Painters in Northwest Arkansas- Ken Rader Interiors-"What is the latest HOT COLOR!

BROWN? YES BROWN! By Ken Rader Ken Rader Interiors, Painters and Decorators in Northwest Arkansas. Brown Living Room Paint Design Ideas | Photos Pictures Galleries and ...Matching Colors With Walls And Furniture Brown Paint Colors | Home Design Ideas Brown has something for everyone! It can be benign, friendly, versatile and totally up to date. How can you not love brown? What do you think of when brown is mentioned? Milk Chocolate, a Brown Dog, Mother Earth? Brown is not a threatening color and it can balance out almost any color. With the right brown you can make an environment feel stable or well grounded. This ability is the reason that brown can be seen on many historical buildings. It has stood the test of time. You will find a combination of browns, beige and whites. Some have described brown as friendly. Keep it brown, but add some red-tones and create a southwest look. Or add Terra Cotta or Brushed Clay and it appears warm. Even the addition of Black can warm up the look as apposed to White. It is very versatile! Browns can be great neutrals that when paired with other colors, can really make them POP! Oranges, Yellows, Reds and Greens all work wonderfully with brown. Think about pairing brown with Salmon, Slate, Bayberry Green, Sea Green or pick up a piece of drift wood and choose one of the grays that you see in the wood. Brown and Blue can also be a great combo, for instance Chocolate Brown looks fabulous with Federal Blue. But then what about Snow White, or Pitch Black or Barn Red or Marigold Yellow,all winners. The hit color for the beginning of 2013 was Gray. It is still very popular as the year has continued but Brown is appearing with Gray and is gaining in popularity so perhaps it will be the "Top Brown Dog". Wood tones are always popular and people are falling in love with dark wood stains again. I have painted over a lot of cabinets that were stained and it looked like dark stained wood was on the way out. However, it is gaining momentum and a renewed interest. I painted the outside of my house last fall "Espresso". The house is cedar sided and it was looking pretty worn out. I live in country and the color fits in wonderfully. I have also painted several sets of Kitchen Cabinets this year and guess what color the customer is choosing? Brown! I also bought a new laptop computer and it is Brown. So if you are not on board with brown, maybe you should be. It is the latest "Hot" color and will stay around for quite a while. As Always " Happy Painting and Decorating" Check out our web site www.kenraderinteriors.com Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors We have been painting and decorating in Northwest Arkansas since 1987. If you live in the area and have a painting projects, give us a call (479)443-3686

Ken Rader Interiors "Arkansas Best Painters"-Helpful Hints for picking paint colors

Click on the Banner and visit our Web Page Picking house paint colors isn't just difficult. It's terrifying! Pick colors that are blah, and your house will seem flat and featureless. But if the colors you pick are too bold, they might overwhelm the architecture... and upset the neighbors. The best colors will highlight the most beautiful features of your home. Skillful use of color can even disguise design flaws, boosting the curb appeal and market value of your home. How do you find that magic color combination? Check out these exterior paint ideas. 1. Honor History If you're planning to paint an older home, you'll probably want to use a historically accurate color scheme. You can hire a pro to analyze old paint chips and recreate the original color. Or, you can refer to historic color charts and select shades that might have been used at the time your home was built. 2. Jazz Up the Past In some neighborhoods, homeowners fly in the face of history. Instead of choosing historically accurate colors, they paint their houses modern colors to dramatize architectural details. Using bright colors on old architectural details can produce startling and exciting results. But before you buy 10 gallons of bubblegum pink, it's a good idea to look at what your neighbors are doing. A fluorescent colored Victorian that looks splendid in San Francisco will seem wildly out of place in more conservative neighborhoods. 3. Consider Your Neighbors The house next door can give you paint color ideas, but don't copy your neighbor exactly. Choose colors that set your house apart, without clashing with nearby buildings. 4. Borrow From Nature The landscape around your house is blooming with color ideas. Trees may suggest an earthy palette of greens and browns. A beach setting might suggest vivid blues, turquoises, and coral colors. Even the garden in your front yard can inspire exciting color combinations. 5. Check the Roof Your house is your canvas, but it is not blank. Some colors are already established. What color is your roof? Your paint color doesn't need to match the roof, but it should harmonize. 6. Look For Things That Won't Be Painted Every home has some features that will not be painted. Does your house have brick walls? Vinyl windows? A natural wooden door? Will steps and railings remain their existing colors? Choose a color scheme that harmonizes with colors already present on your house. 7. Find Inspiration in Your Living Room It may seem comical to paint entire house based on the pattern of a pillow case, but this approach does make sense. The color of your furnishings will guide you in the selection of your interior paint colors, and your interior paint colors will influence the colors you use outside. Once again, your goal is to harmonize. 8. Focus on Details Depending on the size and complexity of your home, you may want to choose two, three, or as many as six colors. In addition to color for your siding, select accent colors for shutters, moldings, doors, window sashes, brackets, columns, and porch decks. But beware: too many colors will overwhelm your house. Too few can make your house seem flat and uninteresting. 9. Use Light to Add Size It's no wonder large, grand estates are often painted white. Light colors make a building look larger, and white is the favored color for traditional classical architecture. You can add to your home's sense of size and dignity by using white or a pale cream color. 10. Go Dark For Drama Dark siding or dark bands of trim will make your house seem smaller, but will draw more attention to details. Darker shades are best for accenting recesses, while lighter tones will highlight details that project from the wall surface. On traditional Victorian homes, the darkest paint is often used for the window sashes. 11. Discover Color Families Contrasting colors will draw attention to architectural details. But, extreme contrasts will clash and actually detract from details. To be safe, consider staying within a single color family. For some accents, try using a darker or lighter shade instead of a different color. 12. Strike a Balance A burst of a single color on just one part of your home may give it a lopsided appearance. Strive to balance colors over the entire building. You thought you only had to pick colors? Sorry! Here are a few pointers to keep in mind as you choose paint for your house painting project. House Paint Durability The more intense a color, the more likely it is to fade. After a few years, vivid blues and deep reds might seem more subdued. Dark colors can also pose more maintenance problems. Dark colors absorb heat and suffer more moisture problems than lighter shades. And because dark paint fades, it can be difficult to match exactly when you do small touch-ups. But, don't rule out dark colors. They won't show dust and stains, and can give your house a sense of dignity or drama. House Paint Sheen House paint comes in several sheens, ranging from glossy to flat. The glossier the surface, the more likely it is to show imperfections, brush strokes and touch up marks. On the other hand, glossy surfaces are easier to clean. Many homeowners opt to use flat paint for walls and semi-gloss or glossy paint for columns, railings and window sashes. Paint Color Deceptions Color swatches look very different when they are brought out of the store and viewed in natural sunlight. Also, colors appear lighter on large surfaces than they do on small samples. Chances are, you'll need a much darker color than the one you first picked. Always test your selected color in one area before buying gallons of paint. [contact-form][contact-field label='Name' type='name' required='1'/][contact-field label='Email' type='email' required='1'/][contact-field label='Website' type='url'/][contact-field label='Comment' type='textarea' required='1'/][/contact-form] KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION. WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT. And this time “ How to search the Web”. WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS. WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS. FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686 EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

Click on the Banner and Visit our Web Page A house is like a plain canvas, which only when painted with ones-imagination and personal thoughts can make it a home. Call it personal space or ones relaxation nest, every home has its own charm which is added by its residents and is often reflected in its decor and ambiance. Colors play a vital function in home decorating and design. Whether it's about the walls, furniture or the accessories, you just cannot eliminate the need of hues in a home. So how exactly can you create an impressive home with colors? We have a guide for you below: 1. Add personality: There is a lot you can add to your home with the help of hue. Whether it is your bold personality or the subtle side of yours, you can bring it out in the best possible ways. If you make wall paints the highlight of your home, you can really let your personality shine in a big way. Water based paints are available in endless varieties, be it the finish or the hues. Such paints also tend to dry quicker when compared to oil based paints (which we do not recommend) and are easy to clean as well. The best part is you can create the desired hue for walls and will not have any trouble in finding it. Several paint companies have just put out their new colors for 2013. Image 2. De-clutter your home: If your home faces space crunch and looks cluttered, colors can help distract the attention from it. You can create the sense of a spacious home with light colors including: off-whites, pinks and lime greens and give more room for light to reflect and thus make a room look spacious. You can use these as your wall paint choices, furnishings especially bed sheets and curtains can be used for accent colors. Light hues will not just add their cozy yet spacious touch but also be soothing to the eyes and bring out a sophisticated and polished look. Image 3. Infuse energy: Nobody likes to live in a dull space, then why create such an environment within your home? Instead making maximum use of vibrant hues in home interiors can give a refreshing boost. Colors do not restrict or limit the scope of your imagination so you can practically communicate every emotion through them. If you have a Love for travel, books or a fictional character's obsession, the language of colors will let you decode every bit of it. Creating a balanced look and not going overboard is the key to achieve the right look and even add the dash of vibrancy. You will not want a clash of hues happening in your home interiors as you will have to live with it, choosing color combinations and contrasts, referring to a color wheel or chart is the best thing to do. It will also never let you go wrong. There is a measure of learning involved with the use of a color wheel so get one and play with it a little and become familiar with how it works. Image Whether painting or using quirky interior decor items are your idea to add color within your home, using any of these will give you spectacular results. So it's time you surrender to some color therapy and zing up your home's look. All you need to get started is your personal charm and creativity. Siloam Springs (downy finished) 032Siloam Springs House 2013-03-15 001saturated-neutral-tile-650green-cabinets-650 KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION. WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT. And this time “ How to search the Web”. WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS. WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS. FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686 EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

Arkansas Best Painters-Ken Rader Interiors- Paint your home with your personality!

Click on the Banner and Visit our Web Page A house is like a plain canvas, which only when painted with ones-imagination and personal thoughts can make it a home. Call it personal space or ones relaxation nest, every home has its own charm which is added by its residents and is often reflected in its decor and ambiance. Colors play a vital function in home decorating and design. Whether it's about the walls, furniture or the accessories, you just cannot eliminate the need of hues in a home. So how exactly can you create an impressive home with colors? We have a guide for you below: 1. Add personality: There is a lot you can add to your home with the help of hue. Whether it is your bold personality or the subtle side of yours, you can bring it out in the best possible ways. If you make wall paints the highlight of your home, you can really let your personality shine in a big way. Water based paints are available in endless varieties, be it the finish or the hues. Such paints also tend to dry quicker when compared to oil based paints (which we do not recommend) and are easy to clean as well. The best part is you can create the desired hue for walls and will not have any trouble in finding it. Several paint companies have just put out their new colors for 2013. Image 2. De-clutter your home: If your home faces space crunch and looks cluttered, colors can help distract the attention from it. You can create the sense of a spacious home with light colors including: off-whites, pinks and lime greens and give more room for light to reflect and thus make a room look spacious. You can use these as your wall paint choices, furnishings especially bed sheets and curtains can be used for accent colors. Light hues will not just add their cozy yet spacious touch but also be soothing to the eyes and bring out a sophisticated and polished look. Image 3. Infuse energy: Nobody likes to live in a dull space, then why create such an environment within your home? Instead making maximum use of vibrant hues in home interiors can give a refreshing boost. Colors do not restrict or limit the scope of your imagination so you can practically communicate every emotion through them. If you have a Love for travel, books or a fictional character's obsession, the language of colors will let you decode every bit of it. Creating a balanced look and not going overboard is the key to achieve the right look and even add the dash of vibrancy. You will not want a clash of hues happening in your home interiors as you will have to live with it, choosing color combinations and contrasts, referring to a color wheel or chart is the best thing to do. It will also never let you go wrong. There is a measure of learning involved with the use of a color wheel so get one and play with it a little and become familiar with how it works. Image Whether painting or using quirky interior decor items are your idea to add color within your home, using any of these will give you spectacular results. So it's time you surrender to some color therapy and zing up your home's look. All you need to get started is your personal charm and creativity. Siloam Springs (downy finished) 032Siloam Springs House 2013-03-15 001saturated-neutral-tile-650green-cabinets-650 KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION. WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT. And this time “ How to search the Web”. WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS. WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS. FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686 EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

Ken Rader Interiors-Painters in Northwest Arkansas "Up and Coming Kitchen Colors"

[caption width="560" align="alignnone"]<a href="http://www.kenraderinteriors.com"><img src="http://i1358.photobucket.com/albums/q765/Kenneth_Rader/BlogBanner_zps6e818b3c.jpg" width="560" height="181" class /></a> Click on the Banner and visit our web page[/caption]
 Kitchen Color Combinations that can't fail!
Walking down the paint aisle at the home improvement store can be overwhelming. With so many paint chips to choose from, where do you start? Let us help you whittle down the choices with our picks for the best kitchen color palettes.


Make your kitchen an expression of your personal style by drenching it in the colors you love. For a no-regrets approach, be safe and choose neutral tones for the expensive foundation elements (cabinets, floors, counter tops, appliances) and introduce color on the walls, back splash, window treatments, lighting, and other less-expensive accents. With this strategy, you can easily and affordable swap out the color scheme as your taste and popular trends change.

Want to pick the perfect palette and color combinations for your kitchen? These bright and up to date color combinations are sure to please.
<strong>Orange and Green</strong><em>:
 Bring your kitchen to life with this energetic duo. Juicy citrus hues are the latest trend in kitchen design, perhaps due in part to Pantone naming zippy "Tangerine Tango" its color of the year for 2012. These bold tones are perfectly suited to the aesthetics of Craftsman-style homes because they pair well with rich brown woodwork. They can also provide lively punctuations against the austere backdrop of minimal modern design.
<a href="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/andreas-house-023.jpg"><img src="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/andreas-house-023.jpg?w=225" alt="Quality detail, always" width="225" height="300" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-575" /></a>

<strong>Red and Yellow</strong>:
 This regal combination has been popular in Europe for generations. Pair a deep red with muted golden yellow to evoke the sense of a stately English manor, a relaxed French country cottage, or a beautiful Tuscan villa. To make your kitchen feel larger, use yellow as the room's anchor color (lighter colors visually expand space), and then use red accents to punctuate the design. Checked, striped, and floral patterns are popular in this style, as are fringe and other embellishments.
<a href="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/tangerine-cabinets-570.jpg"><img src="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/tangerine-cabinets-570.jpg?w=215" alt="tangerine-cabinets-570" width="215" height="300" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1267" /></a>


<strong>Blue and Brown</strong>:
This color combo has universal appeal. For modern or transitional homes, pair chocolate brown with crisp sky blue, and throw in a few bright accent colors for pop. In a country kitchen, pick robin's egg blue and wheat brown, and then layer on cream-color accents for a warm and cozy look. To give the duo a traditional feeling, choose deep shades of both colors and break up the dark tones with crisp white and rich gold accents.
<a href="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/green-cabinets-650.jpg"><img src="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/green-cabinets-650.jpg?w=300" alt="green-cabinets-650" width="300" height="207" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1268" /></a>
<a href="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/blue-true-blue-650.jpg"><img src="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/blue-true-blue-650.jpg?w=300" alt="blue-true-blue-650" width="300" height="207" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1269" /></a>
<a href="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/saturated-neutral-tile-650.jpg"><img src="http://kenraderinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/saturated-neutral-tile-650.jpg?w=300" alt="saturated-neutral-tile-650" width="300" height="207" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1270" /></a>


<strong>Gray and Anything Gray</strong>:
Gray is gaining ground on white as the new go-to neutral for a contemporary kitchen. Create a sense of calm by using gray for a background color for black, white, or brown cabinets (yes, even brown and gray make great partners). To keep with the relaxed feeling, pepper the space with accents in a cool blue or soft green. To make the room more vibrant, introduce a bright accent color -- the sky is the limit, as gray pairs well with almost every bold color, from pink to yellow.
KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.
And this time “ How to search the Web”.
   
WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
  AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

Popular Colors for 2013

Click on the banner to go to our web site. CALL (479)443-3686 IN THE NORTHWEST ARKANSAS AREA FOR A FREE ESTIMATE!

We get asked a lot about which colors are the latest and which ones will stay around for a while.  Coming up on the end of January we are beginning to see what the front runners are.  And we here at Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. have already completed several painting projects for the new year and are starting to notice what is popular.
We have also been reading articles and looking at the latest trends and what other decorators are seeing and saying on this subject.  So here are some highlights that we have gleaned so far.

The Hottest New Paint Colors

Will we be basking in purple? Is gray the new blue? We asked color experts from leading paint companies to tell us what they see as the most popular color for the new year.

First up is a blue that has been around for some time but like they say "Blue never goes out".

Aqua Chiffon

"I think everyone is looking for a little change, but nothing drastic. Aqua Chiffon is playful and happy, not too dark and not too light. I'd use it as an accent to bring some freshness to a bathroom or a bedroom. And since blue is relaxing, it would bring peace of mind, which everyone is yearning for right now." —TINA McHENRY: OLYMPIC PAINTS AQUA CHIPPON A58-3

Next is a deeper blue which you are beginning to see in accessories and fabrics.

Oceanside

"People want more color, and they're not afraid of it like they used to be. We think teal blue is going to be important. It's already on the fashion runways. This is highly saturated, more blue than green, with undertones that make it feel sultry and mysterious. I could see it in a dining room or a bed-room, paired with red, amber, or earthy brown." —JACKIE JORDAN: SHERWIN-WILLIAMS OCEANSIDE SW 6496

Grey is coming on strong so don't be surprised that you seem to be drawn to it.  It is a classic that is gaining popularity.

Cathedral Gray

"We're introducing a new gray, which goes along with the Belgian look of natural wood and natural linen. In the past, people thought gray was a drab, boring color, but now it feels modern. This is on the warm side, and it works well with other neutrals or brighter colors like yellow or blue. It helps balance things out." —DONNA SCHROEDER: DUTCH BOY CATHEDRAL GRAY DT 136

I know, you are probably thinking 60's.  However, for an accent color this is the choice of many.

Forsythia Blossom

"This color we're seeing for spring 2013 is a high-energy yellow. It's bright and positive — a concentration of happiness that gets you away from the seriousness of the world. It would work really well in a kitchen, or in a sunroom with a lot of white. But not a master bedroom — you'd never be able to go to sleep!" —DEE SCHLOTTER: PITTSBURGH PAINTS FORSYTHIA BLOSSOM 212-4

Blue/Gray is everywhere.

Organic Garden

"We need to feel grounded, and a color like this suits the nesting instinct. It's both warm and cool, the perfect balance of gray and blue and green. You could push it toward blue by adding orange or yellow, or bring out the green by accenting it with red. White would shift it to gray. It's malleable, which makes it a good investment for the long term." —CATHERINE POOLE: THE FRESHAIRE CHOICE ORGANIC GARDEN FA064

Grape Hyacinth

"I think this is the year purple will really get picked up. People want a sense of their own personal space, and this is something different — a grayed purple, like a field of lavender on a foggy morning. It's soft, not scary. I see it in a bedroom, or as a secondary color in a living room with warm beige and camel." —PEGGY CAN ALLEN: GRAPE HYACINTH 31-24

Green is soothing but can add life to any room as this choice of green does.

Cedar Green

"Green is symbolic of growth. It also embodies another word that's going to be extremely important in the next decade, and that's 'flexibility.' Green goes with anything — just look outside. It can work with what you already own, as well as anything you'd like to add. It can feel classic or contemporary. And it's restful. It makes me feel balanced." —SONU MATHEW: BENJAMIN MOORE CEDAR GREEN 2034-40

Turquoise

"If I had to pick one color, it would be turquoise. It's not just blue or green, it's both, which means it's calming and invigorating at the same time. And it makes you think of escaping to someplace tropical and beautiful. It's got a little spark, like sun shining on water. I used it in a powder room and people walked in and said, 'Wow!' " —LEATRICE EISEMAN: PANTONE TURQUOISE 15-5519 TPX

This is the first offering of the new year in the earthtones.

Maple Glaze

"All the trend reports have been saying purple, purple, purple, and I want to say something different. I think a color like this rich saddle-leather brown speaks of our American heritage — Craftsman homes and Native American textiles. It's earthy and sophisticated. And it would look terrific with purple, mossy green, or blackened burgundy." —ERIKA WOELFEL: BEHR MAPLE GLAZE UL120-5

Following are some pictures of the colors that we have selected above.  See if you agree how they are gaining popularity.

We hope that this will give you some food for thought when it comes to choosing your next color to paint.  To be sure, new variations of these colors will surface in the months ahead.  Of course it all boils down to what you personally like and what furniture and accessories you already have and want to use with the new paint job.

It is fun though just to browse through the magazines and online articles and see what people are choosing.  Change is the spice of life, so spice it up!

KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
  AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

Let there be WHITE!

Arkansas Best Painters
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
We offer the latest information regarding trends, painting practices, interior decorating the best advise available about painting and decorating.
This is offered to educate you and hopefully give you some direction and help with your painting and decorating needs.
Please visit our web site http://www.ArkansasBestPainters.com
We post blogs on various platforms in an effort to make our information as available as possible.
Please leave a comment when you read one of our blogs.
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LET THERE BE WHITE!
By Ken Rader
Painter and Interior Decorator for Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
 Losing dark colors and heavy textiles is on the top of the list for many people.  They are ready to create a casual elegant gathering space.
SIMPLIFY WINDOW TREATEMENTS
Sheer Roman shades can replace the heavy and formal hanging curtain panels, welcoming lots of natural sunlight into a room.
BE OPEN TO UNEXPECTED MATERIALS
In lieu of a traditional wood coffee table or shelf, two custom cubes of concrete can add a contemporary addition.  Concrete is much more practical than marble or limestone and you can paint it white or a neutral.
UPDATE YOUR LIGHTING
Install linen draperies that match your wall color to make windows feel larger.  Keep it streamlined with a simple iron rod hung wall to wall.
SECRET WEAPON
Vinyl fabraics. If you want white upholstery but need it to be spill-proof, try faux leather.  It used to be called "Pleather" (Plastic Leather)
MODERN MOVE
Minimize lighting for maximum results.  Simple lamps with small globes or shades. Very simple lights hanging from ceilings.  It does not block vision and gives the sense of being open.
PAINT IT GRAY (GREY)
Soft gray paint can coat over darker or dated cabinets and walls.  The use of gray's can add a fresh feel and contribute to a continuous flow with no harsh lines to define spaces.
ESTABLISH A BASE
Large pieces of upholstery should not steal the show.   Keep them in solid neutral colors and they will blend.
MIX MATERIALS
Use stone, wood, metal,concrete, and glass. The balanced combination of textures adds depth.
CONSIDER SCALE WHEN SELECTING FABRICS
Large pieces like long sofa's can be paired with small print pillows.  All in whites or off whites.  Keep it simple in design and texture.
BRING IN PERSONALITY
Small drawings and silhouettes, piles of books, and a collection of pottery add personal touches while keeping with the all-neutral scheme.
We hope this helps.
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
Painters in all of Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville and Bella Vista)
Visit our web page at http://www.ArkansasBestPainters.com
If you live in this neck of the woods, call us at (479)443-3686 for a consultation or estimate
Email us at KenRaderInteriors@gmail.com
As Always " Happy Painting and Decorating"
Ken Rader

ARKANSAS BEST PAINTERS-"UPDATE YOUR HOME OFFICE"!

KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
http://www.arkansasbestpainters.com
http://www.kenraderinteriorspainters.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!
I get asked quite often," What should a home office look like?"  In answer," Whatever you want it to look like."
I say that with tongue in cheek since more is involved than just what we might like.  The more complete answer is," a designated space in your home that is dedicated to work or perhaps school work."  It can be large or small but the actual size is not as important than what you put in the space.  The furniture, accessories and the color all contribute to the overall feel of the space.
It can be as simple as a desk with a computer on it or a whole room full of bookshelves, desk, file cabinets, lamps, well you get the picture.  I have posted several pictures of home office spaces.  Notice that it is what the use of the space makes us feel like because you can do a lot of work in a very small space when you are in the right frame of mind.
The color that you paint the walls and the bookcases will go a long way in defining the look that you are wanting.  Look at the pictures  that we offer and you will see several different colors.  Of all the things that you can do to make your space into a home office, painting the area will produce the most dramatic results.
You can color coordinate your furniture and accessories.  The more complete you use accessories the happier you will be with the end results.  It will not take a tremendous amount of money however it will take some unless you already have the desk and furniture that you want or can use.  The big  time eater will be the painting of the space or room.  Give this enough thought so that you will be happy with the end results, color that is.
You will find several blogs on this site that can give you some pointers if you decide to do the painting yourself.  Check out the posts that discuss the tools used and the kind of paint you will want to use.  One quick tip," use zero VOC combination paint and primer".  Glidden offers a combination Filler, primer,paint that works fantastic.  Give it a try.
Shelves and a file cabinet tucked under the stairs are an efficient use of a tight space.

   
       
     
   
 
I hope this gives you some ideas to start with.  Your home office will be your personal space and so it will probably not look exactly like any of the pictures we have here.  But that is a good thing.  By its very title "Home Office" you know it will end up being your space with your personal touch.
We cannot emphasize enough the importance of painting the space to reflect your personal touch.  You get the biggest bang for your buck when you paint.  That being said, consider hiring the paint portion of you project out to the professionals.  It is money well spent.  A professional paint job will give your home office a professional look.
AS ALWAYS,”HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING”

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. --  Painting Northwest Arkansas Beautiful, “ One house at a time”.

Serving Northwest Arkansas and the greater Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers and Bella Vista area.
 Professional Painters since 1987.

Check us out at www.kenraderinteriors.com
www.arkansasbestpainters.com and www.kenraderinteriorspainters.com
We have lots of ways for you to get in touch with us.  Drop us a line, ask a question or share some good information.  It is always welcome
Like us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

Ken Rader

FIND YOUR FAVORITE PAINT COLORS WITH EASE

Choosing Colours When Painting and Decorating

       

Painting a new room or painting over an old wall colour can be an exciting event; after all, you'll be completely changing the dynamic of the room. However, many people worry about the wall colour when painting and decorating and aren't exactly sure how to go about choosing it. Before hiring painters and decorators take a look at the below tips on how to choose a wall colour. When it comes time for the painting contractors to paint the room, you'll be happy knowing the colour is exactly the one you want.
Paint Chips
The first step to painting and decorating a new room is to start gathering up paint chips. Your local paint or hardware store will have a huge variety to choose from. Pick colours that you not only love, but that you'll be able to match with a wide variety of items in the room (i.e. curtains, furniture, rugs, etc.). If you're hiring professional painters and decorators, they'll be able to help you out here.
Plan a Color Palette
For the most part, when painting and decorating a new room you're not going to have one colour throughout. A color palette is essentially all of the colours that will make up the room including the walls, ceiling and accessories. Professional painters and decorators are experts at putting together a colour palette that flows well; however, there are also a number of websites that have pre-created colour palettes for you to choose from.
Try It Out
Before you have painting contractors come to paint your room, purchase a small can of it and paint a little on the wall. As any painting and decorating expert will agree, paint often looks different depending on what room it's in due to a variety of factors such as natural light and the other colours in the room.
Find Inspiration
Painters and decorators often find inspiration from things in nature or things they love. When deciding on what colour to have painting contractors paint your room or home look for inspiration in places such as paintings, pictures or scenery outside your home. With the ability to color match any colour, the possibilities are endless.
Personality
Often when painting a room you want your personality to show through. For instance, if you're a bubbly and outgoing person choose fun colours such as orange, yellow, or green. This can be a great way to ensure once the painting contractors finish the job - you'll love the colour. After all, most of us love ourselves!

AS ALWAYS,”HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING”

 

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. --  Painting Northwest Arkansas Beautiful, “ One house at a time”.

 

Serving Northwest Arkansas and the greater Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers and Bella Vista area.

 Professional Painters since 1987.

 

Check us out at www.kenraderinteriors.com

Like us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

 

Ken Rader

The Power of Color

 COLOR CAN CHANGE YOUR WORLD!

A POORLY EXECUTED PAINT JOB DOES NOT HAVE TO HAPPEN!

Color changes everything. Everyone knows you can give your drab, washed-out walls a burst of brilliant depth (or wash away your decorating sins with white) just by picking up a paint can and having at them. That's the power of a coat of paint: It can give your house a new lease on life.. Which is why painting is the most popular DIY home-improvement project.

While you don't have to be a pro to learn how to paint like one, there is more to a good paint job than just putting some color on the walls. This is where I come in. I will show you how to coat your walls expertly in one weekend, from the first scratch of the pole sander to the final feather of the brush. And you won't be wasting time taping off every corner or backtracking with the touch-up brush like an amateur. As long as you stay organized and take your time, you'll be able to get on with the satisfying business of transforming your room—and with it your whole outlook.

A Poorly executed paint job is easy to spot, with its drips and blobs and bad cut in lines More often than not, haste is the culprit. But with some thorough preparation up front, many of the possible pitfalls will be eliminated—and the actual painting will be much easier, as well. So before you open up your first paint can, schedule in a full day for preparation.  In the painting profession it is just called “Prep”.

Start by masking off with tape or masking paper all trim around the floor and doors and windows.  Do this before you do anything else. 

The next step of prep starts with sanding and sometimes requires scraping. Sanding scuffs up the existing surface so the paint grabs hold; scraping will take off any old bumps or drips. (Be aware of how many layers down there may be lead paint, last sold in the early 1980s; sanding isn’t likely to reveal it, but scraping might.) You should also take your time patching holes, caulking gaps, and cleaning dust or grease with soap and water so you start with a pristine surface.  Once you are done with the scraping and sanding, use a brush and dust off any sanding and scraping dust off of the masking.

If you’re working with new walls, or if you’ve patched any holes before you start, you’ll also need to prime. Primer fills in sponge-like pores and creates an even, solid base that takes paint well. You should also prime if you’re going from a dark to a light color or vice versa. (In the latter case, have the paint store tint the primer to go with your wall color. It will save you at least one coat of paint later on.) Primer should also be sanded before the paint goes on the wall; for a top-notch job, sand between paint coats, too.  There are combination Paint and Primer and a new product of a combination Paint, Primer and filler.  This is offered by Glidden.  It is a fantastic product and it eliminates separate priming and nail hole filling.  Pretty cool.

First-time painters tend to tape every edge to guard against misstrokes. But that can bring on its own problems if paint bleeds under the tape or if you peel paint off when removing it. It’s more efficient to use angled brushes, which draw a straight line when turned on edge. Proper use of an angled brush can save you hours of setup and touch-up.  There is on the market now some special tapes that will not let paint bleed under it.  It is well worth the extra cost because it really works. Whether you tape or not you will still enjoy using a angled brush.  It is the proper tool for the job.

Angled brushes also come in handy for cutting in along corners and ceilings and around trim, where rollers can mark. Fill in a few inches at these spots, then marry the line with the field by rolling over them. Keep a wet edge to avoid dark spots or paint pulls. Most premium paints will perform very well and even a novice can blend the brush marks and the roller nap with ease.

As you paint, be sure to keep moving: Put the paint on the wall, level it out where it’s heavy, and get on with it. Don’t use too many back-and-forth brushstrokes, and don’t spend time making the first coat look perfect (it won’t be). Finally, take a tip from the pros and always keep a damp rag in your pocket to quickly wipe up your mistakes. Even the best painters color outside the lines once in a while.

I seem to have gotten ahead of myself. So we will regress a bit.

After removing any wall art and moving furniture away from the walls, lay canvas tarps (more absorbent and less slippery than plastic) over the furniture and on the floor. Using painter's tape, fasten down the edges. Unscrew all switch plates and electrical outlet covers, and tape over the remaining switches and holes with painter's tape. Tape around any other items of hardware that can't be removed and you do not want paint on.

Always sand and paint the ceiling completely (following these same steps) before addressing the walls.  If you were not planning on painting the ceiling you might want to re-think your plan and paint the ceiling.  You will not get a better opportunity to paint the ceiling until you paint the room again.

Using a pole sander fitted with 120-grit paper, sand the walls (make sure to wear a dust mask). Sweep the sander side to side as you work your way from the top down. Apply medium pressure, and take care that the head doesn’t flop and gouge the wall. Change the paper whenever the grit gets clogged with dust.  Most walls require minimal sanding, if any.  Let the sander do the work not you.

Remove bumps or drips on painted molding with a scraper. Then, using a dampened coarse-grit sanding sponge, rough up the surface. Keep a bucket of warm water nearby, and continually rinse the sponge. Finish with a dampened fine-grit sponge.  This is a step that very few people have to do.  Especially with the paint and primer combination, it will stick to the wall without having to rough them up.  This is also a very messy step and should be taken only if necessary.

Now clear all the dust from the walls and trim. There is very little on the walls.  Most will be on top of the masking you put down and it can be swept away.

Run a thin bead of caulk over any gaps where molding meets wall. Wet your finger and smooth the caulk with even pressure to push it into the crack and leave a crisp edge.

Using a putty knife, fill any small divots or holes in the walls. Use patching compound for plaster and joint compound for drywall. Sand the filler smooth with 120-grit sandpaper.  However, most divots and holes can be filled with the “Paint, Primer and Filler combination that I mentioned earlier.

Prime the patched spots (or the whole wall if necessary). Sand primed areas with 120-grit sand paper, and wipe clean of dust with a damp sponge.

Dip a 2½-inch angled brush into a bucket of paint, loading the paint only a third of the way up the bristles. Tap off—don't wipe—the excess on the side of the bucket. Use the brush to cut in a 2 to 3-inch band of paint at all corners, against the ceiling, and next to molding; this will give the roller some breathing room so it doesn't bump against adjacent areas.

To cut in, run a line of paint along the wall about an inch away from the edge. Then turn the brush onto the bristle tips, and press down slightly so the longest bristles gather into a point. Use this point to draw a careful line of paint right up to the edge where wall meets trim. Once you have a clean line in place, level out any heavy areas or drips, then move on. In order to keep a wet edge, don't work in too large an area at one time.

Once you've cut in around an entire wall area, use a roller to fill in the field. Dampen the roller before using it (with water for latex paint or paint thinner for oils). Dip the roller in a tray filled with just enough paint to reach the grate. Roll it back against the grate to distribute the paint and squeeze out the excess. Make sure the roller is covered completely before painting with it

Roll a W or M shape on the wall to distribute the bulk of the paint. Then use overlapping vertical strokes to spread paint evenly between the lines. Continue painting the wall in this manner until it is covered. Overlap a bit of the cut-in edges to blend away any visible brush marks.

           
If a second coat is necessary, wait until the paint is dry to the touch, then repeat Steps 5 and 6.

With broad moldings, such as baseboards and wainscoting, use a wide, straight-edged brush to paint the bulk of the trim.

Then, using a small, angled sash brush (1- to 2-inch), finish by carefully painting a straight line along the edge. Hold the brush on edge as you did in Step 5, and let a hairline of paint carry over onto the wall to make up for any imperfections on the molding itself.

           

AS ALWAYS,”HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING”

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. --  Painting Northwest Arkansas Beautiful, “ One house at a time”.

Serving Northwest Arkansas and the greater Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers and Bella Vista area.

 Professional Painters since 1987.

Check us out at www.kenraderinteriors.com

Like us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

Ken Rader

Popular Faux Finishes you can do!

 Faux Painting Techniques

By: Ken Rader

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

Professional Painters in Northwest Arkansas

Through the last decade faux painting has experienced ups and downs.  Several of the big box home improvement stores have gone through times of pushing faux finishing products and how to do it classes.  Perhaps because it is not as easy as regular painting or maybe we just don’t seem to have the time needed.  For these and other reasons faux painting has never taken off.  However,  you can really create some fantastic effects and looks for your home that are unique and a real pleasure to have in your home.

Perhaps a little explanation of the steps required and some explanations will get you inspired to try one of them.

Faux painting techniques can bring the look of leather, stone or fabric to walls and furniture using certain application methods and a variety of faux painting tools. Most techniques call for layering colors of paint or glaze with everything from sponges and rags to plastic sheets. Learning the different techniques and understanding the results is important in choosing the best faux painting technique for your projects.
Base Coat: All faux painting techniques require a base coat. Then other layers are either added to it (positive) or added and then partially removed (negative). The base coat is the color that will show through with either technique.
Color Washing: The top coat of glaze is applied over the base coat with a rag or sponge in a circular or "washing" motion. The end result is a soft, swirled look.
Dry Brushing: This technique requires a paintbrush dipped in glaze that is applied to the wall in a criss-cross pattern. Most dry brushing faux painting techniques require two different colors of glaze for best results.
Frottage: This is an example of a negative faux painting technique, where glaze is removed using a plastic sheet. Apply the glaze over the base, and then spread a plastic sheet over a section. Press the sheet over the glaze, and then remove. The texture left behind resembles marble.
Ragging: This technique is similar to sponging in that glaze is applied over the base coat with a crinkled dry rag. By moving the rag and rotating your arm, you will create a texture that looks like stucco.
Sponging: This technique is similar to ragging, but gives a much more subtle texture. Use a sea sponge to apply one or two colors of glaze over a base coat, and take advantage of the unique texture of this natural substance.
Verdigris: For the green patina look of copper sulfate, try this technique to mimic weathered copper or bronze. Apply a copper or gold base coat, and then apply dark green paint with a sponge, allowing the base to show through. A light green paint color should be sponged on top of the dark green, giving the item a mottled appearance.
These are just a few of the many faux finished you can do.  Give one of them a try.
As Always "Happy Painting and Decorating"
Ken Rader
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
Painting Northwest Arkansas beautiful, "One house at a time"
Check us out at www.kenraderinteriors.com

12 most popular green colors for 2012

12 OF THE MOST POPULAR GREEN COLORS

OF 2012!

12 SHADES OF GREEN YOU WILL LOVE.

WHERE ARE THESE SHADES OF GREEN SHOWING UP?

Green started out the year with a big bang and it continues to be a popular choice.  Everything from paint to pillows to rugs to candles are showing up GREEN.

These are presented in no particular order and there was no clear number one.

First up—Benjamin Moore  CLEVELAND GREEN 1525

It is more brown than green. This is a Mossy, Olivey Green.  It works like a neutral, allowing you to play around with stronger, sharper colors like shocking pink, apple green, turquoise, and chromium yellow.  It is a fabulous background for artwork as well.

Next up—Farrow & Ball COOKING APPLE GREEN 32

This one has been around for several years and continues to capture the eye of cutting edge decorators.  When the light hits it in the early morning, it sort of electrifies.  And then at night, it becomes quiet and dreamy.  It has a multifaceted quality and sometimes looks Georgian and then at other times modern.  Go figure.

Number 3--- Farrow & Ball FOLLY GREEN 76

Farrow & Ball score again with this happy, whimsical green—like Kermit the Frog meets Lucky Charms clover. “ This is probably a little tough to envision”.  It shows up a lot in Kids’ rooms or any room that needs a little color kick.  Bright but not scary, with a cool retro feel.

4^th offering--- Benjamin Moore  NANTUCKET GRAY HC-111

Benjamin Moore has another winner with this gray, earthy green.  It is the color of wet raincoats.  It has depth and age, and somehow it is both utilitarian and romantic at the same time—a great fusion. This is proving to be a perennial color for many.  It too has been around for several years.

Number 5—Donald Kaufman Color  DKC-29

Very subtle and it could be classified as an off white.  It is incredibly rich with pigment and it is easily the most lively pale green you will find.  It can go blue and gray.  It behaves in a completely natural way with light and can appear so different in different settings.

Number 6--- Full Spectrum Paints  LICHEN

It looks a lot like taupe but a more complete description might be, silvery gray-green with blue undertones.  It is both soothing and grounding. It has be described as “the most healing color”.

Coming in at number 7--- Benjamin Moore  CYPRESS GREEN 509

Benjamin Moore continues to produce winning colors.  This is a murky, pond-scum green.  Cagey in its neutrality, it seems to go with almost everythin.  It will set off other colors, like a soft celadon or a saturated orange.

I know, pond scum does not sound nice but it is how us country people see it.

8^th—Glidden THYME 70YY 46/160

I personally like Glidden paint and I am happy to see them in the running.

This is very organic, with a bit of dustiness to it.  It is a surprisingly versatile neutral.  You can balance the coolness of the green with golden yellow and rose. It would also work beautifully with brown bark colors or blue—colors you would find next to it in nature.

Here is Number 9--  Dunn-Edwards RIPE PEAR DE5515

This one almost glows.  You can put this one with pink or chartreuse.  Even porcelain blue will give a unique effect!  A great paint color that is never meant to stand on its own.

Big 10--- Benjamin Moore SEA GLASS PT-330

Chalk another one up for BM.  This is a metallic paint color in appearance.  This green is like a piece of glass washed up on the beach. Light seems to dance across it. It is much more gray than green.  I would say it is in the putty color pallete.

Number 11--- Pratt & Lambert  SUNNY MEADOW 19-7

Green is such an amazing, confident color. It makes you think of nature, health, and vitality.  This is a very crisp green.  It looks good enough to eat.  Anyway, the name says it all “Sunny Meadow”.  Bring it on.

Finally number 12--- Donald Kaufman Color DKC-26

Another good choice from this paint company.  Most of nature is green for a reason. It is pleasing.  This color can also be seen in a St. Petersburg castle with gilt mirrors and candlelight, and in country cottage with French printed linens.  It is a universal, tranquil shade.  Once again, more brown that green.

Well, what do you think?  Do any of these spark your interest?  Most of these greens will be around for years to come.  They are that good.  I must admit though that you can find 100’s of greens just like these at your paint store.  Paint companies have a habit of following the same fashion as everyone else.  So go and check out your local paint store.  What is popular will be featured.

As Always “Happy Painting and Decorating”

Ken Rader

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

Quality Painters in Fayetteville, Arkansas and painting all of Northwest Arkansas

Check out our web page  www.kenraderinteriors.com , we are proud of it

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NEUTRAL COLORS YOU WILL LOVE

NEUTRAL COLORS

CALMING AND A BREATH

OF FRESH AIR

A HAPPY MIDDLE GROUND

By Ken Rader

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

Professional Painters in Fayetteville, Ar.

Because we live in such a color-filled, busy world, coming home to a calm, neutral space feels like a breath of fresh air.

Enter the Neutral Zone--  Saturated neutrals are a happy middle ground between quiet palettes and full-on color.  How can you enter the neutral zone?

1. If you are looking at neutrals on a paint chip, go one step more colorful from what you are thinking to ease you out of the ‘safe’ neutrals and get you into a bolder or perhaps more colorful neutral.
2. Anything you find in a wineglass works well with neutrals, from champagne to burgundy to merlot.
3. Rethink beige.  Far from being one-note, it runs the gamut from grayish mushroom to greenish khaki to rich Café au lait.  If you are most comfortable in the beige area, use variations like these to change things up.
4. Changing the sheen—such as using high-gloss paint on the walls or the ceiling—is a clever way to punch up a neutral palette.  But be careful.  High Gloss paint is not for everyone.

Such terms as “Farm-Fresh Neutrals”, “Rustic”, “Pastoral hues”, “Earthy”, all describe the neutral colors that are popular.  Here are a few for you to consider.

Doeskin (C21-4) made by Olympic Paint is a chocolate alternative.  It is pale brown but still looks rich and yummy.

Homestead Resort Tea Room Yellow (3004-4B) made by Valspar is a warm and livable yellow that is easygoing enough for walls.  Paired with blues or dark woods, the look is classic; with gray, it is fresh and contemporary.

Artesian White (C19-1) made by Ace Hardware is great on trim or furniture, this off-white pops—especially in a high-gloss sheen. Though for most trim a semi-gloss will be a better choice.

Cracked Wheat (320E-2) made by Behr can be paired with a rich brown or deep red, this cream will look even warmer.

Trumpet Gold (14C4) made by True Value is a brownish gold that works very well with all of the colors that we have listed.  Everyone thinks of gold when you mention neutral.  This is a great choice.

From buttery yellow to rustic brown you will find many choices in the neutral palette. One direction that we will talk about in another article is “Green”.  Greens are very, very popular and many of them are in the neutral choices. 

One of the keys to making neutrals work is to use several different colors in any given room.  If you use just one neutral then the room will not pop or have any punch.  The collection of neutrals that you use can be in the paint, furniture, floors, rugs, window treatments, pillows, wall art and accessories.  Each item should be a different neutral color.  Also, vary the texture, this will liven up the room and complete the look.

Enjoy the selection process and plan out as many details as you can before you begin the project.

As Always, “Happy Painting and Decorating”

Ken Rader

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

Visit our web page at www.kenraderinteriors.com

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Check out our archived articles, 104 to be exact, all about painting and decorating.

This Year's Favorite Colors

2012 THE YEAR OF COLOR!

PAINT COLORS WE LOVE.

THE MOST POPULAR COLORS

By Ken Rader
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
Your FIRST CHOICE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS
Painting Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas beautiful !
Each year we change our minds when it comes to color.  We like to think that we are happy with what we have at present but that usually does not hold true. We love change and while all colors have been around for 1000’s of years we are always seeing a different shade or hue that is new to us and we fall in love with it.
This year's popular home interior wall colors include a few carry-overs from 2011, but there are also some new, emerging trends worth understanding. A new collection of popular neutrals includes off-white, beige, sage green, teal-blue, yellow and smoky gray. Adding tans, browns, grays and purple to teal-blue softens and controls its power. Choosing red, blue, peach, black, green or coral to pair with yellow can create an energized space. Be careful of your shade of yellow, however, because natural and artificial lighting can change its warmth or coolness significantly. Lemony yellow is more associated with anxiety and should probably be left as an accent. Dark gray is the most popular neutral for 2012. It grounds a room and allows you the freedom to add vibrant pops of colors such as intense reds, yellows, purples, blues or black.
Once you have your neutral choice, it's time to jazz it up consider what to add to it.  For a compatible combination, match warm neutrals with warm-toned accents and cool-toned neutrals with cool-toned accents. On the other hand, 2012 is all about unexpected combinations. While bright, bold shades seem to be declining somewhat, intense colors and contrasts definitely have a place in today's home design. The following combinations pack a lot of punch: cherry-red with blacks, blues, whites and grays; juicy, tangerine-orange with dark reds, browns and blacks; and deep blue-purple with yellows, blacks, whites and reds.
 Interior wall color combinations can bring new life to the important rooms in your home:
Here are some suggestions for different rooms in the house.

• Kitchen - Increase the energy and warmth with tangerine as either an accent for gray or as its own main color. Bright blue and white is a clean, fresh combination. How about yellow-green supported with earthy neutrals? Charcoal gray and white together are modernistic. Dark wheat, browns and white are sophisticated and versatile.

• Bathroom - This year's color trends support calm, relaxing and natural spaces. Cool gray-blues or warmer purple-blues look elegant but unpretentious. Smoky grays are also subdued. Pale greens and browns continue the nature theme and work well for bathrooms with plants and flowers.  Beige has made a big comeback though it is not the same beige as earlier years.

• Living room - A new trend is to return to the glamorous elegance of the Hollywood styles of the '30s and '40s. For a more playful approach, mix in some unexpected, vivid colors. Bright yellow-green and dark brown neutrals are earthy and comforting. A gentle mix of apple green and fuchsia is uplifting and optimistic. Dark grays with rich purples are dramatic and interesting.  This is tricky.  If you watch movies from the 30’s and 40’s they are in black and white.  So you have to imagine the clothes, hats, rooms and décor in color.  What you are looking for is a style that says “Glamorous”.

• Bedroom - Monochrome color palettes continue to be popular in this romantic room. Dulled gold, mustard-yellow and sunflower mix with browns to form rich combinations. Greens and browns pull earthiness and nature into the room. Bright blue and sparkling white are modern and refreshing.  Such terms as Earthy, Farmhouse, Natural, Country and Country Chic should get you thinking in the right direction.

It is important when choosing your interior wall colors don't neglect your own personal preferences' the colors that make you feel comfortable and satisfied. Your choices may lead you to a soft, earthy, natural environment; an intense, brightly energized space; an ambiance of quiet sophistication; or a fun place for quirky playfulness. Use your favorites as accents, or splash them everywhere. Feel free to express your personality in your choices. After all, this is your space, so color it to your tastes.  2012 is well on its way and almost over.  It has proven to be a year of change in the world of color.  While we can make small additions and changes in our color scheme in the home the trend is to make big changes.  This calls for painting several rooms.  Painting one room will usually lead to painting others to make the style complete and make all of your living space fresh and new.
Go to your favorite paint department and see what is popular.  The colors really have changed as the year has progressed. Look at your favorite magazines or notice what is being used by the decorators on makeover TV shows.  Our taste in color is changing all the time whether we are aware of it or not.  You will enjoy and be happy with the popular colors of the day for quite a while.  So don’t be afraid to paint the room or rooms.  Change is important and can give us a brighter outlook which is a good thing.
As Always “Happy Painting and Decorating”
Ken Rader
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
Professional Painters serving Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas with the finest the painting trade offers.