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Guidelines to consider in picking the colours for interior spaces

MARTIN Cohen says that besides the decorative function of colour in a given space, the main function of the element is to create a mood.

MARTIN Cohen says that besides the decorative function of colour in a given space, the main function of the element is to create a mood.

"Ask yourself whether the colour you are inclined to use in a specific area is suitable for the mood you want to arouse," he suggests.

The size of the room and the type of natural and-or artificial lighting also play a pivotal role.

"It is well-known that small spaces with inadequate lighting do not benefit from dark and intense colours because they make a small room look even smaller."

Cohen says that when it comes to lighting one should bear in mind that the colour choices for your home are often viewed under store lighting, which is not the same as that of your home.

"It is for this reason that a brush out sample of a selected colour is always recommended before one purchases the full quantity of paint for use in a designated space," Cohen says.

The architectural style of the area in question should always be considered, he says.

"Ask yourself whether or not there are any architectural features of interest, such as pillars, columns or an antique fireplace worthy of accentuating in an accent colour," Cohen says.

"Only attractive features deserve highlighting. But ensure that the accent colour always compliments and is in harmony with the rest of the space," he says.

The overall success of the aesthetic appeal of any design space that is decorated lies in how well the colours harmonise within the scheme.

"It is essential to look at the colours of existing fixed fittings and furnishings in the room. These include, but are not limited to, the colours of the flooring material, cabinets, built-in cupboards, natural stone finishes, curtaining and so on. Ensure that your paint colour blends in well with these elements and look attractive when viewed in ensemble," Cohen says.

For walls that have been painted before in dark, bold and intense colours that need a light colour make-over, ensure that priming is undertaken in a white to light-grey undercoat. This ensures that the new top coats of the colour applied are as close as possible to the original colour or colours selected for the room that is painted.

Finally, ensure that the surfaces are well prepared before applying the chosen colour. Uneven, cracked and defective walls cast shadow effects and will consequently affect the appearance of the colour.

A professional applicator is always preferable, bearing in mind that painting is a specialised skill requiring exceptional workmanship abilities.

Panache's Paint Contractors are available to supply this service at your discretion for a hassle free and professional paint finish.

The Panache Colour Studio display stands boast a large selection of colours to choose from for your home's paint and colour make-over.

The display stand, with a wide array of their paint products, is available exclusively at all Jack's Paints and Hardware stores nationwide.

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