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Painting

Painting an open plan with more than one color

By Mike | Published October 30, 2019
Open floor-plans, where living, dining, and kitchen areas are combined into one seamless space, are more popular than ever. These high-use rooms flow together without walls, making them great for entertaining and family living. However, they’re also tricky spaces if you’d like more than one wall color. While it’s a bit of a challenge, it is possible if you look for visual cues in the space. Below are some tips for painting an open plan:
    • Architecture: An open floor doesn’t mean there are no architectural cues to work from. Look for details such as molding, paneling, or trim. Use large windows, ceiling beams, mantels, and built-in shelves. These can serve as a natural stopping point for the wall color.
    • Cohesion: All the baseboards, ceilings, and doors should be the same color throughout the space. This brings a sense of cohesiveness to the open space  especially if you plan on using different wall colors.
    • Coordinate: You wall colors should coordinate. Choose hues with similar shades. We recommend picking a color palette of no more than two or three colors in an open plan. One idea is to use the same color but in different shades or strength across the room. For example, you can select a color for the living area, then use a lighter or darker (let’s say a darker) shade of that color in the dining area. In the kitchen area, you would use that same color but a shade or two darker than the dining area. What you end up with are three areas of an open plan painted in one color in three different shades.
    • Angles: If there are any angles in an open floor-plan, you can use those as a stopping point to introduce a different wall color.
    • Accent: There might be a wall you can paint as an accent wall to introduce a second color. To add an accent color, it doesn’t always have to be a wall. It could be a wall of built-in bookshelves or a section of the kitchen like cabinets or backsplash.
    • Bold: It can be tempting to use bright colors, but you’d better really love the color because you will be living with it in a high-traffic space of your home.
    • Finishes: Consider using different wall finishes to interrupt wall space and create interest.
If you would like to speak with us about painting your open floor-plan, give us a call! We have extensive experience with homes across Northern Virginia.

FAQ

1. 

Selecting colors for an open plan area requires balancing harmony and contrast. Start with a neutral base color for larger areas like walls to create a cohesive backdrop. Then, introduce one or two accent colors for specific zones, such as a dining nook or a reading corner, to define different areas without overwhelming the space. Consider the natural light in your home—brighter spaces can handle bolder hues, while darker areas may benefit from lighter tones. Home Works Painting can provide color consultation to match your vision with practical application.

2. 

Using color to delineate zones in an open plan is a powerful design tool. Paint a feature wall or a section of the space in a distinct shade to mark a specific area, like a kitchen or living room. You can also use different colors on lower wall sections or trims to subtly separate spaces without physical barriers. Ensure the colors complement each other to maintain flow. Home Works Painting experts can help execute precise transitions between zones for a professional finish.

3. 

Yes, varying paint finishes can enhance the effect of multiple colors. For instance, use a matte finish for larger, neutral areas to minimize glare and create a soft look, while a satin or semi-gloss finish on accent walls or trim can add a subtle sheen that catches the eye. This approach adds texture and interest. Home Works Painting can advise on the best finishes for durability and aesthetics in high-traffic open plan areas.

4. 

To prevent an open plan from feeling cluttered with multiple colors, limit your palette to two or three shades that work well together. Stick to a 60-30-10 rule: 60% of the space in a dominant color, 30% in a secondary color, and 10% as an accent. Use accessories like rugs or curtains to tie the colors together without over-painting. Home Works Painting ensures clean lines and balanced application to keep the space looking unified.

5. 

Preparation is key for a flawless multi-color paint job in an open plan. Clear the space of furniture or cover items to protect them from paint splatters. Clean walls to remove dust and grease, and repair any cracks or holes for a smooth surface. Use painter’s tape to create crisp boundaries between colors, especially in shared wall spaces. Home Works Painting offers thorough prep services to ensure your open plan is ready for a seamless painting process.

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