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Paint design for home


paint ideas for walls, floors, and more |

(Image credit: Summerill & Bishop / Isabelle Lomas / David Butler)

Creative paint ideas can bring unique beauty to a home – and the more inventive they are, the better. 

As Marianne Shillingford, creative Director at dulux says:  'The right paint colors can even make small spaces appear larger and reconnect us with nature. It has always had the power to transform on more levels than the way things look and we are only just beginning to realise its potential in our homes.'

We've curated our favorite paint ideas, showing how to introduce color in a variety of interior design settings to help you create a completely new scheme in your home. 

Paint ideas – 24 looks for every room and surface

These paint tricks will inspire a whole new look for your home, perhaps just a room or even only a piece of furniture. Whatever, they have the power to create a dramatic transformation in hours.

1. Paint the floor for instant appeal underfoot

(Image credit: Isabelle Lomas)

Isabelle Lomas’ client wanted a fun, inviting space for her kids' room paint ideas that would still allow for older guests to use the room, as it was also to be rented out. ‘We kept the walls plain,’ says Isabelle, who used Willow V from Paint & Paper Library. ‘This allowed us to incorporate a chequerboard pattern on the floor – a fun element that is also hardwearing. Isabelle thought this was a fun and playful idea that would translate well no matter the furnishings. 

2. Use paint to update old furniture 

(Image credit: Johnathan Bond )

Painting vintage furniture is a beautiful way to introduce new life and virality into a once-loved antique. Using colored furniture makes it easier to change up an otherwise neutral space. This works particularly well for bedrooms where children may grow out of, or get tired of, particular colors and pieces. 

Sydney-based interior designer Tamsin Johnson developed this consciously sophisticated scheme with a rich green bookcase taking center stage. ‘The green antique French carved oak bookcase with soft yellow highlights anchors the room while the soft mauve linen bedding provides a tranquil element. ’

3. Make your space pop

(Image credit: Stephen Julliard)

Chinoiserie is re-emerging as an influence in fashion and interiors but it has long been a key aesthetic for de Gournay, eminent specialist in hand-painted wallcoverings. 

This bold interpretation is courtesy of French designer Vincent Darré, who created this stunning dining room color scheme for the private apartment of de Gournay’s Paris showroom. The primary colors of the scene dazzle against a black background and Vincent has emphasized this contrast by painting the window surround in a bold yellow and the skirting in a fresh green. The ceiling was painted black, which will give evening events an extra intensity, a stand-out look for ceiling paint ideas.

4. Paint stripes

(Image credit: Summerill & Bishop)

Never really out of fashion, the classic stripe is having a particular moment right now and it's less about the country ticking look and more about adding personality through playful paint ideas.

We adore the formal yet bold style of this scene, like something out of the Mad hatter’s tea party. The stripe upon stripe lends the room a real sense of fun – and from who else but the oh-so talented table setting creators at Summerill & Bishop .

5. Include details through paint

(Image credit: James McDonald)

If your space is lacking in architectural interest, you'll be amazed at what paint tricks you can incorporate to add intrigue to an otherwise simple scheme. 

Using bathroom paint ideas in a room doesn’t have to mean optical overload. ‘This stripe detail adds interest to a room that has few architectural features,’ says interior designer Guinness, who painted neat parallel stripes along this bathroom’s ceiling, a great look for a modern, ceiling trim idea.

6. Use paint to create 'zones'

(Image credit: Jonathan Bond)

Gloss paint is back after years in the wilderness. In the main bedroom of this home in Notting Hill, designers Barlow & Barlow created a soothing scheme to turn their clients’ corridor into a dressing room. The paint color is Dulux green, 10GG 15/346.

As well as being light-reflective and available in a wide choice of colors, gloss is also one of the best paint finishes for high-traffic areas such as dressing rooms, hallways and landings, as it’s hardwearing and scuff-resistant.

(Image credit: Jon Day)

Colorful homes are an immersive experience that leads from room to room. A carefully considered palette will feature shades that work with the objects in the room – such as these orange walls and the red kimono – and that also flow from one space into another.

8. Paint with a variety of colors from the same palette

(Image credit: Lick)

When planning multiple colors, test various permutations. Stronger shades are used on the lower walls, inside and outside the room. The pink inside is used to frame the windows and complement the red-brown lower wall, softened by the creamy white above.

9. Paint paneling a warm color for an inviting, warm entryway

(Image credit: Neptune)

A hardworking and always on-the-go home space, entryway surfaces demand the toughest of finishes and savvy shade choices to keep them looking great for longer. When searching for hallway paint ideas, choose washable or even scrubbable quality paint, using a satin finish for woodwork. If gloominess is an issue, go for a silk finish to reflect any light for your paneling paint ideas is a good trick. 

Colorwise, a neutral to mid shade will make the space feel larger. Using the same paint on walls and on doors brings a unified feel which is easy on the eye and counters hectic and heavy use. 

‘For the narrow corridor of this Welsh farmhouse, we kept the color palette neutral and light to create an inviting entrance with a feeling of a calm,’ says Meaghan Hunter, stylist at Neptune . For a similar color, try Honed Slate matt emulsion from Neptune.

It's also worth noting that the right first impression begins even before your entryway. When thinking about the first room of your home, it is similarly important to assess the best hues for your exterior and, perhaps most significantly, the front door colors to avoid.

10. Experiment with color on woodwork

(Image credit: Little Greene)

It's a classic choice and perfectly natural to reach for a white or off-white color when painting woodwork, especially in hallways, but by choosing a less obvious shade, you can create a far more sophisticated effect – plus you can use this color to connect to adjoining rooms that might use that shade as an accent shade.  

Just as you would opt for a contrasting, harmonious or tonal shade when painting a separate panel on a wall, look to using that color on the woodwork instead. 

If painting woodwork on a wallpapered wall, color match your paint to a shade from within the pattern, using that instead for maximum effect.

11. Build up ombre shades on your stairwell

(Image credit: Crown)

If you are looking for paint ideas that create a visual trick, particularly around making a space look larger, an ombre paint effect – with darker shades lower down and lighter shades above – is a good solution. 

And, if you are looking for eye-catching and space-stretching stair paint ideas, use it on stair risers in a graduated to make your staircase feel taller and grander. Tester pots of tonal color will work a treat as you won't need much to cover each panel, either.

The beauty of this look lies in its simplicity so decorate the steps and the hallway in a pale, neutral shade to avoid the remaining decor fighting against the soft, staggered colors.

12. Add layers of tonal color to make a space appear larger

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Wrapping a space in warming layers of color not only creates a smart, cohesive feel, it can make a room feel bigger than it actually is. Patrick O’ Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball agrees: 'Carrying the wall color onto all of your woodwork creates the illusion of more space.'

Choose a relatively pale hue for the wall and pair it with a darker shade (of the same color) on adjacent woodwork. 

You can either continue the look though to the rest of the space with similarly tonal shades on furniture and accessories. Alternatively, keep the rest of the furnishings in neutral tones for a more subtle effect.

13. Try a stylish paint effect that's contemporary, too

(Image credit: Bauwerk Colour)

New directions with formulations and decorating techniques means dated paint effects have been replaced with sophisticated washes, textures and brushwork – perfect for living room paint ideas that add a touch of depth to a wall, a must-have in contemporary homes, which can lack architectural detailing.  

Paints premixed with sand and chalk offer plaster, suede or concrete effect finishes. At the other end of the scale, you can introduce acrylic varnishes and even glitter to give a glossy glaze. 

This look taps into the soulful decorating mood of the moment, picking up on Scandi hygge vibes and the artisan global influences.  

‘This deep color has been used to bring interest and mood to the simple interior,' explains Bronwyn Riedel, co-founder and color creator, Bauwerk Colour . 'Painted over lime render, the soft, tonal finish is a counterpoint to the use of natural materials such as ply and the natural limestone floor.’

This is ‘Mountain’ from the Raw Refined range, limewash natural paint suitable for interior and exterior walls, Bauwerk.

14. Paint a ceiling in a bold shade 

(Image credit: Paint & Paper Library)

While most people tend to paint walls in a feature color, consider flipping the look by choosing a bold color for your ceiling instead. Compared to an all-white ceiling, a colorful one will add drama and personality to a room, while making it feel cozier, too.

Keep walls predominantly white – if you prefer, you can choose a subtle, coordinating shade below the dado rail - and pick a strong shade for your ceiling. 

This look is especially effective when the same color is echoed on the walls in an adjacent room.

15. Paint a contrasting panel to draw focus

(Image credit: Dulux)

Just as you would add a rug to create a separate zone in a large room, a painted wall panel can do the job just as effectively. This can particularly work for dining room color schemes, drawing attention to the table, and creating an intimate atmosphere. 

Here, a small dining area in an open plan room is pulled into sharp focus by the clever painted panel on the wall behind the table and chairs. Stretched up onto the ceiling, it creates a wrap around effect on the space, giving an overall cocooning effect to a spacious room with lofty ceilings.

16. Zone a room with color blocking

(Image credit: Fenwick & Tilbrook)

Color blocking is a clever way to divide a space, distinguish an activity, or change the pace in a portion of a room. Paint can be applied to create a backdrop to a desk space, define a reading area, or a creative corner. It's also one of those useful kitchen color ideas if you want to achieve a new look quickly – but ensure you use a wipeable paint.

Here, a faux backsplash feature introduces countertop activities in a tall kitchen and adds a splash of cheerful color. Adding bands of bolder hues adds a designer look to large and plain surfaces. 

‘Dark units really ground the space and the horizontal block of green connects the kitchen with the garden beyond,' says Anna Hill, Brand Director, Fenwick & Tilbrook . 'Being a fairly small space, we kept the rest of the walls an off-white to keep it fresh and bright.' This type of paint idea is a good match for painted kitchen cabinet ideas, too.

17. Go for wraparound color

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Looking for bedroom color ideas that are inviting? Warming paint ideas are always welcome in a bedroom. By taking the same shade across all surfaces, including paneling, skirtings, and even doors and window frames, you can make a space look bigger in just a few brush strokes. 

It’s also a great technique for bringing together fragmented rooms, and can be used as an entire color scheme for a whole floor or house. Any shade can be used, but this cozy nutty color brings a snug element that suits a bedroom or cosy snug.

18. Get creative with painted furniture

(Image credit: Annie Sloan)

Using painted furniture ideas is an easy way to create a unique look that's easy to achieve. Pretty-up a cabinet and coat a wall in candy stripes – paint is a chance to add a touch of whimsy to your decor scheme. What keeps the look sophisticated, not saccharine, is the edited color palette, grounded with a deep forest green.

Wall painted in Piranesi Pink and Pointe Silk. Floor, headboard, chest of drawers and lamp painted in a selection of Chalk Paint: all Annie Sloan .

19. Use paint to give children's rooms a smart finish

(Image credit: Emma Lewis)

Strong kids' paint room ideas are a must since these spaces tend to be over-stuffed with toys, gadgets, books and... more toys. So, majoring on one main color, with a neutral accent shade can help it feel less chaotic and much smarter. As in other rooms, putting the same color – in different tones – across walls, woodwork and even furniture can create a sleek finish.

20. Paint a floor for an instant new look

(Image credit: Annie Sloan)

It's likely that you will be using bathroom paint ideas to add character to a washroom, but you can create an all-over cohesive look with a painted floor, picking out a color that complements that of the walls, accessories – and even the bath tub.

'Painting wooden floorboards is an option in a bathroom,' says Lucy Searle, Homes & Gardens' Editor in Chief. 'After all, this is a room that's unlikely to see heavy footfall. Your main worry needs to be ensuring good preparation of the surface, choosing the right paint – ideally one that's suitable for bathrooms – and making sure too that there is a protective layer of varnish so that the wood doesn't warp.'

21. Add bold color to unexpected places

(Image credit: Crown)

Color can be used to emphasize and highlight architectural features, from painting cornicing, pillars or arches in contrasting shades. 

It's the unusual that makes this particularly effective so so don't shy away from using bolder hues, provided you keep a neutral background to provide the colors with a simple backdrop from which to shine.

22. Use paint ideas to highlight architectural details

(Image credit: Fenwkick & Tilbrook)

Paint is the perfect medium to bring personality, add a unique appeal and even introduce an element of humor to a home. It can be a simple idea such as color change on panelling, adding pattern, or murals for an exclusive décor element. For ease, use decorating tape to keep paint smart with clean edges.

23. Use paint ideas to create faux effects

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)

When you're short on space, or just want to add a touch of quirky charm to a bedroom, why not paint a headboard on the wall?

Use masking tape to create the shape and ensure sharp, straight lines, then simply use a medium-sized brush to paint your design.

This example is from Farrow & Ball , painted in Incarnadine No.248, School House White No.291 and Breakfast Room Green Modern Emulsion.

24. Paint woodwork to match walls

(Image credit: David Butler)

When painting a small room, think about using color all-over for instant appeal. Snug room ideas are all about curating a warm, cozy space to indulge in at home, and what better way that through bold paint ideas?

‘I like painting small rooms in a dark color to make them feel cozy,’ says interior designer Amelia McNeil, who designed this scheme. ‘I even painted the window and architrave in the same blue so that the Phillip Jeffries wallpaper could be the main focus.

How do I choose the right paint color ideas?

It is best to go for paint colors that make you happy and have longevity. If in doubt, it is often advised that you consult the color wheel.

The Color Wheel is an essential aid when choosing color schemes. Created by mathematician Sir Isaac Newton in 1666 to explain the relationships between colors, it gives you an instant visual for exactly which colors coordinate and contrast to create muted, tonal or dramatic combinations.

In her book, Recipes for Decorating , Farrow & Ball’s color consultant Joa Studholme notes that we are embracing stronger shades when decorating our homes. These include a range of hues found on the warm half of the color wheel, such as reds and pinks to oranges and yellows. Much research has been done into how colours affect our mood.

‘Current trends show a real shift towards brighter colors with a clean-cut finish,’ says Sue Kim, senior color designer at Valspar. ‘When choosing a paint color, don’t forget to look beyond the walls – consider the ceiling, skirting, window frames and mouldings and how they can be brought into the scheme.’

Can I paint every room the same color?

There is no reason why you can't paint every room the same color. In fact, doing so can create a cohesive look for your whole house. There is an understated beauty in minimalism, something that we are seeing more and more of in the world of design. That said, you may want to add in accent color ideas through furniture and artwork.

Andrea has been immersed in the world of homes, interiors and lifestyle since her first job in journalism, on Ideal Home. She went from women's magazine Options to Frank. From there it was on to the launch of Red magazine, where she stayed for 10 years and became Assistant Editor. She then shifted into freelancing, and spent 14 years writing for everyone from The Telegraph to The Sunday Times, Livingetc, Stylist and Woman & Home. She was then offered the job as Editor on Country Homes & Interiors, and now combines that role with writing for sister title homesandgardens.com. 

With contributions from

35 Best House Painting Ideas for Every Room in Your Home 2023

Shade Degges

1 of 35

Ultra-Light Mint

Designer Jae Joo brightened up this old Boston Rowhouse with a fresh coat of ultra-light mint green paint. The warmth of the exposed brick accent wall, railing, artwork, and dresser fill the space with character and history for a smooth balance.

Shop this shade below:

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Cromarty, $110

Paul Raeside

2 of 35

Black Chalk Paint

This entryway designed by Garrow Kedigian is whimsical yet elegant, thanks to the drawn-on moldings. Matte black walk paint gives the space a moody, intimate atmosphere to contrast the more playful elements for a balanced whole.

BUY NOW Annie Sloan Black Chalk Paint, $43

Francesco Lagnese

3 of 35

Neon Pink

Intense, eye-catching, and adventurous, the neon pink walls in this townhouse designed by Jonathan Berger make quite the first impression. Use it in a foyer for a warm, welcoming, impossible-to-forget entrance, or to embolden a lackluster hallway.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Peony, $45

Johnny Valiant

4 of 35

High-Gloss Chartreuse

These high-gloss green walls in a hallway designed by Christina Murphy are such a fun surprise and make an otherwise boring transitional space feel fun.

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BUY NOW Behr High-Gloss Sparkling Apple, $34

House Beautiful

5 of 35

Gray-Brown

Kim Alexandruik's motto is to "go for impact." Use it as an opportunity to play with unusual seating and colorful artwork that may be harder to integrate into other rooms. Her color of choice is a "putty-colored gray, with a hint of pink and lavender. Not too light, so it doesn't go vapid," says Aleandruik. Use this hallway designed by Mally Skok as inspiration.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Elephant's Breath 229, $110

Sarah Shields Photography

6 of 35

Plum

The plum cabinetry in this mudroom designed by Whittney Parkinson gives the area a calming presence. When paired with wicker baskets and brown tiled flooring, it's even more earthy and homey.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Brinjal 222, $110

David A. Land

7 of 35

Red and Lavender

If you're feeling adventurous, color-block with two bold shades. Follow this living room by Katie Brown as an example, using the fresh color combination of fire engine red and violet in this space. And see how the pillows tie everything together so nicely? That's another great way to approach the living room design process: Start with a fun pair of throw pillows and then pull out your two favorite colors to highlight on the walls and ceiling.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Exotic Fuschia, $80

JESSIE PREZA

8 of 35

Dutch Blue

Game rooms should be fun, so don't shy away from color! Designer and homeowner Fitz Pullins opted for a bold blue that's perfect for both daytime fun and dressier evenings. That neon light in the corner is a nice touch, too.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Washington Blue, $47

Tamsin Johnson

9 of 35

Pale Green

When you want a light neutral but find white too stark and beige too boring, opt for a super pale shade of green. Green-infused grays will feel like a breath of fresh air and adds just the right touch of intrigue as a backdrop for the gallery wall in this living room designed by Tamsin Johnson.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Mizzle, $110

Barbara Corsico

10 of 35

Sky Blue

The artwork in this living room designed by Kingston Lafferty truly comes to life when paired with the color-blocked ceiling, walls, and fireplace, the sputnik light, and patterned chairs. In fact, the space itself is like a work of art. To replicate this look, opt for a lighter shade of blue on the largest section of the wall and then a more saturated shade of blue on a small piece, like a fireplace.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Waterloo, $80

MALI AZIMA

11 of 35

Sage Green

No color creates a soothing atmosphere quite like sage green. Use it in your living room or in a library, as designer Melanie Turner did here in a historic Atlanta home's scrapbook-filled study. Paired with cozy seating of a similar color and a fireplace, the space makes for an ideal nook to sit down and get lost in a book.

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Calke Green, $110

House Beautiful

12 of 35

Violet

Hand-painted murals can mimic the effect of wallpaper by introducing a story and pattern. But it's also safer inn splash zones like the kitchen, where wallpaper may feel a little more risky for some. Here, the lavender swirls of paint on a buttercream backdrop complement the elaborate blue chandelier, too. Then the classic, neutral cabinets and island ground the space.

Shop a similar shade of purple paint below:

BUY NOW Glidden Violet Shimmer, $23

GRT Architects

13 of 35

Flat Black

In this midcentury Hudson Valley home, GRT Architects painted all the walls and windows a low gloss black to foreground the view and accentuate the large windows. The inky tone also helps contemporize and dress up the family kitchen.

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BUY NOW Portola Paints Utlra Flat Acrylic Sample, $10

Anna Spiro Design

14 of 35

Kelly Green

Verdant and fresh, there's a reason green works in every room. Pick between lime, pea, and clover for a nature-inspired space. If you aren't sure about covering the whole room in something so wild, just paint the trims and/or doors. In this energizing kitchen designed by Anna Spiro, the pops of high-gloss Kelly green do the trick.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Peppermint Leaf, $80

Heidi Caillier Design

15 of 35

Classic Gray

Avoid ho-hum neutrals. These go-to basics feature a few surprises, like a smoky lavender, moss green, and chocolate brown. In this galley kitchen designed by Heidi Caillier, the smoky paint brings some polish and formality.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Plummett, $110

James Merrell

16 of 35

Marigold

Even kitchens can have a little fun—every color of the rainbow is fair game. We love this goldenrod yellow that picks up on some of the colors in the wallpaper of this Rita Konig-designed kitchen.

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BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Dutch Orange, $110

Dustin Halleck

17 of 35

Rich Green

A vivid green scheme instantly commands attention, making it the perfect choice for a kitchen conceived for entertaining. Take note of this one designed by SuzAnn Kletzien. The cabinets, crown and base moldings, and window trim are all painted in Benjamin Moore's Hunter Green in a satin finish. "It's a very appetizing color," Kletzien says.

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Hunter Green 2041-10, $47

STEPHEN KARLISCH

18 of 35

Bright Orange

Don't neglect your pantry—it could use a fresh coat of paint, too. Consider covering exposed shelving in a bright orange hue for an unexpected and playful pop in a room that's often fairly dull. In this pantry, Pulp Design Studio used Sherwin-Williams Daredevil in a satin finish.

BUY NOW Sherwin-Williams Daredevil 6882, $71

Cameron Ruppert Interiors

19 of 35

Royal Blue

In a formal dining room, choose something regal, like a deep royal blue. In this space by Cameron Ruppert Interiors, the glossy, luxe paint dresses up the bohemian upholstery and light area rug for approachable fine dining.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Fine Paints of Europe Hollandac Brilliant (Price Upon Request)

Emil Sindlev

20 of 35

Burnt Orange

In a casual apartment dining nook designed by Emil Dervish, a pop of burnt orange spices up the entire area. The deep red and brown undertones keep things edgy and streamlined but make it just a touch more cheerful. The steel blue sconce adds a quirky touch while the concrete planter stays in line with the industrial vibe.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Ravishing Red, $80

Kingston Lafferty Design

21 of 35

Dusty Purple

Though purple and black don't seem like the most obvious pair for a grownup, calming bedroom, they actually work together brilliantly here. Kingston Lafferty Design accentuated the purple details in the shelf and bedding with a dusty, gray purple tone and then played up the cooler undertones with sharper black metal accents.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Raspberry Ice, $47

Anna Spiro Design

22 of 35

High Gloss Red Moldings

Only the moldings are painted in this bedroom designed by Anna Spiro while the rest of the surfaces are covered in texture-rich materials, from the floral wallpaper to the sisal carpeting. Spiro opted for a higher sheen of this red hue to make the architectural details pop even more (and also because the higher the sheen, the easier to clean!).

BUY NOW Rust-Oleum International Harvester, $98

Amelia Stanwix

23 of 35

Cocoa

With slightly less of the red clay undertone than other popular brown paint colors, this one is more calming than it is energizing. Designer Fiona Lynch felt it was perfect for a bedroom. She used Rich Biscuit by Dulux and then mixed in some offbeat accents for an eclectic elegance.

BUY NOW Dulux Rich Biscuit Sample, $6

Francesco Lagnese

24 of 35

Dusty Pink

If you love the romantic, sweet qualities of light pink but don't want it to be too saturated, opt for a nice dusty rose. This one has a mysterious smokiness to it that's softened by the whimsical accents. "Exuberantly feminine, yet resolutely chic" was designer Jonathan Berger's motto for decorating this Brooklyn townhouse. Berger found the Suzani on eBay, while and the curvy Venetian-inspired headboard is covered in Nouvelle Orleans, a cut velvet from Clarence House.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Sulking Room Pink, $110

THIJS DE LEEUW/SPACE CONTENT/LIVING INSIDE

25 of 35

Deep Eggplant

In this modern yet retro bedroom designed by Atelier ND, the walls are painted in Pontefract by Paint & Paper Library for a bold and rich mood. The immersive and unique hue defies definition (but if we had to try, we'd say it's a purplish-reddish black)—which is one of the many reasons the design team chose it. Even the radiator becomes cool when painted in it! The pendants were sourced from an old church and wall-to-wall carpeting never looked better.

BUY NOW Paint & Paper Library Pontefract $42

Gieves Anderson

26 of 35

Dark Army Green

David Frazier connected this New York City apartment bedroom to nature but also ensured that it didn't look out of place thanks to the Studio Green Farrow & Ball paint, antique furniture, and crisp bedding. Color aside, the texture-rich finish elevates the walls even further. "We wanted to showcase the movement in the plaster, so we had the walls painted in a satin finish it gives a certain depth that we wouldn’t have been able to achieve with a flat paint.”

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Studio Green, $115

Anna Spiro Design

27 of 35

Bright Turquoise

With the right bedroom, even the most stressful days can melt away as you get ready for bed. A cheerful bright blue like this one in a space by Ana Spiro makes it hard not to smile. The fun floral and leopard-print pillows help, too.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball St. Giles Blue, $110

Anna Spiro Design

28 of 35

Bubblegum Pink

Too outrageous? No such thing. Bright bubblegum pink is a fearless choice. In this bedroom by Anna Spiro, it asserts a youthful spirit to balance out the traditional pieces, like the dresser and tight floral patterns.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Benjamin Moore Deep Carnation, $47

Amy Neunsinger

29 of 35

Coral

Nothing quite radiates like joy like coral (as far as paint colors are concerned, at least). In this bedroom by Nicky Kehoe, it picks up the bright tones featured in the gallery wall while the trimming, which is a darker gray color, reflects the cooler neutrals in the bedding and accents. Under direct light, it appears brighter, while it mimics the more muted shade of terra cotta in dimmer or less direct light.

Shop this shade below:

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Red Earth, $110

Arent & Pyke

30 of 35

Steel Blue

Make sure your room looks its best ever by choosing flattering shades. Yes, that's really a thing. Spoiler: It's usually an adventurous or unexpected neutral. In this bathroom, design studio Arent & Pyke opted for a steel gray.

Shop a similar shade below:

BUY NOW Farrow & Ball Down Pipe, $110

All about wall paint: top trends, design tips and ratings

Choosing a paint for renovation and interior design is always a difficult task. So that you do not have to spend hours looking for the information you need, we decided to collect it in one article. And, of course, we learned what criteria designers are guided by and what life hacks designers use when choosing colors.

Go to the section you need

Types of paints and which one to choose depending on the type of room
Material safety: how to check
How to decide on the color
Brand rating
What paint designers choose
How to calculate how much paint is needed
What is important to know when applying it yourself
What mistakes are easy to make when using paint
How to extend the flawless look of the painted surface
What's on trend: colors and methods wall paint ideas
Unusual wall paint ideas you'll want to repeat

Or read on from beginning to end!

By texture

Texture is how we see the surface. It can be smooth, rough, homogeneous or interspersed with other materials - whatever. By texture, wall paint is divided into matte, semi-matte, semi-gloss, glossy and textured (for example, imitating plaster).

Project by Yana Sochavo. Photo: Nick Rudenko

Project by Tatyana Petrova. Photo: Andrey Semchenko

Now designers most often use matte paint - it looks noble, does not draw too much attention to itself and becomes an excellent background for the interior. However, sometimes semi-matte or glossy paint can be a better choice. Semi-gloss better hides the unevenness of the walls, forgives small flaws and is easier to apply, and the glossy surface is easy to clean.

According to the composition

For interior use, paints are water-based (vinyl, emulsion, acrylic, latex, PVA, silicone), organic solvent (alkyd, oil, enamel) or adhesive (casein, dextrinated). nine0003

When choosing, it is best to focus on the room in which you will paint the walls.

For example, for a nursery or kitchen, you should choose washable paints that will not emit harmful substances even when heated. Suitable vinyl, latex coating.

For the bathroom, it is worth taking a special moisture-resistant paint. A good choice is silicate, based on liquid glass.

In the bedroom, you can use not the most practical, but environmentally friendly options. For example, casein paint is based on protein derived from milk. Or dextrinated - on bone glue. nine0003

Project by Igor and Alena Skarzhevsky. Photo: Egor Pyaskovsky

Project by Igor and Alena Skarzhevsky. Photo: Egor Pyaskovsky

Perhaps this is the main criterion when choosing a paint. Fashion for certain shades and textures is passing, but health should always be a priority. Here are a few steps to help you make your choice.

  • Study not only what is written on the packaging, but also the documentation. Usually it can be found on the official website of the manufacturer or requested. nine0050
  • The composition must contain a minimum concentration of volatile organic substances - toluene, xylene, benzene, styrene, phenol. According to GOST, it should not exceed 30 g/l for matte coatings and 100 g/l for glossy ones, and according to the international standard, 10 g/l and 40 g/l for matte and glossy ones, respectively.
  • Also in safe paint there is no alkyl phenol ethoxylate, formaldehyde, halogenated solvents, heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium and antimony), phthalates esters. nine0050
  • The safest paints - with the inscription "zero VOC" or "VOC-free" - do not contain more than 5 g / l of volatile substances.
  • Badges and inscriptions like "non-toxic", "child-safe" are nothing more than a marketing ploy and greenwashing, they cannot be trusted.
  • Look for eco-labels on packaging. You can trust the following.

Collect references - save your favorite interiors in social networks or on thematic sites.

Consider lighting - if the windows face north or west, the room will be darker than in a room with windows facing south or east. For dark rooms, lighter and brighter colors are suitable; in sun-drenched rooms, you can experiment with dark shades. No less important is how the space will look under artificial lighting: whether it will be warm or cold, bright or muted, where the lamps will be located. Cold shades of walls with warm lighting can seem dirty, and vice versa. nine0003

Project by Yana Sochavo. Photo: Nick Rudenko

Remember that the same shade appears darker on textured surfaces than on smooth surfaces.

Don't go overboard with bright colors. If you are not sure about your design capabilities, it is better to place accents with furniture and decor, and paint the walls in a win-win neutral shade.

In order for the white color not to look cold and “hospital”, it needs to be tinted a little with yellow pigment. nine0003

Color and try them on indoors. See how the shade will look on different walls, at different times of the day and in different lighting conditions.

To make it easier for you to choose paint, we studied the reviews and ratings of manufacturers in different stores and on dozens of sites - and here's what happened.

Middle segment

These paints are available in many Russian stores, they are practical and can be tinted in any shade.

1. Caparol

This brand is rather a cross between the middle and premium segment. The main features of the brand are perfect hiding power and special components in the composition that make this paint more durable. nine0003

What to take : Caparol Indeko-Plus is a deep matte paint that forgives flaws and lays perfectly, Caparol CapaSilan has excellent covering properties and durability, Caparol Amphibolin is an almost flawless dispersion paint that looks great and contains a minimum of harmful impurities.

2. Beckers

This paint applies well, is practical and durable, which is why professional builders love it.

What to take : Beckers Elegant Vaggfarg Matt - a latex paint that is ideal for residential areas, Beckerplast 7 - fits perfectly, resistant, with a beautiful finish, especially popular among painters, Beckerplast 3 - has collected all the advantages of Beckerplast 7 plus a perfect matte . nine0003

3. Tikkurila

The Finnish brand, which pays great attention to sustainability, is very popular in Russia. Good quality, easy to apply and durable. And yet - almost limitless possibilities for tinting.

Help: what is tinting?

Tinting - giving the paint the right shade, when the right amount of dye is added to the working base - white or transparent. You can order tinting in a store or do it yourself (just practice on a small amount of paint first). Each manufacturer has a tint card, where each shade option is assigned a code - according to it, the store will immediately understand in what proportion to mix colors. nine0003

What to take : Tikkurila Euro Power 7 - high-quality and dries quickly, Tikkurila Harmony - in this line the main emphasis is on safety for health, Tikkurila Euro Extra 20 - paint with minimal consumption

4. Dulux

Quality British paint with high hiding power. Eco-friendly, safe, easy to use and presented in many Russian stores.

What to take : Dulux Diamond Extra Matt is a matte paint that can be washed frequently, Dulux Bindo 2 is a latex paint that perfectly hides uneven walls. nine0003

5. Alpina

One of the best German manufacturers (brand belongs to the Caparol Group), which takes a very responsible approach to products: all paints are safe and environmentally friendly.

What to take : Alpina Renova - good value for money, durable - retains its original appearance up to 10 years.

6. Dufa

Another German brand specializing in latex paints. The quality is also German: Dufa has moderate consumption and wear resistance. nine0003

What to get : Dufa Superweiss is one of the most budget-friendly paints, but the quality does not suffer from this.

Premium segment

With paints from the premium segment, things are a little different. For example, usually they cannot be tinted at your own discretion, but all the shades presented in the palette are specially designed by leading designers and colorists and will definitely look their best.

1. Designers Guild

The brand's founder, cult designer Trisha Guild, has developed unique shades herself: neutrals, muted, accent and trendy. The paints have excellent hiding power and a washable surface. nine0003

2. Little Greene

In addition to quality, Little Greene is, of course, original colors. Some of them are "archival", developed in the XVIII-XX centuries.

Project by Vera Sheverdenok. Photo: Evgeny Gnesin

3.
Farrow & Ball

Environmentally friendly, water-based paints using natural ingredients and natural dyes. The palette is quite conservative and infrequently updated, but each shade is carefully thought out. nine0003

4. Paper & Paint Library

British brand loved by designers all over the world for its ability to create perfect colors and play with light.

5. Argile

The shades of this brand are inspired by nature. The assortment includes shades of earth, clay, sand and a variety of plants.

6. Benjamin Moore

Premium paint: unique formulas, over 3,500 shades to choose from, safe and durable.

7. Sherwin-Williams

US brand. Paints with a beautiful finish that are very easy to apply.

Project by Irina Pashina

Project by Irina Pashina

We asked the pros what paints they usually use in their projects.

  • Calculate the area to be painted: multiply the perimeter of the room by its height. nine0050
  • Calculate the area of ​​window and door openings. Subtract it from the total area.
  • Multiply the resulting area by the standard paint consumption - it is indicated on the package.
  • Please note that 1 kg and 1 liter of paint are different quantities, since paint, unlike water, has a different density and weight.
  • To simplify the calculations, you can use a special calculator - they are on the websites of most manufacturers.

However, it is worth buying paint with a small margin, so that, if necessary, correct minor flaws. Also, paint consumption increases by 10% if you apply it with a spray gun or if you paint walls with a pronounced texture.

Project by Evgeniya Ivlieva

Usually all the important information is listed in the instructions on the paint package - just follow it.

  • Don't forget to prepare the walls before painting - most likely, the surface will need to be leveled, otherwise the paint will not adhere well. nine0050
  • Large surfaces can be painted with a roller or spray, and for applying patterns and other decorations, use a brush or sponge. The disadvantage of the roller is that it is difficult for them to accurately paint over the corners. And the main disadvantage of the sprayer is that it slightly increases the consumption of paint.
  • First you need to paint over the corners and edges. Choose a narrow brush or roller for this.
  • To avoid streaks when rolling, guide the tool in an imaginary Latin letter W.
  • After finishing work, dip the roller or brush in a bucket of water so that the paint on it does not dry out.

Project by Evgenia Ivlieva. Photo: Natalia Vershinina

Project by Evgenia Ivlieva

The walls were not prepared

Even if it seems to you that the wall “seems to be even”, you cannot do without priming and leveling.

They took an uncomfortable tool

The roller should have a handle long enough for you to feel comfortable working with it. And it is better to choose a brush with natural bristles - it will not leave lint on the wall.

Apply one coat (or several, but do not let them dry)

Paint looks best when applied in two or three coats. In this case, it is important to dry each previous layer well.

Painted at the wrong time

The best time to paint the walls is in the morning, so the paint won't foam in the sunlight, and you can judge the uniformity of the coating without distortion. nine0003

Thinned incorrectly

Study the paint formulation to see how it can be thinned without compromising the quality of the material.

Painted "in different directions"

Choose one option for applying paint - vertically or horizontally. Mixing directions within one layer is not worth it, the paint will lie unevenly.

If the walls are painted with non-washable paint, do not wipe them with water. You can use an eraser to remove stains.

If the paint is washable, you should still handle it as carefully as possible. It is best to wipe this surface with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Do not use hard brushes or metal sponges, even if the dirt is heavy. Also, the stain should not be rubbed - wash it off in a circular motion. nine0003

Do not wash the walls with soap and baking soda - they destroy the paint.

And any detergent you are going to use, first test it on a small inconspicuous area. And, of course, do not forget to read the instructions first. Usually, compositions with a pH of up to 9 can be used to wash painted walls. Products with abrasive particles and containing organic solvents are not suitable.

nine0002 Project by Vera Sheverdenok. Photo: Evgeny Gnesin

Project by Igor and Alena Skarzhevsky. Photo: Egor Pyaskovsky

Complex muted shades are being replaced by those that are called bold in English - bright, juicy, saturated, but not flashy. We are waiting for a lot of energetic tones of blue and green, because during the pandemic we missed the fresh air and bright greenery.

More calm natural colors remain in trend - blue, beige, gray, soft shades of yellow. nine0003

For example, Dulux has announced Clear Sky as its color of the year for 2022. According to the brand, this soft blue shade will help to breathe fresh air into the interior.

Akzo Nobel Press Office

Akzo Nobel Press Office

Akzo Nobel Press Office

The American company PPG believes that Olive Sprig will be the main color of the next year. This is also a reference to the theme of nature, naturalness and freedom.

PPG Press Office

Little Greene experts rely on powdery Masquerade, mystical blue Etruria, calm shades of yellow, elegant gray-blue Obscura, warm green Garden, sophisticated brown Vulcan.

Instagram @littlegreene.ru

Shade Masquerade

Instagram @littlegreene. ru

Shade Etruria

Instagram @littlegreenepaintcompany

Shade Obscura

Instagram @littlegreene.ru

Instagram

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Garden Shade

Instagram @littlegreene.ru

Vulcan Shade

Pantone hasn't named its 2022 color of the year yet, but it has unveiled shades that the company thinks will reign on the catwalks for spring/summer - you can expect according to tradition, designers will begin to use them in interiors.

Pantone

And WSGN and Coloro analysts call the colors of autumn-winter 2021-2022 non-standard beige Golden Harvest, dark red Bloodstone, graphite Dark Springs, turquoise A.I. Aqua and bold pink Electric Magenta. nine0003

Coloro

Project by Tatyana Petrova. Photo: Andrey Semchenko

Scroll through the photos with descriptions - we have collected several wall painting solutions that look unusual.

6
a photo

Instagram @tikkurila_suomi

The color block always looks spectacular, especially in such a non-standard interpretation, where a random section of the wall is highlighted with a different color. nine0003

Instagram @insight_studio

Try using a stencil to apply a light geometric ornament on the main deep dark color - the accent wall is ready.

Instagram @littlegreene.ru

And in this project by Anna Razumeyeva-Smirnova, the opposite walls of the spacious corridor were painted in different colors - but both are bright and complementary.

Instagram @asemakatu

In the nursery, you can experiment and draw on the walls even without a stencil, or even better, invite the child to create wall decor himself. nine0003

Instagram @tikkurila_suomi

Highlight a niche with color - it will immediately become a spectacular accent, and the interior will acquire depth.

Instagram @littlegreene.ru

Space can be zoned using color not only “horizontally”, but also “vertically”.

Still have questions? Write them in the comments and the experts will answer them!

Material prepared

Anastasia Ilyinykh

types, how to choose, ideas for interiors

The right choice of wall paint will make repairs more comfortable and faster. To date, there is a huge variety of paints in composition, color, as well as the effect that you want to get in the end. In order not to make a mistake with the purchase, it is necessary to take into account the individual properties, pros and cons of each material. Our article will talk about the most relevant types of wall paint, their advantages, application in different rooms, as well as the criteria that you should pay attention to when choosing. nine0003

Colors

If you decide to find a worthy alternative to wallpaper or renovate already painted walls, then it's time to find out about the most popular types of paints offered by manufacturers:

Silicone Wall Paint

A unique type of wall covering that has the ability to self-clean. This has a positive effect on the absence of stains, dirt and dusty streaks. Silicone paint is used in different rooms of the house or office because it has a high environmental friendliness and proven durability. Such a coating often masks scratches up to 3 mm in size. The composition of this paintwork material may contain antibacterial elements, which is also a distinctive characteristic. nine0003

Acrylic wall paint

She became famous for her elasticity and high moisture resistance. The external variety of colors is very rich in interesting shades. Another significant advantage is the fact that if you wish, you can create your own original shade right in the store. A special machine mixes different pigments, and you become the creator of an interesting new tone for your home.

Latex Wall Paint

This is a very good option for painting old wallpapers. This is evidenced by low vapor permeability, ease of washing, as well as durability. Appearance may differ in brightness or neutral tones. Because of its durability, latex paint is popular in kindergartens, schools, and other educational or recreational settings. nine0003

Water based wall paint

One of the most budgetary types of wall covering. The composition includes a combination of different pigments that dissolve in water. The advantages of water-based paint include environmental friendliness, brightness, and ease of care (simple detergents are used for cleaning).

Alkyd enamels

The design of this type of wall paint may vary. There are matte, semi-gloss and glossy options. Among the distinctive properties are resistance to abrasion and aesthetic appearance. Alkyd enamels dry quite quickly (compared to other types of paints and varnishes), but have a slightly pungent odor that takes some time to fade. nine0003

Paint in the interior of different rooms

The choice of paint and varnish material for the wall surface should depend not only on the properties and appearance of the product, but also on the purpose for different rooms.

Bedroom Wall Paint

An emulsion and silicone base is great for a cozy sleeping corner. The first one perfectly masks any irregularities, cracks and scratches on the walls, absorbs excess moisture, and the second, with its environmental friendliness, is suitable even for allergy sufferers. As for the structure, it is best to give preference to matte paints for the bedroom. nine0003

Living room wall paint

Here it would be optimal to use bright alkyd enamel, latex or acrylic paint. A latex product can well cover the remains of an old repair, acrylic paint will delight you with moisture resistance, and alkyd enamel will perfectly fit into a bright design that is filled with rich colors.

Children's room wall paint

For this room, it is very important to use acrylic paint, which is easily washed off. The composition must be characterized by zero emission. This indicates the absence of any harmful components. Another good option for decorating a child's room is to use glue paints, which are also beautiful and safe. nine0003

Kitchen wall paint

The kitchen space is often the hardest thing to keep perfectly clean, so you should look at acrylic paint (walls can be touched up and refreshed at any time) or silicone product, which has become famous for its high durability.

Hallway wall paint

The best choice would be acrylic-latex (combined) or latex paint, which is resistant to chemical and mechanical damage, easy abrasion and has a huge variety of colors. nine0003

How to choose wall paint

Expert advice will help you choose your wall covering twice as fast and with confidence. The first thing to consider when choosing wall paint is that you first need to decide on the color scheme of the furniture, and only after that - on the tone of the finish. It also does not hurt to recreate the room of your dreams in the form of a computer or paper drawing using the colors you like. This will help you look at the big picture from the outside and understand whether you want to give this appearance to a particular room. It is worth remembering that the color of the floor and wall covering should not differ by more than half a tone. Then the interior design will look aesthetically pleasing and elegant, and not flashy. nine0003

For those who have not yet decided on the right option, it is worth buying several washable probes of different shades and painting different parts of the room in order to look at the result and make the right decision.

A matte base can easily hide all wall imperfections, while a glossy base can emphasize them. Therefore, the first coating is good to use on already painted walls, and the second will be relevant for primary repairs or for a completely flat and cleaned surface.

The palette should be harmonious not only in one selected room, but throughout the whole house. The rooms should complement each other, creating a common beautiful background. It must be remembered that the color solution should also depend on the chosen style solution. Each interior design has its own successful range of colors.

Learn more