6 Paint Color Mistakes To Stop Making, According To Designers

Interior designers frequently observe common mistakes made when selecting and applying paint colors, significantly impacting a space's aesthetic and longevity. A primary error involves neglecting undertones, which are crucial as they dictate how a paint color appears under various lighting conditions. For instance, a gray that seems neutral in a store can reveal blue or purple hues once applied. To avoid this, designers recommend testing at least three, if not five or six, potential colors in the actual space to accurately perceive their undertones and compare them side-by-side, helping to identify whether a color is too crisp, muddy, or bright for the intended environment. Another critical aspect often overlooked is the paint finish. The sheen of the paint can either enhance or detract from a design. For example, high-gloss or semi-gloss finishes tend to accentuate wall imperfections, while flat or matte finishes, though aesthetically pleasing, might lack the durability required for high-traffic areas. Designers specifically advise against eggshell finishes, considering them dated and suggestive of 1990s interiors. Instead, a matte finish is suggested as a more modern, durable, and forgiving alternative that can better conceal minor wall flaws. The practice of painting accent walls is also discouraged by designers, who view it as a reluctance to commit to painting an entire room. They suggest that homeowners should embrace confidence and paint the whole space for a more cohesive and impactful design. Similarly, bold colored trim is considered less timeless. Designers advocate for white trim and ceilings, believing this choice offers a classic look that transcends fleeting trends like maximalism and maintains its appeal over time, allowing for more daring wall colors without compromising the overall elegance of the room. Furthermore, consistency in trim and ceiling color is highlighted as important. Painting the ceiling the same color as the trim ensures a seamless visual flow throughout the room. Introducing a third color for the ceiling—distinct from both wall and trim colors—can disrupt this harmony, creating visual breaks and diminishing the room's cohesive and inviting feel. Ultimately, designers advise against choosing paint colors based solely on current trends or influencer recommendations. A color that looks stunning in one home may not translate well to another due to differences in lighting, existing decor, and architectural elements. To make an informed decision, ordering and reviewing peel-and-stick paint swatches in the actual home is recommended. This allows individuals to observe how colors change throughout the day without the commitment or mess of painting directly onto walls, ensuring the chosen color complements the specific space. #PaintColor #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #PaintUndertones #PaintFinish #AccentWalls #TrimColor #HomeTrends #DesignTips

Choosing the right paint color for your home can be a daunting task, and many homeowners find themselves regretting their choices after the paint has dried. This article provides six common mistakes to avoid and offers expert tips to help you select a hue you'll love. The advice comes from color experts Amy Wax, author of 'Can't Fail Color Schemes,' and Amy Krane, architectural color consultant at Amy Krane Color and host of the podcast 'Let's Talk Paint Color.' One significant pitfall is selecting a color based solely on its appearance on home design websites or social media. While a particular shade of salmon or moody blue might look stunning in a professionally styled photograph, it may not translate well to your own home due to differences in lighting, existing decor, and personal taste. Experts emphasize that colors appear differently in various environments, and a hue that works for one homeowner's space might not suit another's. The key is to choose colors that resonate with your personal preferences and are harmonious with your living environment, rather than blindly following trends seen online. Another common error is choosing a shade that is unsuitable for a specific room's function. For instance, while olive green is a popular and potentially value-boosting color for kitchens, it might be unflattering in a small bathroom, as it can reflect poorly on skin tones. Similarly, for areas like closets or dressing rooms where accurate color perception is crucial for matching clothing, light and neutral wall colors are recommended to prevent distortion. The context of the room is paramount; a vibrant color that might be overwhelming in a bedroom could be perfectly suitable for a dining room, living room, den, or basement. The experts also caution against the use of excessively bright paint colors, which are frequently the source of regret. Colors like bright yellows, pinks, and those with strong undertones such as orange, yellowish-green, or pinkish-purple, often appear much more intense on a large wall than they do on a small swatch. The author shares a personal anecdote of painting a living room orange, only to find it too stimulating for a relaxing space, eventually repainting it a calming sea blue. This highlights the importance of understanding how a color's intensity can impact the mood and functionality of a room. Failing to test a paint color before committing to painting an entire room is a mistake many people make. It is strongly advised to prime the walls and apply at least two coats of the prospective color to a 2-square-foot section. Furthermore, observing this sample under various lighting conditions and at different times of the day is crucial. Checking the color with different light bulb temperatures (such as 3000K for a balanced light) can help determine if the hue is truly appealing and suitable for the space, thereby preventing costly repainting efforts later on. Following paint trends too closely is another mistake to avoid. While paint companies announce colors of the year, these trends are often fleeting. Selecting a paint color based solely on its fashionable status, rather than its personal appeal and suitability for your home, can lead to quick dissatisfaction. A color should complement your personal style and existing decor, as trends come and go rapidly. Finally, disregarding existing furnishings, trims, and other elements in a room when choosing a paint color can lead to an undesirable outcome. Unless a complete room overhaul is planned, the new paint color must harmonize with the items already present. For example, if a room has chestnut trim and a console with orange undertones, adding an orange paint color could result in an overpowering monochromatic scheme. The goal is to create balanced color combinations where the paint complements and enhances the existing elements, rather than clashing with or overwhelming them. Should a paint color choice be regretted, alternatives to immediate repainting include giving the color time to grow on you, strategically using artwork or curtains to cover problematic areas, and adjusting light bulb temperatures to alter the color's perception. #PaintColors #HomeDecorating #InteriorDesign #ColorSelection #HomeImprovement #DesignTips #PaintMistakes #RoomDesign #ColorPsychology

Choosing the right paint color can significantly impact a room's atmosphere, and even seasoned interior designers occasionally make choices they later regret. This article compiles insights from three design experts—Cheryl Clendenon, Kanika B. Khurana, and Pam Hutter—who share their personal experiences with paint colors that didn't live up to expectations and what they would opt for instead. One frequently regretted color is bright yellow. While intended to create a cheerful and sunny ambiance, designers found it could easily overwhelm a space, especially smaller rooms, leading to a harsh and overly saturated environment. A more favorable alternative would be muted mustard or soft gold tones, which provide warmth without the intense saturation. Dark purple, despite being a trendy moody color, was another source of regret. When used in a bedroom with the goal of achieving a sophisticated vibe, it often made the room feel heavy and smaller, particularly in spaces with limited natural light. Instead, a deep, soft mauve can offer similar depth and elegance while maintaining a sense of openness. Cool bluish-gray paint, although appearing sophisticated and comforting in theory, frequently resulted in a cold and sterile feel, especially in dimly lit rooms. Designers found warm greige paint to be a better option, providing the desired softness and warmth. Dark gray, specifically deep charcoal, was regretted for its tendency to make spaces feel oppressive and cave-like, particularly in home offices during morning light or in small rooms where it created a cramped and dreary atmosphere. Lighter, warmer alternatives like muted sage green for a creative workspace or light grays and soft blues were preferred. Jewel-toned teal, while intended to add drama and elegance, often proved to be overwhelming and oversaturated, especially under warm lighting in dining rooms. It could also clash with artwork, leading to visual chaos. Designers instead turned to warm greige paint to establish a harmonious backdrop that allows other room elements to stand out. Blush pink was chosen for its soft and sophisticated appeal in bathrooms but was later replaced. In certain lighting conditions, it appeared too warm and peachy, clashing with fixtures like brass. A neutral, barely-there taupe with subtle depth was found to be a more intentional and tranquil choice. Finally, cool-toned green paint, such as mint green, was often regretted. While intended to be bright and energizing, it frequently resulted in a cold and uninviting space. Designers now favor green paints with warm undertones, such as olive green and sage green, to evoke comfort, serenity, and a connection to nature. #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorPsychology #DesignRegrets #WarmNeutrals #RoomAtmosphere

Living Coral, Pantone's 2019 Color of the Year, presents both an exciting opportunity and a challenge for home decorators due to its vibrant and statement-making nature. Integrating this hue seamlessly into existing decor without creating an outdated or overwhelming look requires careful consideration. This article, drawing insights from experienced interior designers, outlines several dos and don'ts to effectively incorporate Living Coral into various spaces. One common misconception is limiting Living Coral pairings exclusively to pastels. While it can complement such shades, the color is far more versatile. Instead, designers suggest exploring cooler tones on the color wheel. Pairing Living Coral with dusty blues, rich greens, and charcoals can create a sophisticated and dramatic aesthetic, adding depth and visual interest to a room. Another pitfall to avoid is immediately committing to painting entire walls in Living Coral. Unless one is certain of a long-term commitment to the color, a full wall makeover might be too bold for a trendy hue. A more flexible approach involves thinking smaller in scale. Incorporating the color through smaller accents, such as painting a side table in high-gloss coral, coating a powder room, or adding decorative accessories like ceramic vases, throws, or pillows, allows for playful experimentation without a significant overhaul. This method ensures that the color can be easily updated or removed if preferences change. For those new to decorating with Living Coral, it's advisable not to go too bold too quickly. Rather than swapping out major furniture pieces or painting large surfaces, consider integrating the color in smaller, less committal ways. This could involve an art piece featuring the hue or textiles with coral woven into their patterns. Such subtle introductions make it easier to gradually increase the presence of the color if desired, allowing for a more organic integration into the existing decor. The article also debunks the notion that Living Coral is exclusively suited for nautical or coastal themes. Despite its vibrant, sea-inspired nature, the color is adaptable to various design styles. Instead of a strict nautical interpretation, designers recommend embracing a tropical, endless summer vibe. This approach encourages using whimsical wallpapers that evoke a coral reef motif, channeling the spirited and lively qualities of millennial pink to refresh a space. Furthermore, focusing solely on major living areas like bedrooms, living rooms, or kitchens for a chromatic swap might be a missed opportunity. Thinking outside the box and designating Living Coral for less traditional spaces can introduce an unexpected element. For instance, Cathy Hobbs, an interior designer, suggests targeting rooms that lack natural light. The warm undertones of Living Coral can effectively brighten dark spaces, such as tiny closets or powder rooms, imbuing them with a bold and saturated character. This strategy helps maximize the color's impact in areas that might otherwise feel overlooked. Finally, while blues and greens are often seen as obvious complements to Living Coral, exclusively sticking to them can lead to a predictable coastal aesthetic that might not appeal to everyone. If the vibrant, high-contrast look is not desired, it is recommended to stay on the warmer side of the color wheel. Pairing Living Coral with neutrals, browns, and dusty earth tones can soften its intensity, resulting in a more subdued and harmonious effect. This approach creates a balanced environment where the coral acts as an accent rather than an overwhelming presence. #LivingCoral #PantoneColorOfTheYear #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorPairing #DesignTips #DecoratingMistakes #HomeStyling

Designers identify five paint colors that have become overused and suggest alternative shades to create more contemporary and unique home interiors. The article emphasizes that while some colors were once popular, their ubiquitous use has made them appear generic and dated as decor trends evolve. Expert interior designers Tavia Forbes, Rebekah Murphy, and Kim Dee offer their perspectives on these colors and provide specific recommendations for more refined and current alternatives. First, 'Cold White,' particularly cool-toned white walls, is discussed. Designers note that while white is classic and creates a sense of space, an undifferentiated bright white can look like primer rather than a deliberate design choice. Instead of a sterile bright white, Forbes suggests Benjamin Moore's Chantilly Lace for a crisp, gallery-style white that complements modern decor, or Swiss Coffee for its warmth, making a space feel more lived-in and soft. Murphy recommends Benjamin Moore White Dove, which has creamy undertones that add warmth without yellowing, suitable for kitchens, living rooms, and spaces with natural textures. Dee advises replacing Sherwin-Williams Extra White with Sherwin-Williams Shoji White, a creamy white that offers warmth without appearing yellow, suitable for all rooms, cabinetry, kitchens, and bathrooms. Second, 'Light Greige,' specifically Sherwin-Williams Agreeable Gray, is cited as overused. Designers feel it has become a default 'safe' color that now appears dull and dated. Forbes recommends Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray for a cooler, more refined option or Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist for warmth without muddiness, both working well with modern finishes and organic textures. Murphy suggests Farrow & Ball Skimming Stone as an alternative, offering depth and softness suitable for bedrooms and studies. Dee proposes Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter for a richer, more current, earthy, and inviting feel, ideal for home offices and family rooms. Third, 'Navy Blue' is highlighted as a predictable choice. Forbes suggests moving away from navy, which is seen as a 'bold-but-not-too-bold' option, toward deep olive green or charcoal brown. She explains that deep olive brings warmth and earthiness, while charcoal brown offers a luxurious and grounding effect, especially when layered with mixed materials. For those who prefer blue, Murphy recommends Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray, a gentle blue-gray that evokes coastal calmness with subtle moodiness, perfect for powder rooms or laundry spaces. Dee suggests embracing newly trendy butter yellows like Benjamin Moore Sweet Cream for kitchens, offering a light, cozy, and unique feel. Fourth, 'Cool Charcoal Gray' is mentioned, with Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray specifically. Dee suggests replacing it with Sherwin-Williams Urbane Bronze, which provides depth with warm, moody undertones, creating a fresh and dramatic look. This color is recommended for powder rooms, built-ins, or exterior trim to add understated boldness. Finally, 'Pale Blue' is identified as potentially washed-out or overly delicate. Interior designer Lauren Saab advises trading 'forgettable soft sky blues' for deeper, more nuanced options. She recommends Farrow & Ball Hague Blue, a rich, moody, and elevated blue that offers quiet confidence and depth, making it ideal for libraries, entryways, or dining rooms. These recommendations aim to guide homeowners and designers towards more sophisticated and current color choices, avoiding the pitfalls of overly common trends. #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #ColorPalette #HomeImprovement #DesignerTips #ModernInteriors