Some designers suggest using the colors you like to wear as a guide when decorating, while others say color should be dictated by the mood you are trying to create in a space and how and when that space will be used. Either way, remember that color is a very personal choice and, like the other elements of design in your home, a reflection of you.

 Don’t be afraid of color. It adds warmth and evokes emotional response. Remember, the worst thing that can happen is that you’ll have to repaint.

 To create flow, select your color palette and use these colors throughout your home. 

Don’t limit your use of color to the walls—incorporate the ceiling and floor into the scheme as well. 

Paint your ceilings a shade or two lighter than the walls, and try a color other than white on molding. 

Neutrals are colors, too. Try using neutrals with accent colors for an eye-popping effect.

 Paint is not the only way to add color. A punch of color can liven up a room through the use of colorful accessories such as vases, throws, pillows, artwork, rugs or floral arrangements.

 A monochromatic color scheme on walls gives the room an illusion of a much bigger space. 

Cool colors, such as blues and greens, will give the room an illusion of openness. Warmer colors, such as reds and yellows, give an illusion of less space or closeness. 

It’s hard to visualize the entire space painted with the color on your small color swatch. Buy a quart or less of the paint, if possible, cover a couple of pieces of poster board or foam board with at least two coats and tape them up in the space. Look at the sample in the morning, the middle of the day and at night to get a true feel for it. 

Experiment with color; don’t hesitate to use different colors in a room. It’s the subtle details that make a space look and feel complete.

 If the space is primarily for evening use, such as a formal dining room, add some drama with rich colors. Test them at night to make sure they don’t appear too dark and heavy.

 Create the mood you want using color. A master suite could be peaceful and neutral, soft and romantic, or dramatic and exciting, depending on the feel you’re going for and the colors you choose. 

Blue on ceilings lifts the height of the room and is a good contrast for all colors. This is especially effective in bedrooms.