Picking color schemes

I got an e-mail asking me how I decide on what colors I want to use in each room. For me, my process is kind of scattered. I usually try to work with items that I already have, and incorporate a few new things to make a cohesive look. For instance, in my office, I knew I already owned several yellow accessories, but I wanted to add a new element - and so decided to paint the room green; and my color palette was born.

I think the easiest way to pick color is to find something you love such as a pillow or piece of art, and build the room around those colors. Here are a few examples:


Poster: "Canal Street, New Orleans" by Matte Stephens

Here's a room with a similar color scheme.



Pillow: DwellStudio Sevilla Pillow


Jonathan Adler


Amanda Nisbet

Obviously color inspiration can come from anywhere, not just items that are already room decor. Like this stationary for instance.

Stationary: Mae Mae Paperie




House Beautiful