Paint Finishes 101
This week we’re diving into the world of paint finishes—an often overlooked but incredibly impactful element of interior design. From soft, velvety mattes to sleek, high-gloss sheens, the finish you choose can completely transform the mood, lighting, and personality of a space. Understanding how each finish interacts with color, texture, and light is essential.
This weeks finds
High-Gloss vs Semi-Gloss
High gloss reflects light dramatically, adds bold contrast, and showcases every detail, while semi-gloss offers a softer glow that’s easier on the eyes, more forgiving on surfaces, and still durable enough for high-use areas.
Using semi-gloss paint on the ceiling can create a sleek, upscale look without significantly increasing costs. However, because this finish reflects more light, it will highlight any imperfections—so the surface needs to be smooth and even.
Specialty Finishes
Basic Finishes
Flat/Matte has no shine and is great for hiding wall imperfections, making it ideal for low-traffic areas like ceilings or adult bedrooms.
Eggshell offers a soft, subtle sheen with better durability and washability than flat, so it works well in moderate-traffic rooms like living rooms or dining areas.
Satin finish has a smooth, velvety glow and is more durable and easier to clean, making it perfect for high-traffic spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, and kids’ rooms.
Project Highlight: Hôtel de La Boétie by Beata Heuman
Beata Heuman, known for her whimsical and refined interiors, brought her signature style to Hôtel de La Boétie in Paris’s 8th arrondissement. Blending bold color blocking with natural materials and playful custom details, she completely transformed the 19th-century building.
