For This French Interior Architect, Paint Belongs Everywhere But the Walls

This article explores the diverse range of interior paints available, helping consumers select the ideal product for various home improvement projects. It covers different paint types, finishes, and applications, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right paint for specific areas like walls, ceilings, wood, and furniture. Key brands such as Dulux, Crown, and Leyland are highlighted, catering to both DIY enthusiasts and professional tradespeople. The content begins by introducing the core offering of interior paint, stressing its role in transforming rooms. It then branches into specific categories, including paint offers, wall and ceiling emulsion paint, interior wood paint, trade paint, bathroom paint, kitchen paint, undercoat and primer paints, furniture and cupboard paint, brick and masonry paints, paint tester pots, interior and exterior tile paint, spray paint, floor paint, and metal paint. Each category is designed to meet distinct painting needs, ensuring a suitable option for every project. The inclusion of paint offers indicates promotional opportunities for cost-conscious buyers, while specialized paints like bathroom and kitchen paints address concerns such as moisture resistance and durability in high-traffic areas. A significant section is dedicated to frequently asked questions, providing practical advice to common consumer queries. One crucial question addressed is the suitability of exterior paint for interior use. The article clarifies that exterior paint is not recommended for indoor environments due to its chemical composition, which is formulated for outdoor resilience and could be harmful indoors. It underscores that interior paint is designed to promote better air quality and deliver a smoother finish, making it the safer and more effective choice for indoor applications. Another FAQ focuses on identifying the best paint for interior walls. Water-based emulsion paint is recommended for its low odor and long-lasting performance, particularly beneficial in active households. This advice guides consumers toward paints that are user-friendly and durable, aligning with modern living standards. The article also provides guidance on calculating the necessary amount of paint for a home's interior, suggesting a methodical approach that involves measuring surfaces, subtracting non-painted areas like doors and windows, and dividing by the paint's coverage. This practical tip helps minimize waste and ensures adequate supply for the project, supported by the mention of a paint calculator tool for precise estimations. Overall, the article serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone undertaking an interior painting project. It systematically presents product categories, brand options, and essential advice, empowering readers to make informed decisions for their home transformations. The emphasis on safety, durability, and practical application ensures that both novice and experienced painters can achieve professional and satisfying results. #InteriorPaint #HomeImprovement #PaintTypes #DecoratingTips #DIYProjects #PaintBrands #PaintApplication #RenovationGuide

The painted arch trend has gained significant popularity in interior design over the past few years, evolving from a simple decorative element to a versatile tool for enhancing architectural interest and defining spaces. While initially embraced for quick and easy decor updates, the trend continues to captivate designers and homeowners alike due to its organic appeal, referencing natural forms like circles and curves. This article explores five contemporary and sophisticated approaches to incorporating painted arches into interior schemes, demonstrating how this trend remains relevant and offers new creative possibilities. One innovative application involves highlighting the existing curve of an arched doorway. Rather than allowing an archway to blend seamlessly into the wall, designers are using contrasting paint colors to emphasize its shape, transforming it into a focal point. This approach creates a visual 'portal' between different sections of a home, signaling transition and adding character. For instance, painting an arch in a warm, earthy tone can subtly draw attention, making it a distinct feature without being overly dominant. Another fresh take utilizes pattern to create a bold, design-forward statement. Instead of simply painting an arch, designers are using patterns like checkerboard effects to frame rectangular doorways, thereby introducing a curved visual element where none exists structurally. This technique adds drama and can tie into other design accents within the room, demonstrating how paint can mimic architectural changes and introduce dynamic visual interest. This method can also be achieved with stripes or solid blocks of color, offering flexibility in design. Furthermore, painted arches can be used to add architectural interest to ordinary windows. By painting arches above and below a window frame, designers can make the window appear larger and create a sense of depth and artistry. This can be achieved with paint or even with strategically placed arched mirrors that reflect light and expand the visual space. This technique effectively draws the eye upwards, adding height and character to a room, especially where structural arches are not feasible due to budget or time constraints. The trend also extends to enhancing existing architectural features, such as curved alcoves. By painting these nooks in contrasting colors, designers can add depth and make them stand out as artistic elements. This approach transforms alcoves into display opportunities for decorative objects, giving them a purpose beyond their structural function and adding a layer of sophistication to hallways or staircases. Finally, layering the painted arch look with a simple, complementary color palette offers a mural-esque finish. This approach involves creating multiple concentric or overlapping arches in different shades to produce a dynamic focal point. Using contrasting colors, such as a beige with a blue, can generate engaging visuals that catch the eye and add a relaxed yet visually interesting dimension to any room. These layered designs demonstrate the versatility of the painted arch, allowing for complex artistic expressions with paint. For those interested in DIY, creating a painted arch is an accessible project. It requires careful planning, sketching the design, and using a spirit level for straight lines. A pencil and string can help achieve a perfect curve, while masking tape ensures crisp edges for straight sections. Patience and a steady hand are crucial, along with a flat brush for the arch and a roller for filling in the main area. Removing the masking tape while the paint is still wet ensures a smooth finish, making this a rewarding and impactful home improvement project. #PaintedArchTrend #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintIdeas #ArchitecturalInterest #DIYHomeDecor #WallArt #DesignTrends #SpaceZoning

This article explores the growing design trend of painting door frames in bright, contrasting colors to introduce a sense of joy and personality into a home's interior. Rather than committing to a full accent wall, this approach offers a more subtle yet impactful way to inject vibrancy into living spaces. Designers laud this technique for its ability to add sophistication and energy with minimal effort. The article highlights the versatility of this paint trend, suggesting its suitability for various rooms throughout the home. It is particularly effective in transitional areas, such as between a living room and dining room, where a bright door frame can establish a visual connection while also delineating distinct spaces. For children's bedrooms, this method provides a flexible way to add color without the long-term commitment of a dominant shade, allowing for easy updates as tastes evolve. An example provided is a rustic kitchen designed by Hendricks Churchill, where a yellow trim and door frame are essential to the space's overall dynamism. The designers emphasize that these graphic accents, set against burnished lime plaster walls, contribute to a quiet drama and enable the rooms to lean more minimal, subtly referencing the Shaker aesthetic. This demonstrates how even a small application of color can profoundly influence a room's character and overall design narrative. When selecting colors for door frames, the article advises choosing shades that are bright but maintain a harmonious relationship with the existing wall color. For instance, a Farrow & Ball Raw Tomatillo green is showcased alongside stark white entryway walls, creating an elegant and striking combination. Designers suggest that one could opt for a shade slightly lighter or darker than the wall paint for a less dramatic, yet still impactful, effect. It is also important to consider other colors and accents present in the room to ensure a cohesive color scheme. Kathryn Murphy of Kathryn Murphy Interiors further elaborates on the benefits of painting door and window casings, noting their potential to layer color and add depth. She recommends either matching them to a colorful space for a 'color drenching' effect or using contrast to build the color scheme and introduce detail. Murphy also points out that this trend can serve as a practical compromise for couples with differing aesthetic preferences, allowing for neutral walls combined with colorful trim. The article also discusses using muted colors for door frames, especially when paired with white backgrounds, to achieve a colorful yet understated look. Kelly Cray, creative principal at U31, observes a shift from statement walls to statement features like doors, especially in smaller spaces. This allows for bold color choices on doors and adjacent wood trim, or a monochromatic treatment of both. She highlights that statement doors can accentuate architectural profiles more effectively than smooth walls. While bold colors are commonly seen on exterior front doors, Cray notes a more subdued variant of this trend emerging indoors, featuring earth tones or natural wood frames paired with painted doors. Beyond color, the article encourages creative exploration with shapes. Pierre Yovanovitch's design, featuring a wavy, sunshine-yellow door frame, exemplifies how pattern can amplify the joyous energy of color and create architectural interest. This playful combination guides guests through spaces, establishing a visual storyline. Finally, the article suggests specific paint products like Raw Tomatillo by Farrow & Ball, Daffodil yellow by Lick, and Aleutian blue by Sherwin Williams as excellent choices for those looking to adopt this colorful and thoughtful design approach. #InteriorDesign #PaintTrends #ColorInDesign #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalFeatures #DIYHome #DesignTips

The field of interior design has seen a resurgence in the popularity of decorative paint tricks and finishes, moving beyond basic color application to embrace creative and inventive techniques. Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director at Dulux, emphasizes that paint encompasses a broad spectrum of colors, from organic off-whites and subtle petal shades to deep night blues, greens, golds, and reds. She notes that the lockdown period spurred greater creativity in home painting, a trend that continues to evolve. This includes using paint on ceilings, blending colors without strict corner divisions, employing mid-wall splits, and painting kitchen units and furniture in shades that evoke joy, fundamentally altering perspectives on home living. Interior designer Kate Guinness concurs, anticipating continued enthusiasm for paint and pattern. Her firm integrates paint details to introduce additional points of interest within homes. This exploration delves into various paint ideas and tricks, showcasing how color can be integrated into diverse interior design settings to craft entirely new home aesthetics. Expert-backed paint trends are highlighted, offering inspiration for transforming home looks. One technique involves using two-tone paint to enlarge a room. For instance, Irene Gunter, a designer, advocates for blush shades in bedrooms to create a soothing ambiance. She suggests applying a base color on the lower wall and a lighter version of the same color (mixed with 50% white) on the upper wall. This method adds visual interest and blurs room edges, making ceilings appear higher and rooms feel more spacious. Another innovative idea is to create a painted headboard that functions as a piece of art. Designer Sarah Stemp of Sascal Studio achieved this by using canvas fabric and sample pots of green paint, building layers from Farrow & Ball's Vert De Terre to lighter and darker green shades. The resulting textural effect, with visible brushstrokes, adds depth and artistry to the headboard. Additionally, a fireplace can be given a faux marble finish, as demonstrated by Brandon Schubert, who collaborated with Lara Fiorentino of The Paint Effect to create a convincing red marble effect, emphasizing the importance of a smooth finish. Introducing tactile textures to walls, particularly in hallways, is another effective trick. Designers like Chan & Eayrs utilize color pigments combined with various materials, applied with brushes or sponges, to create subtle textures that add depth beyond conventional paint. Paint can also be used to define zones within a room. Andy Greenall from Paint & Paper Library explains that contrasting paint finishes, such as a satinwood finish for a backsplash against a matt finish in the same shade, can segment a space, adding character cost-effectively. Painted borders can emulate expensive inlays, as seen in Louise Roe’s dressing room where a rich maroon paint was enhanced with hand-painted borders. Creating a 3D effect with paint, especially on the 'fifth wall' (the ceiling), can add dimension to a space. Elnaz Namaki Studio used bespoke plastered paint with overlaid paisley stencils to achieve this. Visually expanding walls with clever ceiling paint ideas is also recommended, as interior designer Nicola Harding illustrates by using Farrow & Ball's Stone Blue on a dining room ceiling to make the space feel larger and cozier. Furthermore, paint can conceal flaws; in older homes, white paint on exposed ceiling beams can hide imperfections while creating a softer look. Finally, positioning paler finishes at eye level, especially in kitchens, can enhance spaciousness and prevent wall units from overpowering the room, with Frank & Faber suggesting darker shades at the bottom and lighter tones at the top to optimize natural light and minimize visual clutter. Contemporary paint tricks are sophisticated and tailored, moving past outdated styles like 1970s stenciling. Interior designer Brandon Schubert suggests using unusual finishes like gloss paint on walls, even with dark colors, to reflect light and achieve a smooth finish. For more advanced effects, professional specialist decorators are recommended, or adventurous individuals can try themselves. Kit Kemp, renowned for her use of color, suggests starting with door frames as an easy way to introduce a 'shock of color' or a complementary hue, framing the adjacent room and adding a playful element to the transition between spaces. These modern paint techniques foster a new freedom of expression through color in interiors. #InteriorDesign #PaintTricks #ColorSchemes #HomeDecor #CreativePainting #RoomEnlargement #TexturedWalls #FauxFinishes #CeilingDesign #ZoningWithPaint

This article explores seven creative and impactful ways interior designers utilize paint to transform and elevate living spaces, moving beyond simple color application to achieve sophisticated visual effects. It highlights how paint can be a versatile tool for adding decorative details, changing perceived materiality, and defining functional zones within a home. The first technique discussed involves channeling one's inner artist by applying handcrafted elements. With a growing desire for authentic, crafted touches in homes, designers like Molly Mahon demonstrate how hand-painted details, such as those around a fireplace, can introduce a unique and personal aesthetic, echoing the charm of hand-block printed fabrics and wallpapers. The second method focuses on creating the illusion of paneling with paint. Emma Deterding of Kelling Designs emphasizes that decorative painters are adept at crafting bespoke finishes that impart both tone and texture, effectively transforming a plain wall into one with architectural interest without the expense of physical paneling. This technique allows for a high degree of customization in color and shading. Thirdly, the article delves into the resurgence of the faux linen technique. Hughie Turner, a decorative artist, and John McCall, an interior designer, showcase how this method can add depth and elegance to a room, especially in bedrooms. The faux linen effect offers a range of textures, from subtle and refined to deeper and more pronounced, providing an alternative to traditional wallpaper. Another innovative approach involves using accent colors to delineate distinct 'zones' within open-plan areas, particularly in homes where walls between rooms have been removed. Suzy Hoodless illustrates how a contrasting paint color, such as a bright yellow on architraves, can provide structure and visually separate different functional areas within a larger space, maintaining a contemporary feel while respecting traditional architectural details. The fifth technique suggests decorating woodwork with rich hues to create a sophisticated look. The team at Neptune demonstrates this by painting a doorway and anteroom in a deep Burnham Red, contrasting it with a muted neutral like Driftwood in the adjoining sitting room. This approach emphasizes the importance of selecting an accent color for woodwork that extends into other areas and using a lighter shade for cornices to ensure they stand out. The sixth idea promotes creating decorative borders around windows, especially in utilitarian spaces like kitchens. James Arkoulis and Saskia Howard of Howark Design exemplify this by painting a charming frame around a kitchen sink window. This simple yet effective design choice transforms an often-overlooked area into an interesting focal point, making everyday tasks more aesthetically pleasing. Finally, the article discusses using paint to mimic the architectural interest of plaster molding. Kate Guinness demonstrates this in a bathroom by adding neat parallel stripes just below the ceiling, creating the visual effect of coving or cornicing. This technique relies on precise application, often with masking tape, to achieve sharp, clean lines that add architectural detail without the need for actual plasterwork. Overall, the article underscores that paint is not merely a background element but a powerful design tool capable of significant transformation. By employing these clever techniques—from hand-painted details and faux textures to zoning with color and architectural illusions—homeowners can achieve dramatic and personalized interior updates that rival more extensive renovations. #InteriorDesign #PaintIdeas #HomeDecor #CreativePainting #ArchitecturalDetails #ZoningWithColor #FauxFinishes #HandcraftedElements #BedroomDesign

The article discusses five paint trends that interior designers consider outdated and suggests modern alternatives. It highlights how paint, despite being a transformative and temporary decorating tool, sees trends evolve rapidly. The first trend identified as outdated is the use of white trim with colorful walls. Interior designers now prefer painting trim the same color as the walls to create a cohesive, larger-feeling space through "color drenching." While tonal contrasts for trim can still work, the specific combination of colorful walls and stark white trim is seen as basic and passé. The second outdated trend is the accent wall. Designers note that this approach is becoming less popular as homeowners move towards more balanced and cohesive color schemes. Instead of accent walls, the article suggests creating visual interest through other design elements such as artwork, textured wallpapers, or architectural details like doors, window reveals, or even ceilings. These elements can act as focal points without the disjointed feel of a single accent wall. Thirdly, painting ceilings white while walls are colored is also considered an old-fashioned concept. Interior designer Kelly Hoppen suggests painting ceilings the same color as the walls to create an illusion of greater space and height, ensuring a seamless flow throughout the room. A white ceiling is only recommended when the walls are also white; otherwise, an accent color on the ceiling is preferred for visual impact. The fourth trend designers are moving away from is faux paint effects, such as those imitating Tuscan plaster or distressed textures. While textured finishes have recently seen a resurgence, these specific faux effects are deemed dated. To achieve a more sophisticated and modern look, the article advises using smooth finishes with complementary color palettes. For those desiring texture, more classic options like grasscloth wallpaper or decorative wall panels are recommended as alternatives that will not date as quickly. Finally, geometric murals, particularly those with strong, angular forms, are no longer favored by designers. These designs are often perceived as DIY-looking and are a departure from the current preference for softer, more organic design elements. For individuals interested in murals, the advice is to opt for designs incorporating circles, arches, and waves. Alternatively, wallpaper with interesting patterns or textures is presented as a more modern and effective way to add depth, personality, and a unique touch to a space, serving as a focal point or contributing to a cohesive design scheme. #InteriorDesign #PaintTrends #HomeDecor #ColorDrenching #AccentWalls #CeilingPaint #FauxFinishes #WallMurals #ModernInteriors

While color drenching, the technique of painting walls, trim, and ceilings the same color, is a popular trend, it's not always the best choice for every space. There are specific situations where this monochromatic approach can be detrimental to a room's aesthetic. Designers have identified four key instances where opting out of color drenching can significantly enhance a room's design and functionality. First, consider foregoing color drenching when the goal is to make a statement with the 'fifth wall' – the ceiling. Instead of blending the ceiling into the overall color scheme, utilizing it as a focal point offers a unique opportunity for design expression. Painting the ceiling a contrasting or unexpected color can elevate the room's uniqueness and provide an additional 20% of design space, transforming it into a modern and eye-catching feature. This approach allows for a more dynamic and personalized aesthetic, moving beyond a single-color palette. Second, rooms with low natural light are generally not suitable for color drenching, especially with dark hues. While dramatic color palettes are currently trending, applying dark shades to both walls and ceilings in a dimly lit room can create a cavelike and constricting atmosphere rather than a cozy one. To brighten such spaces, designers recommend painting the ceiling a shade or two lighter than the walls, which introduces dimension and visually increases the room's height. Alternatively, if a cocooning effect is desired, a 'double-drenching' technique, where different colors are repeated across walls and ceiling, can add depth without the unwanted confinement, particularly in less-used spaces like libraries or studies. Third, open-concept rooms present challenges for color drenching. The expansive nature of these layouts makes it difficult to achieve the enveloping effect characteristic of color drenching. Applying a single color throughout a large, open space can result in a flat and one-dimensional appearance. Instead, using different paint colors for ceilings and walls can help define and zone different areas within an open plan. Painting the ceiling a slightly darker, non-white shade, such as a dusty pink, light blue, or soft tan, can subtly bring the room in, making the open concept feel cozier and adding character through varied elements. Finally, color drenching should be avoided in rooms featuring significant architectural details, such as crown molding or beams. These intricate elements are designed to be celebrated and highlighted, not to disappear into a uniform color scheme. Painting them the same color as the walls and ceiling can diminish their visual impact, leading to a flat and less dynamic space. Introducing contrast through different colors for these architectural features, even if the wall and ceiling colors are similar, allows them to stand out and contributes to the room's depth and intentional design. The key is to decide which aspects of the room are most important to emphasize and to use color strategically to achieve that goal, remembering that contrast is vital for creating depth. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #ColorDrenching #HomeDecor #CeilingDesign #ArchitecturalDetails #LowLightRooms #OpenConcept #PaintTechniques

The article explores the interior design trend of painting doors the same color as walls, a technique known as 'color drenching.' This approach is gaining popularity for its ability to create a cohesive and enveloping feel within a room. Designers like Ruth Mottershead from Little Greene emphasize that painting all elements—doors, woodwork, walls, and even ceilings—in a single color can result in an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere. Alternatively, using tonally coordinating colors across these elements can achieve a harmonious and considered feel with a subtle drenching effect. Traditionally, doors and their trims were painted in contrasting colors, often white or lighter shades, to the walls. However, the modern trend sees doors integrated into the wall color. Justyna Korczynska from Crown suggests that painting all surfaces, including skirting, cupboards, radiators, and window frames, in the same color, especially soft greyed blues, greens, or neutrals, creates a thoughtful and sophisticated look. Several reasons support the choice to color drench. One primary benefit is to camouflage visually unappealing doors, allowing them to blend seamlessly into the design scheme. This is particularly effective with mid-tone and darker colors, which enhance the room's character, depth, warmth, and intimacy. Furthermore, painting doors and walls the same color can contribute to a tranquil and streamlined aesthetic. Pam Gruhn of Frenchic notes that this method creates a pared-down, ultra-modern look, making the space appear effortlessly sleek and chic. Color drenching also serves a practical purpose in making small spaces appear larger. By painting doors, walls, and ceilings in the same shade, the boundaries of the room are blurred, creating an illusion of expanded space. This technique is highly recommended for narrow hallways, pantries, or galley kitchens that may lack natural light. Helen Shaw from Benjamin Moore highlights that an all-encompassing floor-to-ceiling finish in one color cleverly blurs edges, contributing to a sense of greater space. For small rooms, a single color for trims, doors, and walls can reduce visual clutter, fostering a calm and cohesive environment, particularly beneficial in bedrooms and nurseries for promoting relaxation. Beyond simple color drenching, designers are experimenting with 'color blocking' that includes doors. Andy Greenall of Paint & Paper Library suggests creating a block of color across a door, rather than being confined by its shape, using tonal colors for a sophisticated and elegant outcome. Graduating tones, he explains, provide subtle nuances of shade for a coordinated feel. Certain areas of a home are particularly well-suited for color drenching. Relaxing spaces like bedrooms and living rooms benefit from the calming atmosphere it creates. Entryways also serve as ideal candidates, providing a strong visual anchor for the rest of the house. Hallways, often visible from multiple rooms and sometimes irregularly shaped, benefit from a single color application across all elements, making it easier to harmonize with adjoining spaces and creating a continuous sense of space. The decision to paint doors darker or lighter than walls, or the same color, depends on the desired effect, with tonal schemes creating elegance and contrasting colors delivering impact. For white walls, designers recommend using a highlight color on doors and woodwork to create a focal point, or choosing colors that align with the overall desired ambiance, whether it's Japandi calmness or a vibrant statement. For maximalist interiors, picking an accent color from patterned wallpaper to paint doors and trims can create a coordinating contrast and add a joyful touch. #InteriorDesign #ColorDrenching #PaintColors #HomeDecor #WallPaint #DoorPaint #SmallSpaceDesign #HomeStyling #DesignTrends

This article explores the transformative power of paint beyond its immediate aesthetic appeal, focusing on how it can manipulate the perception of a room's size and shape. Interior designers share their expertise on using various paint techniques and colors to address architectural challenges and create desired atmospheric effects. The core premise is that paint can function as an optical illusion, making spaces appear larger, smaller, taller, wider, or longer without physical alteration. One fundamental technique discussed is the use of lighter colors, such as white, pale grey, greige, or complex creams, to make a room feel bigger and brighter. These reflective shades bounce light around the space, which is particularly beneficial for rooms with small windows or low ceilings. While white is a common choice, it's noted that even white changes color throughout the day due to light reflection. Cool color schemes are also recommended as they make walls visually recede, contributing to a sense of expanded space. Conversely, the article challenges the common misconception that dark colors invariably make a room feel smaller. When applied across an entire room, including the ceiling, dark shades can surprisingly create an illusion of greater size. This effect occurs because dark colors absorb light and cause boundaries to blur, making walls appear further away. Additionally, dark colors serve as effective backdrops for vibrant furniture, allowing the room's contents to stand out while the walls visually recede. Dark, warm colors, particularly red-based hues like deep rose pinks or bricky terracottas, are suggested for small, poorly lit rooms to add intimacy and warmth, often paired with softer or darker trim colors instead of stark white. The strategic painting of ceilings is another key aspect. In rooms with unusually high ceilings, a darker color on the fifth wall can visually lower the ceiling height, making the space feel more intimate and cozy. This can be achieved with subtle variations in shade or through dramatic contrasts, though a tonal palette is advised to prevent the ceiling from feeling oppressive. To add height, painting walls and ceilings the same continuous color is recommended. This 'color drenching' technique blurs the line where the wall meets the ceiling, creating an uninterrupted flow of color that makes walls appear taller by not allowing the eye to focus on the division. This also applies to rooms with architectural details like dado rails, where painting them the same color as the walls prevents strong horizontal lines that can visually shorten a space. Color drenching is further elaborated as a powerful technique for camouflaging awkward architectural features, such as sloped ceilings in attic bedrooms. By painting all surfaces – walls, ceiling, trims, baseboards, and even doors – in a single shade, the challenging lines and junctions of the room become less distinct, preserving architectural integrity without accentuating limitations. This approach provides solidity and modernity, transforming potentially awkward spaces into cohesive and sophisticated areas. The finish of the paint also plays a significant role in altering perception. Paint finishes range from flat matte to high gloss, with varying degrees of light reflection. High-sheen finishes, particularly gloss paint, are excellent for bouncing light around poorly lit or small rooms, creating an illusion of depth through highlights and shadows. Gloss on the ceiling can enhance height and introduce an atmospheric play of light. Finally, color blocking and zoning techniques are highlighted as methods to break boundaries and define areas within a room. Color blocking, where paint extends from walls to ceilings in unconventional ways, can create new, unfamiliar volumes. Zoning, especially in open-plan spaces, uses blocks of color to visually separate functional areas, establishing distinct moods and purposes within a larger space. Half-painted walls or wainscoting can also manipulate perception, making hallways feel wider by stretching the space horizontally and pushing the ceiling visually higher with lighter colors on the upper portion. #InteriorDesign #PaintIdeas #ColorPsychology #RoomPerception #HomeDecor #SpaceManipulation #ColorDrenching #GlossPaint #ZoningWithColor

The article showcases the vibrant, color-drenched apartment of interior decorator Ally Doman, founder of New York-based Doman Decors, challenging the prevailing minimalist and neutral design trends. Doman, known for her playful and gorgeously designed spaces for clients, provides a tour of her three-bedroom railroad-style apartment, which she shares with her fiancé. They secured the apartment due to its generous square footage and favorable rent, recognizing its potential despite its initial outdated and damaged condition. The apartment required significant renovation, including addressing bare subfloors, cracked tiling, and old kitchen appliances. Doman emphasizes that renovating a rental is often challenging but, in this case, allowed them to transform the space into a personalized home. Despite the initial state, the apartment featured appealing architectural elements such as built-in cabinets and ornate millwork from the early 20th century. Doman successfully integrated a dressing room and a music studio alongside the standard living areas, giving each space a distinct personality. Doman describes her personal design style as bold, bright, colorful, and comfortable, with a blend of sophistication and playfulness. She frequently works with New York apartments, which often present challenges due to their boxy and limited square footage. To counteract these constraints, she favors mid-century shapes and incorporates curvy pieces like free-form tables and rounded decor, along with intricate patterns. Her design process is organic, prioritizing meaningful existing decor and new discoveries over rigid pre-planned color schemes. She allows cherished items and found pieces to guide the aesthetic direction, developing a color story based on these elements midway through the design process. Inspiration for Doman's work comes from various sources, including iconic Post-Impressionist artists like Matisse, whom she admires for his depiction of whimsical and colorful interiors. She also draws ideas from decor magazines such as 'Elle Decor' and 'Architectural Digest,' and follows the work of the Belgian interior design team JP Demeyer & Co for their bold pattern play and eclecticism. For Doman, room functionality is paramount, as she considers how clients will live in their space, whether they prefer lounging or frequently host events. She aims to create spaces that offer a comforting escape from the city's chaos, providing an element of surprise upon entry. Doman sources her apartment decor from a variety of places, including CB2 for sculptural and contemporary furniture, Article for larger pieces like her green sectional, and her true passion, vintage sourcing, both online through Instagram shops and in-person around Brooklyn. She has found unique items on eBay, such as her vintage coffee table, and a lotus lamp from an Instagram seller. Etsy is another go-to for one-of-a-kind finds, and she appreciates local New York-based designers like BEAM, Cold Picnic, and Coming Soon NY. For paints, she uses Farrow and Ball for her living room and dressing room, and Benjamin Moore for the bedroom and kitchen. The biggest design challenge in her railroad apartment is its long and narrow layout, which can be difficult to decorate. The absence of closets necessitated creative storage solutions, including armoires, trunks, and room dividers. The renovation process also faced timeline delays, with the couple living in one room for a month while the rest of the apartment was completed. Doman advises others in similar living situations to be bold in creating different moods for each room while ensuring a cohesive flow due to open layouts. She achieves this by subtly referencing color palettes from other rooms, such as incorporating black and white objects throughout the apartment to echo the kitchen's tile. Ultimately, home for Doman represents a comfortable sanctuary for self-expression and the realization of aesthetic fantasies without external deadlines. #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #ApartmentLiving #RentalRenovation #HomeDecor #AllyDoman #NewYorkApartment #VintageSourcing #Maximalism

The article explores various paint techniques that go beyond standard wall painting to significantly impact the aesthetic and atmosphere of a room without extensive cost. It highlights that paint techniques encompass different finishes, such as gloss, eggshell, and chalk paint, as well as diverse application styles like stenciling, ombre, and more. The article aims to inspire homeowners and designers to experiment with these decorative approaches. Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs, emphasizes the evolution and historical significance of decorative paint finishes, noting their ability to transform a room and establish its tone and texture. She points out that skilled decorative painters can create bespoke finishes, ranging from modern linen effects and paneling to dragging or ragging, offering depth and color not achievable through wallpaper, flat paint, or fabrics. These techniques blend multiple shades to create unique visual effects. One prominent technique discussed is 'color drenching,' where various shades of a single color are applied across multiple surfaces. This method, suitable for both modern and traditional homes, creates a strong visual statement and can make small rooms or those with low ceilings appear larger by blurring the boundaries between walls and ceilings. Gloss paint, another technique, provides a reflective, durable surface ideal for less-lit spaces or for achieving a luxurious look. Patrick O’Donnell from Farrow & Ball notes the resurgence of full gloss, particularly on walls and ceilings, to bounce light and add glamour, though he cautions that perfectly smooth walls and professional application are crucial for optimal results. Color blocking involves pairing complementary colors to add dimension and define separate areas within a room. This technique, seen in both fashion and interiors, allows for personalization and bold statements. Stripes, either horizontal or vertical, can introduce decorative flair and create illusions of height or width, making them suitable for small spaces. Jeff Andrews advises using wide stripes for dramatic effect, while Annie Sloan offers practical tips for DIY stripe painting, emphasizing the importance of straight lines relative to either the floor or ceiling in older homes. Half-painted walls offer a way to create visual interest or a faux architectural detail. This technique allows for varying proportions of painted sections, such as a third or two-thirds of the wall, to achieve different effects. Nathan Cuttle of Studio Nato explains how this can mimic period styles like wainscoting and help adjust the scale of rooms with high ceilings. Ombre, which involves gently transitioning paint colors, creates a watercolor-like effect, though achieving a true ombre can be challenging for DIYers. Helen Shaw of Benjamin Moore suggests using three tonal paints in soft stripes to emulate the effect. Trompe-l'œil, a technique that creates an illusion of depth, can be used to mimic architectural features like wall paneling. Emma from Kelling Designs describes how paint can transform plain walls into paneled rooms and even make existing fireplaces appear like different materials. Metallic paints, particularly gold leafing or modern metallic effect paints, add shine and warmth, reflecting and absorbing light. They are ideal for hallways or overlooked corners and can highlight architectural details. Limewash paint, with its ancient origins, offers a mottled, matte, and chalky texture, providing an earthy and organic feel. This eco-friendly option is suitable for grounding interiors and can be applied over drywall with a primer. Other similar paints include chalk and milk paints. Stenciling allows for the introduction of patterns, with modern designs often resembling wallpaper. This technique can be applied to walls, ceilings, and floors, offering endless possibilities for custom patterns and color schemes. Finally, rag rolling, a technique from the 80s and 90s, uses a rolled cloth to create a rhythmic linear pattern, producing a mottled look with distinct lines. This requires a base coat and a topcoat that is slightly darker or lighter, and practice on test boards is recommended for DIY enthusiasts. #PaintTechniques #InteriorDesign #WallDecor #ColorDrenching #GlossPaint #ColorBlocking #StripedWalls #HalfPaintedWalls #OmbreEffect #TrompeLEil #MetallicPaint #Limewash #Stenciling #RagRolling

This blog post focuses on interior wood paint, a product designed to refresh and enhance the appearance and longevity of wood surfaces within a home. The paints are formulated to offer superior opacity, transforming the aesthetics of furnishings and other indoor woodwork. The range includes various finishes, such as matte, gloss, eggshell, and satin, catering to diverse design preferences and functional requirements. The article provides a detailed overview of the product category, offering filters for color family, brand, paint type, finish, suitability, and size, thereby guiding customers through the selection process. Color options span blacks, blues, browns, creams, greens, greys, pinks, and whites, with white being the most extensively offered. Brands featured include Dulux, Wickes, Crown, and Zinsser, each offering specific formulations. Paint types listed include basecoats, blackboard paint, eggshell paint, gloss paint, knotting solution, mould paint, satin paint, trim, undercoats & primers, and wood & metal paint. The finishes available are eggshell, gloss, matt, satin, and satinwood. The suitability of these paints varies, covering general interior use, specific applications like MDF, softwoods, hardwoods, and combinations with metal and uPVC. Available sizes range from 0.75 L to 2.5 L, with pricing categories provided for budget planning. Several popular products are highlighted, including Dulux Quick Dry Satinwood Paint in Pure Brilliant White and Egyptian Cotton, Wickes One Coat Satin Wood & Metal Paint in Pure Brilliant White, Dulux Trade Satinwood Paint in Pure Brilliant White, Dulux Quick Dry Eggshell Paint in Pure Brilliant White, Dulux Trade Satinwood Paint in Pure Brilliant White (1L), Dulux Once Gloss Paint in Pure Brilliant White, Dulux Quick Dry Gloss Paint in Pure Brilliant White, Wickes One Coat Gloss Wood & Metal Paint in Pure Brilliant White, Wickes Non Drip Matt Wood & Metal Paint in Black and Pure Brilliant White, Dulux Trade Undercoat Paint in Brilliant White, Dulux Trade Quick Dry Wood Primer & Undercoat Paint in White, Wickes Eggshell Wood & Metal Paint in Pure Brilliant White, Dulux Quick Drying Eggshell Paint in Natural Hessian, Wickes Trade Quick Dry Satin Wood & Metal Paint in Pure Brilliant White, Crown Non Drip Gloss Paint in Brilliant White, Crown Wood & MDF Primer & Undercoat, Wickes Basic Satin Wood & Metal Paint in Pure Brilliant White, Dulux Trade Quick Dry Satinwood Paint in Pure Brilliant White (2.5L), Wickes Trade MDF Primer Paint in White, and Dulux Quick Dry Satinwood Paint in Timeless and Natural Hessian. The article also addresses frequently asked questions related to the application and suitability of interior wood paint. It clarifies that interior wood paint should not be used outdoors due to its lack of resistance to external weather conditions, recommending exterior wood paint for such applications. It advises against using masonry paint on interior wood, explaining that it is not formulated for wood surfaces and may lead to peeling and cracking over time. For interior wood cladding, the recommendation is satin interior wood paint, which provides durable, long-lasting results with a subtle sheen. The article further suggests related product categories like white gloss paint, eggshell paint, satin wood paint, gloss paint, and Dulux wood paint, indicating a comprehensive resource for painting and decorating needs. #InteriorWoodPaint #HomeDecoration #PaintFinishes #DIYHomeImprovement #WoodCare #DuluxPaint #WickesProducts #PaintSelection #HomeDecor

Choosing the appropriate paint finish, also known as sheen, is crucial for both aesthetic appeal and practical durability in various areas of a home. Paint finishes range from flat, which has no shine, to high gloss, which is very shiny. Beyond visual appearance, the finish dictates how easy the paint is to clean and how well it withstands damage, making the selection process significant for long-term home maintenance. For kitchen walls and cabinets, semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes are recommended due to their ease of cleaning and resistance to stains, grease, and frequent washing. These durable options help preserve the appearance of surfaces in a high-traffic, mess-prone environment. In dining rooms, where walls are susceptible to scuffs and smudges, an eggshell finish is commonly chosen. It offers a balance of durability and a less reflective surface that helps conceal imperfections without being as shiny as semi-gloss or high-gloss. Living rooms, often used for entertaining and family activities, benefit from versatile paints like satin or eggshell finishes. These provide a subtle sheen and sufficient durability for daily wear, striking a balance between aesthetic appeal and practical resilience. Satin paint offers a slightly more noticeable shine compared to eggshell, contributing to a refined look. Bathrooms, characterized by high moisture levels, necessitate moisture-resistant and durable paint. Semi-gloss is an excellent choice for bathroom walls and trim as it is easy to clean, water-resistant, and helps resist mildew and wear in humid conditions. Bedrooms, being low-traffic areas, can accommodate paints with less sheen, such as matte or eggshell finishes. These create a soft, relaxing ambiance by minimizing light reflection, which is ideal for a serene sleeping environment. For ceilings, a flat or semi-gloss paint finish is suitable. While ceilings do not endure direct scuffs like walls, they can accumulate grease, smoke, dust, and other particles over time. Both flat and semi-gloss finishes are effective at hiding imperfections, maintaining a clean look overhead. Trim, which serves to cover gaps and protect walls from damage, requires a highly durable paint. Semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes are ideal for trim, offering elegance, durability, and easy maintenance while highlighting architectural details. When selecting exterior paint, the specific surface being painted should guide the choice. Lower sheen paints are generally preferred for the main body of the house, offering a subtle appearance, while higher sheen paints are often used for trim, doors, and accents to provide contrast, enhanced durability, and ease of cleaning. Overall, understanding the characteristics and benefits of each paint finish is essential for making informed decisions that cater to the specific needs of each area of the home. #PaintFinish #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #WallPaint #CabinetPaint #ExteriorPaint #HomeDecor

Design experts emphasize the ceiling as a crucial, often overlooked, element in interior design, referring to it as the "fifth wall." Instead of leaving ceilings plain white, designers advocate for transforming them into "statement ceilings" using various techniques such as wallpaper, shimmery paint glazes, or contrasting paint colors. This approach can dramatically enhance a room's aesthetic and bring it to life. The recent Junior League of Detroit Designers' Show House showcased several examples of bold ceiling treatments. Annie Kordas of Kordas Interiors, for instance, used a moody wallpaper featuring whimsical woodland creatures, named 'Forêt Noire,' on the nursery ceiling. This wallpaper served as the central design element, acting as a night sky to provide visual stimulation for the baby. Angie Lane, an architect and interior designer with A. Lane Architecture, opted for a hand-painted plaid pattern on the ceiling of her Michigan-themed lodge. This large-scale plaid paid homage to the lodge ambiance and complemented an Alexander McQueen rug on the floor. Kordas suggests several ways to enhance ceilings beyond wallpaper, including painting them a distinct color and adding a dramatic center light fixture. For spaces with exposed wood beams, she recommends staining them dark to add dimension and coziness, especially in rooms with higher ceilings. Furthermore, incorporating double crown molding or applied moldings can contribute to a more sophisticated and "finessed" look. In long hallways, a series of striking light fixtures can create a compelling visual flow. Barb Johnson, owner of Walls of Virtue, a faux painting firm, confirms the increasing popularity of statement ceilings. She notes that applying special finishes to ceilings is labor-intensive, often leading to higher costs. One popular technique involves adding shimmer, which can be mixed into paint. When illuminated by a light fixture, the shimmer reflects light, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Another method is to apply a glaze with "sparkle dust" over a base coat, offering a relatively simple way to achieve a decorative effect. Johnson's work in the Banham family home in West Bloomfield exemplifies the transformative power of statement ceilings. In the foyer, she meticulously applied multiple layers of gold paint over a white pearlescent base to a 25-foot ceiling, requiring specialized scaffolding. This opulent ceiling is visible from three levels, including a basement wine cellar with a glass enclosure. The first-floor powder room also features Johnson's artistry, with gold foils applied to the upper and lower wall portions, complemented by a pearl white middle section with an epoxy finish for durability. The homeowner, Reem Banham, notes that these unique ceiling designs often become a focal point, with visitors frequently photographing them. Johnson emphasizes that successful ceiling design is an art form built on layering, where each element contributes to the overall rich and complex effect. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CeilingDesign #Wallpaper #PaintFinishes #FauxPainting #ArchitecturalDetails #DesignTrends

The article explores the design trend of pairing light walls with dark trim to introduce depth, contrast, and drama into interior spaces. While white trim is traditionally common, opting for dark trim offers a more distinctive approach to home decoration. Interior designer Max Rollit highlights the functional and aesthetic importance of trim elements such as crown molding, door and window trim, chair rails, and baseboards, emphasizing their role in establishing a cohesive architectural look within a room. Painting these features in a contrasting dark color transforms them from mere practical components into engaging design elements. The selection of paint colors for dark trim and light walls requires careful consideration to ensure compatibility and balance. The author advises using a color wheel to assess how chosen shades will interact and emphasizes the need to balance warm and cool tones. For instance, a cool-colored light wall might benefit from a warmer trim to enhance the room's atmosphere. The scale of the room and the amount of trim also play a role, as excessive dark trim can overwhelm smaller spaces. Additionally, the way light interacts with the colors is crucial; contrasting strongly colored walls with light-reflecting trim can create a crisp, clean effect. The article provides eight specific color combinations and design strategies. The first suggestion involves dark grey trim with light pink walls, where the grey’s coolness is balanced by the pink’s warmth. Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene, notes that dark greys near black can define woodwork and frame wallpaper, but advises testing colors in situ to observe their behavior under different lighting conditions. For example, warm hues are recommended for north-facing rooms, while intense greys suit east-facing rooms, and softer greys work well in west-facing spaces. Another combination is grey-blue trim with white walls, which adds interest without a complete room overhaul. Janie Molster explains that painting door frames, window frames, and baseboards in a contrasting dark color can emphasize a room's footprint and draw the eye outward, framing the view. For a dramatic and minimalist aesthetic, black trim against white walls creates a sharp, monochrome contrast. Helen Shaw, director at Benjamin Moore, suggests using black accents on wall paneling or skirting boards to make a statement in smaller rooms, where an all-black scheme might be too overwhelming. More unconventional pairings include warm carnaby yellow with dark olive green for a mid-century bathroom aesthetic, where the green mutes the yellow to create a cozy, moody atmosphere. Turquoise trim with off-white walls evokes a calming seaside feel, with the off-white preventing the blue from appearing too cold. Green trim with white walls, particularly a warm shade of green, can enhance a rustic aesthetic and add character to otherwise sparse white spaces. The article also suggests a tonal approach, where trim is painted one or two shades darker than the walls within the same color family, creating a subtle yet sophisticated effect. Finally, dark teal trim with light brown walls is presented as a nature-inspired combination, utilizing the complementary relationship between orange (in the brown) and green (in the teal) on the color wheel to achieve warmth and coolness. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #PaintTrends #ColorCombinations #WallTrim #ArchitecturalDetails #RoomDesign #PaintIdeas

This article explores 29 inspiring paint ideas for walls, offering clever, inexpensive, and simple ways to transform the look of any home. It emphasizes that paint is an accessible method to embrace new trends and achieve a contemporary aesthetic. Nadia Watts, founder of Nadia Watts Interior Design, highlights the return of bold colors and earth-inspired, matte surfaces, alongside contrasting tones like burnt orange, burgundy, coral pink, and mustard, and metallic accents such as copper, steel grey, and brass, all capable of making a significant impact when applied with the right techniques. The article begins by discussing artisanal paint applications like lime wash or Roman clay to achieve a rustic feel, drawing parallels to modern rustic decor. Amy Youngblood explains how mixing plaster of Paris with paint creates a unique custom look, while Jamie Davis of Portola Paints describes Roman clay's subtle, organic, marble-like effect. For homes without exposed brick, the article suggests using rust-red paint to imitate the look, noting its boldness can be softened when paired with warm neutrals, as demonstrated in a bedroom design by Liz Hoekzema of KLH Homes. Color drenching is presented as a method to use bold colors minimally by applying a single hue throughout a room, including walls, ceilings, trim, doors, and windows, reducing visual clutter and emphasizing the color itself. Nicole Ficano from Workshop APD illustrates this with an all-blue bedroom. The piece also details how paint can create architectural interest, such as painted arches used by Urbanology Designs to add a focal point and Erika Woelfel of Behr Paint Company. Painted staircases are shown as a way to enhance transitional spaces, with Sabrina Panizza and Aude Lerin of PL Studio using vibrant blue to create a Moroccan-inspired entryway. Zoning spaces with color is another key idea, where different tones define specific areas or connect rooms, as seen in Gonzalo Pardo's use of terracotta to link interior and exterior aesthetics. Painting interior doors in bold or calming hues can add drama or tranquility, depending on the room's function, with oil-based or gloss/semi-gloss paints recommended for durability by PL Studio designers. Dark-painted walls are proposed as a sophisticated backdrop to highlight artwork, creating a gallery-like effect, as demonstrated by Barbra Bright Design. Whimsy can be introduced through pastels and half-painted walls, an alternative to wall paneling, creating new dimensions, as in a psychologist's cabinet designed by PL Studio with soft pink walls and cloud-painted ceilings. Metallic paints like gold leafing add luxury, reflecting patinas and finishes from existing decor, as described by Jeremiah Brent. Outdoor paint is highlighted for creating colorful backyards, with Jess Piddock of King Celia Studio painting exterior walls in peachy pink. For those hesitant about full-room color commitment, painting only a room's entryway in a bold color while keeping the rest neutral is suggested by Sophie Chapman of The Vawdry House. Making a bold statement with trim, rather than just walls, is explored, with Emilie Munroe of Studio Munroe and Irene Astrain of Astrain Scheldt Architects using contrasting trim colors to provide visual relief. Modern murals are discussed as a way to integrate art into architecture, with Florence Bamberger's frescoes inspired by a home's surroundings. Painting ceilings, moving beyond plain white, is presented as a popular trend to create a serene or bold effect, as seen in an aqua-blue ceiling by Emilie Munroe. Color blocking, using abstract shapes, is showcased by Zero9 to zone rooms and complement furniture. Combining paint with paneling allows for a fresh take on traditional styles, and painting stripes creates whimsical patterns, as Annie Sloan demonstrates. Painting built-ins to match walls in a color-drenching style creates a cocoon-like sense of security, as Lia McNairy of LALA Reimagined explains. Two-tone walls with dado rails offer depth and detail, and matching skirting boards with wallpaper provides an easy update, according to Octavia Dickinson. Color contrasting adjoining rooms creates a flow of hues, with Natalie Tredgett suggesting warmer colors for drawing attention. Ombre applications blend multiple shades for a gradient effect, and layering different whites with varying finishes can create a sophisticated, gallery-like interior, exemplified by Caroline Feiffer's white kitchen. Painting window frames and embracing glossy finishes, as seen in Fettle Design's restaurant project, offer further avenues for creative expression. Lastly, giving old floorboards a new lease on life with paint, reviving old furniture, and even embracing raw plaster finishes for a subtle, earthy wash of color, as done by Holloway Li Interior Architects, round out the comprehensive list of paint ideas. The article concludes with advice on choosing paint brands, starting a painting project, and using painter's tape for various effects, alongside product recommendations. #PaintIdeas #InteriorDesign #WallPaint #ColorDrenching #ModernHomes #ArchitecturalDetails #DIYHomeDecor #RusticDecor #ColorBlocking