Selecting Paint Colors for your remodeling project

Hiring a painter can be expensive and I want you to only hire the painter ONE time, take your time to select your paint color. Here’s how we select paint colors at Collected Interiors.

We like to start gathering paint inspiration images on Pinterest to view REAL rooms in real paint colors. Also search for blogs with the "best cream paint colors for your living room" for example. They will usually tell you the name of the color (and link) right to the website.

GATHER INSPIRATION

Review blogs, browse design websites and decorating magazines. Paint colors are either listed on the page, or hidden in the Index at the back.

Play with colors and inspiration

Explore Sherwin Williams Website

Color By Room

Color Visualizer

Here’s a list of my favorites:

• Antique White - Sherwin Williams - SW6119

  • warm white with undertones of beige and cream

• Alabaster - Sherwin Williams - SW7008

  • Cozy, warm and soft white that isn’t bright

• Benjamin Moore Warm White:

  • Swiss Coffee OC-45

  • White Dove OC-17

  • Simply White 2143-70 / OC-117

  • Cloud White OC-130

• Benjamin Moore Cool White:

  • Chantilly Lace OC-65

  • Decorator’s White OC-149

  • Super White OC-152

  • Paper White OC-55

getting paint samples

When you decide to work with us, we will order you 12x12 paint sample cards that help you see the color better than the standard 2x3 samples shown in color decks or brochures.

If you'd like to test samples yourself, purchase paint samples and paint 24x24 sample boards. Most paint stores will have thick poster board or foam boards you can use. (source from Michael's or any craft or office supply store)

Sherwin Williams has stick-on samples you can pick up in store or order online. Typically the neutral colors are offered in the store, but you may have to order others.

How to test colors:

• Label each color name, number and paint company on the back.

• Disperse various paint sample boards throughout the rooms you're painting.

• Try not to put any side by side on the same wall.

• Put one on the left side of a door or window, then another on the right side at eye level.

• Put one in the far corner of the family room wall at eye level, another at the other side.

• Review your paint samples throughout the day for several days.

Paint colors appear to change during different times of day (and night) and different days depending on if it's sunny or cloudy, different light levels with natural or artificial light.

Paint may also absorb or reflect colors from things around it, say a green sofa or yellow curtain. Selecting the right paint color is not always an immediate decision. Take your time to make sure that the perfect color is just right for your home.

Paint finishes:

• Flat/Matte: shows no streaks or flaws

  Ceilings, living areas

• Eggshell & Satin:

Living areas, bathrooms, kitchens, cabinets

• Semi-Gloss:

Trim, windows, doors, baseboards, casings

• High-Gloss: Skilled painter required, shiny effect, drama, shows streaks and flaws

Front doors, ceilings, cabinets, trim

• Lacquer: Extremely shiny, very skilled painter, shows drips and streaks

Doors, furniture, ceiling, trim, cabinets

Developing a paint schedule:

As a design client, you and your contractor will receive a full paint specification sheet. This is divided by color (and finish) so the painter can determine how many gallons they need for each room. This way, they will know exactly what color and finish will go in each room.

PAINT SCHEDULE

Customized by color and finish, this paint schedule will answer all of your contractor’s questions. We provide the color, brand, item number and finish for each wall (or cabinet).

MORE INSPIRATION:

French Country Palette

French country style is well known for its casual yet elegant aesthetic, where old meets new. Whether it’s a cottage, a farmhouse, or a more modern space you’re decorating, the colors and materials of French country home décor effortlessly infuse any interior with a rustic chic feel.

Achieve the look by layering weathered and natural materials and fabrics with more laid-back accents. Neutrals, like Atrium White OC-145 and Clay Beige OC-11, create an understated French feel. - Benjamin Moore

Tropical Palette

Saturate Your Home with Tropical Wall Colors

Go on, be bold. For a truly tropical paint scheme, make a statement with breathtaking color. Eye-popping yellow-greens, like Savannah Moss 385 or Wasabi AF-430, shown here, are the perfect way to draw attention to unique architectural design and pair nicely with patterned floors. Add furnishings of a similar hue for a monochromatic look reminiscent of a beachside palace.

For the highest quality color, use a paint that is sure to deliver. AURA® Interior paint provides ultimate performance for color depth and richness that lasts. - Benjamin Moore

Coastal Palette

Easy Breezy: Warm White Paint Colors for Coastal Living

Shiplap is a staple of beachside cottages, Here, vertical shiplap meets a vaulted ceiling, helping to expand and open up a narrow hallway. Easy-breezy warm white paint colors and natural light paired with light wood-tone floors complete the airy, welcoming look. - Benjamin Moore

Cozy Palette

The Rustic Warmth of a Cozy Cabin

“The first step in creating a cozy cabin vibe is to take cues from your surroundings,” advises color and design expert Arianna Cesa.

Here, kitchen walls in Iron Gate 1545, a warm, versatile hue, provide the perfect backdrop for Black Bean Soup 2130-10on a simple curio. Off-white Soft Chamois OC-13-painted trim and ceiling lighten—and balance—the look. - Benjamin Moore

Mediterranean Palette

Welcome Guests with a Touch of Tuscany

Maximize a Mediterranean-inspired façade and freshen up your exterior. Warm hues, terracotta urns, and lush greenery set the tone.

Whites and neutrals play perfectly for a stucco refresh. Look for soft, golden undertones like White Chocolate OC-127, shown here, as well as Niveous OC-36 and Sandy Brown 1046, both from our Mediterranean color palette. - Benjamin Moore

Introducing the Ultimate Paint and Wall Finish Specification Template!

Are you tired of the endless hours spent writing up paint specifications, only to find errors and discrepancies that lead to budget overruns and project delays? Look no further – our revolutionary Paint & Wall Finish Specification Template is here to transform your design process, saving you time, money, and ensuring a flawless project execution.

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I hope this article helps you make the painting selection process easier.

If you’d like to work with us, click below and set up a call. We can’t wait to hear about your project!