Tired of staring at beige walls that whisper, “Meh”? Ready to inject your home with personality and pizzazz? Choosing the best interior paint for your Australian abode can feel like traversing a paint chip avalanche. Fear not, fellow colour enthusiasts! This guide equips you with knowledge of the best interior paint on the Australian market for transforming your rooms into vibrant havens.
Top 3 Interior Paints in Australia
- Haymes Minimalist: The reigning monarch of crisp whites, Haymes’ offering boasts exceptional coverage, low odour, and a velvety finish that elevates any space.
- Dulux Wash&Wear: ️ The brave knight of scuff marks and grime, Wash&Wear stands guard against everyday wear and tear with its scrubbable, stain-resistant armour. Perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways.
- Taubmans Endure Interior Walls – Low Sheen: The artistic alchemist, Taubmans Endure Interior Walls transforms walls into canvases. Its smooth, low-sheen finish is ideal for showcasing accents and artwork, while its vast colour palette ignites creative sparks.
What colour should I paint my walls?
While crisp whites are timeless, Australia’s vibrant personality begs for bolder expressions. Consider these factors when selecting your colour champion:
- Mood: Cool blues and greens evoke serenity, while warm yellows and oranges radiate energy.
- Lighting: Darker colours absorb light, making small spaces feel even cozier. Cooler tones brighten rooms with limited natural light.
- Style: Bold colours make a statement in modern spaces, while soft neutrals complement traditional settings.
- Harmonizing with existing elements: Consider the existing elements in your space, such as furniture, flooring, and décor. Choose a paint color that harmonizes with these elements to create a cohesive and visually appealing look.
Pro Tip: Test colours before committing! Sample pots and stick-on swatches are your allies in avoiding “buyer’s remorse” (and repainting woes which will affect how long your painting project takes).
The psychological effect of colours on space
Colours have a psychological effect on space. They can make a room appear larger or smaller, brighter or darker. Light colours tend to open up a space and make it feel more spacious, while dark colours can make a room feel cozy and intimate. By considering the psychological effect of colours, you can determine which hues will be most suitable for your walls.
Beyond the Bucket: Essential Paint-Picking Pointers
- Quality Matters: Invest in reputable brands like Dulux, Taubmans, Haymes, or Wattyl for superior coverage, durability, and finish.
- Know Your Sheen: Matte finishes hide imperfections, while glossier options amplify light and make cleaning a breeze. Satin strikes a happy medium.
- VOC Voyagers: Opt for low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints for minimal fumes and a healthier indoor environment.
Aussie Colour Trends to Inspire
Here we explore the vibrant and evolving landscape of Australian colour trends, offering inspiration and insights into the shades and combinations that are defining modern interior design in Australia:
- Earthy Oasis: Channel the calming hues of the outback with warm terracotta, ochre, and olive green.
- Coastal Cool: Embrace the breezy Aussie shores with crisp blues, sandy beiges, and pops of coral.
- Urban Jungle: Bring the outdoors in with lush greens, leafy accents, and pops of vibrant greenery.
Remember, your home is your canvas, and paint is your brush. So, grab your colour courage, unleash your creativity, and transform your walls into masterpieces!
Additional Resources:
- Dulux Colour Forecast 2024: https://www.dulux.com.au/colour/colour-trends/2024/
- Taubmans Colour Forecast 2024: https://colourtogether.taubmans.com.au/colour-forecast/
- Haymes Colour Range: https://www.haymespaint.com.au/explore-colours/colour-range/
Types of Interior Paint
When it comes to choosing the best interior paint for your space, understanding the different types available is crucial. Two common types of interior paint include:
- Water-based paints: These paints are also known as latex or acrylic paints. They are easy to clean up with water, have less odor, and dry quickly. Water-based paints are ideal for most indoor applications.
- Oil-based paints: These paints are made with a petroleum-based solvent and take longer to dry. They offer a durable and smooth finish, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. Oil-based paints are recommended for use on wood surfaces and trim.
Different finishes and their characteristics
Choosing the right finish can greatly impact your painted surfaces’ overall look and feel. Here are four standard finishes and their characteristics:
- Matte finish: Also known as flat finish, this type of paint has a non-reflective surface. It helps to hide imperfections on walls but is less resistant to stains and easy to scuff.
- Satin finish: This finish offers a subtle shine and is more durable than matte finish. It is resistant to mildew and easy to clean, making it suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Semigloss finish: With a slight sheen, this finish provides a smooth and durable surface. It resists moisture and is commonly used for trim, doors, and cabinets.
- Gloss finish: Offering the highest level of shine, gloss finish creates a reflective surface. It is highly durable and easy to clean, making it ideal for surfaces that require frequent scrubbing.
Which paint is best for interior walls?
The best paint for interior walls typically depends on the specific needs and conditions of the space. Acrylic or latex paints are popular choices due to their ease of application, quick drying time, and durability. They are also easy to clean and maintain. For high-traffic areas or rooms prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms, semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes are often recommended for their resistance to moisture and ease of cleaning. Matte or flat finishes, on the other hand, are suitable for living rooms and bedrooms, as they help hide imperfections on the walls but are less resistant to marking and harder to clean. Ultimately, the choice depends on the room’s function, the desired aesthetic, and the level of maintenance you’re prepared to undertake.
Should wall paint be flat or satin?
Choosing between flat and satin wall paint depends on the room’s function and desired aesthetic. Flat paint offers a matte finish, ideal for hiding surface imperfections and providing a classic look. It’s best for low-traffic areas like bedrooms and living rooms. Satin paint, with its subtle sheen, is more durable and easier to clean, making it suitable for high-traffic areas, kitchens, or bathrooms. It also adds a bit of gloss and depth to the walls. Consider the room’s usage, lighting, and maintenance needs when deciding.
Is Dulux or Taubmans better?
Choosing between Dulux and Taubmans for interior paint depends on specific needs and preferences. Dulux is renowned for its wide range of high-quality paints, offering durability and a vast colour palette. It’s often praised for its coverage and long-lasting finish. Taubmans, on the other hand, is also a reputable brand known for its innovative paint solutions, including environmentally friendly options. It offers good quality and value. The decision should be based on the desired finish, colour options, environmental considerations, and budget. Both brands have a strong reputation in the paint industry.
By following these tips and letting your personal style shine, you’ll find the best interior paint in Australia to turn your house into a home that truly reflects your unique spirit. Happy painting!
