Looking for a refresh to your space, look no further than a couple cans of paint. Choosing the perfect paint color for your space can transform your home, setting the tone and mood for each room. Colour can create a moody atmosphere, a calming environment or an energetic and creative space. Here are some tips to help you select the ideal paint color for your home.

Understand the Room’s Purpose

Before you even think about color swatches, consider the purpose of the room. Is it a bedroom where you want a calming atmosphere, a living room that needs to be inviting, or a home office that should be stimulating? The function of the room and the feel you want from the space will significantly influence the color choice.

Consider Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in how a paint color appears in a room. Natural light will reveal the truest color, while artificial lighting can alter the hue. A color that looks perfect in the store under fluorescent lighting will look different at home. To get an accurate sense of how a color will look, test it in the room at different times of the day, both in natural and artificial light.

Start with a Focal Point

Identify a focal point in the room, such as a piece of artwork, a rug, or a piece of furniture, and build your color palette around it. This ensures that the colors you choose complement the room’s most important features. If you have a statement piece with a dominant color, consider using a more neutral shade on the walls to let it shine. Conversely, if your decor is more neutral, you might opt for a bolder wall color to add contrast. The biggest mistake many people make is painting the walls first, then trying to find the furnishings. There are an endless number of paint colours out there, ideally it should be your last decision when designing a room.

Test Samples

Never commit to a color based on a tiny paint chip alone. Purchase sample sizes of a few favorite colors and paint large swatches on the walls of your room. Make sure these are against a true white (OC-65 Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore). Colour looks different based on what it is being compared to. In order to see the true colour, it needs to be in front of a true white, not that old dingy colour you are aiming to cover up. Live with these samples for a few days to see how they look in different lighting conditions. This will help you avoid surprises and ensure you’re happy with your choice.

Understand Undertones

Every color has undertones that might not be immediately apparent. For example, a gray paint might have blue, green, or purple undertones, which can significantly affect how it looks in your space. Understanding these undertones will help you choose a color that complements your existing decor. Always, compare your chosen paint swatch against pure white to reveal the true undertones. Selecting an udertone that doesn’t relate to anything in your space will result in a colour you immediately regret.

Don’t Forget About Finish

The finish of the paint can be just as important as the color itself. Flat or matte finishes work well for hiding imperfections in walls but can be harder to clean. Satin and eggshell finishes offer a bit of sheen and are easier to maintain, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas. Glossy finishes are highly durable and add a touch of glamour but can highlight imperfections.

Selecting the perfect paint color can seem daunting, but with these tips, you can approach the process with confidence. Remember that paint is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to transform a space, so don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it. When in doubt, I’m here to help. Happy painting!

Tips for selecting the perfect paint colour