Design Trend Fall 2013: Color Blocking

Color Blocking is a trend that started in Fashion Design and Art. It began back in the 1960's. (You've probably seen the bright color blocked shift dresses and abstract art that the swinging sixties were so famous for.) You may have noticed a return to the Color Block trend in fashion, so it comes as no surprise that it is also making a comeback in Interior Design.

http://www.labelledujour.com/2011_05_01_archive.html

When you think of the bright pops of color that were such an overwhelming part of the trend in the past, you might be tempted to shy away from color blocks in your decor. However, the modern reincarnation of the trend is much more versatile and can be very subtle when need be. Of course, if bright and fun colors are your thing, blocks of color are where it's at!

When choosing the colors for your room, it is easiest to choose colors that are either close together or on the opposite side of the color wheel. If you want a streamlined look, you may just want two colors (or two and a neutral). However, if you want a richer look, go for three colors (or more if you're daring!) Let's look at some examples of color blocking with just two colors.

http://eyefordesignlfd.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/color-blocking-your-interiors.html

http://www.houzz.com/photos/218702/Sky---MidCity-Lofts-modern-living-room-atlanta

 http://marcusdesigninc.blogspot.com.au/2011/05/fashion-meets-interior-design-color.html

Here are some examples of blocking with more than two colors:

http://www.edisonavenue.net/2013/02/color-blocking-portugal.html

http://www.houzz.com/photos/74036/residence-F-modern-kitchen-tel-aviv

http://64inthebox.com/events/take-color-block-cues-from-henri-matisse/

Here is an example of mixing two hot trends - color blocking and pastels, this creates a softer look:

 

http://www.houzz.com/photos/2036185/Colour-in-our-Residential-Architecture-contemporary-family-room-sydney

http://www.tumblr.com

For a more classic calming effect, go for blocks of neutral colors:

http://www.houzz.com/photos/468019/Finished-Basement-with-Music-Studio-contemporary-basement-dc-metro

Add http://www.houzz.com/photos/2891478/Rumsin-transitional-kitchen-new-yorkcaption

As you can see, color blocking can be done many different ways. It can be used in modern, traditional or transitional design. Best of all, you can create the blocks with paint, furniture, or accessories. It's so easy to do!