How can you incorporate a client's brand colors without overwhelming the space?

1 Use the 60-30-10 rule

The 60-30-10 rule is a classic guideline for choosing and applying colors in interior design. It suggests that you use three colors in different proportions: 60% for the dominant color, 30% for the secondary color, and 10% for the accent color. The dominant color should be a neutral or muted tone that covers most of the walls, floors, and furniture. The secondary color should be a contrasting or complementary hue that adds some interest and variety to the space. The accent color should be a bright or bold shade that pops out and draws attention to certain features or details. You can use your client's brand colors as the secondary or accent colors, depending on how much impact you want them to have.

3 Use color psychology

Color psychology is the study of how colors affect human behavior and emotions. Different colors can have different meanings and associations, depending on the culture, context, and personal preference of the people. For example, red can signify passion, energy, or danger, while blue can evoke calmness, trust, or sadness. You can use color psychology to incorporate your client's brand colors in a way that matches their goals and target audience. For instance, if your client wants to create a relaxing and soothing environment for their customers, you can use their brand colors as accents or accessories in a predominantly blue or green space. If your client wants to stimulate and motivate their employees, you can use their brand colors as secondary or dominant colors in a mostly yellow or orange space.

4 Consider the lighting

Lighting is another important factor that can affect how colors look and feel in a space. Different types of lighting can have different effects on the color temperature, brightness, and contrast of the space. For example, natural light can make colors look more vivid and realistic, while artificial light can make colors look more dull or distorted. You can consider the lighting when incorporating your client's brand colors, and adjust them accordingly. For instance, if your client's brand colors are warm and vibrant, you can use them in a space that receives plenty of natural light or has warm-toned artificial light. If your client's brand colors are cool and subdued, you can use them in a space that has less natural light or has cool-toned artificial light.

5 Mix and match patterns and textures

Patterns and textures can add some depth and dimension to a space, and make it more visually interesting and dynamic. You can mix and match patterns and textures that incorporate your client's brand colors, and create a cohesive and stylish look. However, you need to be careful not to overdo it, as too many patterns and textures can make the space look busy and chaotic. You can follow some basic rules to avoid this, such as: use patterns and textures that have similar colors, scales, or themes; limit the number of patterns and textures to three or four; balance the patterns and textures with solid colors and simple shapes; and distribute the patterns and textures evenly throughout the space.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?