Paint Walls Last

Designing a space can be very similar to cooking. It’s about bringing different ingredients together into a cohesive, interesting and beautiful whole. Sofas, armchairs, beds and tables replace the main courses. Cushions, works of art, carpets and curtains complement the side dishes. Continuing with this tasty – albeit possibly hackneyed – analogy, wall paint can best be compared to the salt that holds the entire dish together. In the ability to form or break the ensemble, the right amount is critical.

For this reason, when decorating, our designers recommend choosing your paint color last. Think of your wall color as an accent rather than a main event. This can help bring together the different elements of an interior design scheme. “Too often I see people retreat to a corner when they pick colors first,” says Alice. “They have difficulty finding suitable parts, which lengthens the furniture buying process. Paint or wallpaper should support the furniture – not the other way around. “

Gray walls orange chair living room

A gray wall recedes and lets bright orange focal points take center stage. Image via home & garden.

Light pink wall paint color living room

A slightly blushing wall compliments the ice cream and subtle metallic accents in this living room. Photo by Tia Borgsmidt. Styling by Mette Helena Rasmussen. Image via Nordic Design.

Mint green color tufted green sofa

Plush, brightly colored furniture takes on a chic, low-key look when paired with a mint green wall paint in this interior designed by Emily Henderson. Image via Emily Henderson.

Teal wall paint bedroom

Rich tones become even stronger when they are combined with this deep, moody, blue-green wall paint in Soho House Berlin. Image via Casa Vogue.