White walls can seem simple, but choosing the correct colour for each space takes a lot of thought and effort. White paint can occasionally give a space the appearance of being larger and brighter. But occasionally, it can utterly destroy a space’s visual appeal and damage its ambience. Therefore, before picking up the roller brush and starting to work, bear the following considerations in mind if you are considering using white paint for walls.
Whites are not all created equally
Source: Pinterest
There are many different colours of white out there, and no, they do not all look the same.
Even if you have chosen a neutral colour scheme, you must spend your time selecting the ideal white tone that complements your room. Although it may be tempting to choose the purest, brightest white on the colour card, you must always make sure the shade doesn’t make your walls appear as though they have just been painted with primer.
Just remember that there are two primary sorts of white: cold and warm, if you have problems distinguishing between various tints. Warm whites contain yellowish, reddish, or brownish undertones, whereas cool or pure whites have grey or blue overtones. Warm white may make a space feel cosy and homey, while cool whites can make it appear cold and harsh.
Natural light may make a significant difference to the appearance of white walls
Source: Pinterest
Cool or pure white paint colours can be used in rooms with lots of natural light. On white walls, natural light may make a noticeable aesthetic difference. The type and quantity of natural light your room receives will play a significant role in whether it looks warmer and brighter or colder and smaller after being painted white.
For spaces that receive a lot of sunshine, experts say cold or pure white is best. When choosing paint for your walls, warm white is a preferable option if your room receives little natural light throughout the day.
Be intelligent about the finish
Source: Pinterest
At hardware stores, you may get a variety of paint finishes, from flat to high-gloss. There are several sorts of paint finishes available on the market, ranging from high gloss to flat.
The proper finish should be chosen just as carefully as the right hue. Additionally, it may significantly alter the room’s look as a whole. Here is a basic guideline you should go by if you are having trouble choosing between different white paint finishes for walls.
- Flat surfaces may appear to have receding walls.
- A matte finish can seem silky and absorb light.
- Reflective semi-gloss and high-gloss paints enable light to refract about the space.
- The ideal mix between matte and gloss paints is frequently achieved with eggshell and satin finishes.
Your colour palette influences your choice of decor
Homes with a white colour scheme look great with modern and contemporary designs. It should go without saying, but the interior design of your home must match the colour of your walls.
Consider modern or minimalist furniture with sharp edges, rounded curves, and neutral colours if you choose cold white tones. Warm white tones, on the other hand, would be a great option if you prefer a maximalist or classic style of decoration.
The ability to use various colours in your décor is one of the key advantages of white walls. If you do decide to go with all-white décor, bear in mind that it may be quite challenging to pull off in real life and typically only appears appealing in publications. Spaces with white furniture and walls can come out as dead and uninteresting.
But that doesn’t imply things always go wrong. To make your area appear brighter and more lively, start by choosing high-gloss white paint for the interior walls. Then, layer the room with various materials, hang artwork and add some texture to your décor.
Source: Pinterest
White walls need more maintenance
Pets and small children may require regular touch-ups if you have white walls.
You should also be aware that painting your walls white will take far more cleaning and upkeep than painting them any other colour. No matter how careful you are, dirt stains are more likely to appear near the light switches. The stains will stand out much more when a door, cabinet, or other pieces of furniture brushes up against a white wall.
Naturally, if you have small kids or dogs, be ready for a lot of touch-ups, as every stain will show out against the white backdrop. This is another major factor in why the majority of interior designers advise against using white paint on kitchen walls.
Due to their higher sheen levels, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss paints are often more durable and smudge-resistant than flat and matte paints.
Source: Pinterest
Advantages of having white paint for walls
There are several advantages to having white walls at home:
Brightness: White walls reflect light, making a room feel brighter and more open. This can be especially beneficial in small or dark rooms, as it can help to make the space feel larger and airier.
Neutrality: White is a neutral colour, which means that it can be easily paired with any other colour or decor style. White walls can serve as a blank canvas for adding pops of colour or pattern through furniture, artwork, and accessories.
Cleanliness: White walls can create a sense of cleanliness and order in a room. The colour white is often associated with hygiene and sterility, which can help to create a calming and peaceful atmosphere.
Versatility: White walls are versatile; they can be paired with any colour scheme, furniture, and decor, making it easy to change the decor style of a room over time.
Cost-effective: White paint is usually cheaper than other colours, and it is also easy to paint and touch up.
Energy-efficient: White walls reflect more light, which can help to reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day. This can help to lower energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
Increases natural light: White walls, especially when paired with white trim and ceiling, will help to reflect natural light and make a room feel more open and airier.
Disadvantages of white wall paint
- Prone to stains
- Lack of warmth
- High maintenance
- Limited depth
- Reflection of surroundings
- Not ideal for high-traffic areas
FAQs
Can white walls make a room feel cold?
Some people may find that white walls can make a room feel cold and sterile, but this can be easily counteracted by adding warm-toned furniture, textiles, and decor. Also, it is important to consider the lighting in the room and how it will affect the colour of the white walls.
How do I keep white walls looking clean?
White walls can show dirt and stains more easily than other colours. To keep them looking clean, it's important to dust and wipe down surfaces frequently. Also, using paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish will make it easier to wipe away dirt and stains.
Will white walls show imperfections in the wall?
White walls can highlight imperfections in the wall, such as cracks, dents, or uneven surfaces. It is important to properly prepare the walls before painting to ensure a smooth finish.
Are white walls suitable for all room styles?
White walls can be used in a variety of room styles, such as modern, minimalist, traditional, and vintage. However, it may not be suitable for some styles, such as bohemian or rustic.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
