The Number One Mistake Homeowners Make When Choosing a Paint Color

Color, in and of itself, is often a tactile representation of the things we feel most connected to. For some, that might be forest greens and chocolate browns from the backyard that offered respite during the pandemic. For others, it could be pastel pinks, greens and blues that remind you of summers spent at your grandparent's beach house. “Everything is rooted in something that makes us feel calm, hopeful, relaxed,” Fishburn explains. Take it from the image above, where Soho Home pairs a stunning velvet lichen sofa against a deep navy blue wall. 

To that end, Fishburn mentions two post-pandemic themes we’ve been seeing everywhere: nature and nostalgia. “During the pandemic, [the] only place we could get away was in our backyards. Then, in the second year, it became about well-being—we saw a lot of live plants, natural elements with textures, and rugs that were natural and had an [organic feel],” she explains. “We’re [also] seeing a return of the traditionalist. Classic colors (like soft neutrals and terracotta) have kind of a nostalgic feel; they make us remember something from our past and relate to our [childhoods].” In any case, Fishburne recommends taking the time to test your color for an emotional/physical reaction before committing to it (more on that below).

First, you want to start by taking a look at your closet and identifying some common tones. “What colors do you wear?” Fishburne recommends asking yourself. “There are colors that we tend to gravitate toward—[and] those are actually really great colors to put in your [home] when all else fails.” Once you’ve narrowed it down to a single color, you want to see how it’ll work with the space. “Try choosing one hero piece to pull a room together,” she suggests. Think: a sage green lumbar pillow, a cream cowhide area rug or a millennial pink Monet print. Select a piece, place it in the space and tape a few paint samples to the wall around it. Not only will this give you an idea of how everything will look when it’s finished, but it allows you to see (and feel) the color before you actually commit. “I’m a big believer [in leaving] it for a couple days,” Fishburne adds.

Long story short? Color has the ability to impact your mood and bring you to a place of comfort and optimism. Yet, unlike a gel manicure, paint requires a commitment; your wall color will stick with you for years to come. Take the time to really test some tones (so you don’t find yourself loathing that trendy green years later).