How to Pick the Perfect Paint

We all have heard that paint is the least expensive yet most effective way to change the look of a room.  Despite this, most people are too scared to take the plunge and commit to a new color.  Designers have an advantage in picking paint colors since we do it so often, but we always start the paint selection process with a strategy.  Here are some tips to ensure that you end up satisfied with your new room!

Benjamin Moore's website offers downloadable color palettes that make the early stages of color selection easy.  The company also has color sheets available that are larger than traditional paint chips, allowing consumers to get a better idea of the color on a large surface.

 

Pick out three shades of the color you like and buy sample quarts.  Don’t be afraid to pick a shade darker than what you think you want. Colors look different once they are painted on the wall and the final color depends on the light you have in the room. Our favorite paint brands are Dunn Edwards, Benjamin Moore and ICI; they have a broad range of colors in muted and bright tones.

Use the sample quarts to paint 3’x3’ squares on 2 different walls with at least 1’ separation between each color. Be sure to mark the name and number underneath the color so when the time comes, you aren’t buying the wrong paint color...believe us, it has happened. Most importantly, make sure you look at the colors at different times of the day and give yourself a few days to choose your favorite color.

Remember to choose your color wisely; lighter shades will open up a room and give the illusion of more space, while darker colors will create a warm, inviting environment.  The color palette of the master bedroom in our Valley Oak project is light, with white walls and a single accent wall in a pale sage.  We chose this color scheme to complement the low-slung, loft-like architecture of the house.

The ashy blue shade of the living room of our Beverlywood project creates depth and highlights the bright white woodwork of the mantle . 

The deep cocoa color in the dining room makes for a warm and appealing area for conversation and entertaining.  With substantial moldings in a striking white, the space feels modern yet sumptuous.  Many people worry that by painting the ceiling of a space, it "lowers" the height of the room.  This isn't the case, as painting a ceiling actually makes the area feel richer and warmer.

As a final tip for picking paint, buy the sample color you want in the finish that you intend on using.  A color in an eggshell finish will often look much different than the same color in a flat or semigloss.  Also remember that higher gloss finishes are better suited for high-traffic areas, as they are easier to wipe off.  High gloss paints should be reserved for flawless woodwork.  Happy painting!

Comments

[mrslimestone]

A stunning room but Im loving that brancy centerpiece on the table! Any chance you can share a close of what it is?

[Fay]

You covered it all in choosing paint colors...I do this a lot....Paint & fabric selections take up a lot of my time...LIKED THIS POST... FAY

[Meg]

I love that you have a blog with useful tips! The homes you create are amazing! Now, for my question: Where can I find a glass interior door similar to the one you have in the Valley Oak Master Bedroom (not sliding though)? I'm in Los Angeles!
Thanks!

[maryam in marrakesh]

I am about to paint my office a fresh green!

[Christine]

Hi - I was wondering if you could tell me the name of the blue wall above the fire place? It has a lovely feel to it. I enjoy reading your blog - can't remember how I came across you but keep up the good work!
Christine
Boston