Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Color
Color consultants share some of their expertise
By Polina Olsen for The Beaverton Valley Times, Oct 13, 2011

Mary McMurray of Art First Colors, who designed this living room, compares color to music.

From warm and cozy to cool and calm, color makes or breaks the place we live. Imagine a crisp autumn morning or a bright summer day, then drain the color and feel the mood change. But, can you bring those feelings inside the home using color to create light, mood and space?

We spoke to Mary McMurray of Art First Colors, 503-287-4354 www.artfirst.net. She began her career as an interior designer for architects.

“I started to research the effect color has on people physically and psychologically,” she said. “I’ve done color for everything from cathedrals to mobile homes."

McMurray compares color to music since both create mood. And, she notes people use the word ‘taste’ for both color and food. She cautions clients to keep an open mind.

“Often people are surprised to find colors they like,” she said. “I hear people say, ‘I never would have thought of that color.’ The room tells you what looks right. You may think you don’t like red but there might be a coral or pink. That’s the process of discovery."

She also warns clients not to choose house colors based on their wardrobe. What looks good on your skin may not look good in your home. “And, don’t copy a paint color you like in someone else’s home without trying out a large sample in your space,” she said. “Every color looks different in every room.”

© 2011 Pamplin Media Group, Portland, OR