In my mind, all seasonal inspiration begins with nature.
The combinations of color that appear in every natural setting on Earth are flawless... consisting of perfectly coordinated shades and hues, contrasts and compliments.
So when people ask me 'How do you know what colors go together?' or 'How do you pick a color scheme?', I tell them to go outside. Literally! Because it's outside, in nature, every season, that you'll find the 'perfect' color...
Case in Point: the photo shown above, snapped at Newport Beach, California. It contains a perfect summer color scheme inspired by nature...
The palette of varied blues, grays, tans, browns, and whites
is crisp, fresh, and perfectly balanced between cool and warm tones, lights and darks.
This palette can be translated into a sleek modern look or a cozy country style, depending upon your preferences.
Here's one way to create rooms around that palette: