Choosing the Right Paint Finish and Color
Choosing the right paint is one of the most impactful decisions you'll make when decorating your home. Not only does it set the tone for the entire room, but it also affects how the space feels, how easy it is to maintain, and how light and space are perceived. If you're unsure about what paint finish or color to go for, don't worry—we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to help you make informed choices for your next interior painting project. We’re also always here to bounce ideas off of and help you make the right choices!
Step 1: Understand Different Paint Finishes
Before choosing a color, it's essential to understand the different paint finishes, as each one has a unique look, durability, and maintenance level. Here are the most common paint finishes and their best uses:
Flat:
Look: Non-reflective, velvety finish
Durability: Least durable
Best for: Ceilings, walls with imperfections, and low-traffic areas like bedrooms
Pros: Hides imperfections well and gives a sophisticated, muted look
Cons: More difficult to clean and prone to scuffs and stains
Matte
Look: Very slight sheen, luxurious finish
Durability: Durable, washable
Best for: Walls with some imperfections as it tends to hide these well, and areas like bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms
Pros: Hides imperfections well and gives a sophisticated, deep and rich look
Cons: More difficult to clean and prone to scuffs and stains, however Wall Witches generally uses Sherwin Williams Emerald which is formulated specifically to be easier to clean
Eggshell/ Satin:
Look: Smooth, velvety sheen
Durability: Very durable and easy to clean
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas like corridors and children's rooms
Pros: Reflects more light, making it a great option for smaller or dimly lit rooms
Cons: Reflects imperfections on walls, so surfaces need to be smooth
Semi-Gloss:
Look: Glossy but not overly shiny
Durability: Highly durable and easy to clean
Best for: Trim, doors, cabinets, and areas prone to moisture
Pros: Excellent for trim and doors which may need frequent cleaning
Cons: Highly reflective, so it can highlight imperfections on walls, which is why its mostly used for trim
High-Gloss:
Look: Very shiny and reflective
Durability: Most durable and easy to clean
Best for: Accents, trim, and cabinetry
Pros: Extremely durable and easy to maintain
Cons: Shows every flaw, and the high shine can be overwhelming if overused
Step 2: Choosing the Right Color
Once you’ve decided on the finish, the next major step is selecting a color. The right color can dramatically transform the ambiance of a room. Here are some key considerations when picking the perfect paint color:
Consider the Room's Function:
Living Room or Dining Room: These spaces are great for warmer, inviting colors like soft neutrals, earth tones, or rich blues and greens. These hues promote relaxation and comfort.
Bedroom: Soft tones like light blues, lavenders, or cool greys create a calm and serene environment ideal for sleep and relaxation.
Kitchen: Bright and fresh colors like whites, yellows, or soft greens work well here, creating an energizing atmosphere.
Bathrooms: Light, airy colors like soft blues or greens are a popular choice for bathrooms. They evoke a clean, spa-like feel.
Consider Natural Light:
Natural light can greatly affect how your paint color looks in a room. A color that looks great in a well-lit space may appear different in a room with minimal natural light.North-facing rooms tend to have cooler, more subdued light, so warm colors like beige, peach, or warm greys can help balance this out.
South-facing rooms have warmer, brighter light, and cooler tones like blues, greens, and greys work well here.
Mood and Ambiance:
Think about the mood you want to create in the room. Soft pastels tend to create a calm and peaceful ambiance, while bold hues like deep reds, yellows, or oranges can inject energy and excitement.
For a timeless and sophisticated feel, consider neutrals like whites, beiges, and greys. These colors work with almost any decor and can create a clean, elegant look.
Test Paint Samples:
Always test paint samples in the room before committing. Paint a small area on the wall and observe how the color changes with different lighting conditions throughout the day.
Create a Color Scheme:
If you’re painting multiple rooms, consider how the colors will flow from one space to another. Create a cohesive look by using complementary colors or varying shades of the same color for different rooms.
Step 3: Other Considerations When Choosing Paint
Room Size and Shape:
Dark colors tend to make a room feel smaller and more intimate, while light colors can make a space appear larger and more open.
If your room is small or lacks natural light, opt for light, reflective colors to make it feel airier and more spacious.
Accent Walls:
If you want to add a pop of color or create a focal point in a room, consider painting one wall in a bold color. Accent walls can be especially effective in living rooms or bedrooms.
Quality of Paint:
Wall Witches prefers to use high quality paint. It may cost more initially, but the durability and finish it provides will be well worth the investment in the long run.
Conclusion: The Perfect Combination of Paint Finish and Color
Choosing the right paint finish and color for your interior is essential to creating a home that reflects your personal style while being functional. The key is to consider the purpose of the room, the natural light it receives, the mood you want to set, and the ease of maintenance for your chosen finish. Once you understand the characteristics of different finishes and how colors affect the atmosphere, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful, cohesive space that you'll love for years to come. Wall Witches is here to discuss color and finish options and help you make the right choice!