The Five Best Places in Your Home for a Pop of Color

July 16, 2010

If you're looking for a simple way to transform an area of your home from blah to brilliant, paint is often the most effective and easiest way to achieve your goal. An unexpected splash of color is often the perfect statement. Color can convey almost any mood, be it dramatic or cheerful. Make good use of leftover paint (which has a limited shelf life) or purchase a sample size for less than ten dollars. Then get to work trying out some of these bright ideas.

Paint a Bookcase Backsplash

A plain bookcase can make more of a statement simply by painting the back panel, meaning the back wall of the bookcase that is visible behind the books. To do this, remove the books from your bookcase, use tape to mark the borders, and apply two coats of paint. You may be surprised what a transformative effect this small change can make.

Make Pocket Doors Pop

The perfect place for a burst of color, pocket doors (a.k.a. sliding doors) can recede into the wall anytime you like, but when the door is closed, reveal a brilliant accent color that wows the room. Depending on the color scheme of the rest of the room, you can go a little wild with the color you choose for this very small space. Think hot pink, bright yellow, or any other color you've been afraid to try out elsewhere.

Create a Colorful Entryway

The entryway of a home is usually a well-trafficked area, often serving as a "landing strip" for the household. This area should be organized and functional, but it can also be fun. A playful color here can lift your spirits when leaving or entering the home.

Design an Alluring Accent Wall

Letting one wall of a room make more of a statement can be a smart way to offset an otherwise neutral space. If there is a room of your home that feels almost institutional in it's lack of color, painting an accent wall may be the perfect remedy. If you're at a loss when deciding on a color, you can always choose a color that accents a painting or piece of furniture that you'd like to draw attention to.

Reinvent an Old Piece of Furniture

Take a neglected wooden chair or dresser and give it a colorful makeover. In an all-white room, a small piece of colorful furniture can make a dramatic statement. You can also paint with a color scheme in mind, creating the perfect accent piece for any room in your home.

Use your imagination and let color transform your home for the better.