Choosing paint colors for the interiors of an entire house can be very stressful. On Color Consultations for empty houses I recommend beginning with a neutral color throughout the house and then adding an accent wall(s) in darker colors. Painting bedrooms in different colors adds so much interest to the house and allows variety without being overwhelming.
When sellers are repainting their houses prior to listing I choose a neutral theme of only three colors. The exact paint color scheme is selected depending on floor color and other architectural elements (fireplace surrounds, cabinets, tile etc.) and the style of the house. For the main color I use a neutral hue-usually a golden or taupe tan. For one or two accent walls I use a darker coordinating shade of gold or brown or clay. I use a lighter tint of the main color for the bathrooms and kitchen. These color schemes give the house interest and drama without being distracting. This also gives buyers a great starting base to add more colors as they choose.
I always use an eggshell finish because it is easy to clean and reflects light well helping to brighten rooms. Flat paints are best for hiding flaws in the walls but they absorb light, which can make rooms feel darker, and they are hard to clean. Pearl finish has a low sheen and makes colors brighter and more intense, I like it for doors and trim.
Painting your new home or repainting your existing home is much more personal. As above you need to consider flooring colors and architectural elements when choosing colors, but you also need to consider your furnishings and linens and of course your personal preferences!. You can use a rug, curtains or bedding as a starting point. By picking up color cues from the furnishings in the room you will create a complementary and balanced palette. I still recommend choosing a main color scheme for the main living areas, hallways and bathrooms. This gives a sense of continuity and balance. Kid's rooms are a great opportunity to have fun with livelier colors. The Master bedroom and guest bedrooms are best in soothing tones.
Color groups are referred to in terms of temperature. Reds, oranges and yellows are considered warm tones and add intensity and energy. Greens, blues and purples are considered cool colors and have a calming effect. Brown (Hasbrouck Brown) and orange (Sedona Clay) are strong warm color examples great for accent walls. Steel blue (Van Courtland Blue) and gray (templeton gray) are excellent colors on the cool side of the color wheel, great in bedrooms. These are all Benjamin Moore.
Prior to choosing the final colors it is really important to get quart paint samples mixed (Benjamin Moore also sells 2-oz paint samples in a variety of colors)and paint large swatches on the walls in various rooms. Check the colors in different lights throughout the day and in artificial light at night.
Lastly, I really believe that paint colors need a week to get used to. Once painted, the rooms will pull together and make sense. While you are choosing colors you tend to focus too much on the contrast of the existing color and the new color. Once completely painted this contrast will not exist and the wall color will become a harmonious background for your living spaces.
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