01/14/2025
Paint can set the mood in your home, and choosing the right color can solve design issues more affordably than a remodel.
For a cohesive room, look at your walls. Cream is a safe, neutral choice, but avoid shades that look too yellow. To brighten a windowless space, consider softer ceiling colors like greige (a mix of gray and beige – my personal favorite – Revere Pewter by Benjamin Moore) and use mirrors to reflect light.
In bedrooms, avoid bright colors and go for dark, neutral tones to create a calm environment. For small rooms, I suggest using dark shades like royal blue or forest green to make the space feel larger, especially with a higher sheen paint for added light reflection. However, be mindful that any imperfections in the wall will be more noticeable with a high sheen paint.
For areas prone to stains, such as kitchens and mudrooms, choose washable mid to deep tones and durable finishes like eggshell. In dark basements, avoid stark white and opt for neutrals like beige or taupe, testing colors with your lighting to avoid dingy effects.
Color drenching in interior design is a bold technique where a single color is used extensively throughout a room. This includes not just the walls but also the ceiling, door and trim. The idea is to "drench" the space in one hue, creating a monochromatic, immersive look. The key is to use different sheens on the walls, ceiling and trim.
This approach makes a dramatic visual statement, offering a sense of cohesion and intensity. Depending on the color chosen, it can make a room feel cozy and intimate or bold and energizing. The key to successful color drenching is selecting the right shade, sheen, and layering different textures within the same color family to add depth and interest.
A fresh coat of paint can transform your home, so choose carefully!
