Ways with
PAINT Quick, affordable and versatile, paint transforms spaces inside and out in creative ways that offer decorative impact
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hether considering a complete redecoration or a quick update, the versatility of paint opens up opportunities to add creative details and be bold with colour. A medium that can used in any decorating project, whether on woodwork, ceilings or walls, paint is relatively easy and affordable to change as desired, as well as to match to a preferred textile choice for a cohesive look. It allows for a bold contrast in block colours without the added worry of successfully combining patterns, and the range of finishes available offers a chance to subtly but effectively transform the completed look. Here we look at ways to combine colours, add playful details on different surfaces, inside and out, to make the most of this essential, useful and transformative decorative tool.
70 THE ENGLISH HOME
HIGH CONTRAST Use contrasting colours of paint on walls, woodwork and original architectural features to make a striking style statement, perhaps adding a bold flash of colour above a picture rail (as shown above) or painting the top or bottom half of a room in different colours. A dark colour at the bottom helps to ground the room and everything in it.
For a softer look, teaming a lighter colour with a darker one to highlight certain features such as a fireplace or alcove brings areas of light to a rich and cosy scheme. Contrast can be helpful, too, in zoning spaces or creating a backdrop to something – a bright colour around a bath, or behind a bed – or to give distinction to an area within an open-plan room.
ABOVE Use block colours to experiment with bold colour contrasting. Cornicing, Slaked Lime; picture rail and above, Leather; below picture rail, Pea Green; skirting and window, Obsidian Green, all from £48.50 for 2.5l Absolute Matt Emulsion, Little Greene OPPOSITE Deep colours look even more sumptuous in a matt finish. Serpentine, £52 for 2.5l True Matt, Zoffany
