Hi Andrew,
I am looking for a colour theme for my new home. My husband and I are curious about Feng Shui. Do you know anything about it? If so, could you recommend some colour choices based on Feng Shui?
– Jen
Hi Jen,
I am certainly not an expert in Feng Shui – which is the Chinese philosophical system of harmonizing human existence with the surrounding environment – but I am familiar with some of its principles.
Basically, there are five elements in the Feng Shui philosophy: fire, earth, metal, water and wood. As far as painting is concerned, the predominant colours associated with each element can give you a starting point when choosing a palette for your home.
To incorporate the element of fire into your space, for instance, paint one wall in your room in a brilliant shade of red or orange. Use neutral tones such as browns and soft yellows for the element of earth.
Metal-themed colours could include whites, greys and, of course, metallics. Most paint manufacturers also produce metallic finishes, or you could simply accent the room in metal artifacts or artwork, which is a trend gaining steam in 2014.
Water, the forth element, may be represented by blues and black. Finally, the element of wood will give you the opportunity to use greens and browns as well as decorating with actual wood throughout your space.
Based on the five elements of Feng Shui, here are some paint choices I have selected to help you out.
ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF SHERWIN-WILLIAMS
Earth Paints:
1st slide: Sand Bank, Soulful Blue;
2nd slide: Wheat Grass, Universal Khaki, Houseplant;
3rd slide: Unfussy Beige, Copper Mountain, Softened Green.
Fire Paints (clockwise from top left): Red Bay, Tango, Raucous Orange, Red Cent, Emberglow, Red Tomato.
Water Paints (clockwise from top left): Mountain Stream, Undercool, Tide Water, Swimming, Still Water, Sea Salt.
