How to Choose The Perfect Color For Your Build

When it comes to designing your dream barndo, custom home, garage, or post-frame structure, one of the most overlooked, but one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make is color. At JJ Builders and Lancaster Barndos, we believe the right color scheme does more than make a good first impression, it sets the tone for your entire build. From how the space feels to how it functions and flows, color plays a key role in creating a home or structure that reflects your vision and lifestyle.

Colors Matter

Exterior

The exterior of your build is the first thing that people will see and notice; the exterior of your build can also speak for your style and taste. Whether you’re going for bold and modern, warm or rustic, want to stand out, or just to blend in with your surroundings, the exterior should reflect your vision and style.

Here are some things to consider for the exterior of your build: the natural environment (trees, fields, mountains, or neighboring homes), roof color coordination, long-term maintenance, and how the color will age, whether you want your build to stand out or blend in.

Color combination ideas for your exterior:

• Charcoal + Wood accents – Modern farmhouse charm
• Black or gray + Natural Cedar – Timeless
• Classic white or ivory + Black or brown trims – Clean, sharp, and versatile
• Red + Gray Roofing – Traditional barn style
• Earthy Green + Brown Metal Roof – Perfect for wooded or rural lots

Interior

The interior color palette should create a smooth visual transition between spaces while supporting the function of each area. Color impacts how rooms are perceived—lighter tones can make a space feel more open and expansive, while darker tones create a sense of intimacy and enclosure. Beyond aesthetics, color also influences mood and energy levels, making it a powerful tool in shaping how your space feels. Additionally, the way colors reflect light plays a major role in creating the overall ambiance and brightness of a room.

Here’s a breakdown by space to help you plan your interior color palette:

Bedrooms:

Bedrooms are your sanctuary, a personal retreat where comfort, rest, and style should come together. Whether you’re designing a serene master suite, a playful kid’s room, or a bold and expressive teen’s space, the color palette plays a major role in shaping the atmosphere.

For restful spaces, opt for soft, soothing hues like muted blues, gentle greens, warm beiges, or blush tones. These colors help create a calm environment that supports relaxation and better sleep. In contrast, brighter or more saturated colors can be used thoughtfully in accents or personalized zones, especially in children’s or teens’ rooms where creativity and individuality are key.

Living Rooms:

The living room is the heart of the home; it’s where we welcome guests, gather for special occasions, and make everyday memories with family. Because this space plays such a central role, it should feel inviting, warm, and comfortable whether you’re hosting a celebration or simply relaxing on an ordinary day.

To create that welcoming atmosphere, choose warm, neutral tones like soft taupe, creamy whites, or warm grays as your base. These colors provide a timeless backdrop that’s easy to layer with textures, wood accents, and pops of color through pillows, rugs, or art. For people who enjoy a more rustic or cozy farmhouse look, earthy tones like sienna, sage, or terracotta can add depth and personality.

Garage:

Your garage doesn’t have to be dull. Whether it’s an attached garage or a standalone structure, this space has the potential to be both functional and inspiring. For many homeowners, the garage is more than just a place to park vehicles—it’s where creativity happens, hobbies thrive, and projects come to life.

To enhance the space, choose clean and neutral tones like gray, white, or beige for the walls, paired with durable finishes like epoxy-coated floors for easy maintenance. If your garage doubles as a workshop or creative space, consider adding accent walls in darker tones like charcoal or navy for a sharp, modern look. Ample lighting and organized storage can also make a big difference in both function and comfort.

Office:

Your office should be a space that radiates productivity, creativity, and focus. Whether you’re working from home, building a new office from the ground up, or simply renovating an existing space, the right design and color palette can significantly influence how you perform and feel throughout the day.

Start with a base of cool, calming colors like soft grays, pale blues, or muted greens—these tones help reduce stress and promote concentration. If you want to infuse more personality or create zones within the space, add accent walls in deeper tones like navy, forest green, or warm clay. These add character without overwhelming the room.

Gym:

Your gym should energize and inspire you. Whether it’s a full home fitness center or a compact workout nook, the color palette you choose can have a real impact on your motivation, mood, and performance.

If you’re aiming for high-energy workouts, go with vibrant, dynamic colors like red, orange, or electric blue. These tones stimulate movement and intensity, perfect for cardio or strength training zones. On the other hand, if you want a more calming, zen-like atmosphere for yoga or stretching, opt for soothing hues like soft greens, warm neutrals, light gray, or blush tones.

Ready to Bring Your Dream Build to Life?

Choosing the color palette of your build is a major step in personalizing your build, but you’re not alone. With JJ Builders and Lancaster Barndos, we will walk with you through every decision and every detail of your project.

CALL US NOW to book a FREE Consultation!