Marcus Lindstrom/
If your living space seems dull and lacks inspiration, the issue might lie with the walls and ceiling. A color that’s lost its appeal can make your home look and feel outdated. Happily, one of the most cost-effective ways to revamp your home is with a new layer of paint (especially if you’re keen to tackle the task yourself). Check if your current paint shades are becoming unfashionable—and explore quick solutions to breathe new life into your home.
Lisa Hudson, President of Fresh Coat Painters; Amy Wax, Color Expert and Author of “Can’t Fail Color Schemes”
It’s a sad but factual observation: it might finally be time to bid farewell to that ubiquitous, metallic gray that’s been trending for years. “The current paint trend is gravitating towards warmer, more intricate shades, offering a refreshing perspective on home interiors,” asserts Lisa Hudson, President of Fresh Coat Painters. “The cooler, once-popular gray tones are beginning to seem less harmonious with the richer, more inviting tones that are now in demand. Colors with noticeable blue or purple undertones, once considered a neutral staple, can now appear somewhat lackluster compared to the depth and warmth of the new palettes.”
To Revamp Your Paint: Opt for warmer neutral shades instead of the cool grays, such as soft greiges and creamy whites, suggests Hudson. “They foster spaces that feel inviting and comfortable. If your home’s neutral color seems too cool or lacks that natural warmth, it may be time for a change.”
We’ve all noticed those rooms with deep, mood-infused hues that are currently in vogue. However, finding the perfect shade can be challenging—and opting for the brighter end of the spectrum may lead to a dated appearance. “Colors that are falling out of style, or simply less favored, are those that are overly saturated—like brilliant royal blue or neon yellow,” explains Amy Wax, Color Expert and Author of “Can’t Fail Color Schemes.” “Any color that is too bright, too intense, or too bold is a sign that it’s out of fashion.”
To Revamp Your Paint: Seek out more subdued colors that remain bold but not as vivid. “Softer variants, such as a deep blue with a hint of gray or a creamy yellow that isn’t too bright, are hues that are easier to work with and more forgiving on the eyes,” Wax advises. “Look for colors that are slightly more subdued, and they will be more pleasant to live with over time and easier to decorate around. These softer hues will also withstand the test of time when used appropriately.”
“The outdated, murky beiges can look flat,” notes Hudson. “These yellow-toned paints, which were widespread before the 2010s, have dull pigments that make the walls appear heavy and lifeless, rather than clean or sophisticated.”
To Revamp Your Paint: Replace the “builder’s grade” beige with a trendy earth tone that provides a more vibrant backdrop for your home.
Each paint company introduces a “Color of the Year,” which might entice you to make a bold leap into a new hue for your rooms. Yet, while we often admire these selections, they don’t always suit every room or situation.
To Revamp Your Paint: We’re not suggesting you avoid choosing a Color of the Year. However, before you jump on that trend, consider whether you genuinely appreciate it. “Every color you select—whether it’s a trending color or one that’s intended to ignite a new design—should always be a color you cherish, that draws you in, and brings you joy indoors,” Wax advises. “Reflect on the colors you would love to surround yourself with and let that guide you in creating something that feels fresh.”
“Beyond the color itself, an outdated paint appearance often boils down to the finish,” Hudson points out. “Flat paint appears dull, reveals every mark, and is difficult to clean.”
To Revamp Your Paint: Welcome a touch of sheen to your paint colors. “If you want your walls to look modern and durable, avoid the completely flat or matte finish for anything other than the ceiling,” Hudson advises. “Instead, opt for an eggshell or satin finish for a subtle, durable luster.”
The single bold accent wall has been a design trick for years, but it’s now showing signs of age. “It divides the room and appears visually outdated,” Hudson observes.
To Revamp Your Paint: Give all four walls the same shade—whether you choose a bold color or stick with a neutral. “If you opt for a bold shade, commit to painting all four walls, or even better, introduce the strong color through large art, rugs, or furniture instead of paint,” Hudson suggests.
Evaluate whether the paint color and style truly meet your current needs. “If you’re no longer excited about using a space or spending time in a room, it might be time for a refresh,” Wax reflects. “If a room appears worn out, it’s time to reconsider its purpose, its design, or perhaps just its wall color.”
Here’s what you need to know about when to repaint—and other strategies and techniques to refresh a space without a full painting overhaul.
Your kitchen, hallways, and bathrooms are prime locations for more frequent repainting. “They require a new coat or at least a thorough cleaning every three to five years to combat scuffs and grime,” Hudson notes. Rooms with less activity, like bedrooms or dining rooms, may not need repainting for a decade or more, unless sunlight is causing fading—or you’ve grown tired of the color.
An interesting fact: Switching out your light bulbs to a different color temperature—a simple task with smart bulbs—can completely transform the look of a room. For example, you can counteract an excessively cool gray by introducing warmth through lighting, Hudson explains. “The simplest trick is replacing harsh, cold light bulbs with soft, warm LEDs (2700K–3000K); the warmer light immediately neutralizes those blue undertones.”
You may not need a complete repaint, even if you’ve used a color that seems lackluster. “Dull, yellow-toned beiges appear lifeless because they lack sharp definition,” Hudson observes. “Frame those walls with crisp, bright white trim to make the beige look intentional, not just faded.”
If you’re not ready for a repaint, you can incorporate artwork, pillows, and other accessories to introduce new colors and freshen up your space. “Introduce bold, sophisticated accent colors, like deep olive green, rust, or terracotta, through your art and pillows,” Hudson recommends. “Then layer in rich, tactile textures like aged brass metals, warm woods, and chunky fabrics.”
