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5 tips you need to know before painting your walls red, green, blue or grey

A stylist explains how to get these tricky interior colours right.

When it comes to painting interiors, most people stay within their comfort zone and paint the walls in shades of white or beige. While these ‘safe’ colours are undoubtedly timeless and sophisticated, a home can really pop when decorated with bold or unusual colours. Unfortunately, getting a professional finish with dramatic colours can be tricky, and it takes some finessing.

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We consulted Brisbane-based stylist and author Nikki Parkinson of Styling You, who recently renovated her home using British Paints TimeSaver™ Series for under $500, ABOUT how to tackle a daring colour palette. These are her five top tips on how to get your interior colours right.

1. Whites

“When selecting whites or neutrals to pair with a bold colour, consider using a shade with a warm yellow or brown undertone as it will keep your room feeling inviting and uplifting,” says Nikki. “While colours with a cool undertone can create a soothing atmosphere, they can also make a room feel cold.”

white bedroom
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

2. Reds

“Bright and bold statement reds work best in small quantities, and in high impact areas, such as a feature wall or door. These tones can also be continued throughout your space, tied in through artwork, cushions, and throws.”

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sitting room decorated in shades of red
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

3. Greens

“When selecting paint colours, take into account the fittings and fixtures going into the space as well, such as flooring, benchtops, blinds or curtains. Natural green tones that emulate deep forest or tropical environments look great with white, glass, and wooden furniture.”

green wall in kids room
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

4. Greys

“Lighting is key when choosing a grey colour palette,” says Nikki. “Both natural and artificial lighting can affect how grey paint appears. Darker charcoal and grey tones are best in well-lit rooms, and look best with soft white furnishings. Light grey tones can be used in darker rooms. It’s best to paint the colour on a board and place it around the room at different times of the day to ensure you are happy with it, before painting the walls.”

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grey nursery
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

5. Blues

“With blue tones now being so popular, I recommend selecting colours based on a look you wish to replicate,” says Nikki. “Tones of light blue and sky blue are perfect to create a coastal atmosphere, while azure and cornflower tones can help you achieve a contemporary minimalist look.”

blue feature wall in living room
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

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Want more decorating tips? Watch the video below. 

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