How to choose the right paint finish?

Hi there! I'm Juliana, an Interior Designer and owner of Juliana Designs LLC. One of the most overlooked—but incredibly important—decisions when painting a room is choosing the right paint finish. It's not just about the color—the sheen you choose can completely change the look and feel of your space.

Paint is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to refresh a room, but the finish you pick affects both durability and aesthetics. Here's a simple breakdown of the four most common paint sheens and where I recommend using them:

1. Flat (Matte) – ~4% Gloss

Best for: Low-traffic rooms like guest bedrooms, master bedrooms, or studies.
Flat paint gives a soft, velvety look and is perfect for hiding wall imperfections. However, it’s not ideal for spaces that need regular cleaning, as it’s less resistant to scrubbing.

2. Eggshell – 10–25% Gloss

Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, and adult bedrooms.
A step up in durability, eggshell offers a subtle sheen and is easier to clean than flat paint. It has a bit more visual interest without highlighting every bump or dent on the wall.

3. Satin – 25–35% Gloss

Best for: High-traffic areas like hallways, kids’ rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Satin has a smooth, silky finish and is much easier to wipe clean. It’s also a great choice for trim, baseboards, and doors—but be aware that it can highlight surface flaws more than flat or eggshell.

4. Gloss – 70%+ Gloss

Best for: Accent details and architectural features.
Gloss and high-gloss paints create a striking, reflective surface. They’re ultra-durable and attention-grabbing—ideal for doors, cabinetry, or dramatic features you want to highlight.

Choosing the right sheen is just as important as picking the right color. I hope this guide helps you feel more confident in your next home project!

— Juliana 🤍