Need Some Paint Inspiration? Top Interior Painting Trends for Fall 2024

Deciding when to paint is the “easy” part. But deciding where or how or what color to paint? That can be a little bit trickier.

There’s a time to think outside the box, to break new ground, and to set trends, but…. There’s also a time to stick with what’s already popular that you know you’ll like.

To help stoke your inspiration, let’s take a look at what’s trending right now. 

Top Paint Color Trends: Earthy, Grounded Tones

Let’s start with color, because, if we’re honest, that’s what interior painting is all about. 

It’s no surprise that, in the digital age we live in, earth-inspired colors are making a comeback. And shades like terracotta, clay, and muted greens are leading the way. Here are a few popular choices we’re seeing:

• Baked Terra Cotta (1202)
• Deep Terra Cotta (PPF-30)
• Vintage Vogue (462)
• Rosemary (SW 6187)
• Back to Nature (S340-4)
• Cavern Clay (SW 7701)

The benefit of earth tones is that they are exciting (but not too exciting) AND versatile. Typically you see these tones in places like living rooms, dining areas, and entryways. Basically anywhere you want that warm, welcoming feel to be especially present. 

Tip: Pair earthy colors with neutral accents, such as beige or cream, to balance the richness of these shades and create a harmonious look.

Cozy, Dark Accents

If you pay attention to interior designs, you may have noticed that bold colors are starting to come back too. Dark colors might not seem like the most obvious choice for fall and winter especially, but shades like deep burgundy, charcoal, and navy are in demand for creating cozy, intimate spaces. But not for whole spaces. These colors work better as accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, where they can add depth without making the space feel small. Dark tones can also work well with warm lighting, enhancing the cozy vibe, or on furniture pieces like cabinets and bookshelves. 

Tip: Any color will look better with a professional application, but when it comes to dark tones, it’s all the more important. The reason? Dark colors are a lot more visible against lighter colored walls and trim, meaning even a small mistake will leave its permanent mark. 

Textured Finishes and Faux Effects

Have you ever heard of 3D painting? Well, that’s basically what textured finishes are, and they are also a popular go-to choice if you’re looking for that extra “something.” Techniques like limewash, sponging, and faux finishes can make a room feel more dynamic and unique. These kinds of finishes work great as statement walls, adding depth and visual interest without the need for bold colors. They’re ideal for spaces like entryways, hallways, or even bedrooms.

Two-Tone Walls

And finally, two-tone walls. Two-tone walls are popular because they don’t just make a room look great, they add height and make it feel more spacious. This is a fantastic strategy for smaller spaces or apartments, where you would want to make the most of what you’ve got. But, it’s also a great way to add a touch of elegance to any room (even big ones). 

Typically, the lower half of the wall is painted a darker color, while the upper half remains lighter. Before you start imagining a wall painted in two colors with no border, remember that two tone walls are usually separated by a chair rail or wainscotting. Cabinets or low sitting bookshelves can also be utilized by painting the lower sections in a different hue or color from the top ones. 

Tip: For a classic look, choose complementary colors such as a warm taupe and a creamy white. The key is to ensure the two shades work well together and create a smooth transition.

What’s the Takeaway?

Trends become trends for a reason, and sometimes it’s nice to know you’re not wading into unexplored waters. Whether you use this info exactly or as a general guideline, you can have confidence that your next interior paint job will be a success! 

Want to know another way you can ensure success? Brennan Contracting! At Brennan, we work WITH our customers to find the perfect paint, the perfect place, and in the end, a perfect finish. Give us a call! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I make sure my paint finish complements my chosen colors?
A: Each color finish impacts the final look. Matte finishes are great for dark, cozy colors, as they minimize glare, while satin or semi-gloss finishes add a soft shine that works well in high-traffic areas. Test a small patch before painting the full wall to ensure you’re happy with the combination.

Q: Are there certain rooms where textured finishes work better?
A: Yes, textured finishes work well in smaller spaces, like entryways, powder rooms, or as a feature wall in a living room or bedroom. These spaces benefit from the visual interest without overwhelming the entire room.

Q: What are some easy ways to update my existing paint without repainting the whole room?
A: If you’re looking to update your space without a full repaint, consider adding a two-tone wall or a textured accent wall. Another quick change is to repaint trim or moldings in a contrasting color, which can give the room a fresh look with minimal effort.

Q: How do I balance dark colors with natural light in my space?
A: Dark colors can be tricky in low-light spaces, so it’s best to use them in rooms with ample natural light or pair them with lighter colors to balance things out. Adding mirrors and opting for warm lighting can also enhance the cozy effect of darker tones without making the room feel too dim.