When a Homeowner Asks for Color

I helped wrap up a project a few months ago (I know, I’m just now sharing it) that has me grinning every time I think about it—a new construction home that we transformed from builder-basic to absolutely joyful, finishing just in time for the family's first Christmas in their new place.

The homeowners came to me with one clear directive: "We do not want a white house." Music to my ears.

We filled every single room with personality—deep jewel tones in the kitchen, playful wallpaper in the laundry room, colorful tile that makes you smile every time you brush your teeth.

Here's what I always tell clients who are nervous about color: it's mostly just paint. Yes, really. That bold coral in the entryway that you're second-guessing? If you hate it in six months, we can change it in a weekend. But more often than not, people discover that living with color makes them happier than they expected.

This family will host years of Christmas dinners in their home, and I keep thinking about how it will continue to wrap everyone in warmth the minute you walk through the front door.

Sometimes the best gift you can give yourself is permission to be bold. After all, life's too short for beige walls.

What's the boldest color choice you've made in your home? I'd love to hear about it.