Like orange, yellow provides energy. Neutral colors set into a color scheme support the major players. These colors white, black, brown, gray and gold provide contrast and rest for the eye . Each has its own specific attributes. White is very safe, says Barbara Buchanan , interior designer and instructor at Scottsdale Community College .
People feel they can t make a mistake.
To guide clients into color territory, Buchanan will often order an oversize chip of color from a paint supplier, tape the sample to the wall for at least three days, and wait for the response. Another way to do the same thing is to invest in a quart of color, remove art from the wall and paint swatches of color where the pictures were. Again, observe and make a decision based on what you have learned. Especially observe the color as the light changes throughout the day and into the evening, advises Buchanan. Everyone has different associations with color, she explains.