
Color surrounds us every day; but it doesn’t stop there. It infuses us, stirring up emotions and evoking memories of people and places that have made us who we are. More than anything else in our homes and offices, color sets the tone and palette for our feelings, productivity and life.
Color choice may be the most powerful tool in our custom design arsenal.
Color is … Client-Inspired
When it comes to interior design, the power lies not with choosing “hot” tones or trendy shades; it lies instead with our clients. Stephanie Freeman, lead designer for Custom Drapery Designs, explains how this works for her.
“I watch the client very closely to see their immediate reaction to the materials I am presenting. Even a subtle change in expression will tell me which colors and patterns inspire them.”
Stephanie Freeman
This focus on client choice makes the end result completely worth it, according to Brenda Baxter, owner and principal designer of CDD.
“While presenting the design, when the client’s smile and expression become apparent—I know I’ve fulfilled their vision.”
Brenda Baxter

Color is … In the Details
Brenda and Stephanie love those client reactions. They make all the hard work and attention to detail that goes into each project worth every moment. Often, these results are achieved through the custom couture details for which CDD is known.
“Even adding a pop of colorful trim on an otherwise neutral treatment can be enough to make the client’s eyes light up and bring the design to life.”
Stephanie
The power of color relies on strategic placement more than overpowering amounts. Utilizing fabrics and trims with a higher color saturation leads to couture quality materials.
“Color direction is customer inspired, yet I take it a step or two further by embellishing with a variety of hues and elements of texture for the additional ‘wow’ factor!”
Brenda
Color is … Popular
Pantone, the standard for color trends across design, fashion and graphics industries, promotes a color every year. Living Coral has been named the 2019 Color of the Year, and we love its bright, cheery tone.
We’re not alone in our appreciation!
“Just as coral reefs are a source of sustenance and shelter to sea life, vibrant yet mellow PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral, embraces us with warmth and nourishment to provide comfort and buoyancy in our continually shifting environment.”
Leatrice Eiseman Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute
Color is … Lasting
Trends do come and go, of course. While we find it fun and challenging to incorporate new colors in our designs, we also know certain colors stand the test of time.
Neutrals offer a canvas on which to toss a few power pops of color.
CDD clients frequently gravitate toward various hues of blue. Over the years, this has been the color that keeps filling our homes with warmth and beauty and witnessing all the memories made there.
Color is … YOU
Every person finds himself or herself instinctively drawn to certain colors. Sometimes, we use that natural bent to learn more about who we are.
Do you like red? You’re probably passionate, maybe a little courageous.
Are you sentimental or artistic? Perhaps violet’s more your color.
Whatever color you’re drawn to, CDD has the perfect design for you. Take a couple minutes to determine your ideal color palette, using this handy quiz from House Beautiful, then contact us today to set up your in-home consultation.
Let’s put some color in your year!