For a fairly large part of the 1980's the monochromatic color scheme was all the rage. Unfortunately it was almost exclusively done in white or off-white, and people did become rather tired of the same white and chrome décor in almost all magazines and books. Monochromatic color schemes are starting to make a strong comeback, but with a few modern twists that are much more designer friendly and can really add to your home décor.

To understand various colors, it is important to use a color wheel. This is a color management chart used in mixing paints, determining contrasting and complimentary colors as well as understanding tones, tints and shades. If you don't know how to use the color wheel don't worry, there are lots of online software programs that will pre-select what colors are correct with the color you select, all you have to do is indicate that you what a monochromatic color scheme. This matching process is not random through these programs; it is all based on the science of the color wheel.

Monochromatic colors are not colors that are all the same, rather they are various intensities of the same color, resulting in a very restful and relaxing atmosphere in the room with some colors, or a vibrant and energetic feel to the room with others. Monochromatic colors that are considered the cooler colors include blues and greens, warmer colors include oranges and reds and yellows. The overall appearance is a fluid eye movement through the room, without the accentuation of one particular aspect of the room. For smaller spaces a light monochromatic color scheme really enhances the appearance of space and openness, which makes them ideal for bathrooms, smaller kitchens and even small living spaces.

Typically the color of the monochromatic color scheme is selected to balance or match with colors in the furniture and flooring. The main color is then selected for the largest surface area, typically the walls, and tends to include lighter and darker tints, tones and shades of the main color are used as the accent colors. For example, you may select an aqua or teal color as the main paint color, then add a small amount of white to lighten the original color for trim around the baseboards, windows or even on the ceiling. It is also to possible to use an analogous color scheme, which adds the colors that are immediately beside the main color on a color wheel. This does allow you to add a bit more accent to different features of the room without having dramatic contrasts in color. An example of an analogous color scheme with the same teal green color used above may be a darker green or a more yellow shade that is next on the color wheel to the teal color.

While monochromatic color schemes are common in smaller spaces, they can be just as soothing and relaxing in larger rooms. Keep in mind that monochromatic doesn't just mean white, any color can be used in the scheme, depending on the atmosphere you wish to create.