How To Select The Right Paint Color For Your Space

One of the most asked questions we receive is "What is the best X paint color?" We get it, paint is the backdrop of everything else in your home and is a big commitment. You want to make sure you get it right the first time. Selecting the right paint color for your space can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of the room. There are several important factors to consider when selecting the right paint color for your space, and we break them all down below.

Natural Light In Your Space

Considering natural light in a space is important when choosing a paint color, it can significantly affect how colors appear. Natural light can make colors appear differently throughout the day and can even vary depending on the direction the room faces. Rooms on the northern side of your house make paint appear cooler, while rooms on the southern side of the house make paint appear warmer. These rooms in the image above are actually painted the same color, but look drastically different due to the natural light in each room.

Use A Fan Deck

Fan decks are not just for designers! Using a fan deck when selecting a paint color is helpful because it allows you to see a wide range of color options in one place. Fan decks typically contain multiple shades and variations of colors, making it easier to compare and contrast different options. Using fan decks are also super helpful when trying to determine a paints undertone. It’s important to look up and down the paint strip and to strips adjacent to see what undertones might be hiding. Fan decks can easily be purchased on Amazon.

If you’re struggling to select the perfect color, or color family, for your space download the Homzie Paint Guide to explore our designer favorite paint colors.

Find The Undertones

It is important to find the undertones in a paint color when selecting paint because it can drastically affect the overall look of a room. Undertones are the subtle hues that are present in a color, which can either enhance or clash with other colors in the room. By identifying the undertones, you can make sure that the paint color complements the other elements in the room, such as furniture and decor. It can also help you avoid selecting a color that appears different in various lighting situations. An easy trick for finding the undertones hiding in a paint color is to take a white sheet of computer paper and hold it up against your sample or paint chip. Your eye will have a much easier time identifying the undertones in your sample.

Taking the time to identify the undertones in a paint color can lead to a more cohesive and visually appealing space. Here you can learn how to select a cohesive paint color palette for your home.

Source: Samplize

Test Paint Samples

Testing paint samples on your wall is important because it allows you to see how the color will look in your space, and in different lighting conditions. It also helps you ensure that the color you choose complements your existing decor and furnishings. It's important to test paint samples on all walls of the room you are wanting to paint, at various times of the day, and in various lighting conditions. We love to use the company Samplize and their removable paint samples to see how a color might look in a space. By testing paint samples, you can avoid the costly and time-consuming mistake of painting an entire room only to realize that the color isn't what you expected.

Consider The LRV

LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. Simply put its means how much light the paint will reflect vs how much it will absorb. Understanding the LRV of a color can help you choose a shade that will look good in your space. For example, a color with a high LRV will make a room feel brighter and more spacious, while a color with a low LRV will create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. If you are looking for a paint color that will brighten up your space look at the value on the back of the paint chip sample - you will want anything with a 60 or higher value to brighten up your space. Learn more about choosing the best white paint color for any space here.

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