Formal areas of home can be colorful with a balance of colors

Home decorators don't have to shy away from using bold colors and innovative combinations, even in the most formal areas of their homes such as living or dining rooms.


"If you've got patterned upholstery, an Oriental rug or large piece of artwork, pluck colors you like from the pattern," HGTV.com reports. "For a neutral wall paint color, look to the pattern's whites and beiges."

Another rule of thumb is to keep the balance within a color scheme by using proportions that are nearly equal between walls, window coverings and upholstery to prevent one color from dominating.

In addition, accessories in bright colors can be used to accent walls and furniture, according to the website. A darker color can be chosen for an area rug to anchor the room without overpowering other elements in the room.
 

One of those elements, the room's windows, can become a focal point with the use of window treatments that add color and texture in a wide variety of solids or prints. Horizontal fabric shades have the look of a window shade, but the individual slats are reminiscent of a venetian blind. The range of materials and colors in horizontal fabric shades work well in a formal dining or living room.