Posted by
Emma Reddington
Friday, February 3, 2012 12:45 PM EDT
Paint is hands down the most useful tool in the designer’s or serial renovator’s arsenal. To this day, I am amazed at what a simple coat of paint can do for a room, or a piece of furniture for that matter. I’ve been known to wander into a paint store on a Saturday and have an entire bedroom or living room painted by Monday. Once I imagine a room with a new paint colour it’s hard to stop me. The best thing about paint is that the transformation is so dramatic, yet painting is relatively low-commitment -- if you're like me, the fancy to refresh the walls can strike at any time! Here; five of my go-to paint colours of late.
"Herringbone", Sarah Richardson Designer Palette for Para Paints
Stacey Brandford, Sarah's House 4
Grey rose to the top of the colour charts a few years back as the most popular choice for a neutral wall shade. And why not? It’s sophisticated and calming and looks great when paired with white or a soft cream. My favourite greys are ones with a touch of warmth to them like this one called Herringbone by Sarah Richardson for Para Paints. Use it like Sarah did in a kitchen or as a moody backdrop for a romantic bedroom.
"Parchment Paper", Olympic Paint
Roger Davies
Every designer has a favourite white in their toolbox they use again and again. I’m partial to this warm white called Parchment Paper by Olympic Paints. It works well in a range of interiors from the ultra contemporary to the more traditional. Depending on the direction of the room and the amount of light, the colour can shift from a warm oyster to a pale, warm grey.
"Deep Space", Benjamin Moore
Ashley Capp
Dark grey or black walls have become increasingly popular because of the dramatic transformation they offer. I chose this deep blue-grey called Deep Space by Benjamin Moore for a downtown loft we were working on. The client’s explosive, kaleidoscopic art demanded a backdrop that was both bold and complementary. Think about using this colour in a small room like an office or bathroom or as a feature wall in a bedroom or living room.
"Hague Blue", Farrow and Ball
William Waldron; Farrow and Ball
Every time I see this deep majestic green-blue by Farrow and Ball used on a wall or piece of furniture I want to run out and buy a can. There is something old world about it that reminds me of a Vermeer masterpiece. Paired with brass details, as pictured above, it is on trend for 2012 and yet still classic and timeless. I think it is particularly stunning when painted in a high gloss finish as we see in the Miles Redd-designed kitchen above.
"Revere Pewter", Benjamin Moore
Johnny Valiant; The Marion House Book
If you ask me, Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter is the best all around neutral out there. It has just enough soft, fawny grey in it to be considered something other than off white. If you’re looking to add a bit of personality to your room but are afraid to go beyond white try this elegant neutral. You’ll be amazed at what it can do for a room.
