Is your room feeling a little bland? Don't worry, all you may need is a little pop of color. Here are 8 easy ways to do it.
Paint
Paint
is probably the most obvious answer when it comes to adding color to a
room, but don't think that your only option is to paint the walls. If
you want to add some paint in an unconventional way (or at least a less
obvious way) think about painting the ceiling or trim a color other than white. Or perhaps you could paint a piece of furniture like a table or chair frame.
Pillows
If you want an instant pop of color without making a serious commitment toss a couple of colorful throw pillows
on your sofa or chairs. It's really amazing what even a small change
can do. The best time to do this is when the seasons change. In the
spring and summer add bright pillows and in the fall and winter opt for
something with darker colors.
Upholstery
While it's
usually a good idea to stick with a neutral sofa, the same isn't
necessarily true for other pieces of upholstery like chairs and benches.
These pieces offer wonderful opportunities for
adding color. Having items upholstered isn't necessarily inexpensive so
if you're a little hesitant start with something small like a foot
stool.
Curtains
Curtains take up a lot of visual
space making them a great way to add color to a room. And the good news
is that they're available at a variety of different price points. If
you're the type of person who has trouble committing to color try
purchasing some inexpensive curtain panels that can be easily switched out when you need a change.
Rugs
If you want to add a color in a way that will have a huge impact, consider a boldly colored area rug.
An area rug can set the tone for the whole room, and a colorful rug
makes for a colorful room (even if virtually everything else is
neutral). Colorful rugs aren't for the faint of heart - if you want to
make a statement this is a great way to do it.
Art
Hanging artwork
on the walls is a great way to add color to a room. Paintings and
prints are one way to do it, but you can also have fun with color by
hanging things like pieces of fabric or wallpaper on the wall. If you
find a piece of fabric you love but don't want to upholster something in
it try putting it in a frame and hanging it over a sofa or mantle. The
impact can be very impressive.
Lampshades
Lamps
usually come with shades, but there's no rule saying you have to keep
them. There are plenty of places that sell lampshades full of color and
pattern and the prices are usually pretty good. Of course you can also
opt for custom shades if you prefer. And if you want something a little
more subtle, consider adding some colorful ribbon around the perimeter
of the shade (either the top, bottom, or both!). Just use double-sided
tape to attach it and you've got an instant uplift to a boring shade.
Flowers
One
of the prettiest ways to add a pop of color is with an arrangement of
fresh flowers. The greatest thing about them is that no matter what
colors you choose or what colors you mix together they will always look
good. It's a great way to experiment with colors that might not go
together in a conventional way.
By Lauren Flanagan
Family & Living Rooms Expert
