Dive Into Color With David Bromstad

And now you're an HGTV host of your own show. Why a show on color?
People are afraid, very afraid of color. So Color Splash is focusing on how to get people comfortable with color so that they can actually use it. It's a cool show because it's very cinematic; we shoot all over San Francisco and there are some really sweeping shots. And there's a shopping segment, a sketching segment. It's really personality driven, which I love.

What inspires you?
Disney was very inspiring. They are the only company in the world that knows how to create an environment and do it right. You walk in and you're transported, which is not a bad goal for a well-designed room. Because I'm a warm-weather dude I also love nature and the beach and try to bring natural elements into the mix. I love the ocean — just the energy and smell of it is unlike anything else. You can look at everything with a design eye, it's all design: a plate of food, cars, clothes in the mall, what you see walking down the sidewalk, the colors in Miami — it's all inspiring.

What's the biggest color mistake people make?
They just don't know what they're doing because of their fear. So they often go too matchy-matchy. They'll have red walls and then think they need a red comforter. That's definitely a look, but not necessarily a good one. I try to help them keep things simple. Mixing colors is a particular challenge for people. I like to pull from a piece of inspiration, such as a rug or pillow art or duvet cover — that's where I come up with my color combos.

What do you tell folks who are afraid of color?
I tell them that color is a challenge even for designers for whom it might come naturally. But if they start small, it's really simple. One of my main design tips is to keep all of your big pieces neutral. The couches and chairs — anything that's expensive and an investment — should be neutral. Then you can pop in the trendy or current colors in with paint and accessories that you can change from season to season without breaking the bank. The worst thing is if you've invested in a red couch and — eeeuuw — you realize that in a few years that's going to be really out or you'll be really tired of it. I'd rather have that color in a pillow. It's all about shopping smart.