It’s easy to get excited about refreshing a room with a new color. Maybe you’ve seen a
beautiful shade on social media or are just tired of your current walls.
However, don’t rush out and buy a new paint color on a whim. Repainting a room is a commitment, and it’s important to ensure you’ll love the final result. Here’s what you can do before
diving into the paint aisle to help make sure your choice is perfect.
1. Start with a Bit of Testing: Rather than picking a color based on a small paint sample or an online picture, try painting a few test swatches on the walls you plan to repaint. Grab samples of the colors you’re drawn to, and paint sections in
different areas of the room—like near a window and in a darker corner.
The light in each part of the room changes throughout the day, and you’ll want to see how the color looks in both natural and artificial light. Live with those swatches for a few days before
making your decision.
2. Consider the Room’s Purpose and Feel: Think about how you use the room and the atmosphere you want to create. A soft blue might make your bedroom feel serene, while a bold red could add energy to a home office or workout space.
If the room is where you entertain guests, a warm neutral might be more inviting. Colors can impact your mood, so choose one that complements how you want to feel when you're in the room.
3. Take a Look at Your Furniture and Décor: Before you pick a new paint color, take a good look at your existing furniture, rugs, curtains, and other decorative elements. You want the new paint to complement, not clash, with what’s already in the room.
If you have a brightly patterned sofa or bold artwork, you may want a more subtle wall color that will let those pieces stand out. Conversely, if your furnishings are neutral, a pop of color on the walls might bring life to the space.
4. Think About the Rest of Your Home: A color
that looks great on its own might feel jarring if it doesn’t flow with the rest of your home. Walk through your house and take note of the colors in adjacent rooms.
Choosing complementary shades will create a more cohesive and harmonious look.
This doesn’t mean all the rooms need to be the same color, but having a color
scheme that works well together can make your home feel more unified. 
