The Power of Colour in Your Home
Forget default grey. Director of LAM Architects, Tara Lamb, makes the case for colour – showing how bold shades, layered neutrals, and personal choices can transform your home into a space that feels truly yours.
Why Colour Matters
When it comes to interiors, colour is one of the most misunderstood tools in design.
Many clients say, “I love colour but I’m afraid to use it.” Somewhere along the way, we were taught to play it safe – to “paint the walls beige and hold back.” The truth is, colour that greys out will go with everything, but not everything will go with grey.
The best interiors are the ones that speak with confidence.
Small Space? Be Brave.
One of the most common pieces of advice about interiors is to keep small rooms light and bright so they feel bigger.
But Tara argues the opposite:
“They’re still going to be small. But they can feel dramatic, cosy, luxurious, or playful if you give them a big hit of personality.”
Compact spaces like downstairs WCs, pantries, and hallways are perfect for experimenting with rich, saturated tones or unexpected wallpaper.
Neutrals Can Be Bold Too
Neutrals don’t have to mean boring. A palette of warm shades – think clay, soft olive, chalky off-whites, oat stone, and taupe – can feel incredibly sophisticated.
When layered with textures like wood, linen, brass, or natural stone, these tones create depth and interest.
- White can be beautiful, but it must be chosen carefully.
- North- or east-facing rooms? Whites can feel cold.
- South- or west-facing rooms? Whites can bring warmth and brilliance.
Design That’s Personal, Not Just Trendy
Colour confidence isn’t about following trends – it’s about trusting your instincts.
The best colours are the ones that make you feel something:
- A mustard yellow that feels cheerful on grey days.
- A rich navy that makes your bedroom feel like a calm retreat.
- A soft pink that makes your living space feel warm and welcoming.
It’s about what resonates with you, not just what’s trending on social media.
Tips for Using Colour with Confidence
- Start small – A bold move in a compact space builds courage.
- Think about feeling – Do you want the room to energise, calm, cocoon, or uplift?
- Mix textures – Combine warm and cool tones, soft and strong finishes.
- Ditch the default grey – It often feels flat instead of fresh.
- Get expert guidance – Even a light-touch consultation can set your design in the right direction.
Working with an Interior Designer
Many people assume interior designers are a luxury, but in reality, they can save time, build colour confidence, and provide a cohesive design direction.
At LAM Architects, Tara and her team work flexibly with clients – from mood boards to sourcing suggestions – giving you the tools to finish your design yourself if you wish.
Final Thought
Colour doesn’t have to be loud – but it should be personal. Whether you go bold or stay neutral, designing with colour is about creating a home that expresses who you are and how you want to live.
So go on. Be brave.
📍 LAM Architects and Interiors
2–4 Church Road, Holywood
📞 Call: +44 28 90 13 222 0
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