Fig. 6 is an almost mono-chromatic color scheme. It was picked to create a tone or ambience. This house is the office of a realty firm that specializes in high-end homes of impeccable taste. The colors are dignified yet warn and welcoming as well.

These are the major tenets of selecting a good color scheme. I have never met a homeowner who didn't want his or her home to feel warn and convivial. No matter how colorful or quiet you want your house to be, no matter how detailed or simple you preference is, I have one major rule of thumb: Be outstanding without standing out. Your house needs to fit with your neighborhood and your town. The most beautiful elaborate San Francisco Victorian would look like a street circus if it were in Worcester or Denver and could never be properly appreciated because it would be so shocking. If all the houses on the street for blocks around are white, don't paint your house red. Some subdued colors will be enough for it to stand out and be really appreciated. I'm sure we would all prefer to be known as the people who live in the gorgeous Victorian rather than "that red house."