THE COLOR ORANGE

The color orange is not just for fall decorating anymore

The color orange has always been a popular fall color, but it's now being used less than sparingly in home decorating and decor. The nice thing about this color is that a little orange will go a long way.

Like with any color trend, this color will not remain the color of the year forever. It's always a wise idea to use trendy colors on less costly items. Avoid buying big ticket items such as furniture or custom drapes. Instead, use bold color on smaller ticket items that are less expensive to replace. For example, paint an accent wall in orange or use a splash of it in accessories, throw pillows, or area rugs.

Below is a collection of ideas on how to use orange in decorating and home decor.

If you like orange, but have hesitations in using it, try using a variation of the 

color in accent pillows. This rooms neutral color tones grounds the rooms 

overall look while he throw pillows accentuate the space without overtaking it.

A splash of orange is all that is needed in this dining room. When used
against white walls, this bold color makes a statement without stealing the
show.

This kitchen's orange window trim pops against the bright white cabinets. Only
a splash of color is needed to accomplish the job. (photo source: Houzz.com)

The orange place mats can be easily and inexpensively replaced once the
orange trend starts to fade. (photo source: Jason Ball Interiors, Houzz.com)

THE 60-30-10 RULE: ADDING COLOR TO YOUR SPACE

When decorating your space, divide your colors into percentages,  using the 60-30-10 rule. Take a look at any decorating magazine photo to see how this rule applies.  It's really quite simple.  Here is how it works:

60%  of a dominant color

30% of a secondary color

10% of an accent color


Mark McCauley, ASID, described it perfectly when he said, " The color breakdown is similar to a man's suit":

60%  of the color is the man's jacket and pants

30% of the outfit's color is the color shirt

10% of the outfit's color is the tie


So translated, this means:

60% of color is the walls

30% of color is in the upholstery

10% of the color is in the accents or floral arrangement

This striking kitchen follows the 60-30-10 rule, using the last 10% of color as a bold accent above the cabinetry.

Afraid of using color in a small space? Don't let it scare you.  This cozy nook used the 60-30-10 rule and the results are fabulous.

Get Gutsy Paint Idea

Walls are not the only place where you can add pattern and color to a room. Get creative & get gutsy! Paint your floors instead. Your old, worn hardwood planks provide the perfect opportunity to add color and pizazz to any space.  Paint them solid or get artsy and add a playful design. This technique can be applied to stairs as well. This DIY project is labor intensive but worth every minute. You will be in awe with the results.

How to:

1.  Sand your floors, and then clean well

2.  Apply a base of primer. Let dry 24 hours.

3.  Start at the back of the room and work your way to the door.

4.  Paint your floor with oil-based exterior paint.  Let dry 24 hours.

5.  If painting a bathroom floor, consider using marine paint (used on boats)

5.  Lightly sand and clean. Add another one or two coats, sanding between each.

View homes that need your creative touch

White, black, gray are all safe floor color options. But what about red? It's an electrifying jolt of color paired with white walls and offers the opportunity to create a consistent color story, complemented by red accessories in each room.

(how to & photo source: Natalie Myers / Houzz.com)

This gingham plaid pattern is so inventive for a painted floor. As long as the the paint coats are kept thin, this pattern seems relatively easy to achieve.

Continue your design on the stairs to create a unique space that will become the envy of your neighbors.

(Photo source: Bockman & Forbes Design)