An easy and relatively inexpensive way to update your home is by changing the paint. You will be surprised how a slight color change can dramatically transform the look and feel of any room at a fraction of the cost of remodeling. There’s no other single element in your home that can make such an extreme statement like a can of paint. The most popular interior colors for 2014 are non-traditional neutrals, like muted teals and dusty greens. Warm grays are trending this year, too. Custom samples of paint are a great way to choose exactly what feels good in your living space.
For large rooms with lots of light, try a bold and dramatic accent wall. Choose the most dynamic wall in the room you would like to showcase. A fireplace wall or an entertainment center wall are great places to start. For smaller rooms or rooms with less light, try a subtle accent wall, like a window or closet wall. The type of sheen will also make a difference on how the accent wall appears. A flat or satin finish paint will give a different look from a semi-gloss or gloss paint. Accent colors will bring warmth and attitude to any room, especially a living room, kitchen or great room.
Faux finishes are types of painting techniques that can make a wall appear to have a design imprinted on the wall(s). Faux finishing can be a simple as sponging and as involved as troweling on a Venetian plaster. A simple faux technique is a colored glaze applied to existing paint. Choose an easy application method like sponging for subtle or dramatic effects. Simply stipple the glazed dipped sea sponge on the wall. Close together for a uniform pattern or farther apart for a bolder, busier look. Other techniques include rags, plastic or paper bags and foam stencils. Try a dark glaze over a light wall or vice a versa, whichever suits your personality and room.
If you are looking to paint a child’s room or office, brush on chalkboard or dry erase paints are available. Kids can write on the wall to their hearts’ content and you don’t have to worry about scrubbing the markers off the wall. The dry erase paint can also work in an office or den.
Another option, with a little more work than just paint, is to install a chair rail in a room. The chair rail can be three to four feet off the floor. Paint a bolder tone below the chair rail, giving the room an elegant look and feel. Wainscoting is similar with 36”-39” paneling installed at the floorboard level. There are different styles and patterns available and all can be painted or stained to accent the warmth of a room. The wainscoting can change a plain dining room or den into a warm room infused with character.
The bathroom is a great room to update. Again, using subtle colors for smaller rooms and bolder colors for the larger, well-lighted rooms. A good accent area may be the shower/tub area, provided the tile or tub surround doesn’t reach the ceiling. Perhaps accent the wall above the sink and the vanity. Make your bathroom pop! Be sure to use satin, semi-gloss or even gloss sheen for longer lasting finish and easier cleaning.
You can find great paint, faux finishes and painting supplies at Prescott True Value. Stop by the paint desk at Prescott True Value for more information, expert advice and help for your painting projects. Also look for next month’s article on the secrets for making your painting project look professional. QCBN
NORMAL Suzanne Springer and TRUE VALUE BIO HERE PLEASE
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