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Choosing the perfect paint color may seem like a small step in the remodeling process, but it plays a powerful role in bringing your vision to life. From setting the mood to tying together cabinetry, flooring, countertops, and lighting, color is a key design element that can transform how a space looks and feels. Rather than treating paint color as an afterthought, consider it a creative opportunity. With a little guidance and exploration, finding the right palette becomes an exciting and rewarding part of the journey.
Embrace the Process
Your designer is an invaluable resource, and they’re already there to guide you through the process, from planning the perfect layout to choosing flooring, cabinets, countertops, and other elements. They can provide targeted recommendations (and actual colors!) that will artfully complement the features of your space.
Working with your designer is crucial, but consider a few tips to help you along your color journey:
Search for Inspiration
While your designer can provide great guidance, color selection is all about what resonates with you. Browse sites like The Spruce, Houzz, Pinterest, and ACo’s Project Gallery, as well as home design magazines/shows to start. Visit model homes or showrooms to see color combinations in a real-life setting. As you explore, save images to refer back to later and to share with your designer.
Pro Tip: Bring samples of key materials (e.g. tile, flooring) with you as you look at paint swatches to see how they work together.
Always Test Your Choices
When you find a color or combination you love, put it to the test. A swatch can spark your imagination, but purchase samples of your favorites and paint larger areas (i.e. at least a foot square) on different walls in your kitchen. View them at different times of day and under various lighting conditions for a few days. Ask for feedback from your designer.
Prepare to Set the Mood
Do you picture a bright, airy space? A cozy, intimate ambience? Lighter colors tend to make rooms feel larger and more open, while darker colors lend a touch of warmth and drama.
Consider Undertones
Every color on the spectrum has an undertone (red, blue, yellow, or green). How might the undertones in your top contenders interact with other colors in your space? A grey that appears neutral, for example, may have a blue or green undertone that clashes with warm-toned countertops. Another compelling argument for testing colors right in your space and receiving professional input.
Factor in the Finish
The paint’s finish impacts the look and feel of your space. Typically, we recommend a matte or eggshell for walls because it’s easier to clean than a flat finish and less shiny than gloss or semi-gloss. For your trim and cabinets, we’d likely turn to gloss and semi-gloss, which are exceptionally durable and easy to wipe down.
…Speaking of Cabinets
Cabinets are an “anchor” of the kitchen; they help define its layout and space, significantly influencing functionality and aesthetics. Color or stain is key. Some people use the 60/30/10 Rule, where 60% of the room is in a primary color (or, in this case, stain) , 30% in a secondary color, and 10% in an accent color. As an anchoring element, your cabinets would be the primary color, while the walls play that secondary role and hardware and other touches deliver the pop of accent personality.
Pro Tip: Stay with te same undertones, as discussed, to pull these elements together. And remember that rules are made to be bent or broken; discuss options with your designer for optimal results.
Find the Perfect Palette
Choosing paint colors can, and should, be a fun step in the remodeling process. Take your time, experiment, test, and trust your designer to create a space you’ll love spending time in.
ACo is here to help. Visit our Showroom + Design Studio or schedule a design consultation to discuss your project goals.
