Woven woods on windows provide an excellent backdrop for color families

The late designer David Hicks, who counted Prince Charles among his clients, was an early advocate of using color families. His idea was that all tones of red or gray or blue go well together, and cannot fail in decorating schemes.

Using colors that are close to each other on the color wheel is how home decorators can develop color-family décor. "An analogous color scheme uses colors that are next to each other on the color wheel," states Better Homes and Gardens magazine. "Analogous schemes are harmonious and very easy to work with; just be sure to add a little contrast, such as black furniture."

Contrast can also be achieved by choosing brighter members of the same color family for a major piece of furniture such as a sofa, or for a selection of accessories clustered into an arrangement.

The choice of a window treatment can either continue a color combination in a room or provide contrast to it. For instance, custom blinds of woven woods or woven shades provide a natural look that serves as an excellent backdrop for any color arrangement. They can be paired with drapes in a living room or used alone for a more informal look in a den or family room.