. can motorize all window treatments. Draperies Louisville Ky. Draperies New Albany In,.Draperies Floyds Knobs In , Sellersburg In, Phone KY. 502- 905 2368 |
