Interior Design Tutorial: How to Choose Your Color Palette

Learn the importance of materials and aesthetic elements in choosing the color of your space

Choosing the right color palette is one of the biggest decisions of any interior design project and it is not one you should take lightly. The color you choose will affect the entire project, from your materials to your furniture, so knowing how to bring these elements together is key to a successful design.

In this tutorial, Vasso Asfi (@studiolav) shares some basic principles and tips for choosing the right color palette for your next project.

1. Soft tones

For a domestic interior design project, it is usually a good idea to start with soft colors. This does not mean you have to use an off-white but it is best to avoid bright colors in a home. Toned down primary colors add character without overwhelming the space.

2. Proportions

A single color can often be too intense for an entire project. You can balance the effect of your main color by introducing hints of another. For example, a red room may be lightened by notes of yellow.

3. Contemporary vs Classic

Don’t forget that someone has to live with your design. While you might only work on your project for a short period of time, your client will have to be in the space every day.

It is your job to balance contemporary and fashionable touches with a classic and timeless aesthetic in order to give your client an exciting place to live that won’t go out of style.

4. Test your colors on site

The nature of modern interior design means you are likely to spend a lot of your time on the computer. However, nothing can replace being in a space when it comes to making sure you have made the right choices.

Use proper color swatches to see what the colors really look like in each room and, when you have a clear idea of what you want, paint your final two or three colors on the wall to compare them and see what works best.

5. Materials

The space alone shouldn’t decide your color, the right color also depends on the materials you are using: a blue fabric has a totally different effect to a blue piece of wood.

Your materials will help define the feel of the room and bring your concept to life. Don’t be afraid to experiment with both colors and materials until you find the right combination.

If you liked this tutorial, check out STUDIOLAV’s online course, Interior Design for Beginners, to learn more about the essential aspects of designing a space that meets your creative vision and your client's needs.

You may also like:

- Interior Design from Start to Finish, a course by Sofía Saraví O'Keefe
- Color applied to Interior Design, a course by Miriam Alía
- Decorating Your Home on a Budget: Basic Concepts, a course by Sofía Saraví O'Keefe