Sometimes we need a little drama in our lives. Not the kind that stresses us out or wears us down, but the kind that brings some new life and character to an old space. There are many ways to make your home look more dramatic, but painting is perhaps the most powerful. Professional painters will get the job done, but it’s up to you to decide which colors, finishes, and techniques you want on display. To help you get started, here are four ways to use paint to achieve a more dramatic look.

1. Create Color Contrast

All great dramas are built on tension. In stories, this tension usually comes from two compelling characters or groups in opposition. In art and interior design, this tension also comes from stark opposition, but in the form of color contrast. This juxtaposition allows each part of the room to stand out from the other parts, and it all works together for dramatic effect.

If you’re stuck on which colors to choose for your interior or exterior painting, you can consult the color wheel. Here you’ll recall that red and green, orange and blue, and purple and yellow are all in strong contrast. Of course, there are many more colors and shades in between these, and many ways to create contrast beyond the by-the-numbers approach of the color wheel.

2. Make Trim Pop Out Even More

Another way to create drama using paint is to emphasize its existing features. Trim provides the perfect canvas for this project, as these aspects already pop out and typically feature more ornate designs. By painting trim a unique color, or keeping it neutral against colorful walls, your eyes will naturally be drawn to it. The same goes for door frames or doors themselves. Utilizing interior painting to separate these features makes any room more distinct.

3. One Wall, Two Colors

No one says that a wall can only be painted one color. In fact, you can make your interior much more intriguing by dividing a wall and painting it two colors. This is especially effective if the wall already features something that naturally divides it, such as chair rail trim or paneling. In most homes, the best ratio for painting a wall two colors is ⅓ and ⅔ . This means that the bottom third of the wall would be painted one color and the top two-thirds another color. Of course, painting each half a contrasting color usually works as well.

4. Try Contrasting Finish as Well

When we talk about creating contrast via home painting, this doesn’t just refer to colors. Contrast can also refer to differing finishes, such as matte and gloss. Of course, you have to be careful when trying to pull this off. Incorporating multiple finishes in one room can quickly go from dramatic to gaudy. However, if done well, one type of finish can bring out the other in powerful ways. Light plays off flat, matte, semi-gloss, and gloss finishes very differently, so consider which aspects of your home should shine and which should stay quiet.

Let the Pros Construct the Perfect Drama for Your Home

All of the tips above will help you add intrigue to your home’s interior and exterior. Of course, it’s always wise to consult your painting services before making the final call. All American Painting Plus will go over your plan with you, craft an estimate, and get to work. Our team is equipped with the tools and experience to give your home that dramatic look you desire. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 703-620-5563 or email us at info@aapplus.com today!