How to Choose the Right Paint Finish for Every Room

February 20, 2025

Perfect Paint Finishes: The Secret to a Stunning Home

Choosing a paint colour is only half the battle. The real magic happens when you pair it with the right finish. Ever painted a wall and thought, "Why does this look... wrong?" Chances are, the finish wasn’t quite right for the space. Some finishes reflect light, some hide imperfections, and others are tough enough to survive the chaos of daily life.

Let's break down the best finishes for each room, ensuring your home looks flawless and functions perfectly.

Flat and Matte: Soft, Smooth, and Sophisticated

Flat or matte finishes are the unsung heroes of the paint world. They create a gorgeous, velvety look that absorbs light, making walls appear smooth and refined. They also do a fine job at hiding imperfections, which is excellent for older homes or walls with past DIY misadventures.

Best for:

Bedrooms – for a soft, cosy feel
Formal dining rooms – elegance without the glare
Ceilings – to minimise light reflection

A little heads-up:

Matte finishes aren’t the easiest to clean. If little hands or furry friends are around, you might prefer something more forgiving.

Low Sheen: The Versatile All-Rounder

Low sheen is like the T-shirt of paint finishes—casual, effortless, and works just about anywhere. It has a soft glow without being too shiny, making it a favourite for walls in high-traffic areas. It’s cleaner-friendly too, so it can handle the odd smudge or scuff.

Best for:

Living rooms – a subtle glow that enhances light
Hallways – durable with easy cleaning
Bedrooms – a great middle-ground option

One thing to keep in mind:

It has a slight sheen, which means it won’t hide wall imperfections as well as flat finishes.

Eggshell: Just a Touch of Soft Shine

If low sheen had a slightly glossier sibling, it would be eggshell. It offers a tiny bit more shine but still keeps things elegant and understated. It’s a solid choice for spaces that need durability without looking overly glossy.

Best for:

Family rooms – warm, inviting, and easy to clean
Entryways – durability meets style
Home offices – minimal glare for a professional feel

Good to know:

Eggshell holds up well against scrubbing but might not be tough enough for heavy-duty messes.

Satin: The Family-Proof Finish

Satin finishes are the perfect blend of durability and beauty. They have a soft shimmer that highlights architectural details without being overpowering. If you have a house full of little ones, this finish is your best mate.

Best for:

Kitchens – stands up to cooking splatters
Bathrooms – moisture-resistant and mildew-resistant
Kids’ rooms – easy wipe-down for sticky fingerprints

Quick tip:

Satin can reflect imperfections, so make sure your wall prep is on point.

Gloss and Semi-Gloss: When Shine is a Feature

Gloss and semi-gloss finishes are the showstoppers of the paint world. These finishes reflect loads of light, making them stand out. They’re also the easiest to clean, which makes them a great pick for high-use areas.

Best for:

Trim and doors – adds a polished look
Cabinets – sleek, stylish, and washable
Bathrooms – fights off moisture and stains

A quick word of caution:

Glossy finishes highlight every bump and scratch, so if your surface isn’t perfect, you’ll want to sand it down first.

Get the Right Finish for Your Home

Now that you’ve got a handle on finishes, it’s time to make your home shine—literally or subtly, depending on your choice! If you need expert advice, Strathalbyn H Hardware’s Paint Shop has the knowledge, paints, and supplies to get you started.

Not sure which finish is right for your space? Pop in for a chat, and let’s figure it out together. Happy painting!