In this post, we’ll share some tips on how to choose the right colors for home to create a space that feels cohesive, inviting, and full of character.

In this series of posts, we want to take you through the journey that led us to renovate an Italian country house and then extend it. We’ll guide you through each phase of the project, sharing technical details and design choices. In this second post, we’ll tell you about the first style choices for the interior design, especially those related to the choice of colors. 

|| Go to the first post: Renovation project of an Italian country house step by step

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CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLORS FOR A HOME INTERIOR: HOW WE STARTED

In interior design, color isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a real storytelling tool that can transform a space, set the mood, and bring out emotions. This project was born from the desire to explore the power of color, moving beyond that minimalist approach typical of the interior designs here in Italy of this moment.

The challenge was to move away from the coldness of traditional neutral tones like white and gray and instead embrace a warmer, Mediterranean-inspired palette that adds comfort, authenticity, and a subtle sense of being on vacation. In a countryside setting, this palette felt like the perfect fit, naturally blending with the landscape and respecting the history of the existing building.

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CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATERIALS: A BALANCE BETWEEN TRADITION, MODERNITY & REUSE

With this vision in mind, the choice of materials was all about creating a space that felt cohesive and harmonious, where colors and textures work together in perfect balance. When selecting colors for an interior, the first step in fact is actually choosing the key materials – that’s to say, the ones that will define the space and won’t be easy to change later unless you’re planning a major renovation. These materials in our case were:

• For the windows and doors, we went with natural oak, a material that enhances the brightness of the space and blends seamlessly with the chosen palette.
• For the flooring, we also opted for oak, keeping a warm and natural tone. Instead of following the trend of extra-wide planks, we chose a French herringbone pattern. Not only does this add a touch of elegance, but it also works well with the architecture of the house, helping to balance the slight irregularities typical of 1970s buildings.

One of the most interesting parts of this project was the ability to adapt color and material choices based on the reclaimed materials available on-site. A great example is the niche next to the bathroom door, which was covered using leftover tiles from the bathroom itself. This approach didn’t just add a unique and visually cohesive touch—it also helped reduce waste and make the most of the materials we had.

|| Discover more: 10 features of Italian style interiors 

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The Final Palette : Choosing the colors and finishes for our home interior

Finding the perfect primary color was a journey of experimentation and research, aiming to strike the right balance between color and texture. In the end, we chose a brushed marble-effect lime finish with a matte look—allowing the texture to stand out without the glossy effect of Venetian stucco that was popular in the ’90s. We also opted for 100% natural lime paint, a healthier and more eco-friendly alternative to traditional paints.

Choosing the secondary and accent colors was a meticulous process, involving plenty of sampling and careful consideration of how light, materials, and space interact to create a cohesive and balanced look. Our starting point was one of our favorite shades: ultramarine blue. Used as an accent on the kitchen ceiling and arch frame, this deep, rich color adds depth and anchors the entire palette. From there, we introduced complementary tones of terracotta and soft green, creating a refined yet dynamic color scheme that visually connects the spaces without feeling repetitive or predictable.

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how to choose colors for an interior and build a balanced palette

Creating an effective color palette isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about finding the right balance between proportions, light perception, and how materials interact with color. Here are some key rules that guided our decision-making process:

✔️ choose the right colors for home: The 60/30/10 Rule

A well-balanced color composition follows these proportions:

• 60% dominant color – the base of the space (e.g., walls, flooring, key architectural elements).
• 30% secondary color – adds contrast and depth (e.g., furniture, textiles, smaller surfaces).
• 10% accent color – brings personality and vibrancy (e.g., decorative details, statement features like the arch frame).

✔️ Test Colors in the Right Conditions

Looking at color swatches on paper can be misleading—colors look completely different depending on the surface and lighting. That’s why we tested each shade directly on the final surfaces, applying it vertically and observing how natural light affected its appearance throughout the day.

✔️ Choose the right colors for home & Consider the Number of Coats

Some finishes, like lime paint, can change significantly between the first and second coat. To avoid surprises and achieve the right depth of color, we tested multiple layers, paying close attention to how each application impacted the final look.

These steps helped us create a palette that wasn’t just visually appealing but also worked seamlessly with the materials and architecture of the space. The result? Interiors that feel balanced, inviting, and rich in character – where color plays a key role without ever feeling overwhelming. 

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Want to Master Color in Interior Design?

Join the next session of CASACROMIA, our hands-on workshop for anyone who wants to learn how to work with color like a pro, and choose the right colors for home interiors ( and more ).

This project is proof that when color is thoughtfully chosen and applied with care, it can completely transform a space—making it expressive, welcoming, and deeply personal. The final result strikes the perfect balance between warmth and texture, tradition and innovation, beauty and functionality. Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes details in the next posts!