Choosing the perfect paint colour for your home can feel like a daunting task, but with a bit of research and planning, you can transform your living space into a stylish and inviting haven. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or redecorating your entire home, here are some tips on choosing the right paint colours that reflect your personality and complement your interior.
Even as an interior designer I don’t relish the idea of trying to choose paint colours for my own home. Why? Well firstly I don’t think there’s a colour that I don’t like, so narrowing it down is hard …. there’s also taking into account my other half and acknowledging his opinion on what I choose. Here are some tips that may help you at least narrow down your choices if you’re struggling to know where to start ….
Start with Inspiration
Before you head to your local paint supplier, take some time to gather inspiration. Browse through interior design magazines, websites, and social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. Create a mood board or save images that capture the aesthetic you’re aiming for. This process will help you identify recurring colours, patterns, and styles that resonate with you, and it serves as a useful reference point when you’re in the shop selecting shades. Paint companys, such as Farrow and Ball, give advice on suitable paint colours to combine with your chosen shade.
Consider the Room’s Function
The purpose of each room should influence your colour choice. For example, soft, calming hues such as pale blues or muted greens are ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms where relaxation is key. In contrast, more vibrant colours like mustard yellow or a bold teal can energise a living room or dining area. Think about the atmosphere you want to create and the activities that will take place in each room. The colour should support the room’s function while still reflecting your personal style.
Lighting is Key
Natural and artificial lighting dramatically affect how a paint colour looks on your walls. A colour that seems perfect in the daylight may appear completely different under warm, artificial light or when placed on another wall. Before making your final decision, test a few samples on your walls. Paint large swatches on different areas of the room and observe how the colour changes throughout the day. This small step can save you from a costly mistake and ensure that the paint works harmoniously with your existing lighting. If you don’t want to paint the samples on the wall, I would suggest buying a roll of lining paper and painting your sample on that. These can then be moved around the room too.
Consider the Size of the Room
The size of your room can also dictate your colour choices. Lighter colours such as creams, pastels, and soft neutrals tend to make a space feel larger and more open, while darker hues can add warmth and drama but might also make a small room feel even cosier – sometimes too cosy! If you’re working with a compact space, consider using lighter colours on the walls and reserving darker accents for one feature wall or decorative elements.
Harmonise with Existing elements
Your chosen paint colours should complement the furniture, flooring, and accessories already in your home. Take into account the undertones of your existing pieces – are they warm or cool? If your furnishings have warm undertones, opt for colours that echo this warmth, such as terracotta, warm beige, or soft gold. Conversely, cool-toned furniture may work best with colours like soft grey, cool blue, or lavender. Creating a harmonious colour scheme will result in a more cohesive and appealing space.
Trends vs. Timelessness
While it’s tempting to jump on the latest colour trends, consider whether the shade will still appeal to you in a few years’ time. Trends are fun and can bring a fresh, modern feel to your home, but timeless colours offer longevity. If you’re unsure, why not use a trending colour as an accent rather than the dominant wall colour? This way, you can easily update your look without a full repaint if your tastes change.
Think About Finishes
The finish of your paint is as important as the colour itself. Glossy finishes tend to reflect light and can brighten up a room, while matt finishes offer a more subtle, modern look. Consider the level of traffic in a room – high-traffic areas might benefit from a durable, washable finish that can withstand the rigours of daily use. In living areas and bedrooms, where ambiance is key, a softer finish might be preferable.
Practical Considerations
When choosing paint colours, it’s also important to think about practicality. Lighter colours may show stains and marks more readily, while darker colours might reveal dust and scratches. If you have children or pets, you might want to opt for finishes that are easier to clean or colours that don’t show wear and tear too easily.
Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. While it’s useful to gather expert advice and do your research, your home should ultimately reflect your tastes and personality. If a particular colour makes you feel happy and relaxed, then it’s likely the right choice for you. Remember, paint is relatively easy to change, so don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust as you go along.