Selecting the right paint colour is tricky enough at the best of times, but when you’re dealing with a small space, it’s more critical than ever to get it right! To help, we’ve got Haymes Assistant Colour Manager, Erin Hearns, with us to share her expert advice on how to select paint colours to make a room feel larger and more luxurious.
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“Not everyone has the luxury of space but you can create the illusion of space. It’s commonly known that light colours make a room feel larger,” says Erin.
“Pastels and neutral colours are perfect for a small space. Avoid strong bold colours, as they absorb the light and draw your eye towards them.
“Try painting skirting, architraves, doors and windows in a white or light colour to make a room expand and appear more spacious.”
Erin recommends sticking to a simple palette with a minimal number of colours on the walls and ceilings, and also avoiding feature walls in small rooms.
“A good trick if the space is very small, is to extend the paint colour from the walls to the ceiling.
If you want to play with colours that won’t darken your room, consider cool colours that will make the walls visually recede, like pastel blues, greens and greys.
The colours you use to accessorise the room are important too.
“Try using a monochromatic colour scheme for décor and accessories, which is gradients of the same colour, to create a harmonious and subtle look that’s great for small spaces.”
And finally, Erin reminds us to make the most of the natural light you have, as it’s the greatest way to open a space and make it appear bigger.
“North-facing rooms will have a lot more warmth and a brighter space, whereas south-facing rooms will have a cooler and darker look, so you may need more artificial lighting to open up the room.”
Will you be using these tip to select the right paint colours to make a room feel larger? We’d love to see before and after photos, tag us when you post them online with @stylecuratorau!
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This article was first published in August 2014 and has been updated with new information and images.
Hello there! Would you mind if I share your blog with my facebook group?
There’s a lot of people that I think would really enjoy your content.
Please let me know. Thanks
Hi, of course you’re welcome to share it with your Facebook group! We always love to see new faces around here 🙂
Such a clever way to use paint to make rooms lighter, brighter and bigger!
Thanks Julia! Nothing like a room makeover to make you appreciate your home even more 🙂