Choosing the Perfect Paint Color

So, you’ve settled on your remodel layout, but now you need to start thinking about the details—flooring, cabinets, countertops, etc.—that will tie it all together.  If you venture to any home supply store such as Lowes or Home Depot, you’ll notice that the choices are virtually endless.  However, when it comes to these weighty decisions, take solace in knowing that, unlike deciding upon a certain type of flooring or granite for your kitchen, choosing the perfect paint for your walls can be a relatively stress-free process.

First, try pulling a color from an item that will be included in the finished room (i.e. the subtle stripes in your favorite love seat or the flower patterning your accent pillow).  Once you’re able to narrow your choices to two or three colors, buy a quart for each and create a sample board that you can hold against the surfaces in the space.

While it helps to create larger swatches in order to determine whether a sample works or not, if you’re having a difficult time deciding between two colors, set the boards back-to-back so one is covering the other.  Consider the first color before switching to the second.  When going back-and-forth between the boards, you will probably notice that you are drawn to one color more than the other.  Pay attention to this instinct; however, if it doesn’t show up, don’t worry too much.  Remember, it’s just paint.

While many of us feel that we need to make colors match perfectly, when it comes to paint, it’s not always necessary for everything in the room to be so exact.  If you allow at least one of your sample boards to be an imperfect fit, you might just find that it makes complete sense. 

In the end, unlike woodwork or molding details, paint is relatively easy to change.  If things don’t feel right within a month, or even a few years, rest assured that it’s never permanent.  So relax, consider your options, and go with what makes you feel the most comfortable.

CRES Builders | Mirko Attolini | 770-983-4698 | www.cresbuilders.com