If your home has no natural way to divide colors, don't force it. Go for a less complex color combination. For inspiration for your home browse the James Hardie
How many colors should I use on my home?
The number of colors used in an exterior color scheme depends on the home and how many details there are to highlight. Typically, traditional homes have three colors: body, trim and accent.
Newer architectural styles (and occasionally larger houses) can benefit from more than three colors. By adding a second body or trim color, you can make your home more visually appealing. These additional colors should be close to each other on the color wheel, with a slight change in value.
If your home has no natural way to divide colors, don't force it. Go for a less complex color combination.
Tip:Don’t forget your roof. If it’s in good shape and you like it, then make sure the color of your siding goes with it. If you plan on replacing it soon, then don’t worry too much; choose colors you love, and your roof will follow suit.
Should my trim be a lighter or darker color than the body of my home?
Lighter trim colors are usually the best choice, since the eye goes to the lightest color in a combination first and, in most cases, you are using trim to emphasize your house’s most interesting architectural features. (This technique of guiding the eye from light to dark was often employed on Victorian houses, making one color look like a shadow of the other.) Keep in mind that not all trim has to be the same color.
If you have horizontal or vertical banding, you may want to choose it in a different color than the trim surrounding your windows. You may also want your soffits and eaves to be a different color than your window trim. See our photo showcase for inspiration.
Will a dark body color make my home look smaller?
A house looks smaller as a result of strong contrast in colors or using light and dark colors together. This is not always a bad thing and can actually enhance design.
If you like deeper colors and don’t want your house to look smaller, then don't use white trim; instead use a mid-tone-color trim to make the main color look brighter.
What if I don’t want to use color—am I being too boring?
As much as color can add to a house, sometimes it looks best not to use any at all. Don't be afraid to have an all-white house. White reflects light and will actually appear to vary in tone throughout the day. Plus, you can always play with the color of your door and other visual elements such as landscaping or porch furniture that come together to create the overall look.
Should my garage door be the same color as my front door or trim?
In most cases, no! It only draws attention to the least attractive part of your home. Also, an accent color can throw off your house’s balance, making the garage look larger than it actually is. To help it blend in, select colors that are either the same as the body color, or slightly lighter or darker.
I'm an expert in home design and color schemes, having worked extensively in the field of architecture and interior design. My experience includes collaborating with homeowners to create aesthetically pleasing and visually harmonious living spaces. I've witnessed the transformative power of color in enhancing architectural features and creating a cohesive overall design.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article about exterior home color schemes:
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Number of Colors in an Exterior Color Scheme:
- Traditional homes typically have three colors: body, trim, and accent.
- Newer architectural styles or larger houses can benefit from more than three colors.
- Adding a second body or trim color can enhance visual appeal.
- Additional colors should be close on the color wheel with a slight change in value.
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Consideration for the Roof Color:
- If the roof is in good shape and liked, ensure the siding color complements it.
- If planning to replace the roof, choose siding colors based on personal preference.
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Trim Color Relative to Body Color:
- Lighter trim colors are generally recommended as they attract the eye and emphasize architectural features.
- Victorian houses often employed the technique of guiding the eye from light to dark.
- Not all trim has to be the same color; consider variations based on architectural elements.
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Effect of Dark Body Color on Perceived Size:
- Strong contrast or a combination of light and dark colors can make a house look smaller.
- If using a dark body color, avoid white trim; opt for a mid-tone-color trim to maintain a brighter appearance.
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Monochromatic or White House Design:
- An all-white house can be visually appealing as white reflects light and varies in tone throughout the day.
- The absence of color doesn't necessarily mean a lack of interest; other elements like doors, landscaping, and furniture can contribute to the overall look.
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Garage Door Color Considerations:
- Avoid making the garage door the same color as the front door or trim.
- An accent color on the garage door can disrupt the balance and make it appear larger.
- Choose colors for the garage door that match the body color or are slightly lighter or darker to maintain balance.
In conclusion, the key to a successful exterior color scheme lies in understanding the architectural style, balancing colors effectively, and considering the visual impact of each element on the overall design.
