Brick - If you have a red brick home, think twice before choosing a red door or shutter. Brick comes in a variety of colors so keep that in mind. Some homes are mostly brick but others just have it on the foundation. So think contracting colors or blending.
Neighbors - What colors do your neighbors have? Do you want the same look or do you want to stand out? I tell my clients, if you hire a Color Specialist to choose color for your home, make the color unique to you, not the same as what your neighbors have.
Paint Chips - I think the #1 mistake people make when viewing color is the way they hold the paint chip. It's imperative that you hold the paint chips vertically, not horizointially. This goes for interior color too - hold the chip the way it will be applied on the surface. It makes a huge difference in how the light bounces off the chip. Try it, you'll see the difference.
Landscaping - Exterior color doesn't stop at your front door. Consider what color flowers, shrubbery and trees you have before deciding on any palette. Remember that plants and lighting change throughout the seasons. Keep in mind all those perennials. It's all part of the same picture!
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Lighting Fixtures - Who knew right? Don't forget your lighting fixtures also contain color. Is it brass? Silver? Black? This too is an element that sometimes gets overlooked.
Lighting - Do you live in a wooded lot? Direct sun? Very close to another home? All this effects how color is bouncing off your home. What season are you choosing your color in? Spring? Summer? Winter? Think ahead to how these colors will look throughout the year. Here's a good example of why exterior color should be chosen at the site not in an office. Sometimes you really have to be there!
Roofing - Although you may not see it that well or think it doesn't matter, roofing materials are available in tons of colors!
Moving? - Is there a move in the near future? If so, a light gray or beige home may be a safe choice. You may like purple and gold but the next homeowner may just say, “no way!”
The Back - Remember your home has a backside as well. The color considerations may be different because of lighting, trees, patio furniture etc. So don't forget to make sure your color choices work back there as well.
So much to consider when choosing color for the exterior of your home. Think about all of these tips before you make your final choice.
I was just in a new neighborhood and saw some horrible brick, stone, and paint combinations. It really helps to hire a professional here. Those are expensive mistakes!
ReplyDeleteI like the way you articulated holding the paint chip properly. I have been trying to figure out how to say that so people can visualize what I'm saying.
ReplyDeleteGreat post!
Maria
Super post, Donna. There are so many things to consider when choosing exterior colors. And mistakes are very costly!
ReplyDelete