How to use gloss paint: a guide for modern decorating
In a world that’s grown accustomed to using colour with abandon, the next decorating frontier is high-shine. Those in the know have fallen for gloss, and are using it in ever more inventive ways.
It seems a long time since a frame of white gloss on skirting boards and doorframes was a stylish choice, but that doesn’t mean there is no longer any place for gloss on woodwork. In the image above, Little Greene has selected a high-shine finish (‘Purple Brown’ oil gloss) in a hue that complements the wall colours (‘Córdoba’ and ‘Scullery’) to achieve an elevated look. Here we share more expert-approved ways to use gloss today.
The focal point
Used as a visual exclamation point, gloss can draw attention to smaller areas in a room, like this inset shelf, painted using ‘Oval Room Blue’ in both gloss and matte. farrow-ball.com
The furniture transformer
Lacquered furniture is all the rage. Emulate the look by giving any wooden table or chair a coat or two of gloss paint. Choose a classic red like ‘Huguenot’ by Mylands for impact. mylands.com
The luminous look
Especially atmospheric in darker hues, gloss finishes are adept at bouncing light back into a room, creating a soft glow akin to candlelight. To amplify the effect, cover a whole wall, or even a ceiling. Pictured: ‘Night Owl’ by Benjamin Moore. benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk
The two-tone triumph
Like a modern take on the dado rail, this clever paint trick separates the wall into gloss on the bottom (it’s more hardwearing in high-traffic areas like hallways) and matte on top. Seen here in Dina Asher-Smith’s home, where she’s chosen Farrow & Ball’s ‘Roasted Macadamia’. farrow-ball.com
The traditional welcome
Gloss paint is still the wise choice for external doors, and now there is a water- rather than oil-based version: Paint & Paper Library’s Architects’ Gloss, seen here in ‘Soumak’. paintandpaperlibrary.com
