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choose the right paint for your room

Choosing the Right Paint Color for Your Space

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Choosing the right paint color can completely transform a room—but with thousands of options and endless undertones, finishes, and lighting conditions to consider, the process can quickly become overwhelming. The key is understanding how color behaves in your unique space. From natural light exposure to existing finishes and furnishings, thoughtful color selection ensures your walls feel intentional rather than accidental. With the right approach, paint becomes one of the most cost-effective and impactful design tools at your disposal.

choose the right paint

1. Understand the Undertone (Warm vs. Cool)
Every paint color has an undertone—yellow, red, blue, or green—even if it appears “neutral.” Identifying undertones before painting prevents a room from feeling unexpectedly pink, green, or purple. 

Tip: Compare paint swatches against a sheet of true white paper to reveal the undertone.

2. Lighting Changes Everything (Natural + Artificial)
Paint colors shift throughout the day depending on sunlight and bulb type. Always test samples on multiple walls and view them morning, afternoon, and evening. 

Tip: A color you love on Pinterest may not look the same in your home — lighting is the difference.

3. Coordinate with Existing Materials
Bring fabric samples, flooring, rugs, and countertop materials when selecting paint. Paint should support your space, not fight it.

Tip: Choose paint last after textiles and finishes, not first.

4. Paint Finish Matters as Much as Color
Matte hides imperfections; satin and semi-gloss bounce light and are more durable in high-traffic areas. Different finishes reflect light differently, changing how the color looks (the shinier the finish, the darker the color looks).

Tip: Use matte on walls for a contemporary look, satin in high-traffic areas, and semi-gloss on trim.

5. Be Mindful of North, South, East, and West Light
Gray and blue tones can appear colder in north-facing rooms, while warm light can intensify yellow or beige. Adjust your color choice based on the direction your windows face.

Tip: Cooler rooms may benefit from warmer paint tones to balance the light.

 

 

 

Ready to find the perfect paint color without the guesswork? We can help. At Patrick Street Interiors, we work with premium paint brands and offer personalized color consultations to guide you toward shades that complement your décor, lighting, and architectural style. Visit our studio in Frederick or schedule a design appointment and let’s choose a paint color that makes your space feel like home—effortlessly and beautifully.

Let’s Work Together
Collaborating with us goes beyond aesthetics; it's an investment in transforming your space into a beautifully curated and functional home that aligns with your lifestyle. Whether you're a busy professional, a new homeowner, or someone seeking a fresh perspective, choosing Patrick Street Interiors as your interior designer firm is a worthwhile decision. We’d love to meet you—stop by our showroom or call us today!

Schedule your complimentary 15-minute Design Discovery call today.

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