As the weather begins to cool, I think many folks will be contemplating an indoor project or two! We've posted a number of videos to spark your imagination or to provide handy tips.
Let me know your thoughts and where and when your next project will happen.
Thanks,
Debbie
http://www.paintquality.com/homeowners/paint-design/videos.html
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Color Trends 2010
Color trends for 2010 take inspiration from a variety of social and economic influences. In addition, living space personalization continues to act as a driver for color change with accent walls or niche areas appropriate for small doses of high impact, bold color while using more subtle hues on broad wall areas.
Regardless of the purpose, a fresh coat of paint remains one of the most economical ways to accomplish all three as homeowners continue to strive for comfortable, tranquil home environments. No matter which hue attracts attention this year, consumers continue to have an increased appreciation for paint quality and value. And, why not? It remains a personal choice for a personal space.
Let us know your thoughts!
Good Morning
While over-the-top renovations aren’t the norm today, handy homeowners are tackling small manageable home improvements, such as the addition of a morning kitchen to a bedroom or home office.
With consumers continued desire to create both warm and functional spaces the Good Morning palette consists of hues that are fresh, clean and comfortable.
Color Recommendations
Honey-like hues such as tan or pale gold
Coral
Yellow
Mineral Grey
Good Night
The inspiration for the Good Night palette comes from above—the ceiling. Why sleep beneath a lackluster white canopy? Wrap any space with constant color by painting the ceiling in a tint, tone or shade of the wall color or add a softer touch by paring pastel hues. From pastels to deep-tones, Good Night hues, as you might expect, are especially useful in bedrooms and baths or to “warm-up” a family space.
Color Recommendations
Pastel hues, particularly pale blue or shell pink for ceilings
Midnight blue
Eggplant Wine
Good Bye Home staging continues to grow in popularity as property owners look for home sale assistance. The Good Bye palette reflects an assortment of simplistic hues that work across a variety of spaces creating a welcoming first impression and suitable backdrop for any living area.
Whether you’re saying good-bye to one home or hello to another, this classic palette is suitable for all areas and is an especially good choice for foyers, kitchens and family living spaces.
Color Recommendations
Khaki pared with crisp white
Mid-toned Blues
Off-White
Bisque
Black
Regardless of the purpose, a fresh coat of paint remains one of the most economical ways to accomplish all three as homeowners continue to strive for comfortable, tranquil home environments. No matter which hue attracts attention this year, consumers continue to have an increased appreciation for paint quality and value. And, why not? It remains a personal choice for a personal space.
Let us know your thoughts!
Good Morning
While over-the-top renovations aren’t the norm today, handy homeowners are tackling small manageable home improvements, such as the addition of a morning kitchen to a bedroom or home office.
With consumers continued desire to create both warm and functional spaces the Good Morning palette consists of hues that are fresh, clean and comfortable.
Color Recommendations
Honey-like hues such as tan or pale gold
Coral
Yellow
Mineral Grey
Good Night
The inspiration for the Good Night palette comes from above—the ceiling. Why sleep beneath a lackluster white canopy? Wrap any space with constant color by painting the ceiling in a tint, tone or shade of the wall color or add a softer touch by paring pastel hues. From pastels to deep-tones, Good Night hues, as you might expect, are especially useful in bedrooms and baths or to “warm-up” a family space.
Color Recommendations
Pastel hues, particularly pale blue or shell pink for ceilings
Midnight blue
Eggplant Wine
Good Bye Home staging continues to grow in popularity as property owners look for home sale assistance. The Good Bye palette reflects an assortment of simplistic hues that work across a variety of spaces creating a welcoming first impression and suitable backdrop for any living area.
Whether you’re saying good-bye to one home or hello to another, this classic palette is suitable for all areas and is an especially good choice for foyers, kitchens and family living spaces.
Color Recommendations
Khaki pared with crisp white
Mid-toned Blues
Off-White
Bisque
Black
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Painting Tips, Especially for First-Timers!
Prior experience is essential when tackling many home improvement projects. But not so with interior painting. Even first-time painters can get super results when painting their newly purchased house, condo or apartment...and have a lot of fun in the process. Whether personalizing an entire new living space or updating one room at a time, paint is the do-it-yourselfer's best decorating tool.
Like building a wardrobe, selecting a paint palette for your living space is a great form of personal expression. But be aware that the shade of paint you see on a color card - or even in the paint can - may look a lot different when applied to an entire room. To avoid surprises, follow these handy tips:
Don’t make your final color selection in the store; instead, take color cards home so you can see them right in the space that will be painted.
Evaluate the paint colors in daylight and under artificial light at night. Colors can change quite dramatically in different lighting conditions.
Remember that colors tend to intensify when applied to a large area. To compensate, it is often wise to choose a lighter value of a color, rather than a darker one.
When you go to purchase your paint, the counterperson will likely ask which “gloss level” you’d prefer. Paints come in a variety of sheen or gloss levels ranging from “high gloss” (the shiniest) to “flat” (virtually no shine). Those with higher gloss reflect more light, so they can make a room look brighter. On the other hand, higher gloss paints also tend to highlight surface imperfections, so if your walls and other surfaces are not in the best of shape, a flat paint might be the better option.
Color and sheen aside, the most important decision you’ll make in the paint store is the quality of paint you purchase. Top quality paints provide superior adhesion, offer better stain resistance, and resist yellowing. They also are tougher and more durable than ordinary paints, so they’ll keep a paint job looking great for a longer period of time. Bottom line: Don’t skimp on quality.
Before you le ave the paint store, make sure that you have the right tools and brushes to do the job. Here again, quality counts — high quality brushes and rollers apply the paint more smoothly and evenly than economy-grade equipment. In addition, quality tools apply a heavier coat of paint that will help hide the color below, be more durable, and stand up better to cleaning and scrubbing.
Once you bring your purchases home, you’ll be tempted to start painting right away, but most walls and woodwork need to be cleaned first to help the paint adhere better. You can remove dust, dirt and grime with a simple detergent and water solution, after which you should rinse the surface clean and allow it to dry. If nail holes are present, they can be plugged with filling compound. Small cracks can be filled with a quality acrylic latex caulk.
Applying paint to interior walls is as simple as “framing” them by painting the outside edges with a brush, then filling in the center with your roller. An effective way to do this is to roll on the paint in a large “W” or “M” pattern, then fill it in, working in various directions.
When you’re done painting, protect your investment in the brushes and rollers by cleaning and storing them properly.
Always take safety precautions while painting. That means, among other things, not climbing a ladder any higher than the third rung from the top, making sure all stepstools are sturdy and locked into position before use, and wearing the proper eye and skin protection while preparing the surface and painting.
Like building a wardrobe, selecting a paint palette for your living space is a great form of personal expression. But be aware that the shade of paint you see on a color card - or even in the paint can - may look a lot different when applied to an entire room. To avoid surprises, follow these handy tips:
Don’t make your final color selection in the store; instead, take color cards home so you can see them right in the space that will be painted.
Evaluate the paint colors in daylight and under artificial light at night. Colors can change quite dramatically in different lighting conditions.
Remember that colors tend to intensify when applied to a large area. To compensate, it is often wise to choose a lighter value of a color, rather than a darker one.
When you go to purchase your paint, the counterperson will likely ask which “gloss level” you’d prefer. Paints come in a variety of sheen or gloss levels ranging from “high gloss” (the shiniest) to “flat” (virtually no shine). Those with higher gloss reflect more light, so they can make a room look brighter. On the other hand, higher gloss paints also tend to highlight surface imperfections, so if your walls and other surfaces are not in the best of shape, a flat paint might be the better option.
Color and sheen aside, the most important decision you’ll make in the paint store is the quality of paint you purchase. Top quality paints provide superior adhesion, offer better stain resistance, and resist yellowing. They also are tougher and more durable than ordinary paints, so they’ll keep a paint job looking great for a longer period of time. Bottom line: Don’t skimp on quality.
Before you le ave the paint store, make sure that you have the right tools and brushes to do the job. Here again, quality counts — high quality brushes and rollers apply the paint more smoothly and evenly than economy-grade equipment. In addition, quality tools apply a heavier coat of paint that will help hide the color below, be more durable, and stand up better to cleaning and scrubbing.
Once you bring your purchases home, you’ll be tempted to start painting right away, but most walls and woodwork need to be cleaned first to help the paint adhere better. You can remove dust, dirt and grime with a simple detergent and water solution, after which you should rinse the surface clean and allow it to dry. If nail holes are present, they can be plugged with filling compound. Small cracks can be filled with a quality acrylic latex caulk.
Applying paint to interior walls is as simple as “framing” them by painting the outside edges with a brush, then filling in the center with your roller. An effective way to do this is to roll on the paint in a large “W” or “M” pattern, then fill it in, working in various directions.
When you’re done painting, protect your investment in the brushes and rollers by cleaning and storing them properly.
Always take safety precautions while painting. That means, among other things, not climbing a ladder any higher than the third rung from the top, making sure all stepstools are sturdy and locked into position before use, and wearing the proper eye and skin protection while preparing the surface and painting.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Color "Moods" part 2!
As promised, here is a bit of information on "cool" colors.
"Cool Hues"
Blue, green, and violet Blues, greens, violets and their intermediates are considered cool colors because of their references to pastoral landscapes and ocean vistas. When we look at these colors they elicit feelings of peace, tranquility and relaxation.
Blue
Soothing blue is an ideal bedroom color choice for adults and children. But that same blue that lulls us to sleep also suppresses our appetites, possibly because there are very few naturally blue foods. Put blue to bed, but try and keep it out of the dining room.
Green
As the dominant color in nature, we are at home with green anywhere in the house. Light greens work well in baths and living rooms; mid-range greens are a great accent for kitchens and dining rooms. The calming effect of green makes it popular in hospitals, schools and work environments.
Violet
Despite the favorable response violet elicits in children, many adults dislike purples, with rosier shades of violet being somewhat more appealing. Children's bedrooms and play areas may be good places to experiment with this color family.
"Cool Hues"
Blue, green, and violet Blues, greens, violets and their intermediates are considered cool colors because of their references to pastoral landscapes and ocean vistas. When we look at these colors they elicit feelings of peace, tranquility and relaxation.
Blue
Soothing blue is an ideal bedroom color choice for adults and children. But that same blue that lulls us to sleep also suppresses our appetites, possibly because there are very few naturally blue foods. Put blue to bed, but try and keep it out of the dining room.
Green
As the dominant color in nature, we are at home with green anywhere in the house. Light greens work well in baths and living rooms; mid-range greens are a great accent for kitchens and dining rooms. The calming effect of green makes it popular in hospitals, schools and work environments.
Violet
Despite the favorable response violet elicits in children, many adults dislike purples, with rosier shades of violet being somewhat more appealing. Children's bedrooms and play areas may be good places to experiment with this color family.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Color "Moods"
Without a doubt there is a psychology of color. Color impacts our mood, our appetite, our energy level. For this entry, I thought I would share information on "color mood". We'll look at hues that tend to "warm a space" and later look at colors that provide a cooler appearance.
"Warm Hues"
Colors in the red, orange and yellow families are referred to as "warm" colors since they evoke images associated with heat, like fire or sunshine. As a result they make us feel warm in a psychological sense.
Red: This powerful color increases blood pressure and heart rate. It often produces feelings of intimacy, energy, and passion. It also stimulates the appetite and is often used in restaurants and is an excellent choice for dining rooms in the home.
Orange: Like red, orange warms a room but in a less dramatic and passionate way. The mood and attitude of orange is more friendly than fiery; more welcoming than seductive. Orange works well in living rooms and family rooms and is also a good choice for children's bedrooms.
Yellow: Yellow grabs attention and catches the eye like no other color, hence the use of yellow highlighters in offices. In poorly lit foyers and hallways, yellow shows the way. In their bedrooms, elderly people report that yellow lifts their mood. But bright yellow can be too strong and may actually cause anxiety in infants, young children and the elderly.
Let me know if you have "changed" the mood in your space by painting with any of the featured hues!
"Warm Hues"
Colors in the red, orange and yellow families are referred to as "warm" colors since they evoke images associated with heat, like fire or sunshine. As a result they make us feel warm in a psychological sense.
Red: This powerful color increases blood pressure and heart rate. It often produces feelings of intimacy, energy, and passion. It also stimulates the appetite and is often used in restaurants and is an excellent choice for dining rooms in the home.
Orange: Like red, orange warms a room but in a less dramatic and passionate way. The mood and attitude of orange is more friendly than fiery; more welcoming than seductive. Orange works well in living rooms and family rooms and is also a good choice for children's bedrooms.
Yellow: Yellow grabs attention and catches the eye like no other color, hence the use of yellow highlighters in offices. In poorly lit foyers and hallways, yellow shows the way. In their bedrooms, elderly people report that yellow lifts their mood. But bright yellow can be too strong and may actually cause anxiety in infants, young children and the elderly.
Let me know if you have "changed" the mood in your space by painting with any of the featured hues!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Selecting a Paint Palette
Like building a wardrobe, selecting a paint palette for your living space is a great form of personal expression. But be aware that the shade of paint you see on a color card — or even in the paint can —may look a lot different when applied to an entire room. To avoid surprises, follow these steps:
Don’t make your final color selection in the store; instead, take color cards or actual paint samples home so you can see them right in the space that will be painted.
Evaluate the paint colors in daylight and under artificial light at night. Colors can change quite dramatically in different lighting conditions.
Remember that colors tend to intensify when applied to a large area. To compensate, it is often wise to choose a lighter value of a color, rather than a darker one.
Paints come in a variety of sheen or gloss levels ranging from “high gloss” (the shiniest) to “flat” (virtually no shine). Those with higher gloss reflect more light, so they can make a room look brighter. On the other hand, higher gloss paints also tend to highlight surface imperfections, so if your walls and other surfaces are not in the best of shape, a flat paint might be the better option.
Don’t make your final color selection in the store; instead, take color cards or actual paint samples home so you can see them right in the space that will be painted.
Evaluate the paint colors in daylight and under artificial light at night. Colors can change quite dramatically in different lighting conditions.
Remember that colors tend to intensify when applied to a large area. To compensate, it is often wise to choose a lighter value of a color, rather than a darker one.
Paints come in a variety of sheen or gloss levels ranging from “high gloss” (the shiniest) to “flat” (virtually no shine). Those with higher gloss reflect more light, so they can make a room look brighter. On the other hand, higher gloss paints also tend to highlight surface imperfections, so if your walls and other surfaces are not in the best of shape, a flat paint might be the better option.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Paint's Impact on Room Size
Did you know that paint color can actually alter the dimensions of a room? Well, it can’t literally do that. But it can alter how the dimensions are perceived, which is the next best thing. By taking a cue from fashion, your living space can be viewed as larger or smaller, taller or shorter.
A light-colored paint will make a small room appear bigger, for instance. And darker shades will make a large room seem much more intimate. These types of paint-induced optical illusions can be used with excellent results in almost any space.
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