How to Choose an Interior Paint Color: A Foolproof Guide
If you’re here, you’re probably knee-deep in paint swatches and second-guessing every decision. We get it. Choosing an interior paint color for your interior painting project isn’t just about picking something that looks good—it’s about finding something that works for you. And since you’ll be living with this choice for a while, it pays to do it right.
Our guide will help you cut through the noise, stay focused, and feel confident in your decision. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Identify the Star of the Show
Think of your room like a movie—there can only be one main character. Everything else plays a supporting role. When you walk into the space, ask yourself: What do I want to stand out?
If it’s your furniture or artwork, go with neutral or subtle tones that won’t compete.
If you want the walls to take center stage, choose a bold or distinctive color that makes an impact.
Anytime indecision creeps in, come back to this question: Who’s the star of the show? That’s your North Star.
Step 2: Understand Tones and Undertones
Before you start swiping through color palettes, take stock of what’s staying in the room. Flooring, cabinets, furniture—these elements have their own color tone, and your paint needs to play nice.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Tones: The overall feel of the color—warm (beiges, reds) or cool (grays, blues).
Undertones: The subtle hints within a color that can shift how it looks in different lighting.
A beige might have a pink undertone, or a gray might lean blue. Knowing this upfront will save you from surprises once the walls are painted.
Step 3: Start Exploring Colors Now
The sooner you start looking, the better. You don’t want to be making rushed decisions while a painter waits on standby.
Here’s the best way to research:
Google: Search for phrases like “best warm living room colors” to get a baseline.
Pinterest: Look up specific paint colors to see them in real spaces.
YouTube: Channels like The Paint People break down how colors perform under different lighting conditions.
Once you’ve gathered inspiration, head to a paint store and grab color chips. Screens can distort colors, so it’s crucial to see them in person.
Step 4: Narrow It Down with Sample Boards
Paint chips are tiny and misleading. The best way to know how a color will truly look is to test it—big.
Grab 2’ x 2’ poster boards and paint them with sample-sized paints.
Move them around the room and check them in different lighting conditions.
If you’re considering multiple colors, place them side by side to see how they interact.
For an easier option, check out Samplize—they offer peel-and-stick samples of popular paint colors that ship overnight. They’re smaller than poster boards (9” x 14”), but still give a good idea of how the color will look.
Step 5: Trust Your Gut (Not Your Friends)
You’ll know the right color when you see it. Some people make a choice instantly, while others need time to sit with it. Either way, trust yourself.
One mistake we see often? Asking friends or family for input. Unless they’re an interior designer, they’ll likely steer you toward their preferences instead of what’s best for your space.
When in doubt, return to your North Star. The goal is to choose a color that works for you, not anyone else.
Need Help Choosing the Perfect Color?
At Big Dog Painting, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners find the right colors for their space. Whether you need a little guidance or a full-on consultation, we’re here to make the process stress-free.
Call us today to schedule a free estimate and let’s get your space looking exactly how you envision it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a color is too dark or too light?
Test it. Colors look different under various lighting conditions, so sample it on a large board and check it in morning, afternoon, and evening light.
Should all rooms in my house be the same color?
Nope! But they should flow. If you’re using different colors, try to keep them in the same family—warm tones with warm tones, cool tones with cool tones—to maintain a cohesive look.
What’s the best paint finish for interior walls?
Flat/matte: Hides imperfections but can be harder to clean.
Eggshell: A slight sheen that’s easier to clean—great for most living spaces.
Satin: More durable and good for high-traffic areas.
Semi-gloss: Great for trim and doors.
Gloss: Shiny and durable, usually for accent pieces.
How many paint samples should I test?
Start with 3–5. Any more than that can be overwhelming.
