Well Built Places Consultancy & Education

Choosing the right paint colour for your home can be both exciting and overwhelming. With a plethora of options available, making the right choice requires a thoughtful approach. Of course, you can contact us here at Well Built Places and we can help you out, However if you’d like to do it yourself, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you confidently select paint colours while standing in the paint section at Bunnings, ensuring that your final choice perfectly complements your space and style.

1. Define the Room’s Purpose

Before diving into the paint selection process, consider the purpose of the room you’re painting. The function of the space will influence your colour choice:

• Living Rooms and Lounges: These areas are typically used for relaxation and socialising. Opt for colours that create a welcoming atmosphere. Soft neutrals, warm earth tones, or calming blues and greens can work well.
• Bedrooms: For restful sleep and a tranquil atmosphere, choose soothing colours. Soft blues, gentle greens, or muted greys are ideal choices.
• Kitchens and Dining Areas: These spaces benefit from vibrant or energising colours that stimulate appetite and conversation. Consider colours like soft yellows, lively oranges, or warm reds.
• Home Offices: Opt for colours that enhance focus and productivity. Cool blues, greens, or even energising yellows can boost concentration and creativity.

2. Test Colour Samples

Once you’ve identified the purpose of the room, it’s time to test colours. Bunnings offers a range of colour samples and testers that can help you narrow down your choices.

• Pick Up Sample Pots: Bunnings has sample pots of various colours, allowing you to test them in your own space. Choose a few shades that align with your vision for the room.
• Paint Sample Boards: If you prefer, purchase sample boards or large swatches and paint them on your wall. This gives you a better idea of how the colour will look in your home’s lighting conditions.
• Consider Lighting: Colours can appear different under various lighting conditions. Observe the samples in both natural and artificial light to see how they change throughout the day.

3. Match with Existing Decor

Ensure the colours you choose complement your existing decor. Consider the following elements:

• Furniture: Take note of your current furniture and upholstery. Choose paint colours that harmonise with these pieces.
• Flooring: Consider how the paint colour will coordinate with your flooring. Neutral or complementary tones can create a cohesive look.
• Accents and Fixtures: Think about the colour of your trim, fixtures, and other accents. Select a paint colour that enhances these elements rather than clashing with them.

4. Use Colour Tools and Apps

Bunnings provides various tools and resources to help you make informed decisions.

• Colour Visualisers: Bunnings’ website and in-store visualisers can help you see how different colours might look in a room. These tools allow you to upload photos of your space and experiment with various paint colours.
• Colour Consultants: Bunnings often offers colour consultation services. If you need additional guidance, consider speaking with a consultant who can provide expert advice tailored to your needs.

5. Consider Finishes and Textures

The finish of the paint can impact the overall look and feel of the room. Bunnings offers different types of finishes:

• Matt/Flat: Ideal for low-traffic areas or ceilings. It provides a non-reflective surface that can help hide imperfections.
• Eggshell/Satin: Offers a slight sheen and is suitable for most rooms. It’s easier to clean than matt finishes and adds a subtle glow.
• Gloss: Provides a shiny finish and is best used for trim, mouldings, and high-traffic areas. It’s durable and easy to clean but can highlight surface imperfections.

6. Think Long-Term

Choosing a paint colour is a significant decision that should be considered for its long-term impact:

• Trends vs. Timelessness: While it’s tempting to choose trendy colours, consider opting for timeless shades that won’t quickly go out of style.
• Resale Value: If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, neutral and classic colours tend to appeal to a broader audience and can enhance your home’s resale value.

7. Make Your Decision

After evaluating samples, matching colours with your decor, and considering finishes, it’s time to make your decision. Take your time to ensure that the colour you choose resonates with your vision and meets your practical needs.

Conclusion

Choosing paint colours at Bunnings can be an enjoyable and rewarding process when approached systematically. By defining the room’s purpose, testing samples, matching with existing decor, using available tools, and considering finishes, you can confidently select a colour that enhances your home’s atmosphere and functionality. Remember, the right paint colour not only beautifies your space but also contributes to your overall well-being and enjoyment of your home.

References

Bunnings Warehouse. (n.d.). Paint & Colour. Retrieved from https://www.bunnings.com.au

Cherry, K. (2020). The Psychological Effects of Colour in Interior Design. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com

Elliot, A. J., & Maier, M. A. (2014). Color and Psychological Functioning: A Review of Theoretical and Empirical Work. Psychological Bulletin, 140(5), 950-978.