Keep it warm Combine warm colors for effect, like the yellow walls and deep-red cushion (right). Bold orange paint (left) automatically makes the room at left a cheerful space. ORANGE-PAINTED ROOM PHOTO: EVAN SKLAR

I have a client who had always lived in all-white homes, but when I met her, she said she was ready for more colorful surroundings. Looking at her family room, I had the idea that a strong, red-orange paint would work. In this case, there was very little actual wall space to cover; the room was open to the kitchen and the living room, and it featured lovely architectural details. She nervously agreed to try it, and was very happy with the result.

If you’re tempted, but still not sure about a particularly strong color (and that tiny paint chip just isn’t doing it for you) ask your designer or paint store to order a larger sample from the manufacturer. In most cases you can also purchase a small, sample can of paint so you can test it before committing. Another option is “virtual painting,” a great feature that some paint manufacturers offer on their web sites.

As “safe” as paint is, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when choosing colors:

• Remember that paint always looks stronger on walls than it does on paint chips. What appears subtle on paper may be a bit too much on your walls, so choose your shades accordingly.
• When using two different colors in adjoining rooms, use the same trim color throughout to visually unite the rooms.
• Because the same color will appear darker on the ceiling than it does on the wall, tint the ceiling color a bit by adding white.
• Do a “brush-out” first. Paint your color on a large sheet of illustration board or foam core and then look at it in your room. Be sure to move it from wall to wall.\
• Remember that light affects our impression of color, so check your choice in both natural light (both morning and afternoon) as well as incandescent light.
• Even things out. Be sure your color choices share the same level of intensity – the relative purity or brightness of a color – from room to room. Intense colors are vivid and fresh vivid, while low-intensity colors are more understated.
  
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