Beige, or other neutral colours, aren't your only options when you are looking to pair with bolder hues. Pick other colours using the colour wheel and classic colour schemes: monochromatic, analogous and complementary. Paint and colour expert, Dulux, shares with us some tips, using the colour red as an example.
Monochromatic
Monochromatic Unity
With a monochromatic colour scheme, you stay within the realm of a single colour. But that doesn’t mean you are bound to a single hue. In this case, pink – a lighter hue of red – matches well. Experiment with differences in saturation and brightness of the colour to vary the monochromatic scheme. This technique is easy on the eye, and adds more depth to the wall as compared to a solid colour.
(Use the colour red to energise your kitchen, study, and even the bathroom. Expert tips here!)
Complementary
Complementary Contrast
A complementary or contrasting colour scheme consists of two colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel. This works especially well when you’re looking to juxtapose a warm colour with a cool colour. Red, for example, is positioned opposite of green on the colour wheel. Go for high-octane shades of both colours for a provocative visual feature, or pick the muted shades for a more sophisticated interpretation.
Analagous
Analogous Harmony
The analogous or harmonising colour scheme consists of three colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel, such as the shades between red and orange, or red and blue. Use one as the dominant colour, and the others to enrich the palette. This method is not only useful for picking wall colours, but can be extended to the rest of the home. For example, navy blue and honey-coloured home accessories would pair nicely with deep mahogany surfaces.