Beyond Just Colour: The Right Paint, Finish & Treatment for Your Space
Choosing paint isn’t just about colour—it’s about light, texture, and how it all works together. Here’s how to get it right.
Choosing White Paint: Why It’s Trickier Than You Think
Whites may seem like the easiest choice, but they can be surprisingly complex. The key to getting it right? Understanding undertones and how they interact with your space.
Cool vs. Warm Whites: Which One is Right for You?
Warm whites (yellow, red, or beige undertones) create a cosy, inviting feel—ideal for traditional interiors or rooms with lots of natural light.
Cool whites (blue, grey, or green undertones) feel crisp and modern—perfect for contemporary spaces but can read cold if not paired correctly.
How to check undertones: Hold a pure white sheet of paper next to your paint swatch—the undertones will become obvious.
👉 Top White Paint Pick: Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore – A versatile white that works beautifully in both contemporary and traditional spaces.
Going Dark? Try Colour Drenching
Darker shades can feel rich, sophisticated, and deeply personal. But to make the most of them, consider colour drenching—painting walls, ceilings, and trim in the same shade for a seamless, intimate feel.
Where to Try It First:
Guest Toilets – The best place to experiment with bold, dramatic colours! It’s a low-commitment, high-impact way to try something different, and if you change your mind later, a repaint won’t break the bank.
Bedrooms – Embracing darker colours here creates a calm, enveloping atmosphere that enhances relaxation.
Traditional Living Rooms – Adds moody sophistication, making the space feel layered and inviting.
Home Offices – A rich backdrop enhances focus while making the space feel curated and intentional.
👉 Expert Tip: Dark colours work best in rooms where you want warmth and depth without feeling enclosed.
Test Before You Commit: Lighting & Orientation Matter
A shade that looks perfect in the morning may appear completely different by evening. That’s why testing in different lighting conditions is key.
How Light Changes Your Paint Colour
Morning light – Soft, warm, and flattering.
Midday light – At its coolest and brightest, revealing the truest colour.
Evening light – Artificial lighting takes over, which can make colours appear warmer or cooler.
Room orientation matters too! (For those in the Northern Hemisphere—if you’re in the Southern Hemisphere, flip this advice!)
North-facing rooms tend to have cooler, bluish-toned light throughout the day. Warmer paint colours help balance this and prevent the space from feeling too cold.
South-facing rooms get the most natural light, often feeling warmer and brighter, so deeper, bolder colours won’t feel too heavy.
Want to ensure your colours look great at night too? Check out my blog on Luxury Home Lighting to learn how to choose bulbs with the right CRI (Colour Rendering Index) for accurate colour representation.
👉 Expert Tip: Instead of tiny swatches, paint a large test patch and observe it throughout the day.
Beyond Paint: Wall Treatments That Add Depth
If you want more than just flat colour, consider these alternative finishes that bring texture, movement, and character to your walls.
Limewash vs. Plaster: What’s the Difference?
Plaster – A thick, structural finish that can be smooth or textured, adding depth and a high-end, artisanal feel. Works well on drywall, masonry, and ceilings.
Limewash – A thin, breathable, mineral-based finish that soaks into porous surfaces, creating a soft, chalky texture with natural variations that age beautifully over time. Best for brick, stone, and raw plaster.
Price Point – Plaster is more expensive as it requires skilled application and more materials, whereas limewash is a more affordable way to achieve a similar textured, organic look.
Sustainability – Both are eco-friendly, breathable, and low-VOC, making them great for healthy indoor air quality.
Standard Paint – A budget-friendly, versatile choice for a crisp, smooth finish.
Choosing the Right Paint Finish:
Matte – Soft, velvety, and great for walls, but prone to scuffs.
Eggshell – A subtle sheen and easy to clean—perfect for living areas and homes with children.
Satin – Slightly glossy and moisture-resistant—ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Semi-gloss – Durable, reflective, and great for trim, doors, and high-traffic areas.
Gloss – Bold, high-shine, and ideal for cabinetry and architectural details.
The Best Paint Brands for a Seamless Process
Not all paints are created equal! Here are my top picks for quality, depth of colour, and a flawless finish.
Coat Paints – Eco-friendly, ultra-pigmented, and offers stick-on swatches for easy testing. Plus, they can colour-match other brands like Farrow & Ball or Benjamin Moore.
Benjamin Moore – Rich pigments, incredible durability, and timeless colour choices (Chantilly Lace is a favourite!).
Bauwerk Limewash – The go-to for soft, textural finishes.
Clayworks Plaster – Natural, sustainable, and perfect for adding depth and movement to walls.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right paint or treatment isn’t just about colour—it’s about how it works with your light, furnishings, and atmosphere.
💬 Not sure where to start? If you're feeling stuck, I'm always happy to help point you in the right direction!
💬 Get in touch, and let’s find the perfect palette for your space!
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