When it comes to choosing a colour to paint a utility room, there are a few key factors to consider. The utility room is often a functional space used for laundry and storage, so you’ll want to opt for a colour that is practical but still visually appealing. Take into account the size of the space, how much natural light it receives, what colours are used in adjoining rooms, and the overall style or colour scheme of your home’s interior. With some thought as to the purpose and look you want to achieve, you can select a colour that makes your utility room both stylish and efficient.
Consider the Function and Usage of the Space
Since a utility room is a working area of the home, it’s important to choose a colour that will conceal dirt, moisture and grime that inevitably accumulates in the space. Very light or very dark colours will show every splash, smudge and dust bunny. A good option is to use medium tones or neutral hues that will camouflage small messes without making the room feel dark or dreary. Greys, taupes and lighter beiges are great choices for this reason.
You’ll also want to think about how the colour will work with the types of appliances or features found in the utility room. For example, if your washing machine or dryer is a bold colour like red or black, choose a neutral wall colour that won’t clash. White appliances can look crisp against colourful walls, while stainless steel finishes pair well with grey or beige hues. Considering the colour scheme of the appliances and fixtures will help the space feel cohesive.
Factor in the Size of the Room
A colour that works well in a large, open concept utility room may not be the best choice for a small, cramped space. Dark or saturated colours have a tendency to make small rooms feel closed in and even smaller. To counteract this, lighter neutrals or pastels are better options for small utility rooms as they give the illusion of openness. Soft greys, powder blue and pale greens are great light choices.
Conversely, if you have a large utility room with high ceilings, you have more freedom to use deeper colours on the walls. Richer tones of navy, forest green or taupe will make a spacious room feel warm and cozy. Just be sure the colour isn’t too overwhelming for the functional nature of the space.
Consider the Lighting and Exposure
The amount of natural light your utility room receives should factor into your colour selection. North facing rooms with little natural light will benefit from lighter colours that brighten up the space. South or west facing rooms with ample sunlight can handle deeper, bolder colours without feeling too dark and gloomy.
Take into account the type of lighting as well. Rooms with cool, blue-toned fluorescent lights will pair better with warm paint shades like peach, yellow or red based neutrals. Warm yellow overhead lighting is complemented by cooler paint colours in the blue, green or grey colour families. Testing paint swatches at various times of day will give you a sense of how the colour is impacted by the lighting.
Complement Nearby Rooms
Think about how often you’ll see the utility room from adjoining spaces like the kitchen, mudroom or garage. Using similar or complementary colours to these high-traffic areas will help the utility room feel seamlessly integrated into your home’s aesthetic.
You definitely don’t need to match the colours exactly if you want the utility room to have its own unique personality. But choosing tones within the same colour family or palette will give a cohesive flow from one space to the next. For example, navy kitchen cabinets could be paired with a sky blue utility room. Or earthy reds and oranges in the mudroom would complement a terra cotta utility space.
Align with Your Home’s Overall Colour Scheme
While the utility room doesn’t necessarily need to match other areas of your home decor, you’ll generally want to stick within the same overall colour palette. Cool, airy homes filled with blues, greens and greys require different utility room colours than warm, cozy spaces decorated in reds, yellows and browns.
Take some inspiration from your existing interior design to select a colour that complements your home’s style. Or if your utility room will be getting a makeover before the rest of the house, you could choose a bold colour in there first, then bring complementary tones into other rooms later on. This is a great way to incorporate your home’s eventual colour scheme.
Consider Maintenance and Durability
Since utility rooms tend to get a lot of wear and tear, opt for paint colours known for their durability and stain-resistance. High gloss or semi-gloss sheens are great options as they can be easily cleaned. Flat and matte paints may stain more easily.
Sturdy light colours like white and pale grey are hardworking choices that hide stains and show minimal dirt. Beiges are prone to yellowing over time, so avoid this colour if you’re looking for a very low maintenance option. Washable mid-tone neutrals are always a safe bet for utility room walls.
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Create a Mood with Colour Psychology
Beyond just aesthetics, colour choice affects how we feel in a space. Certain paint colours evoke emotional responses and set the overall mood of a room. Use colour psychology to create the ambience you want for your utility space.
Energizing reds, oranges and yellows are great for creating an upbeat, lively utility room. These warm colours spark creativity and joy.Blues and greens feel peaceful and relaxing – perfect for a low-key laundry retreat. Neutral whites and greys give a clean, orderly vibe.
Soft pastels make even the most utilitarian room feel welcoming. And bold jewel tones add drama and sophistication. Choose paint colours to match the mood you want your utility room to exude. An invigorating bright red says “let’s get things done!” while a tranquil pale blue conveys “catch your breath and unwind.”
Add Pops of Colour with Accessories
If you want to play it safe with a neutral wall colour, add visual interest with colourful accessories and accents. Vibrant art prints, patterned rugs, colorful organizational bins and baskets all enliven a neutral space. Shelving and storage can be painted in a bold contrasting colour to neutral walls.
Don’t be afraid to mix materials like wood, metal, glass and laminate in eye-catching hues. Just be sure any louder colours are kept smaller in scale so as not to overwhelm the neutral backdrop. This allows you to incorporate colour and personality while still keeping the walls low-maintenance.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect colour for a utility room ultimately comes down to a few key considerations – the functionality of the space, the size and lighting, adjacent rooms, your home’s overall colour scheme, and the mood you want to create. Livable mid-tone neutrals like grey, blue-grey and beige make classic choices that conceal dirt and spatters. Or infuse cheery brightness with pale yellow or green. For small rooms, lighter tones keep the space feeling open and airy. Large utility rooms can handle bolder navy, sage green or brick red colours. Always opt for durable paints that can be easily cleaned. And don’t forget you can layer in personality with colourful storage, art and accessories against neutral walls. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to find a colour that makes your utility room both stylish and totally functional.