I received an email from a reader in Ohio who asked for advice.

Denise, 

My Foyer and Mud Room of our new home are both visible from the Kitchen and Family Room.  I would like to paint them the same color.  I was thinking of purple, because I love that color and my sectional is a taupe with purple pillows.  All of our walls currently are builder beige.  Our Kitchen has maple cabinets and Kashmir Gold granite counters.

Congratulations on your new home!  Choosing to paint the areas first visible when you enter is a very good idea, because the project is very doable in a weekend, and will make a dramatic welcoming statement every time you come home. 

I agree with your choice of purple, but why use the same color?  I think you will be happier if you choose two similar colors instead.  Keeping a color scheme tight, especially when the rest of the house is yet unpainted, will prevent the other walls from looking neglected.

I suggest a very sophisticated yet dramatic tone for the Foyer. Try Enigma from Sherwin Williams.  This color has a perfect balance of gray and purple.  If there is room, hang a mirror  with a wide silvery frame in this space.  If you can fit a small table beneath, place a collection of scented candles on top.  Choose varying heights and sizes in different shades of purple.

For the Mudroom, go with a shade take contains more red.  This will harmonize better with the maple cabinets and the golds in your granite.  Try Reddened Earth, also from Sherwin Williams.  Black accents will work nicely here.  Since Mud Rooms can be the family Landing Strip, be sure to configure any cabinetry or furniture that may be in there to suit your needs. 

Let us know how it goes!