How to Choose the Right Paint Finish for Every Room in Your Home
Choosing a colour is one thing—but choosing the right paint finish is just as important. The sheen level affects not only the look of your space but also how well the paint performs over time.
At PM Painters & Decorators, we help homeowners across Hertfordshire and London select the best paint for each room—based on lighting, usage, and wear. Whether you’re repainting a bedroom, bathroom, or hallway, here’s our expert guide to choosing the ideal finish.
🛏️ Best Paint Finish for Bedrooms
We recommend a matt finish for bedrooms, especially master and guest rooms. It creates a soft, calm atmosphere and hides minor imperfections in the walls.
For children’s rooms, consider durable matt or washable eggshell, which are easier to clean without sacrificing that modern flat look.
🛁 Best Finish for Bathrooms
Bathrooms need something that can handle moisture, steam, and frequent cleaning. We always recommend a satin or mid-sheen finish, as these are mould-resistant and easy to wipe down.
Look for paints labelled “kitchen & bathroom” to ensure long-lasting results in high-humidity environments.
🍳 Best Paint for Kitchens
Kitchens see a lot of grease, splashes, and heat, so a more durable finish is essential.
Satin or silk emulsion is best for walls.
Use gloss or eggshell on woodwork, like skirting boards or door frames.
For ceilings, a wipeable matt will prevent staining without too much reflection.
🚪 Finishes for Woodwork, Doors & Skirting
For internal doors, skirting, bannisters, and trims:
Gloss paint is traditional and highly durable but shows more brush strokes.
Eggshell or satinwood is more modern, giving a smooth, low-sheen look that still holds up well over time.
Oil-based gloss offers a high-shine finish but can yellow over time. Many homeowners now opt for water-based gloss for a cleaner, more eco-friendly alternative.
🛋️ Living Rooms and Lounges
Your living room is a space for both comfort and entertaining. Here, eggshell or soft matt gives a stylish, velvety finish while resisting marks.
If you have young children or pets, go for durable matt or scrubbable paint, which keeps walls looking fresh longer.
🖼️ Feature Walls & Decorative Finishes
Want to add a bold colour or statement wall? We suggest:
Matt or suede-effect paint for rich, modern finishes
Metallic or pearlescent paints for subtle shimmer
Chalkboard or magnetic paints for kids' spaces or home offices
👨🎨 Get Help from the Experts
Choosing the wrong finish can leave you with marks, moisture problems, or a style that doesn’t suit the space. At PM Painters & Decorators, we help clients across St Albans, Hatfield, Watford, and North London pick the perfect paint—then apply it with care and precision.
We work with trusted UK brands and we’re happy to bring swatches to your home so you can see colours and finishes in natural light.
📞 Ready to Paint?
Whether you’re starting a full renovation or just freshening up a single room, we’re here to help.
📩 Get in touch for a free quote and colour consultation today.
📞 Or call us on +44 7877 509464