You did the research, picked a color you thought was perfect, and finally painted that room… only to find out you absolutely hate the new paint color. It’s too dark, too bright, or just not the shade you imagined. Now you’re feeling a mix of regret and frustration. What went wrong, and more importantly, how can you fix it?
Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Plenty of people end up disliking their new paint color, and there are ways to turn things around without tearing down the walls. Here’s what you can do to get your space looking just right.
Step 1: Live with It (For Now)
Before you rush to repaint, try to live with the color for a few days, or even a couple of weeks. Sometimes, a color grows on you, and your initial shock fades as you adjust. Lighting changes throughout the day, so a color that feels overwhelming in the morning might look perfect in the soft light of the evening. Plus, your eyes need a bit of time to adjust, especially if it’s a drastic change from your previous color.
Step 2: Consider the Lighting
Lighting can make or break how a paint color looks. If the color feels too dark, you might be dealing with poor lighting, not a bad shade. Add more light sources, such as lamps, pendant lights, or even brighter bulbs. Natural light also plays a big role, so observe how the color changes throughout the day. In rooms with little natural light, go for warmer bulbs to bring out the color’s best qualities.
Alternatively, you might notice certain shadows affecting the paint. The kind of artificial light in the room—cool, warm, or daylight bulbs—can make the color appear wildly different. Changing your light bulbs might make you fall in love with the color after all.
Step 3: Change Your Decor
Sometimes, a new paint color doesn’t mesh with your old decor. If your wall color feels “off,” it may be clashing with your furniture, artwork, or even your curtains. Try adding accent pieces that harmonize with the new color. For instance, throw pillows, rugs, or wall art in similar or complementary tones can make a big difference.
If the color feels too intense, incorporate neutrals or lighter tones in your decor to balance it out. Conversely, if it feels too light or bland, bolder accents will add contrast and interest.
Step 4: Use Accent Walls
If you’re not ready to commit to a full repaint, consider toning down the color by making it an accent wall. Choose one wall to keep painted in your new color and paint the other walls a neutral shade. This way, you still get a touch of your chosen color without it overwhelming the room. Accent walls can also be visually striking and stylish when done right.
Step 5: Don’t Be Afraid to Repaint
Sometimes, there’s no getting around it—the color just isn’t right, no matter what adjustments you make. If you’re still unhappy after trying these steps, don’t hesitate to repaint. It’s better to invest in a new color than to live with one that bothers you every day.
When choosing a replacement color, learn from this experience. Test samples, look at swatches in different lights, and even paint small sections of the wall to see how the color plays in the room. The time spent upfront can prevent future headaches (and repainting!).
Bonus Tip: Consult a Professional
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start, it might be time to consult a professional painter or interior designer. A pro can offer guidance on color selection, lighting, and design ideas that complement your home’s unique features.
At the end of the day, remember that paint is just paint—it can be changed! With a little patience and a few tweaks, you can find the perfect color to bring your space to life.
If you’re stuck with a paint color you don’t love, don’t let it stress you out. At Super Painting, our experts are here to help you find the perfect shade and transform your space just the way you envision it. Whether you need a complete repaint, color consultation, or guidance on making your current color work, we’ve got you covered.
Give us a call today and let’s bring your dream color to life—no regrets, just beautiful results!
Meta description: Struggling with a paint color you hate? Discover practical tips to fix it and learn how Super Painting can help you love your space again.
