Decorating and Design Tips from
Mary Douglas Drysdale

Focus on One Strong Color

I have found it much easier to use strong, saturated colors if I focus on one hue and use it liberally to cover many surfaces. I often like to combine that strong color with neutrals or other non-competitive hues.

I have also found that classical plans work well with lively color expression. That’s because the classical approach to design relies on symmetry, balance, and strong axial relationships. If you think of color as energy, it is better expressed and viewed when the color is balanced in the room without other strong color distractions.