Painting is the easiest way to improve your home, while on a budget! The paint and supplies needed to redecorate a room typically cost less than $100. Can you think of another project that delivers such a remarkable transformation to your home's look and feel for so little money?
Choosing the Right Color
It seems like homeowners have struggled with choosing the right shades for their rooms since before Sir Isaac Newton invented the color wheel in 1706.
- Paint makers offer new color options each year based on the most current design sensibilities, and their cues are commonly highlighted on company websites and in home and garden media. Trends aside, the color you choose should reflect your family's tastes and personalities.
- It also helps to keep the room's purpose in mind. For example, a relaxing green or blue hue suits a bedroom or bath, and a deep red adds sophistication to a room that's intended for entertaining. Furthermore, light shades can make a small space seem larger, while dark ones may be used to create a warmer feeling in a large room.
- Ultimately, its usually best to select a shade that will balance out the room. If most of your furnishings are bold, go with a subdued look on the walls so they won't compete. When the big pieces in the room are neutrals, consider adding a punch of color that is pulled from the decorative accessories or artwork.
All About Finishes
- Flat: Matte finishes are good at concealing flaws but more difficult to maintain; flat paints work best for old walls and low-traffic areas.
- Satin or Eggshell: Versatile and attractive satin finishes are great for the walls in high traffic areas and family spaces because they are easier to wipe clean.
- Semi-gloss: With its visible shine, this durable finish is suitable for trim, woodwork and high-moisture areas in the bath or kitchen.
- Gloss: These are the shiniest finishes and are sometimes used to draw attention to doors, mantels and other special architectural features.
Are You Planning to Sell Soon?
Don't feel the need to neutralize a nicely staged interior if you already have custom paint colors that coordinate well with your furnishings. However, if your home's decor is dated or the walls are in rough condition, it's best to create a blank canvas for potential buyers by applying a popular neutral color such as white, cream or beige.
