Different Strokes for Different Folks (and Rooms) 

Paint finishes come in various sheens and shades, and each is suited for a different style preference and room. The choice of finish affects the appearance and functionality of the painted surface. 

Here are the different shades you can select for your interiors and exteriors: 

• Matte Finish: This finish has no shine and boasts a smooth, velvety look. Matte finishes, also known as flat paint, are great for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings but are not as durable as other finishes. 
• Eggshell Finish: With a slight sheen, an eggshell finish offers a bit more durability than flat or matte paint. As a result, this finish is a popular choice for living rooms and bedrooms. Low sheen paint is another option that hides imperfections while providing a manageable sheen level. 
• Satin Finish: A satin finish has a soft sheen that is easy to clean, making it perfect for high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens. 
• Semi-Gloss Finish: Shiny and reflective, this finish is also ideal for places with high exposure to moisture like the bathroom and kitchen. 
• High-Gloss Finish: It is the shiniest of finishes. The finish also boasts high durability and is easy to clean, making it ideal for doors and trimming. 

Choosing the Best Paint Finishes for a Modern Look 

Now that you are familiar with available finishes, let us go over how you can pick the right one for your interior walls based on their usage and exposure. 

1. Think of Durability and Surface Imperfections 

One of the first things to consider when you choose a finish is durability. 

When picking a durable finish, choose moisture-resistant ones for areas exposed to rain or water. For instance, semi-gloss finishes are perfect for places like the bathroom or kitchen. 

Meanwhile, high gloss paint can suit high-traffic areas due to its durability and elegant appearance. Semi-gloss paints, with their reflective qualities and durability, are also ideal for high-traffic areas like trim, windows, and doors. 

2. Consider Natural Lighting 

Lighting can also make or break how your finishes will look. When selecting based on lighting, think in terms of reflection and ambient feel. 

For example, if you are painting an interior area like your living room that gets enough sunlight, you cannot go wrong with an eggshell finish. For a more ambient and organic look, a matte finish is the way to go. 

Are you repainting a darker room? Add some shine to it with a semi or high-gloss finish. Alternatively, consider a finish that provides a subtle sheen to enhance the ambient feel while balancing durability and minimizing the visibility of imperfections. 

3. Match Your Finish with Your Room Decor 

There is more to choosing the ideal finish than just selecting coats of paint. Your paint finish should complement your existing décor and furniture. 

Different finishes can either highlight or conceal surface imperfections, depending on the desired look. If you have modern, minimalist furniture, a matte finish might enhance the look by creating a seamless backdrop. 

For spaces with lots of wood or metallic elements, a satin or semi-gloss finish can help tie everything together. 

4. Consider Maintenance 

Finally, maintenance should also be on your list of considerations. If you are going the low-maintenance route, select finishes based on how much traffic an area gets. 

For instance, durable finishes like satin paint and semi-gloss are excellent for hallways and kids’ rooms because of how easy they are to clean. 

Need More Help Picking the Best Paint for a Modern Look? Reach Out 

Choosing the best paint finish for your home can be a tricky task, even with our guide. If you need a team who can work with you as you bring your dream interiors and exteriors to life, we are just a call away. 

For bespoke painting and finishing for your Washington home, contact us at EA Pro Painters today.