Choosing the right type of paint for your space
Once you’ve decided on a colour, the next key decision is the paint finish. The finish affects not only the appearance but also the durability, ease of cleaning, and how light interacts with your walls and surfaces. Here’s a general guide to the most common paint finishes and their ideal uses:
- Flat / Matt
- Appearance: non-reflective, smooth, and velvety.
- Benefits: hides surface imperfections and creates a soft, understated look.
- Best for: ceilings, low-traffic areas, or walls with minor flaws.
- Considerations: less washable than glossier finishes
- Eggshell
- Appearance: low sheen with a subtle, soft glow.
- Benefits: offers a balance between aesthetics and practicality; hides minor imperfections while generally being easier to clean than flat finishes.
- Best for: living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas where a little durability is required without a shiny surface.
- Satin
- Appearance: smooth with a gentle sheen that reflects more light.
- Benefits: more durable and washable than eggshell or matt, resisting scuffs and stains.
- Best for: hallways, children’s rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
- Satinwood is often used for trims and woodwork as an alternative to gloss paint.
- Semi-Gloss / Gloss
- Appearance: highly reflective and smooth.
- Benefits: extremely durable and easy to clean; highlights architectural details like trim, doors, and cabinetry.
- Best for: kitchens, bathrooms, doors, skirting boards, and furniture.
- Considerations: glossy finishes accentuate surface imperfections, so preparation and application are key.
How finish influences colour
The choice of finish can subtly change how a colour appears. Darker colours can look deeper and more intense in glossier finishes, while matt finishes soften and mute the same shade. This is particularly important when using premium paints with rich pigments, as the finish will affect how the light interacts with the surface and reveals the depth of the colour.
Practical tips for choosing a finish
- High-traffic areas: opt for durability and easier cleaning options.
- Low-traffic or decorative areas: flat finishes are ideal for creating a sophisticated, soft look.
- Mixing finishes: using different finishes in a single space can enhance visual interest.
- Test before committing: sample small areas to see how the colour and finish behave under different lighting conditions.
Also, consider that high-end paints offer a variety of finishes which include low sheen and flat options suitable for high-traffic areas and woodwork, as well as wet areas.
Selecting the right paint finish, in combination with high-quality pigments and the appropriate surface preparation, ensures your interior not only looks beautiful but also performs well over time. By understanding the strengths and ideal applications of each finish, you can achieve a balanced, cohesive look while protecting your investment in premium paint.
