skip to main content
Photos
Photos
Kitchen & DiningKitchenDining RoomKitchen/Diner
BathroomBathroomCloakroomEnsuite
LivingLiving RoomGames RoomConservatory
OutdoorGardenBalconyPatio
BedroomBedroomKids' BedroomNursery
Small SpacesSmall KitchenSmall BathroomSmall Garden
More RoomsHallwayStaircaseUtility RoomHome OfficeEntrance HallPantryHouse ExteriorWalk-in WardrobeView All
Stories
Stories From Houzz
Most PopularHouzz ToursKitchensBathroomsMore RoomsGardensRenovatingDecoratingStorage & OrganisationSmall Space LivingTips for ProsView All
Houzz Discussions
Design DilemmaBefore & AfterPollsKitchensBathroomsLiving RoomsGardensRenovatingDIYHome DecoratingSmaller HomesPaint
Houzz Research
Advice
HOUZZ DISCUSSIONS
Design DilemmaBefore & AfterPollsKitchensBathroomsLiving Rooms
GardensRenovatingDIYHome DecoratingSmaller HomesPaint
Sign In
Join as a Pro
History of Houzz
Houzz Logo Print

Cracking the Color Code

When you do your spring cleaning and consider infusing new life into your dwelling this season, don't skip past the simple and impactful revitalization of color. Not only can color change the mood and vibe of a space, it can change the mood and vibe of YOU.

But what color to use? For complete continuity throughout your whole home, keep to three colors in varying shades and proportions throughout. If, say, you use red, white, and blue, your kitchen could be more red while your library could be a high glossy navy with red accents. You get the point.

Keep in mind which room you're painting and how the light hits it, and the mood that each color suggests, and you'll be bright and colorfully on your way to a fresh dwelling.
Margaret Everton
Margaret Everton
Photo

Surround the bold color with whites and birch for a balance.

Q

Photo

Purple is associated with creativity and can be a fun alternative to navy or dark browns.

Q

Photo

PURPLE. A less common color, purple is a paradox between red and blue.

Q

Photo

Turquoise adds energy as it calms.

Q

Photo

White stands out with class against its darker hues.

Q

Photo

BLUE. Another color found abundantly in nature, blue notoriously calms and quiets. Being so, it's a perfect color for bedrooms.

Q

Photo

Even as accent panels, this color revolutionizes a space like this.

Q

Photo

The color is an obvious background for a plethora of interior flora.

Q

Photo

GREEN. The color of nature, this hue with its underscore of yellow brings energy and rejuvenation to a space.

Q

Photo

This color is perfect for layers and textures.

Q

Photo

As you see, this clear and pristine background helps even small items stand out beautifully.

Q

Photo

WHITE. Reflecting the world around it and providing a palate for other colors to garnish the room, white is classic and chic.

Q

Photo

Go a more golden shade for a more classic take.

Q

Photo

Bright and optimistic, this color is a perfect introduction to spring after darker winter months.

Q

Photo

YELLOW. Happy and sunny without a hint of harsh, this color is a real upper.

Q

Photo

Bring in browns and tans to temper orange.

Q

Photo

As you see here, the color can enter in as either accents or blocks of color and not overwhelm.

Q

Photo

ORANGE. A nice blend between the energetic red and happy yellow, orange has a less harsh but still dynamic energy.

Q

Photo

Balance red with white, yellows, greens, blues, or neutrals.

Q

Photo

This hue can be a boost of energy or a hint of danger. A popular kitchen color, red stimulates hunger.

Q

Photo

RED. Hot, dynamic, and energetic.

Q

Related Photo Topics
    Modern Living Room PicturesClassic Utility Room Decorating IdeasTraditional Entrance IdeasContemporary Living Room DesignsModern Home Office Designs
  • Ireland
    © 2026 Houzz Inc.
    • COMPANY

    • About Houzz
    • In the News
    • Press Info
    • Careers
    • Contact Us
    • Terms & Privacy
    • Copyright & Trademark
    • EXPLORE HOUZZ

    • Buttons & Badges
    • Mobile Apps
    • For Brands
    • For Professionals
    • Review Professionals
    • Suggested Professionals
    • FAQs
    • CONNECT WITH US

    • TwitterXCircleX
    • Facebook
    • RSS