Timothy E. Lockhart - HOME IMPROVEMENTS THAT IMPROVE VALUES

colors, as long as you’re willing to keep it clean. • Red and Orange: These colors are a bit of a gamble when it comes to finding neutral hues. A soft red or orange works well for kitchens or dining rooms, where they exude a natural warmth and a vibrant, festive atmosphere. However, a dark red or orange can seem too serious for rooms. • Blue: For many people, light shades of blue have a soothing, tranquil effect. Blues should be reserved for master bedrooms, bathrooms, or rooms with lots of natural light, as these conjure subconscious feelings of the beach or a pleasant vacation in one’s memory. Dark blues can have a stern, ominous effect, like storm clouds or night time, and should only be used with caution where there is plenty of light or where that atmosphere is not at odds with a room’s obvious purpose (e.g. a study). • Brown: Brown and its variants are excellent colors to choose for your home. From dark earthy browns to the ever-present beige, brown is a versatile hue that is a great replacement for places where white would seem like an obvious choice. Dark browns give off a cozy feel that can keep a room from feeling too big, but be careful not to overdo it, as home buyers may make a snap judgment that the size of the room seems too small. Once you’ve chosen which neutral colors best suit your home, don’t forget that adding a splash of color can bring a room to life. A light blue room with a splash of orange can open it up and play on the contrasts. Try to keep the color ratio at a maximum of 80% neutral, 20% others to avoid having colors clash.

Craftsmanship

27

Powered by