Select colors with meaning

DEAR MI-LING: I have an Afro-centric living room. It only has browns, blacks and beiges. However, in the near future I plan to purchase a sofa, two chairs and curtains. What color should I pick to add a spark to the space? Thanks for the advice!

Doreen

DEAR DOREEN: I recently interviewed Dr. Harriet Schiffer on my radio show. She’s an expert on Kente, "Cloth of the Asante Kings.” She talked about selecting colors that have meaning.

Here are a few of the colors that you could incorporate into your design, and the meaning, according to Schiffer.

• Red: a symbol of a heightened spiritual and political mood, sacrifice and struggle.

• Purple: used in rituals and in the healing process. Purple is a feminine color worn mostly by women.

• Gold: symbolizes royalty, wealth, elegance, high statues, supreme quality, glory and spirituality.

• Pink: associated with tenderness, calmness, pleasantness and sweetness.

• Green: symbolizes growth, fertility, prosperity, fruitfulness, abundant health and spiritual rejuvenation.

You could incorporate all of these colors and many more by selecting a piece of artwork or framing a piece of Kente cloth and displaying it on your wall.

When selecting your furniture, buy neutral colors that will blend in with any decor. Chocolate and beige are good colors. You could select two colorful accent chairs in purple and add multicolored pillows. Or keep everything neutral and use your artwork, throws, pillows and rugs to add that spark.

Consider a pair of colorful drapes or lampshades with an edgy Afro-centric feel to add life to your space.

If you would like to listen to the entire interview with  Dr. Schiffer, go to my Web site, www.mi-ling.com.

Now go out and create your own unique comfort zone!