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Painting your house ideas


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.

Shop a similar shade below:

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.

Shop a similar shade below:

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

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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

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

The color of the facade of the house - which is better to choose? 100 photos of new designs

When designing a façade, take into account factors such as climatic and weather conditions, nearby buildings, and landscape. Harmoniously combining colors, you can create beautiful architectural ensembles. Photos of examples of a beautiful facade with successful color combinations clearly demonstrate this.

The texture and properties of cladding materials sometimes suggest the color solution itself. Wood and stone have their own unique natural tones, which significantly affect the whole look of the house. nine0003

Brief content of the article:

Facade decoration

The texture of natural material in the cladding and lighting affect the perception of color in different ways. Structural elements must be in harmony with each other, creating a single ensemble. Stone and wood can be successfully combined with glass, mosaic or metal. The combinations of shades of the roof, facade and plinth are carefully thought out to create a holistic image of the building.

Plastered walls are usually finished with weather and temperature resistant paint. Black steel paint is suitable for painting metal surfaces. Metal alloys are coated with vinyl chloride or varnish. nine0003

Features of choosing a color

A competent specialist will help you decide which color is best for decorating the facade. For selection, you can use special programs online. In any case, adopt the basic rules that will help you avoid common mistakes.

It is always best to go for lighter colors. Too bright, saturated and dark are more difficult to harmoniously include in the space, besides, they quickly tire the eye. nine0003

Shades of the same range are well combined with each other: brown with beige, blue with light blue, etc. White is versatile and goes with any color.

Try to use colors that are close to natural - this will provide you with the best combination of facade color with nature and adjacent buildings. Competent coloring will help to emphasize the advantages of the finish and slightly smooth out the flaws.

When choosing a bright color, keep in mind that it will visually increase the size and highlight the house against the surrounding background. Most often, warm yellow, brown, red are used to paint the walls. nine0003

Be careful with dark tones and use them in limited quantities. Shades of green are quite popular, which look very organic in the bosom of nature and are perfect for suburban buildings.


A trendy modern trend is the use of terracotta. You can choose both bright and more calm, muted shades that set you up for rest and relax. You can find the right solution by using the color charts for the façade. nine0003

A common variant is brown-red tones, ranging from copper to chocolate. It is optimal to use them in the decoration of buildings with a simple architecture.

Choose paint according to the weather and climate. Paint of organic origin tends to quickly fade from sunlight, and dark colors will increase the heating of the facade, which will lead to its accelerated destruction.

Combination with adjacent objects

Coloring should be done, focusing not only on your taste preferences, but also taking into account the color scheme of buildings and structures nearby.

If the building is located in a historic area, the color scheme must be respected, characteristic of the area. Traditionally, for houses located outside the city, the most acceptable solution would be the use of soft pastel shades.

If the house is surrounded by greenery, bushes and trees, it is best to use very light shades for painting. A building standing in an open area can be enlivened with bright colors. nine0003


The south side of the house requires the use of muted colors - intense sunlight will make the facade lighter and brighter. Think about how the house will look at different times of the year - against the backdrop of white snow or bright green spaces.

With the help of coloring, you can focus on what you want to emphasize and make some imperfections invisible.

Nuances of choosing a shade

Color creates a mood, affects the psycho-emotional state. It is better that professionals who will take into account all the nuances are engaged in its selection. However, you can easily understand how to choose the color of the facade yourself if you have at least a little experience in this. nine0003

The general rules are as follows

  • the choice of shade is significantly influenced by the style in which the building is made - from classic to modern solutions;
  • well-chosen tones will emphasize the features of the style and beauty of the building, and unsuccessful tones level the features of architecture;
  • for a building in a classic style, beige, white, milky shades are suitable;
  • dark tones have the ability to attract the sun's rays and heat, so they are best used for buildings located in cold climates; nine0094
  • consider in advance the fact that bright colors fade faster in the sun;
  • to highlight small elements, use light colors;
  • rich and dark colors are best used if the building has a simple shape;
  • dark tones emphasize the shape of the object, light tones increase its volume.

Multicolour facade

Several shades can be used for decoration at once, provided that they are correctly combined. This option will draw attention to the building, and living in it can become more comfortable psychologically. If your project involves a combination of several tones, you need to take into account the nuances that will facilitate this choice. nine0003

With bright colors it is convenient to create an accent by painting windows and doors with them. Use the help of special architectural programs - this will save you a lot of time.

Evaluate the overall style of the building to select the best combination. Facade and roof can be made in the same color. In modern projects, interesting contrasts are allowed for these parts of the building. Looks great, for example, a combination of black and yellow.

Wooden houses are best painted with glossy paints. But if the building is located in a sunny area, give preference to matte paint.

Monochrome facade

This option is considered classic, it is suitable for conservatives who adhere to the traditional style of home decoration. If you are inclined to such a decision, it is worth considering some points that affect the correct choice of the main tone.

Natural colors are suitable for wooden houses, buildings in the style of "Russian hut". It can be all kinds of shades of brown, pastel colors. The castle-style house looks very nice in gray. nine0003

Consider the combination with the landscape and nearby buildings - it must be harmonious. As the main one, it is better to choose the dominant gamut in the environment.

In addition, it should be in harmony with green spaces and various small buildings on your site.

When designing the facade, it is worth remembering that this part of the house is the visiting card of its owners. She will eloquently tell about the lifestyle that is familiar to them, will make the first serious impression on any guest. Therefore, the issue of its design must be taken very responsibly. nine0003

The selection of color combinations must be careful and thoughtful, and the quality of the paint used must be of the highest quality. Only this approach guarantees you an excellent result, and the house will become your pride.

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Post published: 03.12

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What color to paint the house: choosing the right shade

Before the summer season, it's time to update the facade of a country house. We suggest what color to paint the house outside and show photos of beautiful examples. The choice is influenced by practical and aesthetic factors.

What color to choose for exterior decoration:

Things to consider

  • Features of the site and house
  • Roof
  • Lining material

Color options

Paint types

Let's talk about aesthetics first. The rules come down to the covering ability of the material and its durability. Dark colors have less consumption, which reduces the cost of work. In addition, they attract heat, so they are best used in cloudy, cold areas. nine0003

If it is important that the wall fade more slowly, choose a light color. On the surface painted with it, dust is less noticeable, it will retain saturation longer. Red and all its shades fade the fastest. The maximum brightness period is 5-7 years. Next, let's talk about successful combinations for different areas.

Pexels

At the first stage, you can use various online services to select a palette. Download special applications or look for sites. You can use official Pantone services. It is also important to take into account several factors, which we will now discuss. nine0003

Site location

  • In the southern regions, black tone and dark palette are usually not used. In the north, in the mountains, brown, gray, bright walls look good. Proximity to the sea is played with pink, blue, turquoise, beige shades.
  • Village and country houses provide more room for creativity. Cottages located within the city are usually painted in something neutral to match neighboring buildings.
  • A building of a simple form without elegant details adorns a bright facade. It will help divert attention from construction flaws. nine0094
  • In contrast, if the building has bas-reliefs or other decorative details, a neutral background would be appropriate.
  • The building must stand out on your lot. The green cladding is lost against the background of tall shrubs and trees.
  • Interior. Some styles (for example, Victorian, classic, hi-tech, modern) are logical to apply on the outside in order to maintain a coherent picture.
  • It happens that in the design of rooms there is no certain style, but there is panoramic glazing. In this case, you can also build on the internal design of walls and floors. nine0094
  • Sauna, outbuildings, gates and everything on the site play a role in the choice of paint. The task is to create a single project.

Pexels

Instagram @yourmortgagechampion

Instagram @heygents

Roof color

Usually this part of the house is different from the facade. It is desirable that they are combined with each other. For example, what color to paint the house if the roof is brown? In this case, it is recommended to use white, beige, shades of brown, blue. Gray tiles or slate can be combined with orange, blue, darker gray, burgundy, white, green, blue walls. Red roof - with gray, brown, black, yellow. Black - with light colors. nine0003

There is one more rule: the brighter the building, the more inconspicuous the roof should be. And vice versa.

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Instagram @urbancottageliving

Instagram @the_hen_homestead

Instagram @queenslander_living

Other elements of the building are sometimes distinguished from the general background. For example, platbands, drainpipes, cornices, doors. Another option is to combine several variations of the same color. In this case, use the combination rule: a dark plinth, a slightly lighter roof, and a medium-density paint for the walls. nine0003

Instagram @ strongshieldsiding

Instagram @ black

Facade material

Wooden private cottages and dachas are usually covered with antiseptic translucent or top coats. The former retain the pattern of timber or logs, the latter only its relief. If the facade is made of stone, brick or unpainted wood, you need to select decorative elements, a roof, a pediment. nine0003

To find a harmonious combination, look for it in the texture of these materials. Inclusions in stone or knots in wood are the best source of inspiration in this case. Brick is beautifully combined with brown, white, red, green and their derivative shades.

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Instagram @ wpieknymwnetrzu

These are general points to consider when choosing an outdoor design. After you find your color, paint a large sheet of paper or drywall with it and attach it to the building. Step back a long distance and evaluate how this option looks. Even better is to do it directly on the wall, as the paint manifests itself differently on different surfaces. During the day, you will be able to understand how the building will look with different lighting. nine0003

We list the most popular finishes.

Brown

A classic country house finish. Associated with warmth, comfort, closeness to nature.

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

White

White, like yellow, is perceived as elegant, joyful. In addition, it harmonizes perfectly with greenery. Deciduous trees next to such a structure look openwork, and for bright plants this is one of the best backgrounds. True, in winter it will merge with snow. Therefore, it is better to combine it with black, brown, red, blue, pink, blue. All of the above applies to beige facades. nine0003

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Gray

A discreet palette might seem boring, but it's not. Together with snow-white or brown accents, it creates a cozy, elegant picture. This painting option is very practical - dust and dirt are the least noticeable on the surface. If you are thinking about what color to paint the outside of a wooden house, and you don’t like the option with a transparent stain, pay attention to the gray scale. nine0003

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Green

Use it only if there are few trees nearby. Suitable for both cottages and cottages in the city. It is both bright and calm color.

nine0002 Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

A light gray-green hue that is trending this year. It is neutral, but at the same time unbeaten. It is combined with dark blue, gray, red-orange, coffee, swamp green, white. In each of the combinations, sage will look different.

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Yellow

Bright canary or pale yellow are associated with freshness, sun, warmth. Paint a house with it and even in the off-season the site will not be gloomy. Against such a background, white platbands and a brown roof look good.

Pexels

Pexels

Red

A deep ruby ​​red that is not often used in home decoration and is completely in vain. This color emphasizes the beauty of landscape design on the site, stands out from other buildings, looks great in any season. The only downside is that it burns out fairly quickly. Combines beautifully with wood. nine0003

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Instagram @ cottage_a_day

Check out our selection of beautiful exterior painting examples.

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a photo

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Instagram @newlifeluxury

Instagram @cottage_a_day

Invoice

Also on sale there are textured compositions resembling decorative plaster. They include fine granulate, which makes the wall grainy. This mixture is suitable for cases where you need to hide the defects of the cladding. It is applied in a thick layer and therefore careful leveling of the surface is not required.

Instagram @kvezal_decor

Instagram @kvezal_decor

According to the method of action

Frame and other wooden structures are often covered with transparent and tinted antiseptics, alkyd, oil or acrylic paints. The latter are preferred for a number of reasons.