Complementary Colors

"Complementary colors, when used in a color scheme, will emanate energy and optimism."

Using complementary colors for color schemes can be challenging, but nevertheless rewarding in the end!

They are perfect way to create a fresh, contemporary decor!

Decor with Complementary Color Schemes

Some examples of complimentary colors are: yellow and violet, red and green, orange and blue.
You can notice that one color is warm - yellow, orange, red, while the other is a cold color - violet, green, blue.

Balancing the colors in complementary scheme decor is important: use one dominant color; for example, you can use on the walls a warm terracotta; complement it with a sofa or a lamp in a sage green. That will create a dramatic affect. Use light color accents of a warm cream, or butter for an artwork or a vase.

The same with related color scheme, the complementary one has to be carefully chosen and include some neutrals in it to soften the contrast between the complementary tones. Decide if you want to have an overall light or dark tone, then choose accent colors opposite in tone. For example, a light complementary scheme is created by using a warm peach and enhance it with dark cool blues.

TIP:If you think of this combination as a too strong of a statement, paint one wall in red, and the others using its complementary: green.
This kind of bold scheme works well especially in a foyer, or an entry.