By When it comes to giving your home a fresh look, choosing the right paint colour is only half the job—selecting the best finish for each room is just as important. Paint finishes affect how your walls look and feel, how well they hold up over time, and how easily they can be cleaned. Whether you’re revamping a high-traffic hallway or updating your bedroom, understanding which finishes work best for different spaces is key. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common finishes, how to pick the right one for each room, and offer a few extra tips to boot. We’ll also cover when it’s worth calling in professional painters who specialise in interior painting in Melbourne and offer different house painting services in Melbourne to ensure a stylish and durable finish!
Why Paint Finish Matters
Paint finish, also called sheen, refers to how shiny or matte your walls will appear once painted. But it’s not just about aesthetics—paint finish also affects:
- Durability: Glossier finishes are often more resistant to marks and easier to clean.
- Coverage: Flat or matte finishes hide imperfections well but may need more maintenance.
- Light reflection: High-gloss finishes bounce more light, making rooms feel brighter.
Choosing the wrong finish can lead to premature wear, maintenance headaches, or an off-putting shine in the wrong space.
A Room-by-Room Guide to Paint Finishes
Here’s a practical breakdown of the best paint finishes for different rooms in your home:
Living Rooms and Bedrooms
- Recommended Finish: Low-sheen or eggshell
- Why: These finishes offer a smooth look without too much shine and are easy to clean.
- Bonus Tip: For living rooms with textured walls or imperfections, a matte finish can help minimise visibility.
Kitchens and Bathrooms
- Recommended Finish: Semi-gloss or satin
- Why: These rooms need finishes that resist moisture, grease, and mildew. Satin finishes are durable and easier to wipe down.
- Colour Consideration: Stick with lighter shades to open up smaller kitchens or bathrooms.
Hallways and High-Traffic Areas
- Recommended Finish: Satin or semi-gloss
- Why: These finishes can handle scuff marks and regular cleaning without losing their look.
- Paint Tip: Darker tones with satin finishes are great for masking everyday wear.
Ceilings
- Recommended Finish: Flat or matte
- Why: These finishes reduce light reflection and help conceal imperfections.
How to Choose Between Paint Finishes
Not sure how to decide? Here’s a quick decision guide:
- For easy cleaning: Go glossier.
- For hiding flaws: Go flatter.
- For kids’ rooms or pet areas: Choose durable, washable finishes like satin or semi-gloss.
- For statement walls: Use eggshell or low-sheen finishes to balance colour depth and subtle texture.
If you’re unsure where to start, many house painting services in Melbourne offer colour consultations and finish advice as part of their quote. Some even have handy online paint visualisers that can be helpful before committing to a colour or finish.
When to Call in the Pros
Painting might seem like a weekend DIY job, but it’s often trickier than it looks—especially when you’re juggling finishes, surfaces, and proper prep work. If you’ve got cracked walls, old paint to remove, or you just want a polished, long-lasting result, hiring professional painters who specialise in interior painting in Melbourne is the smart move.
Look for painters who not only handle the painting itself but also provide minor repairs and prep services. Whether you live in Fitzroy, Carlton, Hawthorn, or the Bayside suburbs, experienced tradespeople will know which products and techniques are best suited to Melbourne’s climate and your home’s unique needs.
A Quick Guide to Colour Selection by Room
Finishes aside, here are some fast colour tips by room:
- Living Room: Warm neutrals or muted greens for a relaxed vibe
- Kitchen: Crisp whites or soft blues to keep it fresh and bright
- Bedroom: Cool tones like lavender or deep blues for calm
- Bathroom: Light greys or seafoam greens to create a spa feel
- Hallways: Mid-tone greys or taupes to withstand foot traffic
Bringing It All Together
Choosing the right paint finish is just as important as picking the right colour. A little planning can make all the difference in creating a space that looks beautiful, lasts longer, and is easy to maintain. Whether you’re after a matte look for your bedroom, or something more hardwearing for the bathroom, understanding your options—and knowing when to call in the experts—can save you a lot of stress.
For flawless results, consider hiring professional painters who can advise on both style and practicality. And if you’re after colour guidance, repair work, and reliable house painting services in Melbourne, make sure to choose a team with experience across every part of the home. From kitchens to hallways, and everything in between, a quality finish makes all the difference. Want a beautiful, long-lasting result? Start with the right paint finish—and leave the hard parts to the pros who specialise in interior painting in Melbourne.