Colour Stories
Does your home feel dark and confining? Read on for some colour tricks to make it look bright and spacious.
Living spaces with poor illumination are not hopeless design cases as you would believe. If you are tasked with making dark, dreary rooms in your house look cheerful and upbeat, fret not. It is easy to brighten things up with a few tricks, even if there is very little natural light.
Lavender
If you are not the adventurous type, you can play it safe with this gorgeous shade for your living room walls. The warm tone of lavender makes it ideal for small spaces. Plus, this colour has so many shades and bases that it can elevate the space instantly by bouncing off the natural light, creating an illusion of space.
Yellow
When you have a small bedroom or bathroom with a single window or small windows, a bright yellow can recreate the natural light for you and brighten up the space. It is the perfect pick for any dark room to give it dimension and personality. In fact, yellow and white together make a good colour combination. You can go with yellow walls with white trim for an inviting look in an otherwise dark space.
Bright Orange
When we say bright orange, we don’t mean neon orange. A nice tone of apricot or a pumpkin spice can add the much-needed light in the room, especially small dining rooms and kitchens. You can even opt for a shade of orange to brighten up a small bathroom or laundry area.
Go beyond the walls. Don’t forget to work the ceilings while you are painting your four walls. In large low-lit areas, it is wise to put focus on the ceilings. You can try a lovely light shade of blue for the ceilings.
Also, remember to sample and test a few colours before you make a final decision, and to look at the paint sample in all types of light and at various times of the day so that you can see all the variations that it will create. You can create the perfect look if you keep these things in mind while going ahead with the painting.
Hope you find some inspiration and ideas for your home through this article. All the best!
Colour Trivia
Colour Facts For August 2020
- The property of colour is something most people tend to take for granted when photographing the world around us. We expect our cameras to depict the visible light spectrum accurately. In a world so engrossed with colour, we sometimes forget how long it took to get to this point in time. For many photographers and scientists, this concept was merely a distant dream. Next time you capture a stunning photograph of a vivid evening sky or notice the intricate pattern on a bird or animal captured in a picture, don’t forget to thank the developments in colour photography that have followed to this day.
- If you are deciding on a colour combination for your brand book, ensure that the colour palette includes shades that are contrasting. A strong palette includes a balanced mix of light, medium and dark tones, regardless of whether it is a monochromatic, analogous or complementary colour scheme. Make adjustments to your palette and use an array of light and dark tones that not only add contrast but also give you more versatility when you implement your brand into your website, packaging and collateral items.
- Love sporting shockingly bright polish on your nails? You might be surprised to learn that neon nail polish is actually illegal in the US. If your nail polish is labeled as “Neon”, it is most likely imported or not made with neon colourants. Wonder why? Well, the colours aren’t illegal to wear, they just have never been registered with the FDA. All nail polish colourants have to be registered with the FDA before production, but no one has ever submitted neon colours.
Colour Quotes For August 2020
Color is my day-long obsession, joy and torment.
- Claude Monet
Be uniquely you. Stand out. Shine. Be colorful. The world needs your prismatic soul
- Amy Leigh Mercree
If you could say it in words there would be no reason to paint.
- Edward Hopper
Colour Tips For August 2020
- The artwork on your home walls is one of the most defining characteristics in your design style. If you are thinking of getting your home walls painted, draw inspiration from the art you have or plan to have in the house. Use a contrasting shade to help the artwork stand out. For example, if the most prominent colour in the artwork is red, you can choose green for the wall as a complementary colour; a deep moss green or pale gray-green will balance the brightness of the art and make it statement-worthy. The trick lies in opting for complementary or analogous paint colours instead of monotone colours so that the artwork does not disappear against the wall.
- Choosing a paint colour for your home walls can be easier with the help of Berger Colour Visualizer App. You can play around with colours, textures, designer finishes, glass and wood finishes and create the perfect colour combination for wall painting. If you are looking for some inspiration, you can choose from multiple prefixed templates and experiment with hundreds of colour options available for your dream home. If you are confused about the colour options available, you can save and share the look with your friends and family virtually to help make up your mind. Choosing paint colours for your home walls was never this easy and fun! The app is available to download on Google Play Store.
- Putting off waterproofing can be one of the most expensive mistakes homeowners make. This allows dampness and leakage to cause more damage, which could also lead to leakage through your home’s foundation and bigger problems. The best time to get home waterproofing is before the damage occurs. Thinking about this early can help save a lot of headaches and money in the future. If you notice your walls show any sign of damage, including peeling paint and slight dampness, get in touch with reliable and professional waterproofing services like Berger Homeshield Waterproofing experts right away!
World Of Colours
Colours & Emotion For August 2020
- With hair salons shut, people have resorted to chopping their long locks with craft scissors or dyeing their hair in a fun colour like blue, pink or brown with box dye. Browse social media platforms and you will see thousands of those practising social distancing flaunting fun hair makeovers. Wondering why? According to psychologists, going for a change such as a hair cut can make one feel good. It can serve as an emotional outlet and give one a sense of accomplishment in these weeks of isolation. So if you are thinking of giving your hair a new ‘do during the quarantine period, go ahead and experiment!
Colours have the power to distract a child or enhance a child's learning potential. It has been observed that young kids love bright colours while middle school children love greens and blues. High school students are seen to prefer dark colours like dark green, violet and navy blue.
With schools taking online classes for children owing to the pandemic, it is a good idea to paint their rooms in colours like blue, red or yellow to enhance their productivity, stimulate brain activity and unleash their creativity.
Colours & Fashion For August 2020
Do you have a job interview from home? While deciding on what to wear, it is a good idea to go with solid colours over fine patterns like stripes, polka dots, or gingham. Patterns can be distracting on camera, especially when the interviewer can only see you from the chest up. Many shades of blue like sky blue, royal or navy blue look great on video but steer clear of yellow, orange, pink and red as they can be quite distracting. Make sure the background of your interview is not too jarring either. Choose a backdrop with wall paint in a soothing shade and you are ready to impress!
Colours & Gems For August 2020
- Mother of Pearl
The object in the picture is called Mother of pearl, also known as "MOP.” It is the thin inner nacreous layer of a mollusk shell. It can be white, cream, or grey with a beautiful iridescent play-of-colour. It is considered a protection stone and is believed to bring the gentle healing power of the sea. It is known to be a stress-relieving stone, helping soothe human emotions. If you love the lustre of this gemstone, you can give a stylish pearl-like finish to your precious walls with a wall colour in a cream or a beige shade. - Celestite
This lovely blue crystal that you are looking at is called Celestite. The meaning of its name comes from the Latin 'coelestis', which means 'heavenly'. This refers to the lovely blue colour of these stones and the way they make such a heavenly angelic connection. A cluster of this lovely blue stone in your room is perfect for your emotional state as it is calming and uplifting. When it comes to dysfunctional relationships, take the time to deeply connect with this gemstone in daily meditation practice.
Colours & Nature For August 2020
- Dwarf Gourami
We bet you are mesmerised looking at the iridescence of the fish! This fish comes in all colours of the rainbow. If you are looking to make your aquarium stand out, this is the perfect fish. Known as Dwarf Gourami, this fish is a low maintenance fish that displays truly unique behaviour, taking down its prey like a hunter. Otherwise, a peaceful and shy fish, if in a pair, it can be seen swimming together. The male is a bright orange-red with turquoise blue vertical stripes till the fins. The females are pale, silvery blue-grey with faint yellowish vertical stripes. - Coreid Bug
This little bug that you are looking at is known as Coreid bug. It is also called a footed insect or squash insect, one of the 2,000 widely spread insect species that are often considered plant pests. The Coreid bug is common throughout the eastern United States west to the Great Plains. It feeds on a variety of wild and cultivated plants, destroying roses, citrus, and other fruits and ornamentals. When young, it has a varied colouration that ranges from light-yellow to orange to bright red. Its body appears round rather than flat. You may also notice a couple of black spots down the middle of its back towards its bottom. Interesting colour combination, isn’t it?
Decor
Best Waterproofing Materials For Indian Climate
Understanding the best materials for waterproofing homes
Waterproofing is one of the behind-the-scenes stuff that might not add any aesthetic value to the home, but it is crucial to ensure the main foundation of the house remains strong. It is important that waterproofing is done to cover all aspects of it and the entire home is water-resistant. Lack of good quality or a poor wall waterproofing job can cause you grief later when the water seeps in, damaging the interiors and posing a threat to the residents.
When it comes to different types of waterproofing materials, you will find that there are plenty of options available. However, to get the best waterproofing materials for your individual needs, you will need to do some research on what kind of materials need to be waterproofed. Wood, concrete and bricks require different waterproofing materials. One of the most important features that determine potential water damage is the climate of your region. Do you live near the coastline? Does your house experience torrential rains and strong winds? Is moisture seen anywhere in the house? Performing a feasibility study through such questions will help you understand your waterproofing needs better.
Waterproofing paints, wall treatment or coatings that have liquid applied membrane-like PU RoofKoat by Berger Paints India, offer long-lasting and reliable waterproofing protection. It is suitable for both flat and curved surfaces and is recommended for vertical and horizontal application. It has a high solar reflective index, which means that the sun rays won’t rapidly heat the house, a saviour for the long Indian summer months. It offers up to 10 years of durability so that you can enjoy complete peace of mind.
When waterproofing your home, ensure that you use the best material and all areas are waterproofed. This will save you expenses on future repairs!
A Foolproof Guide To Picking The Right Paints
A beginner’s guide to wall paint types
If you are thinking of getting your walls painted, the type of paint you choose is as important as the colour. The same colour can look different, depending on the type of finish and lighting in the room. The paint finish can have a major effect on the character of the room and the quality of the final paint job. There are some factors you need to consider when choosing the right paint finish for your home walls. If you are confused about the types of paint finishes available on the market and which one is suited the best for your home walls, simply keep these tips in mind. For interior paint ideas, follow this ultimate guide for wall paint types:
Satin finish: For high traffic areas, it is best to choose a satin finish since it is easier to clean. Opt for satin finish for the living room, kitchen and hallways as well as windows and door trims.
High-gloss/sheen: Whether you opt for high-gloss/sheen or semi-gloss/sheen paint, it is ideal for Indian homes, thanks to its durability. Like satin finish, they are easy to clean. While they are a great pick if you’re looking to make a statement, remember that they don’t hide imperfections well.
Matte/flat: They have the least reflective sheen in wall paint and for that reason, they easily hide any imperfections on the wall. They can be more difficult to clean so avoid them in high traffic areas- try using it for the ceiling or walls that are unlikely to be touched.
Remember that picking the right colours and finish for your home walls should reflect your personal choices and the mood you wish to create in the house. For inspiration and ideas, consult Berger Express Painting experts today!
Decorative Painting Techniques For Your Home Walls
Want walls with rich textures and patterns? Wallpaper is not the only option!
If you are craving rich textures and patterns on your home walls, wallpaper is not the only option. A decorative wall painting technique, be it a mural, stencils or an ombre wash can achieve a similar result. You won’t have to worry about adhesive or mismatched seams. Best of all, you can use your creativity and create a look that no one else is likely to have.
If you are thinking of making your home more interesting and attractive, we have gathered a collection of wall painting techniques that would dress up your walls in no time. Whether you want to test out a subtle design or go big and bold, there is plenty of inspiration you will find here.
Stripes
Whether you choose thin or thick, multi-colour or monochromatic, verticle or horizontal, you can’t go wrong with adding stripes on your home walls. They are easy to recreate and you can create your own customised wall using an interesting combination of paint.
Marble
This technique dates back to centuries, but the current trend of marble countertops and furniture has made it fresh again. While marble lends a classy touch to surfaces and is an expensive material, with a little bit of imagination, you can recreate the texture on the walls. A DIY marble wall will not break the bank, all you need is paint and some craft supplies. For an accent wall, you can try an unexpected colour like a shocking pink that is sure to be a conversation-starter!
Graphic Designs
The modern, white-wall trend is going to stick around for a while but with a few bold patterns and designs, you can add some style and pizzazz to dull walls. As seen here, using paints, you can create a unique design and give even the most boring room and walls a fabulous makeover using just paints.
For more wall design ideas and inspiration, get in touch with Berger Express Painting experts who provide the safest and hassle-free painting experience.
Colours & Ancient Sciences
Feng Shui For August 2020
Stressed out? Here are a few Feng Shui tips to relieve stress.
De-stress with Feng Shui!
Feng shui is the ancient Chinese practice of design that focuses on studying and manipulating how our environments affect us. Feng Shui has many ideas for home interior to create a soothing environment. Making a few changes to your living space can go a long way in quieting your mind and relieving you from stress.
Switch to soft lighting
An important part of Feng Shui is the way the living space is lit. For a feeling of peace and comfort, all the rooms in your home should be well lit.
Choose peaceful colours
In Feng Shui, colours represent different emotions. Use the power of colour to create a flow of positive emotions within yourself. Choose the colours of every room in your house with care, keeping in mind the principles of Feng Shui to create the mood of your choice in your home.
Play soothing music
Listening to lilting music can help calm your nervous system and stir your soul. Pick a slow tempo to calm your mind and relax your muscles to release the stress of the day.
Pick the right fragrance
Aromatherapy is practised alongside Feng Shui as it is known to complement it well. Through the use of aromatherapy, you can easily improve your mood and pull yourself out of a bad one.
Choose the right aroma for the right room. Take into consideration that certain scents promote peace and tranquillity, while others increase energy and help you get pepped up.
Think about appealing to the senses through soft lighting, peaceful colours, soothing music and aromatherapy.
Feng Shui is a wonderful art that can release your stress and bring about an overall feeling of balance and harmony into your life. We may not be able to enjoy being in the nature as much right now but visualising those places can also bring positive energy to you, helping you relax.
Begin using these strategies today to reduce your stress levels and feel the difference! Don’t forget to breathe deeply, exhale and relax.
Reiki For August 2020
Suffering from body pain? Learn how Reiki can help.
Reiki for Pain Relief!
Pain is not simply a physical condition. There is an emotional aspect of pain that can’t simply be ignored. And when people start addressing the emotional side of the pain, it can help increase pain tolerance and decrease the perception of pain.
It is also often difficult to know whether chronic pain leads to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, or whether anxiety and depression lead to increased pain (or both). However, it is confirmed that there is a connection.
There have been many studies that have also shown that addressing the emotional and mental health aspect of pain can have a huge impact upon the perception of pain and the tolerance for pain. How can Reiki help, you ask?
Reiki is an energy transfer method that originated from Japan. It is believed to decrease pain perception by healing the emotional aspect of pain. Reiki is meant to resolve emotional distress by allowing healing energy to flow freely throughout the entire body, leading to relaxation and reduced pain throughout the body. It is also known to help bring down the levels of stress and anxiety, which can decrease pain perception as well.
You can also play some relaxing instrumental music, perfect to balance your body, mind and spirit, as you perform your self- treatments of Reiki at home.
One of the benefits of Reiki is that it can be performed on people who are in significant pain and are unable to be touched or to tolerate touch.
However, do remember that Reiki is used in healthcare as a complement to and can never be a substitute for your regular medical treatment and medications.
If you decide to try Reiki at the home, wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothes in the first session. You will remain fully clothed through the entire process.
Do note that some people feel improvement from just one Reiki session while others require more treatments to see significant results.
Hope you find this article insightful! Try out Reiki at home to recover and gain relief from body pain.
Vaastu For August 2020
Want a positive living space? Here are ways to ensure your home radiates good vibes only!
Vaastu Tips for Positive Vibes!
Every colour has the ability to set a mood and create a certain atmosphere in the house. Even the placement of decor objects matter when it comes to setting up a living space. To increase positive energy, it is a good idea to design your home interior according to Vaastu.
In a home, the living room is the centre of all activity. This is where the first impression is created. Make sure the living room is clutter-free and clear of mess. Don’t keep any broken objects or negative artwork in this room. Make sure that the entrance of the house is clean and dusted. Positive energies do not enter premises that have a neglected entrance. Keep the television set and other electronic appliances in the south-east part of the living room.
Vaastu Shastra shows you how modifying your bedroom can enhance positive energy and even improve relations between couples. It is believed that the ideal direction for a bedroom is the south-west direction as it brings good health and prosperity. Avoid a bedroom in the north-east or south-east zone of the house as the former may cause health problems, while a bedroom placed in the latter direction could cause quarrels among couples. The bed should be in the southwest corner of the room with the head facing the west. Paint your bedroom walls in neutral or earthy shades only as it is believed to radiate positive energy.
According to Vaastu, the child’s room is supposed to be in the east, north-east or north. This ensures an abundance of natural light. However, in case of insufficient natural light in this room, make sure that there is plenty of ambient lighting with focussed lights in the study area.
Vaastu dictates that your balcony face the north, east or north-east direction, where it can receive maximum sunlight! It makes the best place for some early morning Vitamin D.
To conclude, follow these tips for a positive home environment.