Thoughts on Contrast In Color and Design

(photo courtesy of Crane and Canopy)

I’ve always been a person of contradictions. I love the quiet, but I can be rather loud. I’m witty and love making people laugh, but I cry easily. I can be poised and proper but also a crazy goofball. I’m a peacemaker but will always stand up for what’s right… Perhaps this explains why I crave contrast in my life- especially when it comes to color! 

Imagine walking into a room that is completely decorated in bright and bold colors, each equal in its intensity. This would be incredibly overwhelming! Where would the eye rest? Where would anything rest?! And what about the opposite? Imagine walking into a room that is filled with nothing but soft colors, all equal in tint or tone. For me, this would be incredibly underwhelming. I would feel the need to be very quiet and still. And then I would need a latte to wake me up. 

(photo courtesy of Ballard Designs)

Obviously, there is nothing wrong with either of these scenarios. Bright colors have their place when the space is used for high energy activities, like a gym! And monochromatic rooms, done right with a lot of texture, can be very elegant! But for me, I always try to create balance in my own home or in a client’s home by incorporating contrasts. A soft neutral with a bold pop of color, like linen and emerald. Or an unexpected color with a traditional color, like watermelon with navy blue.  The most classic contrast is of course, black and white. And recently, Pantone chose gray and yellow to be their 2021 Colors of the Year and what a fabulous contrast they create! When the intensity of colors in a room differ, it creates such lovely interest! The right colors won’t compete but will work together in perfect contrast. And that, my friends, creates the most beautiful room.