Colour is one of the simplest ways to update your space, but choosing paint colours can feel like the hardest part of the process. With endless options and subtle undertones, it’s easy to second-guess yourself. This guide offers practical, straightforward tips for choosing paint colours so you can feel confident about the look and feel of your room before you even pick up a brush.
1. Start with the Purpose of the Room
Before diving into colour charts, think about how the room is used. Is it a place to unwind, focus, or entertain? Soft blues and greens can create a calming atmosphere in bedrooms and home offices. Neutral tones suit living areas, while bolder shades might work well in dining rooms or kitchens if used selectively.
Understanding how the space functions makes it easier to narrow down your choices and select colours that support how the room is meant to feel.
2. Pay Attention to Light
Light plays a major role in how a paint colour looks once it’s on the wall. North-facing rooms often feel cooler, so warm colours can balance them out. South-facing rooms tend to get even more natural light, giving you more flexibility. Colours can also change throughout the day depending on the time and type of lighting in the room.
If you’re wondering how to choose paint colours that will actually work in your space, always test them at different times of day. A warm grey might suddenly look blue under LED lighting or in the afternoon sun.
3. Test First, Not Last
One of the best tips for choosing paint colours is to test a few before making your final decision. Sample pots are worth the small cost. Paint swatches on your actual walls, not just on paper, and take note of how they look near trim, flooring, and furniture.
Give yourself at least 24 hours to observe the colour in changing light. The extra step can save you time and money later.
4. Coordinate with What’s Already in the Room
Your wall colour needs to work with the fixed elements in your space. Consider your floors, tiles, benchtops, and larger furniture. If a rug or piece of artwork is staying, it can guide your colour choice. Pay attention to undertones, cool tones, and warm tones don’t always play nicely together.
A well-chosen paint colour can tie the room together and make everything feel intentional, even if you’re only updating the walls.
5. Choose the Right Paint for the Job
Not all paint is made for every space. Bathrooms and laundry rooms need products that can handle humidity and frequent cleaning. For wet areas, we recommend using the best paint for bathrooms to avoid issues like peeling or mould.
Also consider the finish. Matte hides imperfections but is harder to clean. Gloss and satin are more durable but show surface flaws more clearly. Choosing both the right colour and the right product is essential to getting a good result.
6. Understand Application Basics
Even the best paint colour won’t look right if the job is rushed. Make sure you follow proper recoat times. If you’re not sure how long to wait, see our guide on waiting between paint coats. Applying a second coat too soon can cause lifting or patchiness, while waiting too long may require sanding or re-priming.
If you’re using multiple colours, plan your transitions so the changes feel deliberate, not abrupt.
7. Think About Aftercare
Freshly painted rooms often come with lingering odours. If you’re sensitive to smells or working in a small, enclosed space, consider using low-VOC products and take steps to get rid of paint smell after the job is done. Proper ventilation and smart product choices can make the space more comfortable, especially in bedrooms or high-use areas.
8. Know When to Call in a Pro
Painting is more than rolling colour onto walls. Prep work, product choice, and finish all matter. If your space includes high ceilings, textured surfaces, or if you’re just unsure where to start, hiring a painter can be a smart move.
Professional painters can offer guidance, manage the technical steps, and get the job done quickly and cleanly. Whether you need help finalising colours or want to hand over the whole process, hire painters who know how to get it right the first time.
Let’s Get Your Colours Sorted
Choosing paint colours doesn’t need to be stressful. With a bit of planning and the right information, you can find a shade that complements your space and holds up over time. Remember to test, observe how colour behaves with light, and choose products suited to the room’s use.
And if you need expert advice or just want the job done well, we’re here to help.
Book a quote today and let’s bring your space to life with the right colour.
