The exterior of your home is the first thing people see when they visit or pass by. It’s your home’s curb appeal and can make a lasting impression on guests and potential buyers. Choosing the right exterior house colour scheme is crucial to create a welcoming and attractive look that reflects your style.
Many factors must be considered when choosing the perfect colour scheme for your home’s exterior. The architecture of your home, the surrounding environment, and even the style and colours of neighbouring homes can all influence your decision.
Additionally, the colour of your home’s exterior can affect its resale value and the overall perception of your neighbourhood. With so much riding on your choice of exterior colour scheme, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of outdoor paint colours. In this blog, we’ll cover everything from the basics of colour theory to the latest trends in exterior home design.
Whether you’re planning to sell your home or simply want to refresh its look, choosing the right exterior house colour scheme can make all the difference. So sit back, grab a coffee, and explore the wonderful world of exterior home design together.
Designing with Colour Theory
Colour theory is the study of how colours work together. It helps to understand the relationship between different colours and their emotional and psychological impact. There are three primary colour schemes: monochromatic, complementary, and analogous.
- Monochromatic colour schemes involve using different shades and tints of the same colour. They create a harmonious and cohesive look.
- Complementary colour schemes involve using two colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel. They create a bold and contrasting look.
- Analogous colour schemes involve using colours next to each other on the colour wheel. They create a soothing and harmonious look.
For example, a grey and navy colour scheme is a classic and timeless choice for exteriors!\\\\ Gray is the primary colour, while navy is used as an accent on shutters, doors, and trim. This colour scheme works well with Colonial or Cape Cod homes.
Design with Colour Families
Colour families are groups of colours that share similar qualities, such as warmth, coolness, or neutrality. The most common colour families for exterior house colours include:
- Neutrals – These include shades of white, beige, and grey. Neutral colours are timeless and versatile, making them popular for exteriors.
- Earth Tones – These include shades of brown, green, and tan. Earth tones are great for homes with natural surroundings.
- Pastels – These include shades of blue, pink, and yellow. Pastels are ideal for creating a beachy or cottage-like feel.
- Bold Colours – These include shades of red, blue, and green. Bold colours are perfect for making a statement and standing out.
Designing with Different Finishes
The finish of your exterior paint can also affect the overall look of your home. Some popular finishes for exterior paint include:
- Flat or Matte – These finishes have a low shine and create a smooth and even appearance.
- Satin – This finish has a subtle shine and is easy to clean. It’s a popular choice for doors and trims.
- Semi-Gloss – This finish has a higher shine and is highly durable. It’s a popular choice for exteriors that need to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Designing with Accent Colours
Accent colours are a great way to add depth and interest to your home’s exterior. Some popular accent colours include:
- White – White is a classic choice for accenting windows, doors, and trim.
- Black – This is a popular choice for accenting shutters and doors.
- Metallics – These include shades of silver and gold and are a great choice for accenting hardware and fixtures.
Designing Using Popular Trends
If you are looking to give your house some grit, you could opt for some popular trends to get your house looking fresh out of the Pinterest boards! Some popular trends in exterior house colour schemes include:
Dark and Moody Colors
Dark colours like black, navy, and charcoal grey are becoming more popular for exteriors. They create a sophisticated and dramatic look.
Modern Neutrals
Neutral colours like taupe, greige, and mushroom are popular choices for modern homes. They create a clean and contemporary look.
Bold Accents
Bold accent colours like red, yellow, and blue are becoming more popular for exteriors. They add a pop of colour and make a statement.
For instance, a red-and-white scheme creates a bold and striking look. Red is the primary colour, while white is used as an accent on shutters, doors, and trim. This colour scheme is a popular choice for homes with a traditional or colonial style.
