What is the easiest way to transform any space? One simple answer is paint. Is it really that easy though? First, there is deciding on a color scheme, then choosing the finish and so on. Do I go with semi gloss or flat? This is where a professional is really an asset to the decision making process. So if you are drowning in color swatches and still need some direction, just remember, there is help available. Many interior designers and design professionals offer color consultations as one of their services. Designers don’t just choose a pretty color scheme. There’s more to it than that. A good designer will know why they are using a certain finish, be familiar with their product and know which room to use each finish in. Here are four important things to consider when painting a room.
1. Inspiration and Color Choice
Inspiration can come from just about anywhere. Maybe you love the calming colors of the ocean or you were flipping through a magazine and stumbled upon the perfect tint in a room you loved. When you meet with your designer for a color consultation have this in mind. You can also have a specific feeling in mind. Using words like calm, fresh, or crisp can inspire your designer to help you come up with the perfect vision.
2. Selecting the Right Finish
When it comes to paint there are a multitude of finishes. The secret to deciding which finish is best is deciding what you need. For example do you have damaged walls? A dog and kids? Do you need to wipe down your walls like you would in a kitchen? Once you decide this then you can decide on the sheen. The most popular finishes are flat, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss. The difference between these finishes is the level of sheen. So flat would be more matte whereas, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss would have a shinier finish. Lower sheen is ideal for ceilings and camouflaging flaws in textured walls while shinier varieties are more durable that would be more ideal for the kitchen or high traffic areas.
3. Connecting Rooms with Color
No matter the space, it is important to make sure paint shades flow from one room to the other. In other words, you wouldn’t want to go from a serene neutral grey to a heavily saturated cobalt. So making sure paint transitions well from room-to-room while coordinating with your hardware and fixtures is a must.
4. Go Bold or Stay Neutral?
Paint can add drama and mood to your space or it can serve as a backdrop rather than the focus. Neutral colors will always be timeless and allow for maximum versatility. A compromise between the two would be to choose an accent wall in a deep shade like navy. A dark wall will create a more designed look and add visual depth to your space. Consider contrasting paint color for open shelving to add interest and draw your eye in towards a room. With each design there are many steps to consider concerning paint but your ideal color scheme should ultimately blend what is uniquely you with form and function to create an inviting stylish space.
Happy painting!
*Featured photo credit: Domino
