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Hoptown Chronicle
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Hoptown Chronicle

Never Regret a Paint Color Again—Avoid These 6 Common Mistakes

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 #PaintColors #HomeDecorating #InteriorDesign #ColorSelection #HomeImprovement #DesignTips #PaintMistakes #RoomDesign #ColorPsychology
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+3
The 6 Paint Colors for Your Kitchen That Will Never Go out of Style
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, serving as a central gathering place for friends and family, and a hub for preparing meals. Given its importance, selecting the right paint color is a crucial design decision that sets the overall tone for the space. This article explores six timeless kitchen paint colors recommended by expert interior designers, offering insights into why these shades remain popular and how they can be effectively incorporated into various kitchen designs. Green kitchens have seen a notable increase in popularity in recent years, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional neutrals. Amanda Barnes of Amanda Barnes Interiors favors green, particularly combining white upper cabinets with green lower cabinets or utilizing two shades of green to differentiate the island. She highlights Farrow and Ball's Pigeon and Benjamin Moore's Fieldstone as excellent choices, noting their gray undertones allow them to shift between green and gray depending on the natural light. This versatility makes green a dynamic and enduring option for kitchen spaces. White remains a classic and beloved choice for kitchen paint, especially warm whites. Designers like Jenn Feldman of Jenn Feldman Designs appreciate warm whites for their ability to provide a clean, neutral backdrop that allows for layering with various metallic hardware and light fixtures. Karen Harautuneian of Hub of the House Studio and Linda Hayslett of LH.Designs also advocate for warm whites such as Farrow & Ball's Wimborne White, Benjamin Moore's Bavarian Cream, White Opulence, and Frostine. These shades create an inviting atmosphere, serving as a versatile canvas for diverse design elements. For those who appreciate the aesthetic of white but wish to avoid a stark appearance, off-white presents an appealing alternative. Melinda Trembly of Rincon Rd. recommends creamy off-whites like Benjamin Moore's Mascarpone. This hue blends seamlessly with warm woods and earthy tiles and stones, offering a softer, richer feel. Off-white cabinets can be combined with wooden islands or hutches to create a warm and sophisticated kitchen environment. Light gray is another excellent neutral for homeowners seeking a softer option than pure white. Kristen Pena of K Interiors suggests light gray as a middle ground, providing a subtle depth of color while still appearing white in certain lighting conditions. This color choice offers versatility, allowing for a neutral backdrop that can adapt to different design preferences without committing to the boldness of other colors. Taupe provides a warm neutral alternative for kitchens, adding coziness without being overly striking. Wendy Labrum of Wendy Labrum Interiors utilizes Benjamin Moore's Smokey Taupe for cabinetry, often coordinating it with custom Venetian plaster colors on the walls. This approach creates a cohesive and inviting space that feels both sophisticated and comforting, making taupe a timeless option for a kitchen's color palette. Finally, yellow is a cheerful and welcoming choice for those who embrace color. Kristen Fiore of Kristen Elizabeth Design highlights Benjamin Moore's Chestertown Buff and Tavern Ochre as popular yellow hues. These sunny shades can be used as accent colors for islands or even on walls, injecting a happy and inviting energy into the kitchen. Yellow's inherent warmth ensures it remains a classic option for creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere in the home's culinary center. #KitchenDesign #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #KitchenTrends #NeutralColors #GreenKitchens #WhiteKitchens #ColorTheory
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PetMD
+12
10 mistakes to avoid when painting wooden furniture, according to experts
Painting wooden furniture can be a rewarding DIY project, offering a way to refresh worn items and align them with current color trends without the need for new purchases. However, achieving a professional and durable finish requires careful attention to detail and a proactive approach to common pitfalls. Experts emphasize that proper preparation, suitable product selection, and correct techniques are crucial before, during, and after the painting process. By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, individuals can save time, money, and effort, ensuring a successful outcome. Before initiating any painting project, it is essential to allow wooden furniture to acclimatize to its new environment. Wood naturally expands and contracts with changes in humidity, and neglecting this step can lead to cracking or peeling paint as it dries. This is particularly important when moving furniture between different climates, such as bringing an item indoors or placing it outside. Once acclimatized, thorough preparation of the furniture surface is paramount. Skipping the cleaning and preparation stages is a frequent error. The surface must be meticulously cleaned to remove dust, oil, and any existing coatings to ensure proper adhesion of primer and paint. This involves deep cleaning, repairing any damage, and filling holes, with special consideration for laminate finishes like those found on IKEA furniture. Sanding is another critical step that is often overlooked or rushed. Light yet thorough sanding between coats, using a fine-grit sandpaper, helps create a smooth finish and improves paint adhesion. Insufficient sanding can result in imperfections, scratches, or uneven surfaces, compromising the overall aesthetic. Furthermore, the importance of priming cannot be overstated. Applying a high-quality primer creates a smoother base, enhances paint adhesion, and prevents chipping or peeling, especially when painting over darker or previously coated pieces. The choice of primer should be compatible with the paint type, and manufacturers' instructions should be followed carefully. Selecting the correct type of paint is equally vital. Using paint unsuitable for wood can lead to chipping, peeling, or an uneven finish. Acrylic, oil-based, and latex paints are common choices for wood, and the desired finish (matte, satin, glossy) and wood type should influence the selection. Testing paint samples on a discreet area of the furniture is recommended to observe how different brands and finishes interact with the surface. Lastly, all hardware, such as handles, knobs, and hinges, must be removed before painting to ensure a professional, even finish and prevent damage to the accessories. During the painting phase, specific techniques should be employed to avoid common errors. Overloading the paintbrush, a frequent mistake among beginners, can cause drips, uneven coverage, and cracking. Instead, thin, even layers should be applied, allowing each coat to dry completely before the next. When working with raw wood, painting in the direction of the grain is crucial to avoid highlighting uneven texture and ensure an appealing finish. Slow, smooth strokes in the direction of the grain make a significant difference. Finally, after painting, protecting the newly painted surface is essential for longevity. Rushing the drying process can lead to smudges, smears, or damage to the paint. Each coat must be allowed to dry completely before applying the next or handling the furniture. This patience prevents chipping or peeling and ensures a smooth, durable finish. The application of a clear topcoat or sealant is also highly recommended to protect the paint from scratches, stains, and other damage. This protective layer, often polyurethane, requires proper drying time between applications to avoid peeling. Utilizing high-quality brushes and stirring paint thoroughly before use are additional tips from experts that contribute to a superior result. Consideration of hardware upgrades can further enhance the furniture's new lease of life, demonstrating that thoughtful details can profoundly impact the final look. #FurniturePainting #DIYHomeDecor #WoodFurniture #PaintApplication #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #PaintingTechniques #FurnitureRestoration
Homes and Gardens
Homes and Gardens
+2
An interior designer reveals the 5 mistakes to avoid when painting with dark colours
The increasing popularity of using dark colors in home interiors allows for greater personalization and bolder design choices. While interior designers advocate for bold color schemes, especially the latest trends incorporating bright and vibrant hues, specific considerations apply when venturing into darker palettes. Kate Watson-Smyth, a renowned interior designer and author of the "Mad About The House" series, shares crucial advice to avoid common pitfalls when decorating with dark paints. Her expertise, showcased in her home and online courses, offers valuable insights for achieving a sophisticated and effective dark interior. One significant mistake is failing to consider the room's function and how it is utilized. Dark colors can dramatically alter a room's mood. For instance, painting an entire room in a deep navy might not be conducive to spaces requiring constant activity or inspirational work. Instead, dark shades are better suited for areas primarily used in the evening or occasionally, such as bedrooms, where they can create a cozy and ambient atmosphere. Misjudging a room's usage can lead to dark colors hindering rather than enhancing its appeal, potentially even impacting a home's value. Another common oversight involves neglecting to incorporate the woodwork. To achieve a modern and dramatic effect, dark colors should extend to the woodwork, including skirting boards and doorframes. This technique, known as 'colour drenching,' creates a seamless and cohesive look, making ceilings appear higher and preventing white woodwork from creating a visual distraction. If painting all surfaces in a dark hue feels too bold, a toning or paler version of the base color can be used for contrast. Additionally, radiators, often an unattractive but necessary element, should be painted to match the walls to blend them into the overall design. A third mistake is losing confidence mid-project and resorting to a feature wall, rather than fully committing to painting an entire room dark. While feature walls have their place, painting only one wall dark while leaving the others white can give the impression of an unfinished design. If there are concerns about the room becoming too dark, an alternative approach is to paint all four walls halfway up with the dark shade and use a paler color for the top half and ceiling. This method can also contribute to making a room appear larger. The impact of flooring on the overall aesthetic is often underestimated when incorporating dark colors. It is crucial to ensure that the flooring complements the dark walls. A pale floor and ceiling can work, but the flooring material and color must be carefully chosen to align with the cool tones of the dark paint. For example, a stark contrast like an oatmeal twist carpet with forest green walls would likely clash and disrupt the intended sophisticated look. This consideration is particularly vital in living rooms, as they often set the tone for the entire home. Finally, disregarding natural light is a critical error. Rooms with ample natural light can effectively carry dark colors, allowing them to showcase their depth and richness. Conversely, a small, windowless space can also benefit from dark colors if the aim is to embrace its inherent lack of natural light, creating an intimate and cozy feel. However, it is essential to consider the architectural context of the home. If a dark room necessitates constant artificial lighting, it might not be a practical or desirable living environment. This principle extends beyond dark colors; even when selecting white paints to brighten a dark room, the quality of natural light will influence the perception of the shade and its warmth, ultimately determining the room's atmosphere. #InteriorDesign #DarkColors #HomeDecor #PaintingTips #DesignMistakes #ColourDrenching #NaturalLight #RoomFunction #Woodwork
Chartbook | Adam Tooze
Chartbook | Adam Tooze
6 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid When Decorating With Pantone’s Color of the Year
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
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LancasterOnline
+4
Interior design experts reveal the colour rules you should be breaking
The article explores the idea that traditional interior design color rules are often meant to be broken to create more personalized and expressive living spaces. It emphasizes that while classic color combinations exist, moving beyond them allows for the creation of unique environments that truly reflect individual personality. Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs, likens color application in interiors to nature, where a diverse mix of colors harmoniously coexists, suggesting that scale, pattern, and tones are more crucial than rigid rules. She encourages experimentation with color and pattern, advocating for choices that bring joy and allow one's personality to shine. The article highlights eight common color rules that interior design experts suggest breaking. The first rule challenged is avoiding dark colors in small rooms. Michael Rolland, a DIY expert, argues against the misconception that dark colors shrink a room. Instead, he suggests that dark hues can enhance poorly lit or small spaces by working with the limitations of natural light, rather than against them, potentially making a room feel cozier. The second rule to break is the reliance on white walls as a "safe" option. Annie Sloan, founder of Annie Sloan Chalk Paints, advises against white walls if one lacks confidence in adding color, as white can be challenging to coordinate. She recommends starting with a mid-tone color, such as blue, as a foundation. The third point discusses moving beyond only using complementary colors. Emma Bestley, Creative Director of YesColours, suggests that "clashing" colors can be provocative and demonstrate originality. She encourages experimenting with various colors against a dominant shade on the color wheel, even suggesting homeware accessories as a low-commitment way to test color clashing. Annie Sloan also provides an example of this, pairing vivid orange with soft pastel pink for a playful yet contemporary feel in social spaces. The fourth rule questioned is consistently painting the ceiling white. Sarah Lloyd, Interiors & Paint Specialist at Valspar Paint, notes that while white is a safe choice, painting ceilings in different colors can add depth and elements to a room. She explains that continuing the wall color onto the ceiling can create a "cocooning" effect, known as color drenching, making the space feel more intimate, a sentiment echoed by Michael from The Paint Shed. The fifth rule to challenge is being solely guided by color theory. Clare Walsh, Brand Expert at Kukoon Rugs, believes that emotional response to shades should take precedence over strict adherence to color theory principles, emphasizing that personal preference is key. The sixth rule debunks the old adage that "blue and green should never be seen." Clarissa Hulse, founder of her eponymous homeware brand, states this is nonsense, explaining that deep navy can beautifully complement teals and earthy olives, adding depth and interest to a scheme that might otherwise be flat. The seventh rule suggests moving beyond "disguising" cabinetry. While painting built-in wardrobes the same color as walls can make a room feel larger, Annie Sloan proposes making these units a feature by painting them in uplifting, contrasting shades, creating an unexpectedly fun backdrop. Finally, the eighth rule encourages expanding beyond limiting oneself to a single feature wall. The article argues that taking a strong color across all walls, rather than just one, can create a seamless backdrop and emphasize difference more effectively than contrasting edges. This approach avoids the common perception of a lone feature wall, allowing for a more immersive and impactful color application. #InteriorDesign #ColorTheory #HomeDecor #DesignRules #PersonalizedInteriors #ColorExperimentation #SmallSpaces #CeilingColor #CabinetryDesign
A
Australian Architectural Design
5 colors you should never paint a pantry – designers share the shades they swerve
The article explores specific paint colors that interior designers advise against for pantries, along with the reasoning behind these recommendations, aiming to guide homeowners in making informed decor choices. It emphasizes that a pantry, whether open to the kitchen or a separate space, needs to harmonize with the overall home aesthetic and contribute positively to the atmosphere, especially since it's a functional area for meal preparation and entertaining. Red is highlighted as a color to avoid due to its intensity in compact spaces. Interior designer Artem Kropovinsky suggests that bold, bright colors like red can feel overly aggressive in a pantry, recommending their use only as subtle accents if desired. Similarly, green is cautioned against because it can cast an undesirable hue on food items, potentially affecting their perceived freshness or appeal within the pantry. Angela Hamwey of Mackenzie & Co. underscores that the pantry is an extension of the kitchen, requiring proper functioning for meal preparation and hosting, which can be disrupted by unsuitable color choices. Darker shades of blue are also not recommended, as they can make a pantry feel cramped and visually shrink the space. Angela Hamwey points out that dark or saturated colors in main living areas tend to be distracting and may not contribute positively to the mood. Kropovinsky further explains that dark shades can make the space appear confined and congested, advising to limit their use to feature walls or small sections if a darker palette is preferred. Yellow is another color that designers typically discourage, with Angela Hamwey stating that colors like red, green, blue, or yellow can make the area seem unorganized or disheveled, and the pantry should not detract from the rest of the home. Kropovinsky adds that understated, muted yellows might appear dull, suggesting pairing them with colorful accessories if used. Bright white, despite its potential to expand a small room, is also listed as a color to avoid for pantries. The concern is that it can create a clinical and stark environment, which is not conducive to the warm and inviting ambiance typically desired in a kitchen area. Instead, the article recommends using off-white shades that offer a warmer and softer alternative, maintaining a light and spacious feel without the harshness of a pure white. Kropovinsky states that soft white is a classic choice that remains in vogue and effectively makes a pantry feel light and airy. For those seeking alternatives, interior designers suggest soft whites, light grays, and beige. Soft white is praised for its timeless appeal and ability to make small spaces feel larger. Light gray offers a similar lightness to white but with added character. Beige is recommended for its warm and welcoming tone, serving as an excellent base for incorporating colorful accessories like baskets, jars, and labels. Ami McKay of Pure Design suggests creative approaches such as using a bold color or botanical wallpaper on the ceiling for pantries with multiple shelves, encouraging homeowners to have fun with color in these functional spaces while maintaining cohesion with the main kitchen area through soft, neutral paint colors that complement the home's architecture. #InteriorDesign #Kitchens #PantryOrganization #ColorPalette #HomeDecor #DesignTips #SpaceOptimization
Homes and Gardens
Homes and Gardens
+4
7 Most Underrated Paint Colours, According To Colour Experts
The article highlights seven underrated paint colors that can transform home interiors, according to color experts and interior designers. It challenges the common focus on trendy hues by reintroducing versatile shades that often go overlooked. The first recommendation is a "not-quite-taupe," with Kate Aslangul of Oakley Moore Interior Design suggesting Farrow & Ball's Dimity. This warm neutral, with its soft pink undertone, offers elegance and subtlety, changing color throughout the day. It is ideal for hallways, sitting rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms, and pairs well with complementary whites, allowing texture and art to provide additional color. Next, James Flett of Sims Hilditch advocates for bold reds, despite their often-overlooked status. He emphasizes red's adaptability for creating striking accents or dramatic backdrops in muted spaces, particularly in smaller areas. Edward Bulmer’s Pompadour, a deep rusty red, is cited as a successful choice for powder room ceilings and woodwork, adding depth and drama. Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands, suggests incorporating gold for its versatility and ability to bring depth and a sense of 'quiet luxury.' He notes that gold hues, such as Mylands' FTT-001 and FTT-002, can be grounding or radiant. Myland recommends starting with architectural detailing before applying gold to larger areas, such as color-drenching an entire room, especially in spaces like bedrooms or dining rooms where atmosphere is key. Emma Bestley, creative director and co-founder of YesColours, proposes Fresh Lilac as an uplifting and tranquil option. She describes it as reminiscent of amethyst stones and springtime hyacinths, and associates it with tranquility. Fresh Lilac pairs effectively with Friendly Peach for warmth or with Electric Mint Green for a lively and refreshing ambiance. For a bolder, cool-toned pastel combination, Fresh Yellow is recommended. Benji Lewis, an interior designer, champions warm whites, arguing against their perception as a mere fallback. He suggests choosing warm whites with ivory undertones, such as Farrow & Ball's Pointing, for a soft, luxurious feel. Warm whites serve as excellent backdrops for single accents (like blue or raspberry) or can be combined with other soft neutrals like latte, tan, and mocha. Lewis recounts an instance where a crisp contemporary white paint in a period home, layered with antique furniture and varying shades of red, blue, and white textiles, created an exciting and powerful aesthetic. Tash Bradley, director of interior design and color psychologist at Lick, advocates for brown, specifically Lick's Brown 02. She describes it as a rich, versatile, and grounding shade with warm red undertones that creates a feeling of warmth and security, akin to a "hug-like" embrace. Bradley suggests pairing Brown 02 with Lick’s Purple 03 in a bedroom to combine grounding qualities with a touch of luxury, and advises incorporating textures like linen, wool, and leather to enhance its tactile appeal. Finally, Patrick O'Donnell, Farrow & Ball brand ambassador, recommends yellow. While acknowledging its past absence from popular decorating trends, he notes its resurgence. O'Donnell advises using yellow judiciously, as its energizing nature makes it suitable for kitchens and living rooms but less so for bedrooms. He highlights Farrow & Ball's archived Gervase Yellow as a subtle, pale-to-mid yellow that provides discreet energy while maintaining elegance. This shade pairs well with off-white trim and ceiling colors or with bolder options like Breakfast Room Green or Arsenic for a 1930s country house aesthetic. It is also an excellent choice for bathrooms, adding character to white sanitaryware when combined with fresh whites or blues like Berrington Blue. #UnderratedPaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintTrends #ColorExpertTips #WarmNeutrals #BoldHues #HomeRenovation
Sudans Post
Sudans Post
Story from Arizona Painting Company: Avoid these 6 common mistakes when storing leftover paint
The article details six common mistakes people make when storing leftover paint and offers solutions to ensure the paint remains in good condition for future use. Many homeowners experience issues with leftover paint, such as altered color, dried-out consistency, or clumping, primarily due to improper storage. This guide, based on insights from Joe Campbell, co-owner of Arizona Painting Company, aims to help individuals avoid these pitfalls. The first common mistake is storing paint in a garage, especially in hot climates like Arizona. Garages can reach temperatures exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit, which is detrimental to paint. Extreme heat can lead to the evaporation of crucial chemicals, including water, thereby altering the paint's consistency and color. The recommended temperature range for storing paint is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The article suggests storing paint in temperature-controlled utility rooms or even pantries for smaller cans. Additionally, storing metal cans directly on the floor is discouraged as it can accelerate rusting. The second mistake involves improper opening and resealing of paint cans. Using a screwdriver to open a paint can can damage the lid, allowing air to seep in and cause the paint to dry or clump. A paint key, readily available at hardware stores, is the correct tool for opening cans. Furthermore, it is crucial to clean the lip of the paint can thoroughly before resealing to ensure a proper airtight seal. Using a rubber mallet, rather than a regular hammer, to close the lid is also advised to prevent denting the can and its lip. The third issue arises from using the wrong bucket size for leftover paint. When a large bucket contains only a small amount of paint, the excess air within the container can cause the paint to dry out over time. The solution is to consolidate the paint into a smaller container. For instance, if less than a gallon of paint remains in a five-gallon bucket, it should be transferred to a smaller container. Similarly, if less than a quart is left in a one-gallon can, a smaller can should be sought from a hardware store to minimize air exposure, thus preserving the paint's freshness. Disregarding the smell test is the fourth mistake. Fresh paint typically has a subtle chemical smell. However, if old paint emits an odor resembling rotten eggs, it indicates bacterial contamination, often occurring after the paint has been color-tinted. Paint with such an odor should be discarded as its performance will be compromised. Low-VOC paints, due to their reduced stabilizing solvents, are particularly susceptible to bacterial intrusion. The fifth point highlights the importance of using a neighborhood paint store to remix paint. Over time, paint resins can separate from water and other components. While manual stirring or shaking can help, a machine at a paint store can blend the paint more effectively, restoring its original consistency. This service is often free and ensures optimal paint quality. Finally, mislabeling cans is a common oversight. Although it doesn't affect the paint's chemical composition, faded or painted-over labels can lead to confusion about the paint's color, code, or the rooms where it was used. To avoid this, the article recommends using a permanent marker to clearly label each can with the actual color name, its code, and a list of rooms where it was applied. This ensures easy identification for future touch-ups. In summary, by following these practical tips for proper storage temperature, correct opening and sealing techniques, appropriate container sizing, odor checks, professional remixing, and clear labeling, homeowners can significantly extend the life and usability of their leftover paint, preventing common frustrations and waste. #PaintStorage #HomeMaintenance #DIYTips #PaintCare #HouseholdTips #PaintPreservation
C
Canon Global
+4
5 colors you should never paint a small room – designers warn us to steer clear of these hues, and what to pick instead
Choosing the right paint colors for a small room can be a challenging task, and avoiding common mistakes is crucial for creating an inviting and visually expansive space. Interior designers, decorators, and color psychologists highlight five specific colors that are generally ill-suited for small rooms and offer alternative, more effective choices. Dark blue, while traditionally associated with serenity, can overwhelm a small room, making it feel claustrophobic. Instead of dark blue, lighter variations such as sky blue are recommended. These lighter shades introduce freshness and joy, though care must be taken to ensure they do not appear too cold. Pairing light blues with neutral tones allows them to stand out without creating a visually cluttered effect, as mixing them with too many strong colors can lead to a confused aesthetic. Gray, despite its frequent use as a neutral, can have psychologically negative effects, making a room feel low and encouraging a desire to hibernate, particularly in small spaces. A more suitable alternative is green-gray, which offers a calming and elegant feel. This shade possesses a mercurial quality that allows it to integrate well with various color palettes, including rust velvet, putty pink, sapphire blue, caramel tones, and chalky off-whites. Green-gray provides a versatile base that promotes a sense of tranquility and timelessness. Red is another color to avoid in small rooms due to its intense and stimulating nature. Historically linked to danger, red can elevate heart rate and senses, contributing to stress responses. Its aggressive qualities make it unsuitable for creating a relaxing atmosphere in confined areas. Designers instead suggest subtle pinks, which are warm, inviting, and versatile. Pink shades can serve as a beautiful backdrop for bolder accent colors and do not overstimulate, making them an excellent choice for modest spaces. The vast spectrum of pinks allows for variations that can suit different room functions, scales, and historical contexts. Pure white, often a default choice for new builds, can render a small room bland, clinical, and boxy. It also accentuates shadows and imperfections. A better approach involves shifting focus to designer-approved neutrals like beige, taupe, stone, and sand. These tones provide infinite possibilities for creating light, relaxing, refined, and sophisticated spaces. However, even with neutrals, careful consideration of natural and artificial lighting, as well as textures, is necessary. On-site sampling under various light conditions and at different times of day is crucial to ensure the desired effect. Finally, bright orange, while evoking cheerfulness and energy in larger spaces, can quickly lead to mental exhaustion in small rooms. Its vibrant and alarming nature tends to draw attention away from furnishings and accessories. While a myth suggests that dark colors do not work in small rooms, it is true that jarring or overly loud colors should be avoided. Instead of exhausting orange, cocooning colors are recommended. These darker, yet quieter, shades can create a perception of depth and a comforting, enveloping feel, which is welcome in any small room, making them a preferable choice over overly stimulating hues. For making a small room appear larger, a quiet neutral color palette is generally recommended, as these tones are considered relaxing and possess space-enhancing qualities. #SmallRoomColors #InteriorDesign #PaintChoices #ColorPsychology #HomeDecor #NeutralPalette #SpaceEnhancement #PaintIdeas
Homes and Gardens
Homes and Gardens
8 Paint Mistakes That Make Your House Look Dingy (and How to Fix Them)
Applying a new coat of paint is a common and relatively inexpensive method to refresh a room, but selecting the incorrect hue or finish can inadvertently lead to a dingy appearance. Expert designers and home stagers offer insights into common paint mistakes that can make a house look less clean and vibrant, along with recommendations for better alternatives. One significant mistake is the use of warm earth tones. Interior designer Jerith Bailey advises against tans and browns, explaining that their foggy tones can make a space appear unclean and dull, despite their versatility in pairing with furniture. For a clean neutral, Angela Hall, a certified home stager, suggests greige tints such as Sherwin-Williams’ Accessible Beige. Another common error involves painting wood trim in colors other than crisp white. Bailey emphasizes that white trim is crucial for a clean aesthetic, recommending classics like Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace or Decorator’s White. However, she cautions against pairing clean white trim with earthy, warm wall colors, as this can make the walls look dirty by creating a stark contrast. Instead, she suggests wall colors that complement white trim, such as Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy, Sherwin-Williams’ Mineral, or Behr’s Silver Drop. The paint’s light reflectance value (LRV) and sheen also play a critical role. Bailey notes that lower LRV colors, like deep plums and navys, are effective at concealing dirt and smudges and contribute to a clean-looking room. Conversely, higher LRV colors, such as whites and cool grays, brighten a space. When it comes to sheen, a middle ground is preferable; ultra-matte paints are difficult to clean, while very high-sheen paints accentuate imperfections. An eggshell finish is often the best choice for most walls. Outdated or incorrect shades of pink, specifically dusty rose hues, can also make walls appear dull. Andra DelMonico, a lead interior designer, suggests that if pink is desired, lighter undertones, like Behr’s Rose Sorbet, are more effective. Similarly, yellowy-white paints can leave walls looking dirty, especially when contrasted with bright, cool whites. Hall prefers neutral whites or those with cool undertones, mentioning Benjamin Moore’s Simply White as a good option. Purple-based grays are another color family to approach with caution. Bonnie Kespohl, owner of KASA Interior Design, explains that these tones can appear fuzzy and dull, sometimes taking on a pink overtone that enhances a drab effect. She recommends Benjamin Moore’s Winter Orchard for a lighter gray and Kendall Charcoal for a darker option. Colors with brown undertones also contribute to a dingy look, as they can create a dusty or shadowy effect. Donella Olson of Two Island Design Build suggests drawing inspiration from nature’s bold and vibrant colors, recommending Behr’s Scallion for a deep green. Finally, yellow-green shades can also be problematic. Kespohl warns that these hues can often appear as puce, lacking depth in lighter tones and becoming overly bright and unnatural in more intense shades. She advises testing samples on walls over several days to observe how colors change under different lighting conditions. For green, she recommends Sherwin-Williams’ Crooked River, and for yellow, Backdrop’s Stardust. By avoiding these common painting errors and opting for thoughtfully chosen colors and finishes, homeowners can ensure their interiors appear fresh, clean, and vibrant. #PaintColor #HomeInterior #DesignTips #WallPaint #ColorSelection #HomeDecor #PaintFinish #NeutralColors
BobVila.com
BobVila.com
'Dark ceilings make the room look smaller': 6 classic paint colour myths it's time to give up on
This article debunks six common paint colour myths that often influence home decoration decisions, providing practical tips for interior painting projects. The first myth addressed is the belief that small spaces should always be painted in light colours. While entirely dark tones can make small, naturally dim rooms feel cramped, integrating light colours through furniture and trim elements like skirting boards or window frames can create balance. For small rooms with more natural light, using high-gloss paint is recommended as it reflects light, contributing to a sense of increased space. The second myth challenged is that white, grey, and cream are the only neutral colours. The article defines a neutral tone as any colour that serves as a versatile base for a colour palette and provides visual rest in a busy room. By this definition, many colours found in nature, such as greens, blues, and even certain reds, can function as neutrals, offering a broader spectrum of choices beyond traditional off-whites and greys. Thirdly, the article refutes the idea that painting a ceiling in a dark colour will make the room feel lower. It explains that while white is excellent for reflecting light, dark colours on the ceiling can actually draw the eye upwards, creating an almost cavernous effect that can make a room feel taller. This technique is particularly effective in smaller rooms where designers might otherwise feel restricted to light shades. The fourth myth under scrutiny is the old adage that certain colour combinations, like blue and green or pink and red, should be avoided due to clashing. The article asserts that unexpected colour pairings can be highly effective in home design, adding excitement and visual interest. It suggests that while bold shades might need careful consideration, exploring deeper or lighter tones of these colours can result in harmonious and stunning combinations, such as a navy wall paired with vibrant greenery. Fifth, the notion that every room in a house should be painted the same colour for a cohesive flow is debunked. The article emphasizes that the orientation of each room and how natural light interacts with different colours throughout the day are crucial factors. It recommends observing colour swatches at various times to understand their changing tones. An alternative to uniform painting is to use varying shades or tones of the same colour across different rooms, tying them together with a consistent paint colour on elements like skirting boards while allowing for individual wall colours. Finally, the article encourages homeowners to disregard rigid design rules. It highlights that paint colour selection is a deeply personal choice, and despite conflicting views and evolving trends, individuals should trust their instincts when creating their dream space. Whether embarking on a DIY project or consulting professionals, personal preference should guide decisions, especially when conventional myths might deter desired aesthetic outcomes. The overarching message is to prioritize personal taste and practical application over outdated conventions in home painting. #PaintColourMyths #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesign #PaintTips #ColourPalette #SmallSpaceDesign #NeutralColors #CeilingColors #ColourPairings
Blog Preston
Blog Preston
7 Paint Colors Designers Totally Regret Using (and What They Wish They’d Used Instead)
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
NPR Illinois
NPR Illinois