Choosing the right paint color can transform your home from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're aiming for a cozy retreat or a vibrant entertaining space, the right color palette makes all the difference.
Here are five expert tips to help you select the perfect interior paint colors:
- Start with Inspiration
- Before heading to the paint store, gather inspiration. Browse Pinterest, Instagram, or interior design magazines. Pay attention to rooms that make you feel something—calm, energized, cozy, or sophisticated. Create a mood board of colors, textures, and design styles you love. This will help you pinpoint the palette that resonates with your personal taste.
- Consider the Lighting
- Lighting dramatically affects how a color appears. A color that looks perfect in a sunlit room might appear dull in artificial light. Test samples in different lighting conditions throughout the day. Natural light shows the truest color, while incandescent lighting brings out warm tones and fluorescent lighting can cast a blue tone.
Pro tip: North-facing rooms tend to bring out cooler tones, while south-facing rooms enhance warm tones.
- This classic design principle helps create a balanced color scheme:
- 60% of your room should be a dominant color (usually walls),
- Use the 60-30-10 Rule
- Test Before You Commit
- Think About the Flow of Your Home
This rule adds depth and harmony to your space without overwhelming it.
- Test Before You Commit
- Paint swatches are helpful, but small squares can be deceiving. Try painting large test patches on several walls and observe them at different times of day. Some companies even offer peel-and-stick samples that are easy to move around the room.
- Think About the Flow of Your Home
- Your home should feel cohesive. Consider how colors transition from room to room. While each space can have its own personality, sticking to a complementary palette ensures a smooth visual flow throughout the home.
Final Thoughts
Choosing paint colors is both an art and a science. Trust your instincts but also take the time to test and evaluate. With these five tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a space that feels just right.









