Painting Tips And Information

Paint sheen refers to how much light reflects off a painted surface — essentially its the level of shine or lack of it. The higher the sheen, the more reflective and glossy the surface appears.

Choosing the right paint sheen is important not only from a design perspective, it plays a role in the durability and ease of cleaning. Depending on the sheen level it can also hide or highlight surface imperfections.

Paint Sheens Are Not The Same Across All Paint Brands

Sheen levels can vary between manufacturers. One brand’s eggshell might look closer to another’s satin. There are no industry rules that have to be adhered to. To make it more confusing some brands use alternate names like low luster or velvet. Ask your painter or paint store for guidance on how each brand defines its sheens.

Common Sheen Levels

Most paint sheens are available for interior or exterior use. Here are some of the options in order of the paint starting with no sheen and ending with the highest sheen paint called gloss.

• flat/ultra, zero reflection, hides imperfections, ideal for ceilings
• matte/velvet: soft, low reflection, elegant look, good for imperfect walls
• eggshell/low luster, most popular for walls, a balance between reflection and durability and ease of cleaning, can show some imperfections
• satin/pearl: durable, medium reflection with a soft glow, most popular for trim work and doors, can be used for cabinets, can show some surface imperfections
• semi-gloss: higher reflection and shine easy to clean, highlights flaws, used for trim, doors and cabinets
• Gloss/high gloss: extremely reflective, dramatic, bold finish for doors, cabinets or statement pieces, every flaw will show if surfaces are not perfect

Flat Sheens

A true flat paint has no visible sheen and therefore no reflection. It’s great at concealing surface imperfections. Painters will often seek out a “dead flat” paint for ceiling application to avoid any reflection from lights. Some brand’s paint that is labeled “flat” is not a true flat and has a minimal amount of sheen to it. Flat sheen paints are forgiving when it comes to touch-ups. They can easily mark, are not very washable and tend to hold onto stains.

Eggshell Sheen

Eggshell or low lustre is a step up in sheen from matte, but lower than satin or pearl. From straight viewing there’s not much difference visually between matte and eggshell, but from even a slight angle you can see the higher reflection of an eggshell surface.

Eggshell sheen is the go-to for interior walls, it offers the best balance between appearance and practicality for cleaning. There are some very durable eggshell sheen paints on the market today.

Satin Or Pearl Sheen

Satin or pearl finishes are ideal for trim, doors and mouldings. They highlight architectural details with a soft glow, providing contrast next to matte or eggshell walls. Not the best option for walls, it will highlight a lot of imperfections, but are easier to clean.

Semi-gloss Sheen

Semi-gloss has a fair bit of reflection, good resistance to dirt and scuff marks and is easy to clean. Imperfections will be strongly highlighted. It’s diminished in popularity for trim work and doors in favour of lower, but still durable finishes like satin and pearl.

High Gloss Sheen

High gloss is extremely reflective. It’s used for statement piece furniture and occasionally cabinets and doors where a mirror like finish is desired. Surfaces must be flawlessly prepared or every imperfection will show. The paint needs to be sprayed or every brush mark and roller pass will be noticeable.

Best Paint Sheens For Each Interior Space Of Your Home

Interior sheen choices ultimately come down to a blend of personal preference and room use.

• Interior Walls – eggshell is the most versatile choice offering some durability and not too reflective, with matte being another good contender
• Kitchen And Bathrooms – eggshell is also the preferred choice as it’s not too reflective and there are eggshell paints formulated for ease of washing and high humidity areas
• Trims And Doors – satin or pearl sheens provide durability and a subtle contrast from the walls without too much reflection, semi-gloss is an option for those who prefer a more reflective sheen and very easy cleaning
• Ceilings – flat is the best choice to minimize glare and light reflection

Lower sheen options are available for walls today thanks to modern technology that has created washable formulas like Benjamin Moore Ulti-matte and Aura Bath & Spa.

Examples Of Paint Sheens Used In Home Interiors

Eggshell Walls with Semi-Gloss Trim

This room features eggshell walls paired with semi-gloss trim. The soft wall finish contrasts beautifully with the higher sheen on the trim, highlighting details and adding depth through reflected light.

All White Interior With Matte Walls with Satin Baseboards

This all white interior has matte paint on the walls, a subtle distinction is made between the two surfaces by using satin sheen on the baseboards and trim. The satin sheen also provides the trim with extra durability.

Flat Walls with Pearl Trim and Doors

A flat wall sheen combined with pearl sheen on trim and doors creates a refined, low-reflection look that complements the modern and and minimalist decor of this home’s interior.

Eggshell Walls with Pearl Trim

In this ranch-style home, eggshell walls are paired with pearl sheen trim to achieve durability without the high reflection of semi-gloss. It gives the home a balanced, soft finish that highlights the trim without drawing too much attention.

Best Paint Sheens for Exterior Surfaces

When choosing the sheen for exterior painting it is important to think about the practical considerations and not just the aesthetics.

• Flat paints – hides surface flaws but attract more dirt. The lack of reflection offers a softer, more natural appearance on textured surfaces like stucco or wood siding. Likewise, some owners do not like how higher sheen paints highlight the texture of James Hardie board siding.
• Satin paints – better at repelling water and dirt, easier to clean, makes a great choice for exterior trim work and doors and for siding that gets dirt or debris blown or splashed up on it
• Semi-gloss – excellent at repelling water and dirt, adds durability, very easy to clean, suitable for exterior trim work and doors

All things being equal, higher sheen paints have properties that are more favourable for exterior surfaces. If you desire the look of a lower sheen paint there are options available, but make sure it’s a premium paint that is specifically formulated for durability, dirt and stain resistance. Regardless of sheen you want an exterior paint with UV protectants and mildew and mold resistance.

Examples Of Sheens Used On Exterior Surfaces

Flat Sheen On Exterior Siding

For this home, the decorator chose a flat sheen paint for the siding to achieve a soft, non-reflective look that shows the paint colour more accurately, similar to how it appears on a swatch. A premium flat paint was used, but regardless it will be more prone to scuffs and dirt retention than a comparable quality paint in a higher sheen. Looking down the siding you can see there is no visible reflection.

Satin Sheen On Exterior Siding

This home is painted in a dark blue satin sheen. The benefit of this high-quality satin sheen paint is the excellent dirt and stain resistance, making it ideal for durability and cleaning. The trade-off is that its reflection emphasizes surface texture of the James Hardie siding which some homeowners may prefer to avoid.

Satin Sheen Can Vary by Paint Brand

The brown siding on this home has a noticeably glossy reflection, even when viewed straight on. This shows how paint sheen levels differ between manufacturers. Although labeled as satin, this product has a higher sheen closer to semi-gloss, creating a slightly “plastic” appearance.

Satin Sheen with Stained Trim for Balanced Contrast

This modular home features James Hardie board siding painted in a satin sheen and wood trim finished with a flatter stain. The satin paint adds a subtle touch of sheen and durability, while the low-sheen trim provides a natural, softer contrast. Note that satin finishes can vary by brand—in this case, the satin paint has a lower sheen than typical, offering a more understated look.

Flat Sheen for a Soft Look Free Of Reflection

The Hardie board siding and trim of this house were painted with a flat sheen paint. The builder specified flat sheen to avoid unwanted glare that could detract from the home’s architectural details.

Flat or Stained Finishes for Textured Surfaces

Many homeowners prefer a low-sheen or stained finish on textured materials like cedar shingles. Higher-sheen paints can highlight uneven textures, which some find unappealing. A flat stain gives a natural, subdued look that enhances the wood’s character while minimizing glare and visual distraction.

Satin Sheen On A Modern White House Exterior

This modern-style farmhouse exterior is painted entirely white in a satin sheen paint. It’s a large house and if it was a dark colour the satin sheen could be overwhelmingly glossy. The satin sheen is not as noticeable in a light colour or on the vertical board-and-batten siding compared to horizontal siding. It’s a good sheen choice to repel dirt and moisture, which will help keep this white exterior looking bright and crisp.

How Sheen Affects Paint Colours

Sheen influences how we see paint colours. Higher sheen paints reflect more light, making colours appear more saturated. Flat or matte finishes show colour truer to a paint chip swatch because there’s no reflection to distort it. However, at any given time the lighting conditions and angle of viewing can distort how we see a colour.

Using different sheens on walls and trim can create subtle contrast and highlight architectural details—even when the same colour is used.

The same colour has been used throughout the room below in matte sheen for the walls and satin sheen for the trim work. Take note of the reflection on the door trim and how it influences the appearance of the colour.

Why Darker Paint Colours Often Look Better in Lower Sheens

Dark colours require a lot more tint and pigment which alters the paint formulation and increases the sheen. The sheen also appears more noticeable on darker colours because light reflections stand out against the deeper tones.

This is why deep colours are often painted in flat or matte finishes as was done for the dark chocolate wall in this bedroom, to retain a softer look with less reflection.

This vibrant purple bedroom below was painted with a matte sheen paint. In a higher sheen paint it may have looked garish with too much reflection.

Summary Of Sheens And Paint Properties

These paint sheen guidelines provide a general overview, but there are exceptions where paint quality affects performance regardless of sheen. It’s easy to assume higher sheen always means better durability and easier cleaning, but that’s not always true. A premium-grade matte paint formulated for washability and durability can outperform a low-quality eggshell.

Some paints have additives that improve their scuff resistance, adhesion, flow and leveling and mold and mildew protection. Always research and choose the right paint type and sheen for your specific surface, conditions and desired finish.

Fresh Paint Initially Has a Higher Sheen

When paint is first applied, the sheen is at its highest and may appear glossier than expected. Acrylic and latex paints continue curing for two to four weeks, dulling slightly as solvents and other components evaporate. Once fully cured, the paint reaches its true, final sheen level.

All Paint Sheens Dull Over Time

Over time, all paints experience a gradual loss of sheen—it’s an inevitable part of their lifespan. After a few years, finishes appear duller and flatter due to UV exposure breaking down finish on exteriors and interior rooms with intense sunlight. Exposure to weather, pollutants and abrasion from cleaning all accelerate the process causing the paint film to wear down.

How to Minimize Sheen Loss

Sheen loss can be reduced by using high-quality paint that resists UV damage and surface wear. Lower-grade products dull more quickly, especially outdoors. Proper surface prep, correct film thickness, and skilled application all help maintain a paint’s original luster longer.

How Sheen Causes Touch-Ups To Stand Out

As paint dulls, touch-ups can appear shinier than surrounding areas. During the curing phase, they may blend better, but once paint has fully cured, touch-ups rarely match. Repainting a full wall or section from corner to corner gives a uniform finish.

Full Coverage Is Required For Proper Sheen

Most paints need two full coats to achieve even colour and sheen. A single coat can leave thin or uneven coverage, reducing durability and gloss. For example if you’ve chosen satin or eggshell for its washable finish, you may not be getting the full potential of the paint with a one coat application.

Pressure washing the exterior of your home can be a controversial choice. While it can be an effective tool on surfaces like driveways and sidewalks, it can do more harm than good to a home’s exterior. Houses can withstand a variety of weather conditions, but they were not designed to have high-pressurized water blasting at them.

Even moderate pressure can leave lasting damage: gouges in wood, furring of the grain, cracking, chipping and splintering. Brick or mortar, vinyl siding and window seals are also vulnerable to water intrusion or loosening caused by high-pressure cleaning.

If you’re considering pressure washing purely for cleaning (rather than preparing for repainting), you must proceed with caution. Removing old paint or creating an uneven sheen can leave your house looking worse — and that compromised finish will persist until your next paint job.

Even more concerning is the damage that may not be immediately apparent. Water can get up into your soffits or seep behind your siding. Anywhere a house has gaps is a potential entry point for high-pressure water to work its way in, Once it’s in the wall cavity it can be difficult for it to evaporate, creating conditions for rot and mould.

In this case, the house exterior is stained cedar shingles — a very soft wood which could be easily damaged from a pressure washer set too high or sprayed too close.

How to Clean Fibre Cement & James Hardie Siding Safely

Materials such as James Hardie Board or fibre cement siding are similarly at risk of marring and damage. The James Hardie manufacturer cautions against high pressure cleaning. The method they recommend for cleaning James Hardie siding is to use a low pressure spray combined with a soft non metal bristle brush or rag and mild non-abrasive detergent for stubborn stains. Damage from incorrect cleaning may even void your warranty.

Never Pressure Wash A House That Has Lead Paint

It’s never a good idea to pressure wash a house that has lead paint, even if it’s buried deep in past layers. You don’t want to run the risk of dislodging lead paint chips or spread lead dust across your soil and landscaping – putting your family and pets and future occupants for years to come at risk.

Safe DIY Way To Clean A House Exterior

When to Hire a Professional House Cleaning Company

If exterior cleaning feels daunting, look for local house cleaning companies that use a soft-wash system, a lower pressure application water and cleaning solutions designed to preserve siding, windows, and other surfaces. Reputable companies will ensure water does not enter your home’s building envelope and understand the risks of pressure washing.

Why Pressure Washing Alone Won’t Eliminate Mold, Mildew or Algae

High-pressure washing may remove surface growth, but it doesn’t kill spores. In fact, it can spread them across your home’s exterior where they regenerate. Furthermore, where there is accumulated mold or mildew, there is a tendency to increase the pressure or get closer to the surface, increasing chance of inflicting damage to the house exterior. For effective removal, an appropriate cleaner must be applied, lightly agitated, then rinsed.

What Surfaces Are Appropriate For Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing can be an effective cleaning tool when used at appropriate pressures to clean decking and at medium to high pressure for patios, pavers, sidewalks, and driveways. When cleaning these kinds of surfaces, caution must still be exercised. Decking can be harmed with too much pressure and concrete and asphalt can suffer from pitting and surface degradation, as well as having pieces blasted away, particularly at the edges and seams.

Be especially cautious when washing near your home’s siding — debris or rock fragments propelled by high pressure can chip paint and crack glass.

Should I Pressure Wash A House To Prepare It For Painting?

You can, but you need to understand the risks. Pressure washing is often used to prep for painting, but it comes with risk. Blasting away old paint may achieve bare surfaces, but often causes damage to the substrate and there’s the risk of water getting behind your siding. If the house exterior is caulked and painted shortly thereafter you risk further trapping the moisture in. The alternate methods above are safer options that are not going to comprise your house.

In Summary

If any type of surface on your property is being pressure washed make sure the individual doing it is experienced and knows how to handle the machine. The pressure washer is only as safe and effective as the person controlling it. Unskilled use can cause costly, long-term damage.

Keeping up with the maintenance and painting of your house will ensure your home stays in top condition. Learn more in our guide: How Often To Paint Your House Exterior

The reality is that many homeowners don’t know what to expect from a professional painting contractor. Without knowing the difference between a mediocre and high-quality paint job, it’s easy to accept poor workmanship as the norm. Once you’ve seen a truly professional finish, any subpar work stands out immediately.

A great paint job is about much more than colour. The foundation of a flawless finish lies in proper surface preparation. Even the best paint can’t hide poor prep work.

Signs Of A Poorly Done Paint Job

One of the most noticeable indicators of inexperience is sloppy cut-in lines. Where walls meet ceilings, baseboards, doors, and window trim, the paint should have crisp, straight edges. A wobbly or uneven line is a clear sign of unskilled work.

The paint itself should be even, smooth, and consistent—no streaks, drips, ridges, roller marks or debris in the finish.

The photo on the lower left is an example of a poorly done cut-in against the window casings. There are spots of wall paint on the trim and the line defining the trim and wall is not straight. On the right is a precise cut-in of the wall paint against the trim work.

The photos below depict a poorly done cut-ins against the window trim that wiggly and sparse showing some of the previous wall colour. Versus a precise cut-in with clean trim work.

The photos below show an uneven cut-in above the baseboard versus a straight and precise cut-in.

Below is a cut in that’s wavering along the interface of the wall and crown molding versus one that is precise and straight.

Paint Should Stay Where It Belongs!

Wall paint shouldn’t be poorly cut where it’s wiggly and extending past the walls into the trim work and ceilings.

Professional painters carefully mask and protect surrounding surfaces with drop sheets and plastic, and they remove items like switch and outlet covers and mask and tape or remove other fixtures to ensure a clean finish.

Below you can see a wiggly line where the wall and ceiling meet versus a clean cut-in with no paint extending up into the white ceiling.

It goes without saying that paint should not be on cabinets, flooring, hardware, fixtures, and furniture or personal belongings. This is beyond unskilled painting, it’s just plain carelessness. Below is a well protected painting space.

Full Paint Coverage Requires More Than One Coat Of Paint

A professional paint job provides full, even coverage with no thin spots or shadowing of the previous colour. It doesn’t matter how expensive the paint is, the best results almost always come from a minimum of two coats of paint.

The Importance Of Sanding

Sanding is a vital part of what makes a quality paint job. Each time a surface is painted without being sanded or sanded properly it adds to the demise of the surface aesthetics. Depending on the circumstances it can also lead to paint failure.

Proper Patching

Walls should be inspected and repaired before painting. Small dents, nail holes, and scratches are filled, sanded smooth, and blended into the surface.

The effort it takes to do extensive wall prep as depicted in the room below is well worth it when you see the final results.

There’s An Art To Caulking

Caulking is an important part of the painting process and there’s a skill to applying it. It seals gaps between trim, baseboards and walls to create a seamless, professional look. For most applications caulking should be done before the painting. If it’s not painted over it can discolour and become a magnet for dirt and dust and become dingy looking.

Removing Hardware Before Painting

Professional painters remove switch plates, outlet covers, door hardware and anything other fixtures on surfaces when possible. Anything left in place is carefully masked and painted around cleanly—without highly visible brush marks or uneven edges.

Quality Paint And Materials Make A Difference

A professional painter will use high-quality paint and ensure that the correct product is being used or if special sealers or primer are required. The quality of the brushes, rollers, patching materials and caulking also play a big role in the final results.

Furthermore, it’s important to note that a painter has a range of price and quality levels to choose from within each paint manufacturer’s line. Even the most well- known paint companies have paint that is lower grade. A reputable and professional painter uses high-quality paints, primers, and tools suitable for each surface.

Examples Of Professional Painting Work

Parnell Painting is a small Nanaimo painting company that takes the time to do the correct preparation and leaves behind work that we can be proud of every time. We are a husband-and-wife team that has over twenty years of experience delivering high-quality interior and exterior painting in Nanaimo.

See more examples of our painting here: Exterior painting work and interior painting work.

Before deciding whether to hire a painter or tackle a project yourself, consider a few key questions: What quality of work can you achieve? How much time will it take? Do you have the necessary equipment, and if not, what will it cost to acquire it? For insight into professional standards, explore our Interior Painting Services and Exterior Painting Services.

Professional painters arrive fully equipped with everything they need. They purchase paint and materials at contractor rates, often far cheaper than retail. Factor in time, effort, and cost when deciding whether to DIY.

Painting Knowledge And Experience

A professional contractor knows how to properly prep surfaces for a durable, long-lasting finish. They can identify hidden issues that a homeowner may overlook and apply the correct techniques, paint types, and finishes for your project.

Clean Up

Hiring a professional means you don’t have to worry about cleaning up. Floors and surfaces should be left free of dust and debris. Garbage and empty paint cans are removed, recycled, and disposed of. Work is completed with minimal disruption to your household.

Time And Efficiency

What can seem like an insurmountable task to a homeowner can be completed quickly and efficiently by a professional painter. Even if you can achieve a decent result, do you want a task that should take days to stretch into weeks – eating up your weekends or time off. Hiring pros lets you focus on what you enjoy while they handle the painting.

Safety

Many painting projects require tall ladders or specialty equipment. It’s not worth risking your safety if you’re not confident and comfortable using ladders. Leave this work to an experienced painting contractor who is trained and experienced in these conditions, minimizing risk and ensuring safety.

Get Multiple Painting Quotes

Before hiring a painter, it’s smart to gather several quotes—just as you would for any home project. Take time to compare not just prices, but what each estimate includes. Read carefully, ask questions, and make sure you’re comparing equal levels of preparation, materials, and coatings.

Take the time to find out who you are letting into your home and around your family, pets and belongings. Get references, a reputable painting contractor should provide contact details for past clients who confirm their quality of work, professionalism and reliability.

Learn more with this guide: Why Painting Quotes Vary.

Why Hiring a Residential Painter Can Be Tricky

Finding a trusted painter can be difficult compared to other tradespeople. While every profession has its range of skill and ethics, the spectrum among painters is especially broad, making careful research and selecting a reputable contractor essential. Skill levels and professionalism vary widely, from meticulous and professional to inexperienced and sloppy.

Many companies rely on temporary or seasonal workers, which can affect quality and consistency. Take time to research, verify credentials, and hire a company with a proven reputation for dependable, detailed work.

It may not be the best idea to hire this painting crew!

Where to Start When Looking for a Painter in Nanaimo

Ask for referrals from people you trust and more importantly who have quality expectations that match yours—if family or friends don’t know of anyone ask a local trades person, realtor, home inspector, or paint stores for recommendations.

Once you have a few leads, invite the painters to visit your home or job site. A professional will take time to review the space, answer your questions, and discuss your goals before preparing a detailed estimate.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Painting Company

• Who will actually do the painting, and what experience do they have?
• Does the company have long-term, skilled employees?
• Are seasonal students or sub-contracted painters hired just to book volumes of work when the labour demand is high in the exterior season?
• Will the owner or a supervisor be on-site during the job?
• Will your project be worked on continuously until it’s done or will there be delays as the painters bounce from job to job.

Scheduling Your Painting Project

Confirm the project start and completion dates. Inquire whether the crew will show up when planned and work steadily or split time between other jobs. Reliable painters will communicate clearly, stay on schedule, and minimize disruption to your home.

Questions to Ask Your Residential Painter

• Are you licensed and do you carry WorksafeBC and liability insurance?
• Can you provide references and examples of previous work?
• What steps are taken to protect my home, furniture and flooring?
• What is the payment schedule?
• Is the quote cost fixed or subject to change?
• What surface preparation is included?
• What type of brand and quality of paint will be used and how many coats?
• What is the time schedule for starting and finishing?
• Who will perform the work and what is their experience?
• As the homeowner, do you need to prepare anything before the job begins? See our guide for more info: How To Get Your House Interior Ready For Painters

Traits Of A Professional House Painter

A professional residential painter takes pride in their craft and treats your home with care. Look for someone who is:

• Punctual, courteous and organized
• A clear communicator and willing to answer questions
• Manages expectations by being honest about what can and can’t be done
• Focused on customer satisfaction with the work and overall experience
• Consistently striving for excellence on every job
• Up-to-date with paint technology, products and trends

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Unprofessional or discourteous behavior, not easy to talk to
• Verbal quotes, or quotes with little detail
• Large upfront payments or asking you to supply paint and materials
• Estimates that seem extremely high or low
• Companies that book large volumes of exterior work and may run out of time to get your job completed.
• Fly-by-night painters that don’t care about end results and may disappear after the job

Painting quotes can vary widely, making it challenging for homeowners to decide. A higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality, but an unusually low price usually means something is being compromised. Price alone should never be the determining factor when choosing a painting contractor.

One of the main reasons for price differences is preparation work. Proper prep can take longer than painting itself and is essential for a durable, professional-looking finish that will have lasting results. Painters offering extremely low quotes often rush the job, prioritizing speed over quality so that they can move on to the next job.

Other factors affecting quotes include the quality of paint and materials, the number of coats, and the experience of the laborers. A low-priced job may be rushed to maximize profit, sometimes using less skilled or temporary workers.

Factors To Consider When Comparing Quotes

• Licensing and insurance: Is the company licensed, and do they carry WorkSafeBC and liability insurance?
• Who’s doing the work: long term employees that are skilled and experienced painters are going to cost more than temporary summer students
• Quote type: Is it a fixed price, or could extras be added later?

The quote you receive doesn’t have much merit if it is lacking detail. A painting quote should outline:

• Preparation, cleaning methods, sanding and caulking
• Additional specialized work if required
• Protection and cleanup
• Type of paint and number of coats
• Rooms or exterior areas to be painted
• Specify surfaces, walls, trim, doors and ceilings
• Areas or work that are not included
• Mentions of liability insurance and WorkSafeBC coverage
• Pricing details and payment schedule

You can make even the smallest rooms feel open and inviting with the right paint colours, lighting, and décor choices. Here are some expert painting and design tips to help your home feel more spacious.

Using Monochromatic Colours To Create A Feeling Of Space

• Lighter, softer tones and neutral colour palettes make rooms feel airy and open.
• Keep contrast low between walls and ceilings—using the same shade or a lighter variation helps ceilings appear higher.
• Painting walls and trim in the same colour to create a sense of a larger, taller room.
• Different colours in every room can make a house feel cut up, while extending a harmonious or consistent colour scheme throughout the house creates a better sense of flow.
• To draw the eye through spaces -repeat patterns or accent colours from one room to the next or echo the colour into another room with accents such as throw pillows or lampshades.
• Consider wall colours that reflect what is outside the windows to visually expand your space outside.
  
  
  The lighter colouring of the walls, monochromatic colour scheme and decor of this primary bedrom make it feel light, airy and spacious.

By painting the walls and trim in the same colour it eliminates the visual break up between the two elements. To give the trim work a bit of highlight and difference it is painted with satin sheen paint, the same colour on the walls is in a lower sheen eggshell.

If the baseboards in this room were white it would create a perimeter around the room and emphasize the small floor space. By having a consistent colour on the wall and baseboard it also minimizes the fact that the ceilings are only eight feet in height.

 Furniture Placement And Scale

• If possible allow for space between your furniture and the walls to create a sense of openness. 
• Try to place furniture so that there is a spot for your eye to move along the longest distance of the room. 
• It’s better to use fewer larger well-appointed pieces of furniture, avoid too many smaller pieces. Opt for multifunctional pieces like storage ottomans, or nested tables to help reduce clutter.
• Choose sofas and other furniture with legs, open arms, or glass surfaces that let light flow through the room.
• Fabric furniture in solid colours is better in a smaller space. Create interest using textures instead of patterns. If you do use patterns keep them subdued and on a smaller scale.
• Furniture in colours closer to the wall colour gives the illusion of a bigger room, avoid high-contrast.
• Choose area rugs large enough to define the space. In some cases it might be best to skip the rug altogether so that the eye sees continuity throughout the flooring.
• If you’re designing a new kitchen or renovating take the upper kitchen cabinets right up to the ceiling to give the illusion of more height. 
  
  This bedroom far from small, but because it’s got minimal furnishings and kept uncluttered it makes it feel very airy and spacious.

How Window Coverings Affect Small Spaces

• Natural light makes a room feel larger, so let as much light in as possible. Use simple blinds or shades that fully retract, or skip coverings entirely if privacy isn’t an issue.
• Curtains can make a small room feel cramped. If used, mount rods near the ceiling and extend past the window edges to create height and width.
• Match curtain colours to the walls to keep the eye moving.
• Bonus window tip: If the outdoor view isn’t ideal, place a plant or decorative feature near the window to draw attention it.

Clear The Clutter and Let The Room Breathe

• Avoid having items competing for attention all over a room. Choose a focal point and minimize surrounding décor by selectively placing items on key surfaces like coffee tables or fireplace mantels.
• One overly large piece of artwork can give a sense of grandness to a space.
  Draw the eye up in rooms with low ceilings with vertical lines or artwork or photos arranged towards the ceilings.
• Allow small entryways, foyers or hallways to feel welcoming by using narrow console tables and keeping it light weight visually. 
• Don’t block pathways or have any areas in a room where people have to squeeze through, that creates a feeling of the space being cramped.
• As much as possible allow the eye to flow freely through a room. The further you can look into a room the bigger it will feel.