My teacher handed this out in one of my Interior Design classes the other week and I wanted to share it with you. The handout is a copy of a copy with no author on it. I hate posting something without being able to give credit, but oh well!
Color Guide- A Color Analysis Process Chart: Redefining Spaces with Color
“Remember these simple color facts to visually alter space: dark colors absorb light; light colors reflect light. Warm colors advance and ‘fill’ space; cool colors recede and are more expansive.
To visually expand space:
-Use light, cool values and limit the number of colors used. Monochromatic color schemes using various values from one color family are particularly successful.
-Paint all the surfaces in a room the same color and cover bulky furniture with fabrics which matches that color. Camouflage moldings, unattractive architectural features or awkward windows by painting them the wall color.
-To raise a low ceiling, paint it white or a light tint or the same color as the walls if that color is a light value. Also keep the floor color light.
-Shiny, reflective walls, floors and ceilings will make a room look larger and increase the amount of light reflectivity. Mirrors at right angles to a window will provide maximum light reflectance and visually double the space. Use clear or open work furniture.
-Use plenty of light to expand space. Wash the walls with down light to soften hard edges and make space seem to expand.
-Dark prints or pattern with a white background will make a room look larger, or use the same small scale print on a light background everywhere.
-Use vertical patterns or floor-to-celing cupboards or bookcases, emphasizing the verticals with paint color to ‘raise’ the ceiling.
-Specify flooring with colored contrasting diagonals to visually create more height.
-Create a three- dimensional perspective design with declining values of a color; paint a scenic mural on one wall or a faux window with an outdoor view.”