When starting with a blank space how do we decide on colour? There are so many great fabrics and patterns available to us now that sometimes I let the fabrics decide for me. Naturally, I always consider my clients' wishes for colours to stay away from and colours they'd love to see but there can be so many shades and tones that it may not be enough to narrow down the selections.
I like to start with one base colour, example, blue. From here I start pulling fabric books from various suppliers showing a variety of patterned fabrics with blue tones. From these I pull out all the ones I like. You will need a nice large surface to spread out on. Then I start to narrow down the selections and weed out the less favourite. This could take some time. Once I have them laid out I start to build the palette. This means pulling colours out of the fabrics that I can build upon. It also means finding complimentary colours. They could be strong or subtle depending on how bright I want your palette to be.
A work in progress.
Once I've got your fabrics selected I lay them out and see how nicely they come together. I can then make decisions on where they will be used. Although I tend to know what texture of fabric I intend to use for certain applications before I start this process, this allows me to explore other options and also come up with a colour scheme that can be implemented throughout a space and built upon when needed. I also have additional fabrics should the need arise for other pieces. These fabrics will drive many other decisions. They will help with paint selections, wallpaper selections, and furniture selections.
It all comes together
Now that I've got my fabric selections together I can get a feel for how the room or space will play out and take shape. Remember to always consider different textures, colours, and patterns. There are so many beautiful fabrics to choose from and many different suppliers. Some of the fabrics featured in the pictures above are from Avant Garde, Kravet, JF Fabrics and Maxwell. If you're not sure where to start with your own space drop in on any of the supplier showrooms. You will be amazed at the looks you can create.
