How to Choose the Perfect Paint Color (and Still Love It a Year Later)
Let’s be honest — choosing paint colors is hard. Between lighting, undertones, and different finishes, the same shade can look totally different from one wall to another. That’s why so many homeowners end up repainting (sometimes more than once!) to finally get it right.
As an interior designer, I’ve tested hundreds of paint colors in real homes — and I’ve learned that the secret isn’t about picking the “trendiest” shade. It’s about understanding how color behaves in your space.
Here’s my foolproof, designer-approved method for picking a color you’ll love just as much a year from now as the day you paint it.
1. Always Sample on a Large Poster Board
Skip the tiny paint swatches — they’re not accurate enough. Instead, paint a large sample (at least 2x3 feet) on a white poster board. This lets you move the color around your space and see how it interacts with different walls and light sources.
Pro tip: Avoid painting samples directly on the wall — old paint colors underneath can distort the tone.
2. Observe the Color at Morning, Noon, and Night
Light changes everything. A color that looks warm and creamy in the morning might turn gray or cool in the evening. Place your sample board where it catches natural light during the day and your lamps or fixtures at night.
Take photos at different times to compare how it shifts — this will help you spot undertones that might surprise you later.
3. Pair It With Your Flooring and Main Furniture Pieces
A color doesn’t exist in isolation. Always test your sample next to your main flooring and large furniture (like your sofa, rug, or cabinetry). These elements reflect color and can bring out undertones you didn’t notice before — especially with grays, beiges, and whites.
Final Tip: Don’t Rush It
Give yourself at least 24–48 hours to live with the sample. See how it feels throughout the day and how it complements the rest of your design. The best color isn’t just one that looks good — it’s one that feels right in your home.
Need Help Finding the Perfect Palette?
At Interyrs, we help clients confidently choose paint colors, finishes, and materials that complement their furniture, lighting, and personal style. Whether you’re updating a single room or the whole house, we’ll help you create a look that feels balanced and timeless.