Choosing Paint Colours: The Final Step in Your Design Process
When most people imagine redesigning a space, the first thing that comes to mind is paint. But in reality, choosing a paint colour should come last—not first—when planning a home renovation or interior design project. Why?
- Because your paint colour needs to complement your permanent hard finishes, not compete with them
- Because paint comes in almost every colour under the sun and is generally easier to change, it makes more sense to choose the less flexible pieces first
- This final decision plays a huge role in tying your whole space together
Let’s walk through a practical, step-by-step process for how to choose the perfect paint colours that elevate everything else in your room.
Why Paint Should Come Last in the Design Process
In design, paint is one of the most flexible—and affordable—elements to change. On the other hand, features like flooring, countertops, cabinetry, and tile are much more permanent and costly. That’s why it’s essential to choose your hard finishes first, and let those guide your paint colour decision.
A well-chosen wall colour will:
- Enhance the undertones in your wood, stone, or tile
- Serve as a neutral backdrop that doesn’t overpower the space
- Help create a cohesive, polished, and intentional look
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Step-by-Step: How to Choose the Right Wall Paint Colours
1. Lay Out Your Hard Finish Samples
Before can choose your paint colour, you should have already chosen your hard finishes—flooring, countertop, backsplash, cabinetry, etc. Place these samples on a white backdrop to keep the focus on your finishes without colour interference.
2. Bring Out Your Paint Colour Deck
Open your paint fan deck and slowly fan it over the samples. This is where you begin to see how various shades interact with what you’ve chosen for your other materials.
3. Look for Harmony
Notice which paint swatches complement or enhance the tones in your finishes. Some colours may pull out beautiful undertones you hadn’t noticed before, others may perfectly “bridge the gap” between different materials/patterns, while others might serve as a calming, neutral background.
Pro Tip: Let your countertop or flooring act as the “anchor,” as these are typically the most visually busy pieces. You don’t want to have too many things competing for attention, so coordinate your other material selections AND wall colour to support your “anchor” rather than compete with it.
4. Start Narrowing Down
Begin the elimination process. Hold each potential colour directly against your samples and remove those that clash or feel off. Keep your focus on undertones and warmth or coolness.
5. Select Up to Three Finalists
Pick up to three strong contenders for your final decision-making. These will be the shades you test out in real lighting conditions.
6. Sample Your Paints at Home
Head to the paint store and get small sample cans of each colour. Paint large swatches onto cardboard or poster board (not directly on your wall), and hold them next to your finishes in different lighting throughout the day. This real life context will give you a better idea for the how the actual paint colour, texture, and finish look in the actual environment.
7. Make Your Final Decision
Once you’ve seen how each colour performs with your finishes and lighting, make your final choice with confidence! And be assured that you can fairly easily try a different paint colour if you’re not happy with the result.
Understanding Paint Finishes: Matte to Gloss
Choosing the right paint finish is just as important as choosing the right colour. Paint finishes range in sheen from flat/matte to high gloss, each with its own look and durability:
Pro Tip: These same colour selection steps can also be applied to your millwork, interior doors, or cabinetry paint colours.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Paint Choice Is a Powerful One
Choosing the right paint isn’t just about picking your favourite shade—it’s about creating visual harmony in your space. By waiting until the end of the design process and referencing your permanent finishes, you’ll ensure your final result is cohesive, timeless, and custom to your home.
