Spring is the season of new beginnings, and nothing says “new” quite like a fresh coat of paint. If the warming weather has you itching for your next room refresh, you’re not alone. We’re feeling that same itch, and we asked the pros about it.
Here, seven New Jersey design experts offer advice on picking the right type of paint to choosing a trim color that will bring the whole room together—and everything in between.
Consider your paint type.
Though there are pros and cons to every kind of paint you can choose, oil-based paints have fallen out of favor recently, according to Denise Pough of Paramus-based A-Jay Interiors by Dee. “Oil-based paint is durable and aesthetically pleasing, but it’s expensive, difficult to work with and not good for indoor air quality,” she explains. “Latex is easy to work with, but is the least durable and brittles over time. Acrylic is durable, eco-conscious and gives a high-end look.”
Other options? Says Maria Martarella of Genuine Interiors in Red Bank: “I’m particularly excited about alternatives like milk paint, clay paint and soy-based paint, which offer sustainability, low VOCs [volatile organic compounds, which are gases emitted into the air from products or processes that can negatively affect your health] and unique textures for stunning designs.”
Tara Rotelli of Rotelli Interiors in Hasbrouck Heights sings the praises of hybrid paints, specifically drawing attention to Latex Acrylic Base by Sherwin-Williams.
Start with the finish.
Debating among flat, eggshell, satin and high gloss? All our experts agree that texture is the first thing to consider when choosing a paint finish. “Paints with a high sheen like semi-gloss will show more surface imperfections,” says Teresa Tumminia of Cream Ridge’s At Home Custom Interiors. “Take this into consideration when working with dark colors or older homes.”
On the other hand, glossy paint finishes are also easier to clean; they’re often used in high-traffic areas for this reason. Says Martarella: “Use semi-gloss or high-gloss paints for decorative molding, door and window trim and base molding, as they offer durability and easy cleaning.”
Meanwhile, Sun Ju Valenta of Sun Valenta Design in Madison suggests the low-luster finish. “Give it a try,” she says. “It is similar to an eggshell finish, but more lightly reflective and smoother. It offers a rich appearance.”
Tend to the trim.
This is a part of a room where everyone encourages you, the homeowner, to let your style and personality shine. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, consider your own taste and the overall look and story of a room. If you’re seeking guidance, though, Christina Melendez of Home Sweet Home Designs in Manalapan says you can rarely go wrong with a classic. “A clean, bright white trim is not only what’s trending, but is also always in style,” she says. “It gives a certain brightness and allows any wall color to have its moment.”
Jill Ryan of Jill Ryan Interiors in Tinton Falls echoes the use of white trim, and also encourages you to expand what you’re trimming. “For a moody look, you can trim a library, a millwork area or a built-in.”
Tumminia offers advice for those tempted to go bold. “I like bold trim in small spaces, like powder rooms,” she says. “People make the mistake of staying small in small rooms, but they’re a great place to make a statement. Larger trims look great in dark colors, so don’t be afraid to go a few shades darker than the wall color.”
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