Stephen Anderson
Table of Contents
Choosing a new paint color can completely transform the look and feel of any room. But with so many paint options available, it can be tricky to select the perfect color scheme. As an interior designer with over 10 years of experience, I’ve helped many clients find paint colors that enhance their home’s beauty. In this article, I’ll share my top 10 tips for choosing foolproof paint colors for every room.
Assess the Room’s Lighting
The lighting in a room dramatically impacts how paint colors appear. Cool, blue north light makes colors recede while warm, yellow south light makes them advance. Take note of each room’s light exposures before selecting paint colors. North-facing rooms look best in warm tones while south-facing rooms need cool hues. For evenly mixed light, neutral shades work well.
Gather Inspiration Photos
Compile inspiration photos of rooms with color schemes you love. Analyze what specifically drawn you to those colors, like if you prefer monochromatic, contrasting, or complementary pairings. Photos are also useful when conveying your vision to a paint store employee who can help translate it into actual paint selections.
Understand Color Psychology
Different hues evoke distinct psychological and emotional responses. Warm reds, oranges, and yellows feel energizing while cool blues and greens are calming. Neutrals like beige, gray, and brown promote relaxation. Choose colors whose mood-enhancing benefits best match the room’s purpose.
Select a Leading Color
Every color scheme needs one dominant shade as its foundation. In most rooms, neutral off-whites like Swiss Coffee or Accessible Beige work well. In more colorful spaces like kids’ rooms, choose a vivid leading color that excites you. Avoid selecting more than one bold color for your main shade.
Complement with Accent Colors
The accent colors will layer on contrast to make your leading paint color pop. Try shades that are analogous (next to each other on the color wheel) or complementary (opposite each other). For example, pair navy blue with lighter blues, orange-reds, or yellows. Accent walls introduce color without overwhelming.
Use the 60-30-10 Rule
This classic interior design guideline recommends selecting one main color for 60% of the room, a secondary color for 30% of the space, and an accent shade for the final 10%. For example, use a neutral beige on most of the walls, a gray-blue for trim, and a pops of orange in decor.
Test Paint Swatches
Never choose a paint color based solely on the tiny swatches at hardware stores. Ask to take home larger 8”x10” samples panels to test shades on your walls. Paint patches in natural lighting during different times of day when the color appears most intense. Test swatches on the wall where the color will go.
Check Paint Undertones
All paint colors have undertones barely perceptible in swatches. Cool undertones read as blue, green, or purple. Warm undertones appear yellow, red, or orange. Grays and browns lean cool or warm too. If possible, only choose colors whose undertones complement your existing decor.
Factor in Natural Light Changes
The sun’s intensity and angle shifts throughout the day, altering the way paint colors look. A color that appears flawless at 10am could look all wrong by sunset. Evaluate paint swatches at different times to ensure the hue looks attractive in all natural lighting conditions. Open the window treatments fully when assessing.
Pick Sheens and Finishes Wisely
Flat or matte finishes hide imperfections well but aren’t scrubbable. Eggshells offer subtle sheen and durability. Satins nicely resist stains and wear. Semi-gloss and gloss paints add shine but require priming first. Consider the room’s use and your preferred level of luster when selecting finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many paint swatches should I test before deciding?
Start with about 3-5 shades, narrow it down to 2-3 favorites, then thoroughly test those before picking a winner. Comparing too many colors creates confusion.
Should I avoid bright colors in small rooms?
Sometimes! Bold paint hues make spaces feel tighter while lighter neutrals visually expand rooms. But for a vibrant, festive look in a small powder room, go for the bright color you love!
What are the current popular paint color trends?
Earth tones like browns, taupes, and muted greens are hot this year. Dusty shades of blue and green are also widely favored now. Trending paint brands include Farrow & Ball and Behr.
How do I know if a paint has cool or warm undertones?
Hold a white piece of paper behind the swatch. Cool colors make the paper look yellowish while warm swatches make it appear bluer. Gray red = warm. Gray green = cool.
Can I easily return paint if I hate the color after painting a room?
Unfortunately, most retailers don’t allow returns of custom-mixed paint. Buy smaller 1-quart amounts first to test colors before fully committing gallons.
What sheen should I use in bathrooms and kitchens?
Use satin, semi-gloss, or high gloss paints in these high-moisture rooms. The more luster, the more washable and scrubbable the finish. Flat and eggshells absorb stains.
How long should I wait to paint after priming?
Most primers only require 1-2 hour dry time before painting. Oil-based varieties take up to 24 hours. Too much wait time allows dust to settle between coats.
Can I paint over wallpaper without removing it first?
Yes, water-based paints adhere well directly onto wallpaper as long as it’s intact and firmly adhered to the wall underneath. Prime first.
What primer works best for painting over dark walls?
Tinted primer or a color similar to your new paint shade helps provide full coverage over dark walls. Gray is a versatile base primer color.
What sheen is best for ceilings?
Flat, matte finish paints are ideal for hiding imperfections and glare on ceilings. Some satin and eggshell paints are formulated specifically for ceilings too.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect paint involves careful consideration of color psychology, lighting, proportions, sheens, and today’s trends. Test out sample swatches at all times of day before fully committing to a shade. Ensure colors complement your existing furniture and decor for a harmonious, beautifully painted room. With this advice, you can confidently pick a winning paint color you’ll enjoy for years to come.
