I spoke with Patricia Miles, a Colour Consultant with 15 years experience. She currently
works at the Benjamin Moore Paint Source Plus in Keswick.
How do I go about picking a paint colour?
Patricia: Colour is so exciting and a great way to be inspired. People come to see us with
photos of their homes inside & out as well as furniture. They bring pieces of fabric, samples
of counter tops, cabinetry and flooring. They are all great starting points. They are also all
big ticket items, which are critical. Lighting is also extremely important. Colours can change
based on the time of day, from sunrise to sunset and artificial lighting versus natural.
Choosing a theme will also ease the choice of a colour. Understanding the undertone of a
colour will create an entire flow throughout your home. Example: Earth tones are warm
and have a yellow undertone such as reds, oranges and yellows (think of Fall or Spring
colours provided by Nature). Cool tones are your icy blues, lavender, crisp whites and greys
(think Winter & Summer).
Sheen selection is also important. Did you know a Flat or Matte can be quite forgiving, hides
flaws? Eggshell and or Ulti-Matte is perfect and durable; a Semi-gloss highlights
architectural details such as columns and crown moulding.
How do I pick the right shade?
Patricia: There are many options to choose from. Did you know there are over 200 shades
of white? Choosing the right shade can excite, calm, be dramatic, romantic and create a
wonderful ambiance. The right shade can brighten spaces, make a small room appear
larger. Perhaps you have a preference such as Pastels-airy, calm. Pink Bliss, Iceberg,
Porcelain. Neutrals-warm, soothing. Manchester Tan, Collingwood, Pashmina. Whites-timeless and versatile. Chantilly Lace - the truest white, Cloud White, White Dove. Dramatic
Deeps-dramatic and bold. Wolf Gray, Sherwood Forrest, Sultan’s Palace. To mention a few.
Even such details as crown molding, baseboards and doors are also critical. Quite often
people feel they need to just go with white. Be bold and daring, experiment with dark
shades. You’ll be amazed and so inspired.
Do you suggest using different shades of colour?
Patricia: Absolutely. This is what creates such a beautiful harmonious flow throughout the
entire home (as long as the undertone remains warm or cool).
Accent walls are a fun way to add a “wow” factor to a room, just choose a deeper shade of
the lighter shade chosen.
What are some different colour suggestions for throughout the house?
Patricia: Colours are a personal preference as per the above “how to pick a colour”,
however, in saying that I recommend that homeowners keep it neutral throughout the
entire home. This allows you to be creative and bring in exciting colour through pieces of
artwork, decorative cushions, throws, glass vases, etc. Gives the option of changing it up
seasonally as well. (Fall, Christmas, Spring, Summer) Neutrals are also important if you are
thinking of selling. Favourable and turnkey to people that have very hectic lifestyles and do
not have time to change colours that do not appeal to them.
Have fun and colour with confidence.
For more information and colour consult please contact: Patricia Miles, President, Inside & Outside Four Walls 705-719-8939 www.insideandoutsidefourwalls.ca
Written By Maryam Koochaki (maryam@jj.team)
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