Choosing colours for your space can be both exciting and overwhelming. The colours you surround yourself with affect your mood, energy levels, and the way your home feels to others. Whether you’re updating a single room or giving your entire space a fresh new look, selecting the right colour palette can completely transform your living environment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of selecting a cohesive and beautiful colour palette that suits your taste, complements your space, and stands the test of time.

 

1. Start with Inspiration

Every great colour scheme begins with inspiration. This can come from:

• A piece of art you love
• A favourite rug or piece of furniture
• A destination or landscape that inspires you
• Pinterest boards, interior design magazines, or show homes

Once you find something that speaks to you, extract the core colours that stand out. That becomes the foundation of your colour palette.

 

2. Understand the Mood You Want to Create

Colours influence emotions. Before you choose specific tones, ask yourself what kind of feeling you want each room to evoke.

• Relaxation – go with soft blues, greens, greys, and neutrals.
• Energy and creativity – consider bold colours like reds, yellows, or orange accents.
• Sophistication and elegance – lean into muted tones like charcoal, navy, taupe, or jewel tones.
• Fresh and modern – whites, creams, beiges, and light woods work well.

Each room can have a slightly different mood, as long as the transitions between spaces feel natural.

 

3. Work With the Lighting in Your Space

Lighting dramatically affects how colours look in your home. A colour that looks great in the store or in photos may feel totally different in your space.

• Natural light makes most colours look brighter and more accurate.
• North-facing rooms tend to bring out cooler tones.
• South-facing rooms make colours appear warmer and richer.
• Artificial lighting (LEDs, warm white bulbs, etc.) can alter the tone of a colour in subtle ways.

Tip: Always test paint samples on your walls and view them at different times of the day before making a final decision.

 

4. Choose a Base Colour

Your base or anchor colour is usually the most dominant colour in your palette. It could be:

• A neutral like white, beige, grey, or greige
• A soft pastel for a more playful or feminine vibe
• A darker tone for a dramatic, moody aesthetic

This base colour should be something you’re comfortable living with long-term, as it often covers large wall areas or furniture.

 

5. Add Complementary and Accent Colours

Once your base is chosen, select 2–3 complementary or accent colours that work with it. These could be used for:

• Trim and doors
• Feature walls
• Cushions, throws, and other soft furnishings
• Artwork and decor
• Rugs and accessories

Popular colour pairings:

• Navy + white + brass
• Sage green + blush + matte black
• Warm beige + terracotta + cream
• Light grey + mustard + charcoal
• Dusty pink + olive + gold

A good rule of thumb is the 60-30-10 rule:

• 60% base colour (walls, main furniture)
• 30% secondary colour (textiles, curtains, side chairs)
• 10% accent (art, pillows, decor)

 

6. Don’t Forget About Flow Between Rooms

Especially in open-plan homes, colour continuity is important. Rooms that are visible from each other should share at least one common colour to create a cohesive look.

That doesn’t mean every room needs to be identical. Instead, try using the same base with varying accent colours, or keep a consistent undertone (like warm or cool) throughout.

 

7. Sample Before You Commit

Paint stores now offer affordable sample pots for a reason testing is everything. Try switching your top contenders:

• On each wall (light hits differently)
• Next to furniture and flooring
• In natural and artificial lighting

Live with it for a few days. The right colour will grow on you.

 

8. Don’t Rely on Trends Alone

Trends come and go. While it’s tempting to chase what’s hot on social media, timelessness should guide your decision. Choose colours that reflect your personality and lifestyle rather than what’s currently popular.

If you want to dabble in trends, introduce them through smaller, easily changeable items like cushions, artwork, or accessories.

 

9. Ask for a Second Opinion

Sometimes you’re too close to the decision. Ask a trusted friend, interior designer, or colour consultant for their take. A fresh perspective may confirm your gut feeling or help you spot a mismatch you hadn’t considered.

 

10. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust yourself. You’re the one living in your home every day your colours should bring you joy. If you love it, it works.

 

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right colour palette isn’t about following rigid rules, it’s about creating a space that feels like home to you. By considering lighting, mood, flow, and balance, you can craft a look that feels both intentional and inspiring.

Need help planning your next interior update? Reach out to a design professional or renovation Auckland based company who can guide you through the process with expert advice tailored to your space.