set the tone

HOW TO INCORPORATE WARM AND COOL COLOUR PALETTES IN YOUR HOME

Styling Jessi Eve Interiors @jessi.eve, jessieve.com.au Words Hayley Griffiths @hayleyg.creative Images Louise Roche –The Design Villa, Amani Lindsell

When it comes to selecting hues for your space, it can sometimes feel overwhelming with so many options available. Industry professionals often think of the interior colour palette divided into two groups of colours. In simplified terms: reds, yellows, oranges, beige and creamy colours being warm, while blues, greens and greys are cool. Generally cooler hues have a blue base and warmer colours have a yellow base to them. Embrace these must-dos from interior stylist, Jessi Eve, to understand how to correctly use colour to enhance your own abode.

Firstly, it’s important to note that even if you’re not into bold, obvious warm or cool colours, both neutrals and whites are also warm or cool, according to their undertones. Depending on the application, keeping the undertones consistent and complementary will ensure a cohesive result every time. This applies holistically to your interior from paint to tiles, cabinetry, benchtops, fabrics, furniture and linen.

“You can mix cool and warm but it’s all about balance,” says Jessi Eve. “This could look like a coastal palette of cool greys, navy blue and white but paired with warm, natural tones, such as oak timber and tan leather. Or pairing a warm natural leather sofa with cool stainless steel legs and warm blush cushions with a grey terrazzo coffee table.” The selection of warm and cool hues should reflect your vision of the mood you wish to create in a space. Warmer undertones evoke a sense of energy and optimism, while cooler tones can feel more calming. Likewise, a space with warmer tones may feel inviting and homely, alternatively cooler hues can help to make a space look minimal and clean. Jessi Eve suggests an easy and commitment-free way to incorporate colour into a space is by “utilising interchangeable elements such as artwork, cushions, accessories, rugs and furniture. These items can be easily swapped out to create a new look.” ¡

COOL

Cool colours in shades of green, blue and purple (with blue undertones) are said to have a calming effect, therefore are suitable in spaces like bedrooms where the aim is to relax and unwind. These colours give the impression that they are receding, which can make a space feel more open. Grey hues on the cooler side are also very versatile and can add depth to any room. It’s good to note that cool colours work well in rooms that get a lot of natural sunlight as they can help balance out the yellow tones in a space. When it comes to selecting finishes, Jessi Eve says,“chrome, stainless steel, gunmetal grey and brushed nickel are all cool in tone.”

WARM

The last few years has seen trends shift from predominantly cool-toned neutrals (like steely greys) to warm-toned neutrals (like earthy beiges).

“This shift was reinforced with the introduction of trending colours such as nude pink, burnt orange, terracotta, ochre, olive and khaki – all of which are warm in undertone,” says Jessi Eve.

It’s important to take into consideration the aspect of your space. Utilising warm colours in rooms that don’t get much sunlight works well to avoid a sterile, dark and cold environment. Another way to add warmth in a space is with finishes. For example, incorporating rose gold, copper, bronze or brass finishes in frames, hardware and lighting will create an uplifting feeling of warmth and brightness.