In the wake of a New Year, refurbishing and revamping our homes is one of the top priorities most of us go through, especially in preparation for the coming Chinese New Year. Having attractive, sometimes outlandishly colored décor might turn your guests’ heads, there might be a few that may clash with certain Fengshui aspects within the home that may disrupt harmony and bliss within a home. Thus, it is important that we take note of such (particularly for those who believed in Fengshui) details, so as to enhance any luck and fortune that may be helpful to us in facing the challenging year of the Metal Tiger.

The following are some of the more popular colors in home décor, which you may adjust based on the 5-Elements chart for a better home:

White

White or hues of cream are widely recommended for most household furnishing or décor; its major point being that it goes well easily with other items or elements, as well as representing hope and brightness, of pureness and cleanliness, thus bringing its inhabitants the feeling of secure and cheerfulness.

Red

As an auspicious symbol, red is definitely a must for the newly-wed’s bedroom, as red is the color for passion and energy. However, red and hues of red (pink, maroon etc) are also colors of destructive properties, and thus, according to feng shui expertise, should not be overused. Too much of red in a given space can lead to discord in the family—quarrels amongst siblings and parents, arguments between spouses, angry moods and bad tempers. While it is true that pink and the sweeter hues of red are a boost to romance, the general advice is use sparingly; mainly as complement or minor decorative items (small cushions on sofa, flowers in vase etc).

Yellow

Yellow is a bright color which is particularly eye-catching. However, too much of the bright hue will cause anxiety for the inhabitants, as yellow invokes a feeling of insecurity. This has to do with yellow’s history in our culture—the sovereign color for emperors and sultans, the representation of wealth, fame and luxury. And like wealth, fame and other luxury, it can lead its owner to a better life, but might devastate its owner as well, if not guarded, or, in this case, used wisely. Hence, the same as red, use in moderation—as display items on the rack; not as the 3-person lounge sofa.

Blue

While blue is associated with fantasy, romantic and thoroughness, it is also a color related to melancholy and depressive moods. Different hues and tones of blue reflect a different ‘personality’; a lighter blue embodies serenity and freshness; a darker blue exudes an air of elegance and sophistication; deep dark blue is the image of loneliness and sadness. Since blue itself is a cold color, too much blue for too long time can lead to feelings of melancholia, pessimism, and stunting of growth; therefore, lighter hues are the best choice for huge/major furnishing (carpet, sofa, curtains), while darker hues should only be reserved for the small coffee table or the lapis lazuli figurines on the display shelf.  

Green

In many beliefs, green is the color of growth, of liveliness (living life force) and abundance; it is with this concept that some had overlooked the other properties of green— of stagnant.  It is true that nature’s green, in plants and blossoms, is a relief to sore eyes, is the symbol of co-existence and peace, and of growth; but it differs from the element of man-made green in paints or coloring, which lacks the liveliness and relief of green plants, inducing stagnation instead. Henceforth, the best greens are still from the living plants in the pot; and darker greens should never be on the wall or wallpaper.

So, married couples, choose your colors wisely to ensure a better home, with better energy and life force to help you through the Year of the Metal Tiger.

Source of Reference: 2010虎年-家居颜色开运法, Wedding.com.my; http://www.wedding.com.my/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=490&Itemid=48