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We understand that the process of choosing the right color for your walls can be a tedious task. That’s why it is with total earnestness that we suggest something radical: It’s possible the best hue for your room isn’t a single one at all. Perhaps it’s time you try color-blocking.
It might sound intimidating to choose not just one but two—or even three or four—shades, but the results are worth it. Color-blocking can make your home feel fresh and vibrant on a tight budget (after all, the only thing you need is paint).
Here’s the thing: If you’re going to attempt this look, you might as well go all out, and that means getting creative with painter’s tape, framing your space in new ways, and, on occasion, throwing some abstract shapes into the mix. Take a look at the spaces currently inspiring us.
If You Want to Create a Perfect Corner
Go for an accent wall to create a designated nook for reading or just hanging out in an open-floor-plan space. Use painter’s tape to mark your design, and then fill it in with a bold color. It couldn’t be easier, as Remade With Love demonstrates here.
If You Need a Divide
Whether you’re creating the illusion of privacy for siblings who share a room or you simply want to section off a space, consider a half-and-half option, as seen in Paris’s Hotel Henriette. When picking two colors, opt for hues that have similar levels of brightness—two pastels make a strong pairing, as do two jewel tones.
If You Want to Hone In on the Right Focal Point
Why not paint an oval on your wall? As seen here in a design by Dutch brand Flexa, a bit of experimental color-blocking can be a great way to emphasize a special furnishing and add dimension to a room. The process is simple: All you need is some chalk, a homemade stencil, a paintbrush, and a steady hand.
If You Love a Good Sunset
Color-blocked walls don’t have to be all sharp edges. Côté Maison demonstrates just how magical a gradient look can be. If yellow is a bit too bold for your style, consider a soothing green or blue instead for seaside-inspired appeal.
If You Just Want to Dip Your Toes In
By using the same hue on the wainscoting and the floor (and leaving the upper half of the wall white), Paradiso Ibiza creates the illusion of lofty ceilings. Who wouldn’t want to slumber in this peach-tone bedroom?
If You’re Looking for the Right Highlight
Take a hue beyond a door’s perimeter for the ultimate eye-catching moment. Opt for a dramatic shade, as seen in this space by Tiptoe. Red, yellow, orange, pink, and even a particularly dynamic blue (Yves Klein, anyone?) will result in a serious statement.
If You’re Down to Get a Little Abstract
Take a cue from Cold Picnic and mirror an abstract motif on both the floor and the wall. Outline your shape using chalk or a pencil first, then very carefully trace it with a brush before filling it in.
If You Believe in Being Bold
An accent wall within an accent wall opens up the tiniest of rooms. For the interior paint color, Masque Spacio opted for a brighter hue—the contrast between light and dark will give the illusion of a larger space.
If You’re All About a Pastel Mondrian Moment
This wall by Murals Wallpaper is admittedly wallpapered, but that doesn’t mean you can’t DIY it with paint. Measure out your rectangles and use painter’s tape to ensure the lines are crisp. Psst: Remember to remove the tape when your last coat is still wet to prevent paint from sticking to it.
If You Want to Make a Good First Impression
Nothing stands out quite like a pink front door. Liz Kamarul helps hers stand out even more by extending the paint all the way onto her ceiling—which has the added benefit of making the room look way taller.
If You Just Can’t Get Enough Color
You don’t need to be an artist to paint your own mural—this DIY by Three Six Nine blogger Joy Lofton is proof. To figure out your color palette, cut chips into squares and test our different combinations.
See more paint inspiration: If You Want Your Home to Look Like a Charming Tuscan Villa, Do This These 3 Paint Tricks Will Make Your Small Space Look Bigger These 9 Bold Spaces Will Make You Want a Colorful Sink