Have you been following the latest painting trends and want to give your home a fresh and trendy new look? The process can be overwhelming. Going to the paint counter, picking colors, and then actually painting it can make your head spin. Choosing the right color, while it might seem simple, is a science that color consultants have mastered. What you see in a magazine or online cannot be matched by going to your local paint store, as there are many factors that need to be taken into account.
First – Consider Light
Your house is unique. You might have afternoon sun, or you might have shadowing from a tree, and so forth. Don’t trust color swatches at the paint store. Bring them home and look at them at all times of the day, even at night with your lights on. When you’ve narrowed it down to 2 colors, I think it’s always smart to purchase small sample cans and paint a bit on each wall. Better safe than sorry. You don’t want to paint a whole room, only to have to paint it all over again because it looks horrible.
Second – Start with the big items
You want to start with the most expensive item like your floors or countertops. Make decisions on those first. Then work your way to paint and accessories.
Third – Pick your paint, then your color
Are you concerned with fumes? Then you’ll want to pick a low VOC product. But it’s always a good idea to maintain good ventilation while painting even if you choose a zero- or low-VOC paint or not.
Flat, eggshell or satin, and semi-gloss are other options.
Choose flat especially if there are imperfections you’re painting over. Since flat paint doesn’t reflect light, those imperfections will be less noticeable.
Eggshell or satin paints give a slight sheen and resist dirt and grime better than flat paints. They are often used in bathrooms and kitchens.
Semi-gloss paint because it holds up to washing better is great for kids’ rooms.
Save the glossy paint for window sills and other places that will be getting a lot more washing.
Once you’ve chosen the type of paint you want, then move on to color.
I have a house under construction can you help me pick out my paint?
Of course. It is important to have a professional like myself bring a color deck into your home and take into account the above factors to save you time and money. But I recommend that you have your floors, and countertops picked prior to having me come and pick colors.
Before you have a color consultant come in have these two things ready:
- Samples of countertops, flooring, or whatever else is relevant to that room such as bedding.
- Your inspiration for the project: a magazine, Pinterest , etc.
Color consulting is my specialty in addition to the application of the paint. If you’re in the San Jose area, I can help you choose the right colors for your environment and taste. Check out my color consultation service!
