Transform every room with paint!

Need instant impact for next to nothing? Paint is the answer – and we’ve got the ideas to prove it

Feature Natalie Osborn

THE VERY BEST CREATIVE HACKS TO...

Paint is one of the quickest, easiest and cheapest ways to completely change the look of a room and, if thought about creatively, can make an incredible style statement too. Over the next few pages you’ll find ideas to suit every skill level, starting with colour blocking and DIY paint effects, leading up to bold geometric designs, all with expert advice to guide you. You’ll never look at a bare wall the same again, trust us.

Colour blocking

Images Little Greene; Talking Tables

GOOD IDEA

Utilise the shapes your home already has for a spot of colour blocking

Colour blocking is the act of painting an expanse of wall space or a simple shape with one solid accent hue, then either contrasting it against a continuous background (usually white) or a series of other colour-blocked areas. Think of it as the ‘fill’ tool in Microsoft Paint – use it to colour-up interesting features or create new ones.

Accents? Go for bold!

GOOD IDEA

Cornicing not only hides any wobbly painted edges between the ceiling and walls, it also provides an ideal opportunity for a contrasting shade

We spoke to Paint By Conran Director Mike Howes about the inspiration behind this look. ‘Don’t be afraid to combine strong colours. Blue Kale (seen on the cornicing) is a bold statement and adds dynamism when used sparingly. Teamed with Dandelion Puff and the soft tone of Winter Rocket, these pairings are in striking but harmonious contrast.’