Painting walls white, cream, pastels, or cool colors (tinged with blue or green) creates the illusion of more space by reflecting light.
White or light colors on walls lifts the ceiling, bringing your eyes up, which makes you feel like you're ina larger room.
How to use paint color to make a room seem bigger:
When a space feels cavernous, draw walls inward and make it cozy with warm colors (red-tinged) because darker hues absorb light.
Similarly, a dark or warm color overhead (in a flat finish) helps make rooms with high or vaulted ceilings seem less voluminous.
The right paint choice can lend tranquility to a bathroom, master suite, or other quiet, personal space. A palette of soft, understated color or muted tones help you instill a calming atmosphere.
Some good choices include pale lavenders, light grays or greens, and wispy blues.
Call out notable features in a room with paint. Dress crown moldings and other trims in white to make them pop against walls with color.
Make a fireplace or other feature a focal point by painting it a color that contrasts with walls.
Using a higher sheen of paint on woodwork, such as baseboards and door or window casings creates a crisp edge and clear transition from the wall to the trim.
Not everything should stand out in a space. Using a low-contrast palette is a good way to hide unappealing elements or flaws.
Conduit, radiators, and other components painted the same color as the wall will seem to disappear.
Selecting low-sheen or flat paint colors also helps hide flaws. Unless walls are smooth, avoid using high-gloss paint because it reflects light and calls attention to an uneven surface.