Brought to you by Caribbean Colors Ltd
Photography courtesy of Sherwin Williams
Nothing can change the look of a home faster than a fresh coat of paint.
Whether your entire home needs a refresh or you simply want to update a room with a bold pop of colour, these ideas, tips, and tricks will help you get the look you’ve been dreaming of.
Colour Inspiration
It’s hard to know what colours will stand the test of time, and equally hard to know what colour trends are popular at any given moment. The experts at Sherwin Williams have created three collections of beautiful colours that will serve as popular, trendy options in 2018 and will stay beautiful for years to come.
- Sincerity Collection. This beautiful collection of muted greys and browns are the hottest neutrals that will also look great in any room. Some blush pinks are included for pops of colour and this entire collection will create a soft, soothing feel throughout the home.
- Unity Collection. Fitting in beautifully with the global melting pot of cultures in the Caribbean, the Unity collection offers bold tones of sunset red, flamingo pink, and peacock blue. Paired with muted browns, these colours celebrate the connection of discovering new cultures and new places.
- Connectivity Collection. A modern collection of bright hues, these greens, blues, and purples are perfect for anyone wanting an off-the-moment colour update for their home.
How to Choose Colours
It’s one thing to love a colour on the paint card, but it’s another thing to paint an entire wall or room and actually live with that colour. These ideas can help you choose the best shade for every wall in your home.
- Living Room. This room should be comfortable and ultimately, liveable. If your furniture, rugs, or artwork have large shapes or patterns, choose a colour that coordinates with the most prominent hue. Today’s trendiest neutral is grey; it allows for any accent colours—muted or bright— to really shine!
- This room is one of the most-used in the home, so make sure the colours will weather well with everyday wear and tear. Let the light in the room—both natural and artificial—help you determine which shade will look best at any time of day.
- Consider first the main function of a bathroom. A powder room won’t be used every day but will be the main restroom for guests, so bright colours and patterns can work here in creating a fun and playful space.
- Master Bedroom. This area should be the most restful in your home, so choose a colour that is not only serene but one that you actually like. Don’t be fooled into thinking a bedroom has to be a neutral shade though. Bold colours can still take centre stage, just consider using a lighter tint to keep the look soft and more peaceful.
Selecting the Right Paint
Paint technology has come a long way since your parents or grandparents painted their home. Most paints come in oil or latex based versions.
The glossier the paint, the easier it will be to clean. Consider what wear and tear the walls in a particular space may get when choosing your paint finish. A high-gloss finish should be used on an area you want to accent, such as cabinetry or wood. Flat finishes are best for low-traffic areas and ceilings. Semi-gloss and satin finishes work well in rooms that may need the occasional wipe-down, such as kids’ rooms or dining areas.
Paint for Decks and Outdoor Areas
Not only does the interior of a home need a periodic refresh, but outdoor areas can also benefit from a fresh coat of paint or stain.
Decide first on what you wish your deck or patio to look and feel like. Stains with a higher lustre finish offer better UV protection, which will extend the life of a deck in the Caribbean sun. Choose a paint or stain that can also withstand the humid climate, as well as offer a decent degree of water-repellence.
Preparation is Key
Painting a room takes some time. After choosing your colour and paint, actually preparing the walls or surface correctly can dramatically change the outcome of your project.
First, cleaning the wall will give you a fresh start (yes, walls can get dirty). Next, repair any minor holes or damage to walls with filler and sand them down to reduce any textural differences. Once the surface is ready, taping the area well will save time and headache down the line.
Take the time to actually remove light switch covers and electrical outlet plates. Be sure that furniture is removed or covered with tarps or drop cloths, and don’t forget to cover flooring as well. If painting over a dark wall or simply to create a brighter, fresher end-product, consider priming the wall before adding the chosen colour.
Top Tips
Clean Before You Paint. Yes, you can and should clean your walls before you paint. A simple swipe of a microfiber cloth can take dust and minor dirt off a wall and make it a better surface for paint. For walls that need more serious washing, be sure to allow time for them to dry before painting.
Have A Plan. Try to tackle one room at a time. Your project won’t feel as big or overwhelming when you know you can complete it in a single weekend. Depending on what you’re painting, plan to begin with ceilings, then move to walls, and paint trim last.
Be Patient. Even the best plans don’t often go off without a hitch. Set aside adequate time for preparation, painting and drying. By allowing the paint to dry and set well, there is a smaller chance of needing touch-ups later.
Rule of Three. Avoid becoming overwhelmed by choosing three colours per room. Sticking to the rule of three will help the room look cohesively put together. The rule of three should be 60% (wall colour), 30% secondary colour (an accent wall or upholstery) and 10% home decor accents.
Stir the Paint. Be sure to give the paint a good mix before pouring it into a tray. Don’t dip your brush or roller directly in the paint can as the colour may not be evenly distributed.
Choose the Right Tools. Rollers come in various thicknesses and are preferable for large areas and hard-to-reach spots. Brushes are good for painting furniture and also offer greater control for detail work.
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