Decorating with Gold: A Comprehensive Guide to Color Pairing
Gold is undoubtedly a popular choice in interior design today. From gilded mirrors to vintage frames, this metallic hue adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space. However, incorporating gold into your decor can be a daunting task. You don’t want your home to resemble a Gilded Era mansion or a New Year’s Eve party. So, how do you decorate with gold without going overboard? Let’s explore six colors that complement gold and how to pair them effectively.
Understanding Color Theory
Before we delve into the color pairings, it’s essential to understand the basics of color theory. Gold is a metallic shade that falls between yellow and orange on the color wheel. When it comes to pairing colors with gold, you can look to complementary and analogous colors for inspiration.
- Complementary Colors: Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel.
- Analogous Colors: Colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel.
Now, let’s explore six colors that beautifully complement gold in interior design.
Colors That Are Complementary with Gold
1. Shades of Purple
While purple is typically considered a cool-toned color, certain shades of purple with warm undertones can harmonize beautifully with gold. Plum purple, for example, contains warm hues that complement the richness of gold. Whether you opt for a traditional plum or a contemporary violet-blue, pairing these shades with gold can create a timeless or modern aesthetic.
2. Shades of Blue
Blue, as the complementary color to orange on the color wheel, pairs effortlessly with the orange tones in gold. Consider incorporating shades of blue with hints of green, such as turquoise or aqua blue, to enhance the contrast with gold. From powder blue walls with gold accents to deep navy hues, blue can create a serene or bold look when paired with gold.
Colors That Are Analogous with Gold
1. Shades of Red
Red and gold make a striking pair when combined thoughtfully. Opt for earth-toned reds or muted shades with hints of burnt orange to achieve a sophisticated and cohesive look. Whether you’re adding red accents to a kitchen or a living room, the combination of red and gold can add warmth and elegance to any space.
2. Shades of Green
Green, as the analogous color to red and gold, offers a versatile and classic pairing with gold accents. Whether you prefer forest green, emerald green, olive green, or sea foam green, these shades harmonize effortlessly with gold. Green also complements various decorating styles, from grandmillennial to cottagecore, making it a timeless choice for incorporating gold into your decor.
Neutrals That Work with Gold
1. Black Anchors Gold
If you find that your space is becoming overwhelmed with gold accents, incorporating black as a dark neutral can help balance the overall look. Black cast iron provides a sophisticated contrast to gold, especially when you want to avoid mixing different metallic finishes like gold and silver.
2. White Makes a Clean Canvas for Gold
When you want to highlight your gold accents, white serves as an excellent backdrop to make them shine. Opt for white paint with a high light reflectance value (LRV) to maximize the luminosity of your gold decor. Colors like Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace, with an LRV of about 90, can enhance the brilliance of gold accents in any room.
Tips for Adding Gold Accessories to a Room
Adding gold accessories to your space can elevate the overall aesthetic and add a touch of elegance. Here are some tips for incorporating gold into your decor seamlessly:
- Experiment with different gold finishes, such as antique, polished brass, or plated gold, to find the right balance of shine and sophistication.
- Mix ornate gold pieces with simpler, geometric designs to create a harmonious and balanced look in your space.
- Don’t fret over the distinction between brass and gold finishes, as both can complement each other beautifully in interior design.
In conclusion, decorating with gold can be a rewarding experience when paired with the right colors and accessories. By understanding color theory and exploring complementary and analogous colors, you can create a visually stunning and cohesive look in your home. Whether you prefer classic pairings like purple and gold or bold combinations like red and gold, the options are endless when it comes to incorporating this luxurious metallic hue into your decor. So, go ahead and experiment with different color combinations to bring a touch of glamour and sophistication to your space with gold accents!
