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HGTV Urban Oasis 2015: Testing Exterior Paint Colors

By: Dana Dalrymple

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Gain expert advice from HGTV Urban Oasis 2015 interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn on testing exterior paint colors.

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Choose From a Curated Historical Palette

Choose architecturally appropriate tones that complement roofing material and brick or stone accents.

HGTV Urban Oasis 2015 interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Factor in Time of Day

Colors read differently at different times of the day, so factor the time of day and sun exposure into your decision.

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Consult with a Builder

Check with the neighborhood association and local building department to make sure there are no restrictions on paint colors in your area.

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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How Colors Read From Inside-Out

Just as you evaluate the color from the outside-in, do so from the inside-out to ensure a sense of flow.

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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How Colors Read From Adjacent Porches

Make sure interior colors visible from outdoor spaces do not clash with the exterior paint color.

"The indoor-outdoor juxtaposition is the bold colored great room that won’t work with everything but the exterior is super neutral," says interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn.

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Coordinate Inward Swinging Doors

Consider an inward swinging door as it moves from outside to inside and make sure it coordinates with both for a smooth transition.

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Coordinate Trim and House Exterior

Choose versatile colors for your home's exterior, then make sure to mark plans for the contractor to avoid mistakes.

"I chose a black-brown for the main color of the exterior, which is probably my favorite dark color because it works with any other color in the spectrum and then is accentuated with more of a brown-gray," says Brian.