BEYOND
BEIGE
BY AMY RIKHOFF
BREAKING FREE FROM DESIGN BOUNDARIES BY AMY RIKHOFF
A
n aspect of interior color schemes that has always interested me is the prevalence of white ceilings and the extended length of time for which this trend has persisted as an interior staple. Despite interior design trends evolving over time, many people still seem dedicated to white ceilings as an unspoken rule, or perhaps as an easy choice for novice decorators when selecting a color scheme for living spaces. Are we collectively keeping our ceilings white because “that’s how it has always been?” Do we still believe in time-old design myths, like the idea that darker colors make spaces feel confined, or that decorating exclusively with light colors gives the illusion of spaciousness? What about the stigma that bright, colorful walls are tacky? Or that kitchen cabinets must be painted a standard white, gray, or brown? To the surprise of most, these age-old design tales are actually false. Your living space should be exactly that – yours. It’s time to break free from color constraints set by society, and realize that selecting an interior color scheme is a personal choice not to be dictated by anyone other than those enjoying the space.
ing desires into your living space is definitely a boost of confidence. However, repainting can certainly be a life-interrupting event. Nobody wants to go through the effort of preparing their home for repainting their walls, cabinets, or doors if it is not deemed necessary, even if the current colors are not exactly harmonious with the intended vision. Though, I believe – and I assume many can agree – that after spending extended periods of time in our homes over the past few years, the spaces in which we live should be tranquil and enjoyable, with colors, softness, and warmth encouraging a productive space to live, work, run a business, or teach classes via
If you’re like most homeowners, you probably ask your friends and neighbors where they got their white and gray veined countertops, or what shade of white they chose for their foyer. While you may love those color selections in their houses, not everyone’s houses are meant to look identical. Is their neutral color scheme really what will make your home uniquely you? Are modern design trends what truly make you thrive in your surroundings? While good for them, I personally do not believe that the colors your best friend or your neighbor choose for their homes are necessarily fit for you and your family. The best route you can take is to formulate a space for the needs of your own situation; pick colors you actually like, not colors that fit the mold of today’s design fads. Feeling motivated to grab a paint can, roller, and brush, and get to work reinvigorating your living space to fit the color design of your own preference? I totally get it! Finally pouring your own decorat38
CIRCA Magazine
| January • February • March 2022
|
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