Our Painting and Decorating Blog

USING PAINT TO CREATE THE ILLUSION OF SPACE IN ANY ROOM

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 17:15:00 GMT

Using Paint To Create The Illusion Of Space In Any Room

Paint can work wonders in creating the illusion of space, blending colour psychology, visual tricks, and thoughtful design. In this article we'll show you how to use light hues, clever painting techniques, and smart furniture placement to transform small rooms into spacious, welcoming areas.

Key takeaways:

Light colours and contrasting trim make rooms feel larger and more open
Layered paint and varied brush techniques add depth and dimension
Natural light and reflective surfaces boost spaciousness
Strategic furniture placement and minimal decor increase openness
Combining techniques creates a cohesive design for optimal spatial illusion

Choosing the Right Colours for Spaciousness

Light Colours for Expansiveness

Light colours are your best friends when you're aiming to create an illusion of space. Icy blue and cream tones can make a room feel more open and fresh. These hues reflect light, giving the impression of a larger area. On the flip side, dark tones like brown and dark green tend to absorb light, potentially making a room feel smaller.

Contrasting Trim for Optical Illusions

Don't overlook the power of trim colours in your space-enhancing efforts. Painting trim lighter than your walls can create a clever optical illusion , making it seem like your room's boundaries extend further than they actually do. This contrast draws the eye outward, enhancing the overall sense of openness in your space.

Mastering Painting Techniques for Depth and Dimension

Layering and Texture for Visual Depth

You'll find that layering paint is a key technique to create depth and richness in your room. By applying multiple coats of paint , each with slight variations in colour or opacity, you can build up a complex, multidimensional surface that catches the eye and suggests real depth.

Varying your brush sizes and techniques can also contribute to this illusion. Use larger brushes for broad strokes in the background and finer brushes for detailed work in the foreground. This mimics how objects appear at different distances in real life.

Colour and texture choices play a crucial role in suggesting light, shadow, and distance. Consider these tips:

Use cooler, less saturated colours for areas you want to appear farther away
Apply warmer, more vibrant colours for elements you want to bring forward
Incorporate rough textures for nearby surfaces and smoother finishes for distant ones

Overlapping elements in your paint design can further enhance the sense of depth. By partially obscuring one painted element with another, you create a visual hierarchy that implies distance between objects.

Remember, these techniques aren't just for murals or feature walls. You can apply them subtly throughout a room to create a cohesive, spacious feel that transforms your living space.

Enhancing Space with Lighting and Reflections

Harnessing Natural Light

Natural light is a game-changer for creating spaciousness. Larger windows let in more sunlight, instantly making rooms feel bigger. If you can't expand your windows, consider removing heavy curtains or opting for sheer fabrics to maximise light flow.

Artificial Light and Reflective Surfaces

Don't fret if natural light is limited. Strategic lamp placement can work wonders. Place lamps in corners to brighten dark spots and create an illusion of depth.

Mirrors are your secret weapon - hang them at an angle to catch more light and add perceived space. Glass tables are another clever trick, allowing light to pass through and enhancing the room's openness.

By combining these lighting and reflection techniques, you'll transform even the cosiest spaces into airy, inviting areas .

Furniture Arrangement and Decor for Optimal Spaciousness

Smart Placement Strategies

You'll find that clever furniture arrangement can significantly enhance the feeling of space in your room. Here are some key tips to consider:

Match or use similar-coloured furniture to create a unified look
Avoid placing furniture in a perfect square; instead, create longer visual paths
Position large pieces against walls to open up the room's centre
Opt for multi-purpose furniture to reduce clutter

By removing large rugs , you'll expose more of the floor, making the room appear larger. When it comes to artwork, less is more .

Choose one large painting as a focal point rather than multiple smaller pieces. This approach not only simplifies the visual field but also draws the eye to a single, impactful element, enhancing the perception of space.

Bringing It All Together: A Holistic Approach to Spatial Illusion

Creating a Cohesive Design

We've covered colour choices, painting techniques, lighting, and furniture arrangement.

Now, it's time to combine these elements to create a unified design that maximises the perception of space in your room.

Balance is key when integrating these different aspects. For instance, you might:

Use light colours on walls and ceilings to open up the space
Apply vertical stripes to create the illusion of height
Strategically place mirrors to reflect light and extend visual boundaries
Position furniture to create clear pathways and sight lines

Remember, each room is unique, so adapt these techniques to suit your specific space and personal style. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations until you find what works best for you.

While DIY can be rewarding, sometimes professional help can make a significant difference. Hiring a skilled decorating firm like Borthwick Decorators can bring expertise and fresh perspectives to your project.

We can offer tailored solutions, handle complex painting techniques, and ensure a flawless finish that truly transforms your space.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading hand painted and spray painted kitchen companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland.

We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business that offers all aspects of interior and exterior painting and decorating. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online appointment form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

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THE PROS AND CONS OF ECO-FRIENDLY PAINTS FOR YOUR HOME

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 15:30:00 GMT

The Pros And Cons Of Eco-Friendly Paints For Your Home

Eco-friendly paints provide a green option for UK homeowners, combining environmental care with practical home improvement.

These paints use natural ingredients like plant oils and water-based resins, boosting indoor air quality and reducing environmental impact. They match traditional paints in durability and finish, making them a smart choice for conscientious homeowners.

Key Takeaways:

Eco-friendly paints release fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), enhancing indoor air quality
They are easier to clean up and dry faster than standard paints
Despite higher upfront costs, eco-paints offer long-term health and environmental advantages
Performance can vary, with some eco-paints needing extra coats or more frequent touch-ups
Many UK brands now offer top-quality eco-friendly paint options with cutting-edge formulas

Eco-Friendly Paint: A Sustainable Choice for UK Homes

What Makes Paint Eco-Friendly?

Eco-friendly paint is crafted from natural ingredients , setting it apart from traditional options. You'll find these paints made with plant oils, minerals, and water-based resins .

They're biodegradable and emit minimal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) , making them a safer choice for both the environment and your health.

Benefits for Your Home and Health

Choosing eco-friendly paint offers several advantages:

Improved indoor air quality : With lower VOC emissions, you'll breathe easier in your freshly painted spaces.
Reduced environmental impact : Biodegradable formulas mean less harm to ecosystems when disposed of.
Safer application : Natural ingredients decrease the risk of harmful exposure during painting.
Durability : Many eco-friendly paints offer long-lasting finishes, rivaling their traditional counterparts.

By opting for eco-friendly paint, you're not just making a choice for your home – you're contributing to a healthier planet . These paints provide a practical way to reduce your environmental footprint without sacrificing quality or style.

As you consider your next painting project, remember that eco-friendly options align with both your aesthetic goals and your values for sustainability.

Health and Environmental Benefits

Creating a Healthier Home

Eco-friendly paints offer significant advantages for your family's well-being. Their low VOC content minimizes the risk of respiratory issues and allergies, making them particularly beneficial for households with children and pets.

You'll notice a much lower odor during and after application, allowing you to enjoy your freshly painted spaces sooner.

Supporting Sustainability

By choosing eco-friendly paints, you're actively contributing to a more sustainable future. These products typically come from companies committed to environmentally responsible practices . Here's how eco-paints make a difference:

Reduced carbon footprint in production
Fewer harmful chemicals released into the environment
Support for sustainable business practices

Your choice of eco-friendly paint creates a positive ripple effect , promoting healthier living spaces and a greener planet.

Advantages in Application and Usage

Simplified Painting Process

Eco-friendly paints offer several practical benefits during application and use. You'll find the clean-up process much simpler with water-based eco paints. Instead of harsh solvents, you can use soap and water to clean brushes and tools, reducing your exposure to chemicals and making the post-painting tidy-up a breeze.

Time is often of the essence in painting projects, and eco paints deliver here too. They typically dry faster than traditional options, allowing you to apply second coats or finish your project sooner.

This quick-drying feature is especially helpful for high-traffic areas or when you're working on a tight schedule.

Eco-friendly paints also shine in their versatility . You can apply them effectively on various surfaces, including:

Wood
Plasterboard
Metal
Concrete

This adaptability means you won't need to switch between different paint types for different areas of your home, streamlining your painting process and potentially reducing costs.

The ease of use , quick drying times, and multi-surface application make eco-friendly paints a practical choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professional painters.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

Cost and Performance Concerns

While eco-friendly paints offer significant environmental benefits , they come with a few drawbacks you should weigh before making your decision. The most noticeable difference is the price tag .

These green alternatives typically cost more than traditional paints, which can impact your budget, especially for larger projects.

Performance-wise, eco-friendly paints might not match up to their conventional counterparts in some areas. You'll likely find:

They're less durable , needing touch-ups more often
You'll need to apply more coats for full coverage
The finish mightn't be as smooth or glossy

These factors can lead to increased labour and material costs over time. Additionally, the need for more frequent repainting could offset some of the environmental benefits you're aiming for.

Despite these challenges, many homeowners find the trade-offs worthwhile for the health and environmental advantages .

As technology improves, manufacturers are constantly working to enhance the performance of eco-friendly paints, narrowing the gap with traditional options.

Your choice will depend on balancing your budget, aesthetic preferences, and commitment to eco-friendly living.

Top Eco-Friendly Paint Brands in the UK

Water-Based Paint Pioneers

You'll find several standout eco-friendly paint brands in the UK market. Earthborn leads the pack with its water-based paints that are free from oils and acrylics.

They've gone the extra mile by ensuring their tins are recyclable, making disposal a breeze.

Little Greene also offers water-based paints with a low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) content . They've incorporated sustainable vegetable oils into their formulas and use recyclable tins, showing a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Farrow & Ball has made a name for itself with water-based paints that boast low or minimal VOC content . Their cans are infinitely recyclable, reducing waste in the long run.

Innovative Eco-Friendly Solutions

Crown's Breatheasy formula deserves attention for its low VOC content. They've taken an innovative approach by using 100% recycled plastic packaging , addressing concerns about plastic waste in the paint industry.

These brands demonstrate that eco-friendly paints can be both effective and environmentally responsible . By choosing these options, you're not only getting quality paint for your home but also contributing to a more sustainable future.

Making an Informed Decision

Balancing Factors for Your Project

You'll need to carefully weigh the pros and cons of eco-friendly paints based on your specific needs.

While the initial cost might be higher, the long-term health and environmental benefits can't be overlooked. These paints reduce indoor air pollution and minimise your carbon footprint .

Consider these key factors when making your decision:

Health impacts: Low-VOC paints decrease exposure to harmful chemicals
Environmental effects: Eco-friendly options are kinder to the planet
Durability: Some green paints may not be as long-lasting as traditional ones
Finish quality: Certain eco-paints might not provide the same smooth finish

It's crucial to research and compare different eco-friendly paint brands available in the UK. Each brand offers unique features, so you'll want to find one that aligns with your priorities.

For the best results , consider hiring a professional decorating firm like Borthwick Decorators .

We have the expertise to guide you through the selection process and ensure proper application, maximising the benefits of your chosen eco-friendly paint.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

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WALLPAPER vs. PAINT: MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR HOME

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 11:04:52 GMT

Wallpaper vs. Paint: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Decorating or redecorating your home is an exciting endeavour, allowing you to reinvent spaces to match your style and tastes. When it comes to walls, two primary options emerge — wallpaper or paint. But how do you choose between them?

There are several key factors to weigh up when deciding whether wallpaper or paint is better suited for a particular room or home. Assessing priorities like budget, durability, ease of installation, aesthetics, maintenance needs, and versatility can help guide your decision-making process.

Durability: Long-Lasting Wallpaper vs. Eventual Touch-Ups With Paint

Durability should be a major consideration as you likely don’t want to redo major decorating projects too frequently.

Wallpaper Offers Extended Longevity

Once professionally installed, high-quality wallpaper is designed to last for many years without issues like fading, peeling, or chipping.

The materials and protective coatings used in designer wallpaper lend themselves to enhanced durability and longevity. Unlike paint that sits on top of the wall surface, wallpaper integrates into the wall itself for added resistance.

With quality wallpaper and proper installation, you may enjoy your chosen design for over a decade without the need for replacement. This saves not only the cost of materials but also the labour of installing new wallpaper years down the road.

Paint May Require More Frequent Touch-Ups

While innovations in paint technology have certainly enhanced durability, painted walls typically require more maintenance over the years.

Exposure to natural and artificial light can cause even premium paints to slowly fade over time. Additionally, painted walls tend to be more vulnerable to scuffs, moisture damage, or accidental impacts that remove paint from the surface.

These types of paint flaws often necessitate touch-up work, sometimes requiring repainting entire walls or rooms to blend new and existing paint properly. So, the initial investment in materials and labour for painting may need to be made more frequently.

Cost Considerations: Wallpaper Investment vs. Paint Affordability

Budget is often another primary driver when selecting a wall treatment. Broadly speaking, paint tends to be more affordable upfront, while wallpaper requires a larger initial investment that pays off over time.

Wallpaper May Carry Higher Upfront Costs

Designer wallpapers manufactured from higher-end materials understandably come at a premium cost per roll. Additionally, specialised labour is required for proper wall prep and installation. This combination of material and labour costs typically adds up to a higher total expense compared to DIY painting.

However, considering the durability and longevity of quality wallpaper, the initial expense may offset the overall cost over an extended timeframe. If you can swing the upfront investment, wallpaper could save money over repainting the same room from scratch every 5-7 years.

As a benchmark, high-end wallpaper installed in an average room may run £800-£1500+, while painting the same room may be £150-£400. But if the wallpaper lasts 12-15 years with no need for replacement, it can pay for itself in longevity.

Paint Offers Affordability Upfront

For those prioritising affordability and budget-friendly options, paint is very wallet-friendly. Paint prices depend on the quality and brand, but premium paints cost between £25-£40 per litre.

For a 10’x12’ room using approximately 5-8 litres, materials stay under £100 in most cases. Adding the cost of some essential tools and supplies as a one-time purchase, total project costs for paint often range £150-£250.

While repainting costs add up over years of homeownership, paint still wins in terms of affordability and access to DIY decoration. For temporary living situations or rooms prone to evolving style preferences, frequent repainting may not be an obstacle either.

Ease of Installation: Wallpaper Projects vs. Paint DIY

For those wanting to decorate walls themselves, the learning curve presents another point of comparison. Wallpaper generally requires more specialised skills and labour intensity for prep and installation. Painting has fewer barriers to entry for DIYers willing to put in some elbow grease.

Wallpaper Projects Involve Multiple Layers of Prep

Beautiful, flawless wallpaper installation relies on meticulous prep work, including:

Removing old wallpaper if present
Repairing imperfections in the wall surface
Applying adhesive primer
Precisely measuring and cutting wallpaper
Carefully transporting pasted strips to the wall and smoothly integrating seams

This multi-step process demands patience and specialised tools. While DIY-friendly wallpaper options exist, many homeowners opt to hire professional paper hangers to ensure quality results.

Painting Can Be Completed With Basic DIY Skills

For those possessing basic DIY skills but lacking advanced expertise in paper hanging, painting may provide an easier and more accessible option. Simple yet effective painting requires:

Clearing and covering the room, including trim, floors, and furniture
Repairing minor wall flaws like small holes and cracks
Lightly sanding glossy surfaces to improve paint adhesion
Carefully applying 2-3 coats of paint in a “W” pattern
Allowing proper dry time between coats

Using basic tools like paint rollers, brushes, trays, and drop cloths, single rooms can be painted over 1-2 days. While techniques like creating custom finishes take some practice, painting itself has a faster learning curve for novices.

Aesthetic Potential: Wallpaper Drama vs. Painted Palettes

Both wallpaper and painted walls offer routes to realising your desired visual environment — from subtle and serene to bold and dynamic. Wallpaper typically provides more dramatic impact, while paint can better facilitate an evolving colour palette.

Wallpaper Delivers Striking Visual Interest

With countless prints, textures, colours, and materials available, wallpaper opens a world of options for customising your home’s aesthetic. Whether your taste runs modern, bohemian, traditional, or minimalist, quality wallpaper aligns with nearly any decorative style. Consider a few standout aesthetic perks:

Visually enlarge a small room by selecting light, monochromatic patterns
Generate an intimate, cosy effect with richly coloured damasks or flocked papers
Craft a contemporary graphic statement with metallic or high-sheen wallpapers
Shape formal dining rooms with traditional embossed patterns like damasks or brocades

For those seeking serious visual impact, mid-to-high end wallpaper choices make stunning style statements that paint alone cannot easily achieve.

Paint Creates Subtle Backdrops With Evolving Colour

For some homeowners, paint serves as the perfect neutral backdrop that bends and flexes with life’s changes rather than making an overt decorative declaration. A few factors supporting paint’s continued prominence include:

Affordable colour experimentation: Testing colours via paint costs far less than buying rolls of wallpaper in several patterns or colours. Paint allows you to trial run options until discovering the perfect shade.
Trend flexibility: Painting over existing colour when style preferences shift takes reasonable time, effort, and money — a tougher prospect with wallpaper.
Crisp backdrops: Rich or bright accent pieces and artwork pop beautifully against painted walls in lighter neutrals or white. Paint prevents backgrounds from competing visually.

Maintenance Needs: Cleaning and Protecting Walls Over Time

When weighing wall decoration options, practical maintenance issues also come into play. Between wallpaper and painted walls, the clear winner in ease of care goes to paint.

Wallpaper Requires Special Care Regimens

Over time, wallpaper attracts dust and stains just like other surfaces. But paper materials limit cleansing options to specially formulated wallpaper cleaners. Agnostic household cleaners like multi-surface sprays or soapy water can warp, fade, or damage wallpaper.

Additionally, the textured surfaces of many wallpaper styles require gentle attention when dusting. Abrasive scrub brushes or heavy pressure can scuff, peel, or scratch delicate finishes.

Despite innovations like stain-resistant and scrubbable wallpapers, hands-on care takes finesse and specialty supplies.

Painted Walls Allow Carefree Cleaning

DIY gurus and professional home stagers alike recommend painted walls for ease of maintenance and cleaning. With proper prep and primer, most latex house paints stand up to:

Gentle scrubbing with multi-surface cleaners
Diluted dish soap and water mixtures
Disinfectant sprays like Dettol
Magic eraser spot treatment

Beyond sweeping touch-ups to repair small scuffs or marks, painted walls clean up fast and fluidly as life happens without fuss. For family homes seeing lots of activity, washable paint provides a sanity-saver.

Removal Considerations: Taking Down Wallpaper vs. Painting Over

Another realistic logistical consideration comes into play when it comes time to remove or update existing wall treatments. Both wallpaper and paint have options in this regard — but wallpaper typically requires hiring professional removal services, while paint allows DIY improvements.

Wallpaper Removal Often Requires Professionals

Removing wallpaper, especially products installed for extended time frames, proves extremely difficult and time-intensive for DIYers. Complications include:

Wallpaper adhesive drying into a hardened glue-like bond over years
Multiple layers of wallpaper building up over time
Ink or backing materials staining the wall underneath once paper gets stripped
Risk of ripping layers of drywall itself if forcing removal

Seeking professional wallpaper removal services helps sidestep frustration and less-than-ideal results. But it tacks on several hundred pounds in additional costs.

Painting Over Simplifies Updates

Fortunately for the paint camp, refreshing or changing painted spaces comes with reasonable effort. With proper prep between cycles like sanding glossy areas and repairing flaws, new paint adheres seamlessly to existing layers more often than not.

While completely removing all existing paint down to the bare plasterboard or plaster boosts long-term adhesion, the option to simply paint over paint streamlines upgrades. During sale prep or while tuning personal spaces, quick cosmetic paint upgrades check the box.

Versatility Perks: Wallpaper Textures vs. Paint Sheens

Both wallpapers and paint offer versatility in their own regard — special finishes provide custom

isation options in each room.

Textured Wallpapers Add Dimensional Interest

Beyond introducing colour, print, and pattern, wallpaper offers textural depth for added flair. Options span:

Subtly textured vinyl papers resembling delicate linen, cotton, silk, or grasscloth
Heavily embossed patterns creating prominent dimensional designs
Flocked finishes featuring soft velvet-like textures as a striking alternative to flat papers

Textural wallpapers non-visually enhance a space with depth and tactile beauty. These versatile choices perform well in accent walls, dining rooms, bedrooms, and more.

Paint Sheens Adjust Light Reflection

When choosing paint, you can also pick different sheens, which are levels of shine. These options let you customise how your walls look:

Flat: No shine. Good for ceilings and low-traffic areas. Hides imperfections well.
Eggshell: Slight shine. More durable than flat. Good for living rooms and bedrooms.
Satin: Light shine. Works well in living spaces that need easy cleaning.
Semi-Gloss: Medium shine. Best for trim, kitchens, and bathrooms.
High-Gloss: Very shiny. Used sparingly for accents like doors and cabinets.

Choosing the right sheen helps you achieve the look you want, whether you prefer understated walls or shiny accents.

Making the Best Choice for You and Your Home

In the end, deciding between wallpaper and paint depends on your budget, lifestyle, and style preferences. Here are some questions to help you decide:

What is the room used for? High-traffic areas need more durable options.
How much maintenance can you handle? Consider the effort needed for touch-ups or cleaning.
How long will you stay in the home? Short-term homes might benefit from paint for flexibility, while wallpaper can be a good investment for long-term stays.
Do you want a bold look or a flexible background? Let your style guide you.

Think about your priorities and what fits your needs. Some people choose a mix, using wallpaper for one accent wall and paint for the rest.

Consult the Experts For Personalised Advice

Getting advice from professionals can help you make the best choice. Painting contractors and wallpaper installers can provide:

Custom advice for your rooms and style.
Knowledge about the best products for durability and value.
Skilled installation for perfect results.

Experts can help you achieve your vision with beautifully finished walls. Professional advice ensures you get the best outcome for your decorating projects.

Use this information to confidently create a space that matches your personality and priorities!

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

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REVITALISE YOUR HOME OFFICE WITH THESE PROFESSIONAL PAINTING TIPS

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:45:00 GMT

Revitalise Your Home Office with These Professional Painting Tips

Your home office is more than just a workspace - it's an environment that can impact your productivity, creativity, and motivation. The right paint colours and finishes can transform your office into an inspiring retreat that enhances your ability to focus and produce your best work.

Professional painters have insider knowledge on designing colour palettes and application techniques that result in a gorgeous, on-trend office space.

The Psychology Behind Office Paint Colours

Choosing colours grounded in colour psychology is the first step toward creating a home office where you can do your best work. Soft, cool hues like light blue and pale grey are calming colours that promote concentration.

For creative tasks that require outside-the-box thinking, colours with more energy like green, yellow, or bright white foster productivity. And don't underestimate the power of neutral backgrounds - beige, taupe, and warm greys recede, keeping the focus on you instead of loud wall colours.

Popular Paint Color Trends for Today's Home Offices

Professional decorators stay up to date on the latest colour trends that work well in home office spaces. Three current favourites are:

Chocolate Brown

A rich chocolate brown evokes class and luxury. As a home office colour, it screams focus, sophistication, and purpose. Grounded in nature, chocolate brown helps create a warm yet productive workspace.

Vibrant Blue

From bright cobalt to deeper navy, blue office walls foster productivity and purpose. Crisp, vibrant blues spark creativity and keep you energised as you check off your to-do list. A blue palette sends the message that this is a space for innovation and getting things done.

Beige with Pops of Colour

Today's home office spaces allow for fluidity between work and rest. A neutral beige or warm grey palette serves as a soothing backdrop when it's time to focus, while accents of vibrant colour provide visual interest when you need inspiration. Accent walls in shades of purple, green and coral contribute welcoming pops of colour.

DIY Painting vs. Professional Services

Once you settle on the perfect home office colour scheme, it's decision time - take on the painting yourself or hire professional painters and decorators to tackle the job? While DIY painting seems easy in theory, specialised techniques and equipment are necessary to achieve a seamless, polished finish. Professionals have the skills to:

Prep surfaces correctly so paint adheres properly
Cut super sharp edges along ceilings and trim
Apply specialty finishes like colour washing or sponging
Match existing paint colours flawlessly

The results will be transformative - that crisp, magazine-worthy look you've been envisioning. And professional painters work quickly and efficiently so your home office facelift happens fast, with minimal disruption to your routine.

Paint Colour Ideas to Boost Office Productivity

Here are go-to paint colours that promote workplace productivity according to colour psychology:

Soothing Sage Green

The natural tones of light sage green have a stabilising, harmonious effect perfect for solo focus work. This restorative shade reduces stress so you can concentrate.

Radiant Orchid Purple

Bold orchid purple walls spark creativity and innovation, ideal for home offices where you brainstorm big ideas or develop cutting-edge concepts. It's an energetic colour that boosts productivity.

Robin's Egg Blue

Surrounding yourself with this cheerful retro blue cultivates clarity and purpose. Bright without being overpowering, it's a dynamic colour that summons concentration.

Dove Gray

Subtle, sophisticated dove grey makes the perfect cosy backdrop in a home office. It provides a calming, neutral foundation so you can direct attention toward your work.

Regal Navy Blue

Navy evokes productivity and focus, also imparting professionalism and authority. Use navy walls or accent pieces for an office with serious style and purpose.

Olive Branch Green

Earthy olive green connects you to nature, helping strip away stress. This is a versatile paint colour that allows you to shift easily between creative and detail-oriented tasks.

Custom Colour Consultation From the Experts

The final step toward creating your dream home office? Tap into the expertise of Borthwick Decorators. Based on your work style, productivity goals, and colour preferences, we can dial into that perfect shade that checks all the boxes. We'll review paint sheens, provide colour tips, recommend complementary accent colours, and outline next steps to make your office vision a reality.

Revitalise your home office and boost productivity with a makeover powered by expert painting techniques and a customised colour palette. Discover insider secrets from professional painters and unlock your workspace's full potential.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

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STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO ACHIEVING A PROFESSIONAL FINISH ON YOUR INTERIOR WALLS

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:42:12 GMT

Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving a Professional Finish on Your Interior Walls

Achieving a flawless, professional-grade finish on interior walls can seem daunting, but with the right guidance on preparation, products, and application techniques, DIY enthusiasts can attain salon-quality results.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the key considerations around paint finishes, surface prep, application methods, and upkeep to help you tackle painting projects with confidence. Follow these pro tips and transform lacklustre walls into an elegant showpiece that enhances your home's aesthetic appeal.

Understanding Paint Finishes

Before deciding on a colour, first consider the functional purpose you want your interior paint to serve. Paint comes in various finishes that produce different surface sheens, each suited for specific applications. Let's examine the most common options:

Flat (matt)

Flat or matt finishes have no shine and a velvety smooth texture. They excel at hiding surface imperfections by diffusing light reflection. Best suited for low traffic areas like master bedrooms and formal dining rooms. While inexpensive and easy to touch up, flat paints are harder to clean and prone to scuff marks.

Eggshell

Slightly more lustrous than flat finishes, eggshell paints have a delicate sheen reminiscent of an eggshell. The subtle gloss makes them easier to clean and provides good durability for a matte-type finish. Ideal for moderate traffic living spaces like bedrooms, office areas, and rec rooms. Still vulnerable to marking but provides a classic, soft elegance.

Satin

The delicate pearl-like glow of satin finishes bridges matte and traditional gloss paints. More scrubbable than flat or eggshell, satin stands up well to moderate traffic while retaining its attractive lustre. Works excellently in kitchens, hallways, kids' rooms, and other high-use areas prone to grease and dirt exposure. Resists moisture better than lower sheens.

Semi-Gloss

The radiant look of semi-gloss gives a sleek, polished effect. It's easy cleanability makes it ideal for rooms exposed to grease, condensation, and frequent handling like corridors, bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas. Often used for doors, trims, and cabinetry. While durable and stain-resistant, imperfections easily show through semi-gloss’s reflective surface.

High Gloss

Boasting a striking mirror-like shine, high gloss finishes provide ultimate durability and water resistance. As the most light-reflective option, high gloss amplifies flaws and requires meticulous surface prep for a flawless look.

Use to accent focal walls or protect surfaces in heavy use wet areas like laundries and bathrooms. Also an excellent pick for trims, doors, and kitchen cabinetry in contemporary colour palettes. Easy to clean but also shows fingerprints and requires frequent polishing.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Walls

Now that you understand the unique perks of each paint finish, use these key considerations around room function and traffic flow to narrow your selection:

Low Traffic Areas

For infrequently used rooms like master suites, studies, formal dining spaces, and guest bedrooms, flat or eggshell finishes work beautifully. These subtle sheens downplay wall imperfections while keeping cleaning hassles minimal. Stick with durable scrubbable eggshell for children’s bedroom walls that may experience occasional markings.

Moderate Traffic Areas

In multi-use living spaces like lounge rooms, home offices, and recreational areas exposed to regular foot traffic, consider durable satin or eggshell finishes. Eggshell retains a classic elegance while satin offers enhanced cleanability and resilience to occasional bumps and scrapes.

High Traffic Areas

For wall surfaces prone to heavy usage, moisture, staining, and potential damage in kitchens, bathrooms, play areas, and hallways/stairwells, semi-gloss or high gloss finishes provide the ultimate protection.

While semi-gloss provides polished sheen and resistance for affordable protection, high gloss ups the ante with mirror-like reflectivity and impervious moisture defence. Use high gloss selectively on accent walls or install semi-gloss throughout high-activity zones.

In wet zones like bathrooms and laundry rooms, moisture-resistant finishes prevent growth of mould, mildew, and bacteria. Satin resists humidity well for a softly glowing look, but for ultimate water defence on sinks, backsplashes, and tub/shower surrounds, upgrade to semi or high gloss finishes.

Kitchens also endure spills, splatters, and condensation around ranges, dishwashing, and refrigerator areas. Again, spec in satin, semi, or high gloss finishes around these moisture-prone spaces. Consider wipeable glass board paint on pantry or mudroom walls for erasable notes and reminders.

Step-by-Step Painting Process

With your preferred paint sheen and colours selected, now let’s examine the professional painting process for flawlessly executed results:

Preparation

Thorough prep work ensures paint adheres optimally for smooth, enduring finish. Fill cracks and holes with spackle, then sand bumps, drips, glossy, or damaged areas to create a uniform surface profile.

Clean walls using TSP cleaner then rinse thoroughly. For previously painted walls in sound condition, gently sand to degloss before wiping clean of dust. Allow surfaces to fully dry before priming or painting.

Priming

Quality primer helps paint bind tightly while blocking stains, tannins, and texture differences for evenly absorbed topcoats. Opt for tinted primers closest to your finish shade. Apply primer generously using overlapping strokes, allowing 2 hours minimum dry time before painting.

For drastic colour changes, dark hues may require an extra priming coat to prevent bleed-through.

Painting

Once primed surfaces are fully cured and dry, now the wall transformation magic happens! Follow these pro application tips:

Cutting In

Initially paint wall edges, corners, trims, and ceiling lines using angled trim brushes for precise control, followed by rolling larger expanses. This “cutting in” achieves sharp no-tape lines. Take care not to overload bristles–excess dripping slows drying. Maintain a wet edge for continuous looks.

Rolling Paint

Pour paint into roller trays for easy loading onto applicator covers. Use quality mini rollers sized right for your surfaces; typical wall rollers span 9 inches while trim/cut-in rollers run 4 inches. Load roller evenly without oversaturation, then roll off excess paint before applying finish coats. Use modest pressure in overlapping “W” and “V” motions, blending sections seamlessly while maintaining a wet look. For textured surfaces, adjust angles to coat contours completely.

Applying Multiple Coats

Plan on applying multiple thin coats for best results, allowing proper drying between layers as specified by the manufacturer. Thick single coats risk unsightly drips while inadequate coverage leaves uneven sheen or hints of underlying colours peering through. Patient, repetitive thin coats deliver superior, enduring results. For darker dramatic hues, extra coats prevent show-through of prior lighter wall colours.

Finishing Touches

Once painting completes, now finalise your makeover results: carefully pry off masking tapes within 24 hours before adhesion builds. Inspect for any missed spots or patchy areas, smooth with trim brushes. Confirm thorough coverage, allowing sheen to fully develop over 7+ days’ cure time. Clean rollers and brushes thoroughly after use. Finally, vacuum/sweep errant drips, safely dispose of paint cans/trays, and meticulously clean the workspace.

Additional Tips for a Professional Finish

Beyond fundamental painting procedures, deploy these advanced professional painter techniques:

Lighting : Illumination impacts perceived colour intensity and sheen visibility. Assess your finish options under your room’s actual lighting conditions.

Contrast : Pair glossy trims with flat or eggshell wall colours for striking definition. Define architectural details through strategic sheen variations.

Dark Colours : Deep dramatic hues like navy and charcoal show more surface defects. Stick with medium value neutral tones or upgrade to higher sheens to minimise noticeable flaws behind richer colours.

Application Tools : Invest in quality brushes, mini rollers, trays, and painter’s tape for easier, faster, and cleaner painting experiences. Maintain tools per manufacturers’ directions.

Maintenance Tips

Preserve your elegant painted finishes by:

Gently dusting with microfiber cloths to avoid scuff marks
Spot cleaning with manufacturer-approved cleaners compatible with your paint’s sheen
Avoiding abrasive scrub pads/brushes and harsh chemicals
Touching up occasional light scuffs with original paint to protect underlying layers

When paint loses lustre despite gentle handling, apply fresh coats as needed to revive to a salon-quality appearance.

Why Hire Professional Painters and Decorators?

While avid DIY-ers can certainly produce lovely painted finishes independently, for extensive whole home painting or tricky specialty techniques, consider hiring professional painters and decorators for outstanding results. Their mastery of materials, methods, tools combined with years of hands-on experience guarantees a magazine-shoot flawless finish with incredible durability. Reap benefits of:

Total project management from concept to completion
Meticulous surface prep and treatment of problem substrates
Efficient application for faster turnaround times
Access to commercial-grade paints and specialty finishing products unavailable to consumers
Custom faux treatments like venetian plaster, marbling, graining and glazing
Superior warranty protections backed by years in business
Hassle-free cleanup and disposal

Though seemingly basic, intricate professional skills go into painting to create museum-quality finishes that enhance home beauty and value.

Conclusion

Achieving high-calibre painted finishes involves careful consideration around paint sheens, surface preparation, application techniques, and upkeep. Evaluate room functions, traffic patterns and desired aesthetics to select optimal finishes. Eggshell, Satin, and Semi-Gloss offer excellent durability and style for most interior walls and trimworks.

Follow proven methods for cleaning, priming, cutting-in, rolling, and applying multiple thin finish coats. Maintain painted results through gentle cleaning and timely touch ups.

While DIY novices can produce lovely looks, for expansive whole-home transformations or ornate specialty treatments, hire professional painters and decorators for outstanding enduring outcomes. With this guidance, now transform lacklustre walls into glamorous showpieces that wow.

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THE ART OF SELECTING PREMIUM PAINTS FOR A BEAUTIFUL HOME

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:27:16 GMT

The Art of Selecting Premium Paints for a Beautiful Home

Selecting the right paint is integral to achieving a beautiful, durable, and vibrant finish in any home decor project. Premium paints offer unparalleled coverage, protection, and aesthetic quality compared to standard paints.

This article will explore the key considerations and best practices for choosing premium paint brands and products to realise your interior and exterior painting visions.

Understanding Premium Paint Qualities

Premium paints contain high volumes of top-grade resins, pigments, and additives that enhance hide, adhesion, and protection well beyond basic paints. A key ingredient that defines premium paints is Titanium Dioxide, a thickening agent that grants remarkable hiding power and guards against UV damage.

Premium brands also rigorously test paint samples, allowing them to perfect adhesion, appearance, and application across different surfaces.

When selecting premium paints for your projects, it is wise to test samples yourself under real-world conditions. Observe how the paint applies to intended surfaces and how it reacts to light throughout the day. This helps inform durable, aesthetically-pleasing paint choices.

Exploring Paint Brands: Benjamin Moore and Farrow & Ball

Benjamin Moore and Farrow & Ball stand at the pinnacle of premium paint manufacturing. These brands offer excellent products, but differ slightly in formulas, specialities, and service options.

Benjamin Moore

Benjamin Moore paints frequently top industry reports for quality and colour accuracy. Their proprietary resins and Gennex® colourants create superior adhesion and vibrance while resisting yellowing and fading.

With over 3,500 colours like the striking Red 21, Bayberry, and Sullivan Green, Benjamin Moore offers one of the most abundant yet curated palettes in modern paint manufacturing.

Farrow & Ball

Farrow & Ball is renowned for its richly pigmented, eco-friendly paints that offer unmatched depth and complexity. The brand’s paints are made with high-quality ingredients and traditional methods, resulting in colours that change subtly in different lighting conditions, adding a dynamic quality to any space.

Farrow & Ball's curated palette of 132 colours includes iconic shades like "Elephant’s Breath," "Hague Blue," and "Railings," which have become staples in sophisticated interior design. The brand’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its low-VOC formulations, making it a preferred choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Farrow & Ball paints are particularly noted for their exceptional coverage and durability, ensuring a flawless finish that stands the test of time.

Choosing the Right Paint Finish

While premium paints share common traits like durability and rich pigmentation, the right finish plays a major role in realising your desired texture, sheen, and functionality. Here are the most common paint finish options:

Flat: Recommended for ceilings and low-traffic walls. Flat (matte) paints scatter light to hide imperfections, but are harder to clean.
Eggshell: Slightly more lustrous than flat. Ideal for residential spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, and dining spaces. Provides scrubbability with moderate light reflection.
Satin: Appears matte from afar but shows a subtle sheen up close. Often advised for hallways, playrooms, and bathrooms requiring routine cleaning. Most versatile mid-level sheen.
High-Gloss: Reflective and ultra-smooth finish. Best suited to areas needing moisture resistance and frequent wiping like kitchens, trim, and cabinetry. Can show imperfections.

Selecting paint sheens depends on the desired balance of aesthetics and practicality. Glosses and satins enable easy cleaning but accentuate surface flaws. For a flawless flat finish on interior walls and ceilings, premium quality paints become paramount.

Exterior Paint Considerations

Choosing exterior paint colours can impact a home’s curb appeal, resale value, and personality. Popular modern schemes in the UK utilise elegant neutrals like Farrow & Ball’s Downpipe, Skimming Stone, and Blackened. Rich blues and cooler greys are also growing in favour such as Hague Blue and Moonshine from Farrow and Ball to enhance architectural detailing against modern home exteriors.

Consider the style and material of your home before deciding on colours. Historically sympathetic shades often increase neighbourhood appeal. Bold, modern hues can energise brick facades but may overwhelm timber-framed cottages, for instance. Always test samples in situ to preview the real-world look.

Testing and Selecting Paint Colors

With any premium paint brand offering hundreds of colour options, testing swatches is instrumental in confirming your preferences. Paint small samples directly onto the intended surface whenever possible. For initial colour testing, adhere peel-and-stick paint squares to walls or use large sheets of thick paper to visualise the tones.

Observe samples in both natural and artificial light at different times of day. A colour that appears pastel in morning sunlight can intensify at dusk. Cool white LED lights can also alter undertones versus warm incandescent bulbs. Testing paints under your actual lighting ensures you select colours that always look spectacular.

Top Factors for Selecting Premium Paint

Ease of Application

Between primer and multiple finish coats, painting is extensive work. Premium paint's exceptional adhesion, spreadability, and lay down ease the painting process considerably by minimising drips, unevenness, and brush drag marks across fewer coats.

Drying Time

Quick-drying paint means less waiting time between coats. Accelerated dry times stem from premium paint's precise resin technology that uniformly sets compared to budget brands.

Durability

Premium paints maintain superior bond strength across surfaces along with exceptional resistance to scratches, scuffs, stains, and UV fading over time through rain, snow and shine. This durability comes from dense pigments and weather-tested resins that withstand years of wear without losing sheen, cracking or peeling.

Other beneficial features include one-coat coverage that guarantees full opacity after a single pass, self-priming abilities to skip the primer step altogether, and advanced formulations to prevent mould and mildew .

Timing Your Paint Purchases

Paint costs fluctuate somewhat predictably each year. According to Consumer Reports, the best deals emerge twice annually in May and September when brands compete to entice homeowners tackling remodelling projects. Plan ahead and purchase premium paints during these savings windows. Or leverage coupons and sales to lower costs without sacrificing quality.

Professional Painting and Decorating Services

From assessing conditions to mastering cutting-in techniques, painting requires significant skill and dexterity. Professional painters have the experience to recommend optimal paint solutions for each surface and lighting condition in your home. They also take care of intensive preparation and cleanup while delivering impeccable results at impressive speeds.

Reputable painting and decorating contractors are available across the UK to assist on small or extensive projects. They also offer colour consultancy, faux finishing, wallpapering and more, routinely generating sophisticated finishes bespoke to each client at fair competitive prices.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect paint entails balancing sheen, depth, and practicality across each surface. Premium paints available from Benjamin Moore Paints and Farrow & Ball. offer endless options for creating stunning, resilient interiors and exteriors that better preserve their colour and integrity over time compared to basic paints.

Experiment with samples, consult professionals if needed, and remember seasonal savings for paint purchases. With some thoughtful planning and strategic colour selections, you can realise painting excellence fit for a magazine cover while still enjoying the painting process.

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THE BENEFITS OF HIRING PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS FOR YOUR HOME

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:19:22 GMT

The Benefits of Hiring Professional Painters for Your Home

Painting your home can be an exciting project, allowing you to refresh worn surfaces, change the look and feel with new colours, and upgrade finishes. But taking on an extensive painting project as a DIY endeavour may not always yield the best results. Hiring professional house painters brings extensive experience, efficiency, attention to detail, and more benefits that can elevate your home improvement project.

Extensive Experience Yields Quality Results

Professional painters accumulate years of hands-on experience working on all types of painting projects. They understand real-world challenges and know how to achieve quality results efficiently. Professionals have painted numerous homes over their careers, encountering tricky situations like working on challenging surfaces, painting detailed trimwork, and correctly preparing surfaces for a long-lasting paint job.

With extensive experience comes the practical knowledge to work through difficult aspects of painting projects without compromising quality. The intricacies of proper surface preparation, applying paint coatings uniformly, cutting in clean lines and edges, and achieving a consistent sheen require skills that develop over time. Attempting these finishing tasks without experience can lead to a subpar paint job with uneven coats, drips, visible brush strokes, and other imperfections.

Efficient Systems and Process

The systematic approach of professional painters also improves efficiency. They have standardised systems for preparing surfaces, setting up equipment, applying paint coatings, and performing finish work. Professionals schedule projects methodically, working room by room to cut down on time wasted moving ladders, drop cloths, and other gear from place to place.

The efficiency professionals achieve helps speed up paint jobs significantly compared to DIYers. Quicker completion gets your rooms painted and the project wrapped up faster so you can get back to normal life uninterrupted. Hiring painters can also reduce costs associated with extra time and effort when tackling the job solo. Their systematic process keeps your project on track.

Meticulous Attention to Detail

An eye for detail is another trademark quality of professional painters. From paint prep to final inspection, reputable professionals pay close attention to small specifics that affect the end results. Meticulous prep work like spackling nail holes and caulking gaps ensures painted surfaces have a smooth, consistent finish. Careful cutting-in around edges and taping off trims prevents messy paint bleeding.

Professionals also know that superior results come down to using the right tools, methods, and paint products for each unique surface and situation. Their expertise guides material selection for maximum adhesion and durability. For example, professionals may recommend specific primers to properly prepare surfaces like new drywall, raw wood, or metal. Expert product knowledge prevents common mistakes amateurs make attempting to save money on supplies.

High-Quality Paints and Proper Application

Reputable professional painters have access to commercial-grade paints and understand how to apply them correctly based on the paint specifications and unique project needs. High-quality coatings provide better coverage and often contain more solids like resins and pigments that add durability. Professionals use tools like airless paint sprayers to achieve uniform, consistent coverage without thinning down the paint.

Proper application techniques also lead to paint jobs that last thanks to adequate coatings of long-lasting paint. Rushing through applying too little paint to save time compromises durability and leads to early wear, fading, and peeling.

Professional painters adhere to recoat times and apply the necessary amounts of paint coatings. Their work leaves a durable finish able to withstand cleaning and wear for years before needing touch-ups or new paint.

Insurance Protection from Damages

Hiring an insured professional painting contractor to work in your home provides financial and liability protections should any accidents or damages occur. Reputable painters carry general liability insurance as well as workers compensation for employees. Insurance helps cover repairs from unintentional damage like paint splatters on surfaces, stains in carpets from spills, and other issues.

Insurance coverage gives homeowners peace of mind while work occurs on the property. Minor messes or accidents won’t become major out-of-pocket expenses to remedy. Insurance also covers injuries, protecting homeowners from any liability with worker incidents. Checking painters’ active insurance certificates ensures you receive financial protections hiring professionals provides.

Time Savings Allow Focus on Other Tasks

Taking a DIY approach to painting your home requires substantial investments of your personal time to prepare surfaces, apply paint, maintain safety protocols like masking and drop cloths, and perform the fixed-up work. The process consumes entire days or weeks that prevent focusing time on other priorities. Homeowners cannot easily walk away mid-project to handle other tasks.

Professional painters handle all aspects of your paint job from start to finish—freeing up your schedule for important family, work, and personal obligations without interference.

Professionals mask off surfaces, set up safety gear properly, prepare surfaces thoroughly, apply paint coatings accurately, and perform detailed cleanup. All you need to do is finalise paint colours and make sure the areas are accessible. The rest of your time remains open for priorities.

Expert Guidance on Products and Methods

Another perk that comes with hiring professional painters is tapping into their expert knowledge about current paints, tools, techniques, trends, and more specialised aspects of painting projects. Seasoned professionals participate in ongoing training and education to remain updated on the newest methods and technology advancements. They also have handled just about every painting situation possible after years in the field.

This experience makes professionals a valuable source of guidance when selecting paint sheens and colours for your home’s design style, choosing products suitable for tricky surfaces like glossy cabinets or porous concrete, and identifying the proper preparation techniques and painting method for an outstanding finish that exceeds expectations. Their sage advice prevents missteps amateurs commonly make attempting to self-educate through basic online research alone.

Strict Safety Protocols

Safety should also be a major consideration for extensive painting projects—and professionals are meticulous about following secure standards. From using ladders correctly to wearing appropriate protective gear, reputable painters adhere to safety protocols when working on your property. Proper set up helps prevent slipping hazards from paint drips while drop cloths control mess. Masking materials like tapes and papers protect surfaces not being painted.

Professionals also wear coveralls, gloves, goggles, respirators and other safety equipment based on the specific painting job. Strict safety standards minimise risk to workers as well as homeowners who may have small children or pets on site.

Letting experienced crews handle protocols appropriate for each paint product ensures everyone remains protected from exposures or incidents. DIY attempts often overlook key safety gear or practices.

Warranties and Guarantees for Peace of Mind

Many professional painters provide homeowners warranties or guarantees for their work ranging from 1-2 years. Warranties give assurance that any premature paint failures, finish defects, or other quality issues that arise will be addressed and corrected by the painting contractor. Common warranty coverage includes reapplication of paint if peeling or fading starts, resolving any lap marks or visible uneven coverage, and touch ups if needed.

Warranties provide financial protections without needing to pay costs related to paint quality defects or premature failures out-of-pocket. Simply file a claim and the painting contractor handles resolving the issues professionally in a timely manner.

Warranties give reassurance that the work completed on your home meets high standards for durability and appearance. Review warranty terms carefully so no unexpected costs arise.

Professional Painting Delivers Long-Term Value

At first glance, professional painters often come with a higher price tag for labour compared to tackling a DIY painting project. But the results delivered by experienced crews provide substantially more value over the long run.

The enduring quality of their work only needs revisiting years down the road after enjoying a flawless painted finish. Considering cost per year, professional painters often offer better value accounting for durability.

Savings also come from professionals’ efficiency, access to professional-grade paints at contractor discounts, and insurance protections that prevent homeowners absorbing repair costs from damages.

Prevention of costly mistakes or purchasing incorrect supplies further reduces expenses over time. Viewing professional painting services as in investment in your home’s appearance and resale value changes perceptions of cost.

Transform Your Home with Professional Painting Services

After reviewing the areas where professional painters deliver unmatched expertise and service, the choice becomes clear surrounding DIY painting attempts. Protecting your property while saving time for priorities, gaining access to insider knowledge, and ensuring your project receives enduring results provides benefits extending long after the painters finish the last brush strokes.

Seeking out insured and verified professionals remains the smart approach for exterior and interior painting projects alike—preventing frustration when tackling advanced techniques solo while ensuring your home receives superior treatment.

For those in search of professional painting contractors to get estimates for an upcoming project, contact a local provider specialising in residential painting. Reputable professionals offer free consultations to review your unique needs and specifications then make suggestions to help guide your home improvement in the right direction.

Their years of experience means not only elevating the aesthetics of your property through exquisite paint finishes but also making the process smooth from start to finish. Contact a highly reviewed pro today to get started.

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INNOVATIVE EXTERIOR PAINT IDEAS FOR A STANDOUT HOME

Sat, 27 Jul 2024 13:15:00 GMT

Innovative Exterior Paint Ideas for a Standout Home

A fresh coat of paint can completely transform the look and feel of your home's exterior. The right colours and painting techniques allow you to highlight your home's best architectural features, keep up with the latest trends, and add an extra dose of curb appeal. Read on for expert tips and ideas to give your home exterior a standout new look.

The Importance of Exterior Paint

The exterior of your home makes the all-important first impression on visitors and passers by. While a beautiful home design provides the foundation, exterior paint colours and finishes act as the final touch that brings the whole look together. Well-executed painting projects enhance curb appeal while poor paint jobs can detract from it.

The 2024 colour trends from paint companies like Benjamin Moore offer gorgeous new shades that will keep your home looking on-trend. At the same time, innovative application techniques like two-tone combinations, textured finishes, and accent walls open up lots of creativity in your exterior paint projects. Complementary colours and skillful techniques make architectural details pop while still ensuring different sections of your home exterior coordinate beautifully.

Key Color Trends for 2024 Exterior Painting

Benjamin Moore has chosen a rich mid-tone blue called Blue Nova 825 as their 2024 Colour of the Year. Described as combining intrigue and depth with reassurance, Blue Nova 825 works beautifully as an exterior colour.

Its grey undertone coordinates well with grey siding while the saturated blue hue packs plenty of curb appeal.

In addition to the 2024 Colour of the Year, the Color Trends 2024 palette from Benjamin Moore features a range of gorgeous hues for exterior painting projects. These include:

Pure White : Crisp, clean, and elegant on trim, railings, and front doors.
Fawn Brindle : A warm beige shade that complements brown roofing.
Olympic Range : A pale green that stands out subtly against grey siding.

The Benjamin Moore 2024 colours reflect a movement toward muted nature-inspired hues rather than stark whites and blacks. These colours blend seamlessly into the home's natural surroundings for a peaceful, cohesive look.

Painting with Timeless Neutral Shades

For a classic exterior with staying power, you can't go wrong with timeless neutral paint colours. A pale neutral hue on the siding or render walls makes the perfect backdrop for accent colours. Pairing the pale wall colour with crisp white trim keeps the scheme fresh and appealing.

Some examples of pale neutrals to consider include:

Accessible Beige : A warm, earthy neutral from Benjamin Moore
No67 Farrow’s Cream : A versatile beige paint colour from Farrow & Ball

No matter what neutral you choose for the body colour, bright white trim and accents always give a clean contrast. Black accents also add sophistication without dominating the colour scheme. Ideas for black accents include:

Entry or garage doors
Shutters
Railings and gates
Window frames

Black painted finishes have a polished, high-contrast look you can't achieve with dark brown or charcoal grey.

Innovative Paint Ideas for Your Porch Area

The porch, patio, or other outdoor living areas also benefit from an exterior paint refresh. For the walls in these semi-enclosed areas, muted beige and ivory tones keep the scheme light and casual. If your porch has stucco or masonry walls, consider a finish coat of stone paint for a stylish texture.

When it comes to outdoor furniture and decking, favour subtle wood stains over painted finishes to allow the natural grain to show through. For metal furniture, consider all-weather powder-coated paints in deeper shades of brown, grey, and tan tailored to coordinate with your home’s exterior colour scheme.

As a bold pop of contrasting colour, paint your front door an exciting, saturated shade like ruby red, cobalt blue, or golden yellow. This small dose of intense colour energises the whole exterior colour palette.

Getting Creative with Paint Techniques

Colour choice plays a huge role in exterior painting, but application technique also offers room for creativity. Two-tone painted exteriors remain a hugely popular trend in 2024, often pairing a neutral wall or siding colour with painted trim and accents in a deeper, complementary tone.

For example, you might choose a light grey siding colour and paint the shutters, window trim, railings, and front door in a rich navy blue. The contrast between light and dark along with cooler and warmer undertones makes the different sections pop beautifully.

Beyond two-tone combinations, consider using accent walls to call out special architectural features in your home’s exterior:

Paint a covered front porch ceiling sky blue for a feeling of openness and space
Use terra-cotta orange on an exterior chimney to make it a focal point
Try forest green on rear patio walls to tie into lush landscaping
Choose peach or coral to make a statement with the garage door

Textured paints also introduce appealing visual and tactile interest to exterior walls, trim, railings, and ornamental detailing:

Spanish lace textures for old-world charm
A sand float finish for Tuscan flair
Metallic paint on railings and trim for contemporary dazzle
High-gloss paints lend a lacquered, nautical look

And don’t be afraid to mix up textures and finishes! Pairing a sand float stucco finish on exterior walls with glossy black window frames makes a striking combination.

Inspiring Colour Combination Ideas

If you’re feeling stuck on colour choices for your home exterior, look to these tried-and-true combinations for inspiration:

Pale Blue-Gray and White

A cool, misty blue-grey hue on siding or stucco walls makes the perfect backdrop for crisp, bright white accents. This scheme has an elegant, beachy vibe.

Chocolate Brown and Turquoise

Deep chocolate or coffee brown exterior walls pop against vibrant turquoise on the front door, window frames, and trim. The dynamic colour contrast evokes Southwestern desert architecture.

Neutral Gray and Sage Green

Earthy sage green energises cool grey walls, creating an organic yet refined colour scheme. Use colourful landscaping to continue the nature-inspired look.

Beige and Terra Cotta

Warm beige exterior walls coordinate seamlessly with terracotta orange accents in a harmonious Tuscan-inspired colour palette.

Hiring Professional Painters for Best Results

While a simple repainting project can potentially be a DIY job for a homeowner, complicated exterior painting is often best left to skilled professionals. Professional painters and contractors have the expertise to:

Recommend the most suitable exterior paints and finishes
Have scaffolding and staging equipment to paint safely at heights
Prepare surfaces correctly through pressure washing, scraping, sanding etc
Master complicated application techniques like faux finishes
Achieve clean, consistent coverage across large areas
Finish jobs efficiently while protecting landscaping and property

Investing in high quality professional painting services always pays dividends through enhancing your home value and setting your property apart through beautiful curb appeal.

Finding a Professional Painting Contractor

When hiring professional painters for exterior home painting projects, look for licensed and insured contractors with specialised skills and great reviews. Reputable professional painters and contractors will:

Offer multiple references from past clients
Have a professional online presence with photos of past projects
Employ expert painters that have years of on-the-job training
Use high quality brand name exterior paints and finishes
Prepare accurate quotes for materials and total project costs
Have availability to start your project on your scheduled timeline

Here at Borthwick Decorators, our exterior painting crews have transformed hundreds of homes with meticulous attention to detail and impeccable service. Contact us today for a complementary, no-obligation quote on your next exterior painting project.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

A fresh coat of paint goes beyond just protecting and preserving your home’s exterior surfaces from the elements. Innovative colours and painting techniques allow you to refresh, personalise, coordinate, highlight, and modernise the curb appeal of your home.

To stay on top of the latest 2024 exterior paint colour trends, consider beautiful, versatile shades like Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year, Blue Nova 825. For extra creativity, explore two-tone palettes, textured finishes, accent walls, and other unique application techniques professional painters can execute.

By combining colours and painting methods strategically chosen to flatter your home’s architecture, you can create a truly one-of-a-kind exterior that wows and delights. The transformed curb appeal will become a point of pride and joy for years to come. Contact Borthwick Decorators to get started designing your dream exterior paint scheme!

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HOW TO COORDINATE YOUR HOME'S COLOUR SCHEME FOR A COHESIVE LOOK

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 13:00:00 GMT

How to Coordinate Your Home's Color Scheme for a Cohesive Look

Selecting a cohesive colour palette is crucial for making your home look pulled-together and elegant. The colours you choose for your walls, furniture, accessories, and textures set the tone for each space and affect how people perceive the vibe. An eclectic jumble of mismatched colours can appear chaotic, while a harmonious colour scheme feels peaceful and welcoming.

By limiting your colour palette and sticking to a colour temperature, you can enhance visual harmony. Strategically placing bold pops provides dimension without sacrificing the overarching unity. Read on for tips to blend and transition hues throughout your home for a coordinated aesthetic.

Limit Your Paint Palette

Sticking to three or four core wall colours prevents your home from appearing choppy. While each room can have a distinct personality, maintaining some continuity provides cohesion. Using the same wall colour in contiguous spaces or repeating an accent shade ties everything together.

Limiting your paint selection also simplifies decision paralysis. With an abundance of hues, sheens, and brands to evaluate, the options seem endless. But with an edited trio to quadruple palette, you can commit to a direction confidently.

Choose Colour Groups Based on Temperature

Categorising palette possibilities into warm or cool families streamlines selection. Warm paint colours like saturated yellows, oranges, reds, and earth tones radiate heat and energy. Cool hues such as serene blues, greens, and lighter greys calm and soothe.

Decide whether you want your home awash in warm solar tones or cool tranquil ones—or somewhere in between. Sticking within the same temperature range prevents disjointed hot and cold contrasts. For example, pair sea glass green walls with frosty blue and sage accents instead of sunburnt orange.

Use Sightlines to Inform Choices

Consider which rooms connect visibility-wise through open floor plans, adjoining hallways, or aligned windows. The colours visible from one vantage point, also called sightlines, should transition smoothly without clashing.

For example, if your living room walls are visible from the dining room, select a complementary or analogous shade. Or use varied intensities of the same hue—deep navy in one space, light periwinkle blue in the other. This helps spaces feel cohesive instead of competing for attention.

Decide on Neutral Foundation Colours

Anchoring your scheme with neutral wall colours allows bolder accents to shine. Timeless shades of white, grey, beige and brown seamlessly blend with any style. Creamy neutrals like Swiss coffee or greyed taupe elevate traditional spaces, while stark white and charcoal grey provide an edgy modern backdrop.

Use 60% neutrals as your core wall colour foundation before layering in 30% supporting and 10% bold accent shades. This formula prevents loud colours from overwhelming. Neutrals also simplify coordinating furniture, rugs and art since virtually anything pairs attractively.

Apply the Flexible 60-30-10 Design Rule

The 60-30-10 colour rule helps balance harmony and variety. Devote 60% of your space to a dominant neutral wall colour. Use 30% for supporting hues on secondary surfaces like trim, cabinets or furnishings. Finally, sprinkle 10% bold brights strategically as accent points.

For example, in a living room:

60% lightweight beige walls
30% warm white trim and dark wood furniture
10% vibrant throw pillows and botanical prints

This approach helps spaces feel curated rather than chaotic. It also lends flexibility to shift the 10% accent colours seasonally without overhauling everything.

Connect Rooms with Neutral Transitions

Using continuous neutral elements helps establish flow in open floor plans. White or beige hallways, trimwork and doors seamlessly bridge spaces painted distinctly bold colours. For example, soft grey hallways subtlety connect a blush pink dining room and sage office without clashing thanks to the neutral.

Strategic use of all-white transitions prevents visible rooms from colliding abruptly color-wise. This allows you to get more daring with tone-on-tone schemes for an elevated yet harmonious effect.

Find Your Favourite Versatile White

With endless white paint possibilities to evaluate, choosing the right one matters. A bright, stark white risks looking clinical and cold. But an overly warm, yellowed one appears dingy. The sweet spot falls somewhere in between.

A soft white like Wimborne White or Cabbage White by Farrow & Ball neither leans too yellow or blue. The barely creamy undertones provide enough depth without appearing dull. Using the same white or off-white wall colour and trim shade maintains continuity room to room.

Layer Colour Intensities From Space to Space

Varying the shade and depth of colour from room to room adds subtle interest while preventing a flat, monotonous effect. Think of it like adjusting a dimmer switch. For example, use a muted clay in a bedroom then amp up the intensity with burnt ochre walls in the adjoining bathroom.

For bonus cohesion, incorporate texture in the same colour family. Eggshell painted clay walls plus orange veined marble shower tile strengthens the scheme. This makes the home feel thoughtfully curated versus haphazardly mismatchy.

Add Strategic Bold Colour Pops

Prevent blandness by welcoming a vibrant accent hue. Limit audacious colour to one fabulous feature wall, piece of statement furniture or stark kitchen island. This concentrated colour infusion adds modern swagger without overpowering neutral foundation shades.

For example, freshen a beige and white kitchen with a painted cobalt blue island base. Or energise subtle grey walls with a teal velvet sofa as the focal point. Containing bold colour to contained vignettes prevents it from competing with harmonised spaces.

Warm Your Windows with Complementary Trims

Windows represent high visibility sightlines worth considering color-wise. Sticking to matching trim hues from room to room promotes flow. Avoid jarring bright white window frames if soft cream walls anchor the spaces.

Instead, opt for off-whites in a similar undertone family as wall colours. For example, complement blue-green painted rooms with hazy aqua trim work instead of glaring white. This helps windows seamlessly blend instead of demanding attention.

Final Touches for a Cohesive Sanctuary

Carefully curating a cohesive colour palette may involve some trial-and-error testing. But the payoff transforms disjointed spaces into a peaceful, artful sanctuary. Your home then feels purposefully composed like a beautiful symphony versus a disjointed cacophony.

For best results, consult professional painting and decorating experts. With trained eyes for harmonious hues and expert precision application, painters transform colour concepts into reality. Contact us for advice tailored to your home's style and dimensions. Investing in pro painting services ensures your colour coordination vision gets executed flawlessly.

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USING COLOUR PSYCHOLOGY TO ENHANCE YOUR HOME'S ATMOSPHERE

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 13:13:40 GMT

Using Colour Psychology to Enhance Your Home's Atmosphere

The psychology of colour plays an integral yet often overlooked role in interior design. Understanding how colours affect moods, emotions, and behaviours can help you transform the rooms in your home into relaxing sanctuaries or lively spaces that promote creativity.

In this article, we will explore the fundamentals of colour psychology and provide actionable tips on how to utilise different hues and colour schemes to design a positive, inviting atmosphere in your living spaces.

A Primer on Colour Psychology

Colour psychology refers to the way colours impact human perception, attitude, and behaviour on a psychological level. It is grounded in the theory that various wavelengths of light have subtle effects on our nervous system, triggering biochemical reactions that influence emotions and physiology.

Interior designers rely heavily on colour psychology research to determine the best schemes for residential and commercial projects. Something as simple as painting a room blue can foster productivity, clear thinking, and even inspiration. On the other hand, bathing a space in red tones may increase anxiety, intensity, and stimulate hunger.

Beyond influencing emotions, some studies suggest that colour can improve cognitive performance, spark creativity, and affect the accuracy of memory recall. Carefully planning colours for learning environments, office spaces, or rooms where you want to encourage creative flow can yield tangible benefits.

Decoding the Primary Colours

The three foundational colours on the colour wheel are red, blue, and yellow - known as the primary colours. Here’s an overview of their psychological effects and how you can harness them at home:

Red

Red is the most emotionally intense colour. It represents passion, excitement, heat, energy, danger, strength, power, and love. In interior design, red is an excellent accent colour. It draws attention and triggers urgency, making it ideal for highlighting focal points.

Red stimulates appetite, so consider using it as an accent in dining rooms or kitchens. However, limit its use in bedrooms as it may disrupt sleep.

Blue

The colour blue elicits feelings of calmness, relaxation, order, logic, productivity, and serenity. It slows metabolism and produces a calming effect. Blue inspires clear thinking and concentration, making it a handy hue for home offices,

creative studios, or learning spaces. Light shades of blue can also suppress appetite, so avoid using it excessively in dining areas.

Yellow

Yellow conjures up sensations of happiness, hope, optimism, and warmth. It activates memory, stimulates mental activity, and generates muscular energy.

However, in large doses, yellow can trigger irritability and fatiguing effects. Use bright, lemon yellows sparingly as accents. Softer yellows promote wellness and may benefit rooms intended for relaxation and recuperation.

Harnessing Secondary & Tertiary Colours

The secondary colours - green, orange and purple - are created by mixing equal parts of the primary hues. Meanwhile, tertiary colours emerge from mixing a primary and secondary shade. Like primary colours, these derivative hues have unique effects:

Green

Green is nature’s colour and a vivid symbol of renewal, harmony, balance and environmental awareness. It can alleviate anxiety, promote healing, and impart stability. However, it can also trigger boredom when overused. For home interiors, green works excellently when paired with bright accent colours.

Orange

Representing affordability, fun and creativity, orange enhances enthusiasm and stimulates socialisation and conversation. While vibrant orange tones have youthful flair, softer peach and terracotta infuse sophistication. Use orange as a dynamic accent colour for social spaces. However, limit its use in bedrooms as it may overstimulate.

Purple

In antiquity, purple symbolises wealth, royalty and prestige. Today, purple retains an air of luxury but also stimulates imagination and creativity. Light lilacs and lavenders have a gentle, tranquil quality. Darker plums and eggplants feel richer and more romantic. Use purple for focal walls or key furniture pieces.

Maximising Neutral Colours

White, grey and beige are considered neutral backbone shades. While not intense, neutral colours profoundly impact mood and ambience. Here’s how to capitalise on them:

White

Crisp white enhances feelings of hygiene, efficiency and simplicity. It seems to help focus mental activity and elevate mood. However, too much white can feel sterile. For balance, pair with brighter accent colours. Crisp whites work well in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and walk-in closets.

Gray

From cool greys to warm taupe tones, this versatile colour bridges the gap between black and white. It dials down intensity but adds sophistication and flexibility. Light greys have an airy, illuminating effect while soft charcoal greys feel decadent. Gray works excellently as a backdrop shade in combination with vivid accent colours.

Beige

The perfect bridge between brown and white, beige has a reputation for dullness but don’t overlook its cosy appeal. Warm beiges foster acceptance, familiarity and belonging. Soft tans can make small rooms appear more expansive. For best results, team with colours from the green and brown colour families.

Creative Colour Combinations

Thoughtfully mixing colours using the basics we’ve covered can take your home’s atmosphere to the next level. Here are some stimulating combos:

Blue and Yellow – This cheerful pairing blends vitality and tranquillity. Think bright sunflowers against a serene sky. Use in family rooms, home offices and creative spaces.

Red and Green – Reminiscent of the holidays, these complementary colours represent ritual, celebration and connection. A red accent wall livened up by verdant houseplants or botanical artworks channels vitality.

Purple and Green – The union of purple and green brings balance while dialling up sophistication. Deep purple accent walls grounded by emerald furniture or light green ceilings and mouldings create an elegant, worldly atmosphere.

Harnessing Colour Psychology for Emotional Benefits

Beyond harnessing combinations, mapping colours to target emotional outcomes can help you design the perfect backdrop for various domestic activities:

Motivation & Productivity - Opt for cooler blues, greens and purples in home offices and creative workspaces. Yellow accents may uplift mood and support mental clarity.
Relaxation & Stress Relief – Soft blue-greys, greens and peach tones help muscles relax while soothing nerves. Avoid overstimulation by limiting bright reds and oranges in bedrooms and bathrooms.
Cordiality & Hospitality – Warm beiges, taupes, tans and peaches infuse cosiness into foyers, family rooms and casual dining areas. Throw in vibrant accent pillows using yellows, oranges or reds.
Tranquility & Spirituality – Light ethereal colours like airy blues, violet, lavender and pink impart gentle energy perfect for meditation spaces or sanctuaries for deep introspection.

Understanding Cultural Differences

While human reactions to colour cues share commonalities, cultural norms also influence preferences and perceptions. Red, for instance, signals danger in the West but symbolises luck and joy during Chinese New Year.

When designing for a multicultural home environment, ensure your colour choices respect cultural backgrounds. Consult with family members to determine an acceptable colour palette. Be prepared to tweak schemes to foster inclusion and sensitivity.

Key Takeaways for Your Home

Now that we’ve covered some colour psychology basics plus dos and don’ts, here’s a quick recap of actionable tips:

Use blue tones to promote productivity, relaxation and clear thinking
Paint dining spaces orange or red to stimulate appetite and conversation
Energise home offices with yellow accents to boost positivity and mental clarity
Choose red bedroom accents cautiously as it may reduce sleep quality
Alleviate stress with restful greens, blues and peach tones
Build cosy atmospheres for family spaces using warm beiges, taupes and tans
Map paint colours to target emotional benefits for each room’s activities
Ensure colour schemes align to cultural preferences of occupants

In Closing

Harnessing the psychology of colour to enhance your home’s atmosphere requires thoughtfulness about human emotions and behaviours. While unusual colour combinations may look stunning in photos, living with spaces that use colour to elicit positive psychological effects fosters wellbeing.

From supporting rejuvenating sleep and productivity to enabling hospitality and sparking creativity, the hues you choose impacts you and your guests. Consider seeking professional painting and design services for help realising your goals.

Experts can ensure you avoid common mistakes and wasted effort so your home aligns both aesthetically and psychologically.

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT PAINT COLOURS FOR EVERY ROOM IN YOUR HOME

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 12:30:00 GMT

How to Choose the Perfect Paint Colours for Every Room in Your Home

Selecting the ideal paint colours for your home can seem like an overwhelming task. However, with some basic colour theory, tips on coordination, lighting considerations, and testing, you can choose a colour scheme that enhances the beauty of every room.

Understand the Basics of Colour Schemes

Understanding colour schemes starts with the colour wheel. The colour wheel displays the primary, secondary, and tertiary colours and shows how they relate to one another.

The Colour Wheel

The primary colours are red, blue, and yellow. They are the building blocks for all other colours. Secondary colours are created by mixing two primary colours, giving us orange, green, and purple. Tertiary colours are made by blending primary and secondary shades.

Using the colour wheel helps select paint colours that work together in harmony. Complementary colours that sit opposite each other provide striking contrast. Analogous schemes use adjacent colours for cohesive, blended palettes.

Warm vs. Cool Colours

Beyond specific hues, colours also differ in temperature. Warm colours like red, orange, and yellow remind us of things like fire and sunlight. Cool colours make us think of water, skies, and forests with blues, greens, and purples.

Warm paint colours tend to energise a space, making it lively and cosy. Cool shades relax rooms with a serene, laid-back vibe. Using warming colours in south-facing rooms can intensify stuffy heat, however, so northern exposures often suit cooler palettes best.

Create a Colour Scheme Matching Your Furniture

When selecting a colour scheme, an excellent place to start is with existing furniture or decorative elements.

Choosing Your Foundation Colours

Carefully examine any furnishings, art, rugs, and other prominent items you want the paint colours to complement. Identify three dominating hues. These will become your foundation for the room's palette.

For example, your living room may feature a navy blue sofa, terracotta lamps, and dark wood shelves. From these, you extract blue, earth red/orange, and brown as your jumping-off point.

Coordinating With Existing Décor

With your three core colours chosen, use the colour wheel to select coordinating shades. Locate the three hues, then moving clockwise around the wheel, identify adjacent colours within the same colour family.

Expanding our previous example, the blue sofa suggests coordinating with other blues like airy sky blue. The terracotta shade points to testing darker reds and burnt orange. The brown shelves work with creams, greys, and charcoal. Testing paint swatches matching your key furniture pieces ensures visual harmony.

Consider The Room's Function and Lighting

While coordinating with furnishings is crucial, also consider the room's purpose and lighting conditions when selecting palette possibilities.

Colour and Room Function

Think about the atmosphere you want for the space when painting. Bold reds and oranges promote lively interactions in dining rooms. Cool green and blues aid relaxation in bedrooms. Soft peach or buttercream suit a cheerful, welcoming kitchen. Select colours aligning with each room's functional and emotional goals.

Impact of Natural and Artificial Lighting

The room's lighting is another critical factor affecting colour perception. Northern light often appears bluish, intensifying cool paint tones. Southern exposures warm up hues. Artificial lighting also impacts colour—incandescent bulbs warm tones, while LEDs drain and cool them.

Paint several swatches and view them at all times of day. Artificial lighting tests are also wise to see how electrical sources impact the shades.

The Importance of Primer

Primer creates a uniform surface allowing truer colour representation. It also improves paint adhesion across varied wall textures and seals the surface to prevent absorption and bleeding. Applying quality primer is time well invested before testing colour swatches. Use separate primer and paint test patches to judge most accurately.

Test The Colours

With primer applied, you're ready to experiment with test patches.

Paint each swatch generously, at least 2 feet square, labelled discreetly on the back with the colour name/code. Evaluate in daylight and at night under lighting you typically use. View colours on all walls and next to any coordinating soft furnishings.

Live with the tested colours for 48 hours at a minimum. You might be surprised how much perception shifts across times of day and lighting situations. Revisit your initial reactions after a couple of days before making final selections.

Achieving Balance and Harmony

With your favourite test swatches chosen, think about balance and harmony across the whole room palette.

Balancing Bold and Neutral Colours

The boldest shades often work best for accents, balancing with neutral walls serving as a backdrop. If you fall for a vibrant paint colour, apply it sparingly to a single focal wall or on accent furniture to provide a punch of saturated colour.

Complementary Colours and Accents

Refer back to the colour wheel when making final paint choices. Complementary accent pieces provide pleasing contrast against neutrals. For example, in a tan and cream bedroom, blue decorative cushions or lamp bases pop alluringly.

Harmony ties a well-balanced palette together. Remember, colours can appear substantially different on a 1” swatch compared to entire walls. Don’t overwhelm the space with overly strong, competing colours.

Conclusion

Choosing paint colours for your home presents abundant exciting possibilities but also poses potential pitfalls. With some basic colour theory grounding and tips on lighting, room functions, existing elements tying schemes together, primer importance, and thoughtful selection techniques, you can confidently pick palettes taking each space from mundane to magnificent.

Start by coordinating with your existing furnishings. Use the colour wheel to expand harmonious options leaning warm or cool as needed. Think about the mood you want to achieve in bedrooms, living spaces, kitchens, and more when testing shades. Carefully observe swatches at varied times and under different light sources. Allow adequate drying and viewing times for informed colour perceptions when finalising accent and background colour combinations.

Balancing bold focal shades with sufficient neutral backdrops prevents overwhelming rooms with competing intensity. Remember to use primer first for an even, consistent surface.

For those feeling overwhelmed by endless colour possibilities, professional painting services provide skilled guidance combining colours creatively and applying them perfectly. Contact us to transform any room with colour done right. Our expertise takes the guesswork and hard work out of achieving colour confidence.

Additional Tips

Consider Colour Intensity and Saturation

The depth of colour also affects mood and harmony. Deeper tones feel cosy and enveloping, while paler shades remain airy. High intensity paint can be overwhelming. Modify intensity across rooms and balance richly saturated accents with lighter backdrops.

Use Colour Psychology

Master colorists skillfully apply psychological colour impacts. Blue bedrooms remain serene, yellow kitchens cheery. Green office spaces enhance productivity; red dining rooms energy and interaction. Do some research to wield colour power beneficially.

Draw Inspiration

With limitless paint possibilities, inspiration helps narrow suitable shades. Comb visually appealing online images and colour trend resources. Consult professional painters on combinations for your space and lifestyle. Reference favourite colour schemes discovered in your travels for personally meaningful palettes.

Professional Painting and Decorating Services

Benefits of Hiring Professionals

From preparing surfaces correctly to creatively combining colours, professional painters apply specialised skills and knowledge for superior outcomes. They use high-quality tools and products for a polished finish not achievable by amateurs. Workers take safety precautions and efficiently handle the heavy lifting of furniture and extensive material transport.

Services Tailored to Your Vision

Reputable painting companies work consultatively to understand your personal tastes, lifestyle needs, and colour goals. Painters help you navigate considerations around lighting, room functions, colour psychology, and suitable shades for architectural style and existing elements. Teams expertly execute a well-orchestrated colour vision.

Contact Us Today

Give your home a stunning colour makeover by contacting our professional painting service today. Our colour experts help identify gorgeous, harmonious colour combinations for a custom look. We handle all prep work and efficiently apply primer and paint for flawless, lasting results you'll enjoy for years. Call for a free quote!

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ELEVATE YOUR HOME'S EXTERIOR WITH THESE EXPERT PAINTING TIPS

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 07:14:18 GMT

Elevate Your Home's Exterior with These Expert Painting Tips

A fresh coat of exterior paint can do wonders for your home's curb appeal while also protecting it from the elements. By using high-quality paints, following expert application techniques, and incorporating additional decorative updates, you can give your home an instant facelift.

The Importance of a Fresh Coat of Paint

Painting the exterior should be a priority for any homeowner looking to increase their home's value and withstand weather damage over time. The right colours and finishes can make an architectural style pop while also blending nicely with surrounding homes.
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When selecting colours, consider siding material, roofing, and accent features like a front door or shutters. Use online visualisation tools to experiment with different colour combinations. Pay attention to complementing trim and accents as well for a cohesive aesthetic.

Protecting Your Investment

Quality exterior paint forms a protective barrier against moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. This prevents costly repairs down the road from water infiltration, dried out materials, or cracking/peeling paint. Investing in premium paint ensures longevity, uniform coverage, and vivid colours that will hold up over time.

Curb Appeal Matters

According to research, a well-maintained exterior can increase a home's value by over 5%. For buyers, a pristine exterior signals that the home received excellent care and upkeep. An exterior makeover is one of the most cost-effective upgrades before selling.

Choosing the Right Exterior Paint

When selecting exterior paint, consider performance factors like durability and weather-resistance alongside aesthetics. High-end acrylic latex and alkyd oil-based paints outperform cheaper options. Pay attention to the type of surfaces you're painting as well to pick appropriate paint.

Paint Type Comparison

Latex paint consists of acrylic resins suspended in water for easy application and cleanup. It adheres well to many surfaces, dries quickly, and resists cracking/peeling.

Oil-based alkyd paint contains solvents for excellent adhesion and durability. It performs especially well on distressed wood and metal. Consider VOC levels, application temperature ranges, and dry times as well when deciding between latex vs. oil-based paint.

Current Colour Trends

Earthy beiges and warm neutrals dominate many exterior colour palettes, but shades of blue and green are also popular for kickstarting exterior updates. Contrasting bright colours on accent trim and front doors is another easy way to incorporate bold hues. Consult online visualisation apps and colour forecasting sites for the latest trends.

Selecting the Perfect Hue

Choosing a colour that complements your home's architecture ensures visual cohesion. Historic styles and craftsman bungalows tend to use darker, saturated hues while contemporary designs shine with greys, fresh whites, or neutral tones. Use colour to highlight special features like a textured facade, brickwork, or prominent entryway.

Expert Painting Techniques

Proper surface prep and application techniques ensure your paint job's quality and longevity. Consider the level of effort, equipment requirements, and finished results when weighing DIY vs. professional painting.

Start with a Clean Foundation

Thoroughly wash grime, chalking paint, mildew and dirt off all surfaces before painting. Sand glossy areas for better adhesion and fill cracks with caulk. Repair any damaged wood, render, brick or siding. A smooth, uniform foundation allows the paint to adhere tightly and evenly.

Brush vs. Roller vs. Sprayer

Brushes excel at painting edges, trim, and hard to reach spots but require more time and skill.

Rollers quickly apply large swaths of paint but have a steeper learning curve.

Sprayers are the fastest application method but overspray easily if not used properly. Each method has pros and cons to weigh.

Professional Painters Get Consistent Results

Exterior painting requires meticulous attention to achieve flawless results. Professional crews use commercial-grade equipment, specialise in surface preparation, and have refined techniques to enhance application speed. Professional Exterior Painters experience painting complicated architectural details results in a striking, high-end finish.

Enhance Curb Appeal with Decorative Touches

Beyond a fresh coat of paint, incorporating trendy exterior design elements can modernise your home's look. From lush greenery and updated hardware to decorative lighting, small additions enhance overall aesthetics.

Greenery Softens Architectural Lines

Strategically placed plants, trees and flower beds add welcome pops of natural colour while softening sharp angles and lines. Pay attention to plant size, growth rates, sunlight needs and placement for optimal impact. Hanging baskets, container plants or decorative planters also add curb appeal without requiring in-ground installation.

New Hardware Modernises Your Exterior

Replacing outdated exterior hardware provides an easy style upgrade. Statement front doors, bold house numbers, sleek exterior lighting and incorporate contemporary elements into traditional architecture. Choose materials like oil-rubbed bronze, stainless steel, nickel & satin metals over gold and brass finishes.

Power Washing Reveals Your Home's True Colour

Over time, exterior surfaces collect layers of dirt, mould and mildew that hides the surface underneath. Renting a power washer (or hiring a professional) to clean siding, outdoor living areas, fences and masonry removes gunk and revitalises faded areas. Always test pressure levels first before full-on washing.

Maintaining Your Home's Exterior

Preserving your exterior's freshly updated appearance requires consistent maintenance. Inspect surfaces periodically for new damage or wear. Promptly clean oil stains from driveways, repair downspout leaks causing mildew, and reseal windows if needed.

Adding decorative touches like weatherproof pillows, accent lighting or container plants keeps your exterior looking magazine-worthy year after year. For more significant upgrades, consider installing new garage doors, paver walkways or professionally designed landscapes.

Conclusion

Elevating your home's exterior delivers an instant return through increased curb appeal and weather protection. By using premium paint, adding decorative elements, and keeping up consistent maintenance, you maintain visual interest and protect your investment over time.

For flawless results, consider hiring professional painting and decorating services such as Borthwick Decorators for their technical expertise, equipment and refined techniques.

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EXPERT TIPS FOR PAINTING HIGH-TRAFFIC AREAS IN YOUR HOME

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:32:44 GMT

Paint Like a Pro: Expert Tips for Painting High-Traffic Areas in Your Home

The hallways, staircases, kitchens, and living areas in our homes tend to see the most wear and tear. With frequent traffic going through these high-traffic zones day after day, scuffs and stains are inevitable. Choosing a durable, aesthetically appealing paint that can withstand heavy use is critical for these well-loved areas in our homes.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of balancing durability, maintenance, and aesthetics when selecting paint for high-traffic areas. We’ll recommend top paint options that check all these boxes, as well as provide extra pro tips to ensure you achieve flawless, long-lasting results.

What Qualifies as a High-Traffic Area?

When we refer to high-traffic areas, we mean the spaces in your home that see the most foot traffic and frequent use:

Hallways
Main staircases
Kitchens
Living and family rooms
Kids’ rooms
Common bathrooms
Outdoor entertaining areas like porches and patios

Because these areas endure more wear and tear, you’ll want to choose a hardy paint that can stand up to:

Bumps from furniture or toys
Accidental kicks, knocks, and scuffs
Grease splatters and cooking mess in kitchens
Repeated cleanings

At the same time, high-traffic paint shouldn’t sacrifice aesthetics or style. The following sections explore how to balance these considerations.

Why Durability Matters Most

Durability and resilience should be your top priority when selecting paint for high-traffic zones. Unlike formal living rooms or guest suites, busy areas can’t get away with delicate surfaces that require gentle handling. Your paint needs to create a protective barrier that prevents minor abrasions from permanently damaging walls.

More durable paint stands up to:

Scuffs – For instance, chair backs scraping against walls whenever people pull out or tuck in dining room chairs.
Stains – Such as food splatter in kitchens or dirt tracked through entryways and hallways.
Impacts – Like swinging doors banging into hallway walls or kids crashing into walls as they play.

Paints with resilient acrylic or urethane resins form a flexible, high-quality film over walls and trim. This provides a water-resistant, protective shield that bounces back from bumps and knocks. Meanwhile, harder ceramic microspheres create an even tougher mar-resistant finish.

Balancing Aesthetics and Maintenance

While durability might be most vital for high-traffic zones, maintenance and appearance matter too. You want surfaces that repel stains when inevitable spills and splatters occur. Yet you also want walls that stay looking fresh after repeated cleanings, without losing their lustre or turning dull.

Ideally, your top coat should have stain-resistant properties to repel grease, dirt, food, and more. It should also retain its colour and sheen after frequent washing. Paint with brighter pigments or light-reflective qualities like gloss or semi-gloss tend to better withstand repeated scrubbing.

Certain paint additives improve stain resistance and “scrubbability”:

Fluoropolymers – Form a slick, non-stick coating that repels stains from adhering to the paint film. Makes surfaces easier to clean.
Crosslinking resins – Bond together to form an extra-durable matrix, preventing wear and pigment loss during cleaning. Help paint retain colour and sheen.

Meanwhile, paint with ceramic or silica additives create an ultra-hard finish that resists stain penetration right from the start.

Key Factors for Choosing High-Traffic Paint

Keeping durability, easy maintenance, and aesthetics in mind, look for these key characteristics when selecting paint for high-traffic areas:

Durability

Withstands frequent traffic and cleaning without losing its finish
Flexible resins prevent chipping, denting, and abrasions
Harder additives like ceramic spheres increase mar and scratch-resistance

Washability

High-quality acrylic latex paint is inherently scrubbable
Additives like fluoropolymers enhance stain resistance
Glossier sheens hide scuffs and stains better

Stain Resistance

Prevents stains from adhering to or absorbing into the paint film
Contains additives like fluoropolymers or silica/ceramic
Makes paint easier to clean without leaving ghost stains

Scuff Resistance

Prevents minor abrasions and scuffs from marring the finish
Flexible paint film resists denting and resists yellowing or fading over time

Best Paints for High-Traffic Zones

For best-in-class performance in busy areas, we recommend these paint lines:

1. Johnstone's Trade Acrylic Durable Eggshell

Scrubbable and Durable : Tested to exceed Class 1 ISO 11998 for scrub resistance, providing a tough, stain-resistant finish ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Low Odour and Quick Drying : Offers a low-odour, quick-drying finish that is resistant to condensation and yellowing, making it suitable for use in areas with high humidity.
Colour Matching : Can be colour matched and tinted into thousands of colours, including popular designer brands, using the Johnstone's Tinting System.
Suitable for Multiple Surfaces : Suitable for interior use on walls, ceilings, wood, metal, plaster, wallboards, concrete, cement rendering, brickwork, and blockwork.
Low VOC and Eco-Friendly : Has an eco-friendly VOC content, making it a more environmentally friendly option for interior painting projects

2. Benjamin Moore Ultra Spec SCUFF-X

Budget-friendly option
Harder acrylic-epoxy hybrid formula
Tough, scrubbable matte finish
Resists stains, moisture, and repeated washing
Antimicrobial properties inhibit mould and mildew growth
High-hiding matte neutralises imperfections

In terms of sheen, eggshell or pearl finishes better hide scuffs and scratches. The slightly higher gloss still repels stains while retaining richer colours. High-quality matte paint works well too. Just avoid flat sheens—they lack the “scrubbability” and stain/scuff masking of glossier finishes.

Extra Pro Tips for Flawless High-Traffic Paint Jobs

Beyond choosing the right paint, application techniques and prep work ensure your paint job survives high traffic:

1. Always start with a clean, de-glossed surface – Eliminate any soap residue, dirt, grease or wax before painting. Dull any existing glossy surfaces. This gives paint an optimal surface to adhere to.

2. Apply two coats – Unlike low-traffic spaces, busy zones need extra protective coverage. Allow proper drying time between coats.

3. Caulk gaps and repairs first – Fill any cracks, holes, or imperfections for smoother results. New paint accentuates uneven surfaces.

4. Sand high-contact areas – Slightly scuff up trim, bannisters, chair rails, and other spots most prone to bumps and abrasions. This roughness helps paint grip tighter.

5. Consider lighter, brighter colours – They better conceal scuffs and stains compared to darker hues. Gray, beige, light blues, and greens are good choices.

6. Upgrade to semi-gloss or gloss trim enamel – These extra-hard, ultra-durable sheens are ideal for woodwork that takes a beating in high-traffic areas.

Why Hire a Professional Painter?

While DIY paint jobs may seem quicker and cheaper upfront, they show their shortcomings once family life puts your paint to the test. Hiring professional painters is worth the investment for paint jobs that truly withstand heavy use.

Benefits of hiring a pro house painter include:

Expertise in selecting the best niche paints for durability and stain resistance
Knowledge of specialised prep techniques for hard wearing paint jobs
Access to professional-grade application tools and spraying equipment
Efficient completion without the hassle, mess or headaches of DIY
High-quality results that last for years rather than quick fixes

So for expert guidance on choosing the right paints and achieving flawless results, contact us today . Our decades of experience transforming high-traffic spaces will ensure your paint job survives your family’s active lifestyle.

Takeaway Tips: Choose Your High-Traffic Paint Wisely

In high-traffic zones where walls endure daily action, scrutinise paint choices carefully. Prioritise durability, stain-resistance, and scrubbability when making your selection. Top-tier acrylic latex lines handle busy spaces beautifully.

Prep like a professional, apply multiple coats, and consider hiring a seasoned painting contractor for results that truly go the distance. With just a bit more planning, your hallways, stair railings, mudrooms, kitchens and living areas stay looking freshly painted for years rather than months.

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BRINGING YOUR KITCHEN INTO 2024: THE LATEST TRENDS IN CABINET PAINTING AND REFINISHING

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 09:07:17 GMT

Bringing Your Kitchen into 2024: The Latest Trends in Cabinet Painting and Refinishing

Kitchens are the heart of the home. As trends and technologies advance, it's important to keep your kitchen design fresh and modern. Updating your kitchen cabinets with new paint and finishes can completely transform the look and feel of your space without a full remodel.

This article explores the most popular colour choices, techniques, and innovations shaping kitchen cabinet trends for 2024.

Earthy Tones and Natural Greens Set the Tone

For the past few years, grey has dominated kitchen colour schemes. However, the tides are shifting as homeowners embrace warmer, nature-inspired hues. Rich greens and earthy neutrals like brown and tan are rising to the top of the trend list, bringing the essence of the great outdoors inside.

Popular green shades range from sage to deep forest, with many opting for an organic, textured look. These complex greens pair beautifully with natural wood accents and bring a sense of harmony and tranquillity into the kitchen.

Beyond green, expect to see more cream, beige, and brown cabinets gracing 2024 kitchens. These grounded tones provide flexibility to match both traditional and contemporary spaces.

Sophisticated Blues Offer Timeless Appeal

While green conjures up images of nature, blue evokes feelings of trust, loyalty, and stability. Vibrant navy cabinets are having a major moment, lending kitchens a polished, nautical vibe. Lighter shades like airy robin's egg blue also continue gaining traction.

Crisp, coastal blue hues feel fresh yet utterly timeless. Home chefs appreciate how these cooler tones recede visually, making small kitchens appear more spacious. For those seeking a flexible accent colour, blue cabinets check all the boxes.

Neutrals Still Reign with Natural Challengers

For homeowners seeking a subtler update, neutral kitchen cabinets are still in high demand. However, after years on top of the trend charts, grey finally faces some fresh competition. Warm beiges, taupes, and other earth-inspired neutrals now share centre stage.

While grey offers an adaptable base colour, some find it too sterile and cold. New Sanders and off-whites with organic undertones provide a welcoming alternative. Nonetheless, the ever-popular grey retains its standby status for those who favour its versatility.

Make a Statement with Bold Colours

Recently, bold and unexpected cabinet colours started popping up more. Vibrant yellow, green, and blue hues infuse kitschy retro charm. Even more adventurous homeowners opt for on-trend colours like mustard, pale lilac, and cobalt.

These kitchens overflow with character and panache.

For those seeking to make a lively design statement, vibrant cabinet colours don't disappoint. Just take care to choose accent walls and backsplashes in harmonising tones so your kitchen doesn't end up looking loud or mismatched.

Stain Over Paint Offers Depth and Durability

Rather than completely obscuring the natural wood grain, many now opt for stain or whitewash finishes over paint. This innovative technique reveals hints of the beautiful wood patterns below for added depth and texture.

Stained and whitewashed cabinets pair effortlessly with both bold, modern spaces and comfy farmhouse aesthetics.

The semi-transparent layers also prove more durable than solid paint. As an eco-friendly bonus, avoiding caustic paint stripper helps reduce environmental impact.

Water-Based Paints Check All the Boxes

Water-based cabinet paints win fans thanks to their smooth consistency, vast colour options, and eco-friendly composition. Advances in acrylic and latex-based paint technology allow for rich, luminous hues without harsh solvents.

From a practical perspective, water-based paints check all the right boxes. User-friendly clean-up, low odour, and quick drying times make the painting process simple for DIY-ers. Just remember to properly prime cabinets first for long-lasting adhesion.

Professional Touch: Proper Prep and Air Sprayers

While many tackle cabinet painting as a DIY project, small investments in professional tools and meticulous preparation yield big rewards. Always thoroughly clean, fill imperfections, sand, and prime cabinets before painting for flawless results.

Opting for an air sprayer rather than relying solely on brushes or rollers also makes a tremendous difference. Air sprayers distribute paint evenly across all surfaces, preventing annoying drips and uneven coverage. Just be sure to allow adequate drying time between coats. Rushing the curing process can ruin an otherwise perfect paint job.

Bring Your Kitchen Into the Future

Kitchen cabinet trends gravitate toward welcoming, organic colour palettes and innovative techniques revealing the wood's natural beauty. Before investing in a full renovation, consider updating your existing cabinetry with on-trend paint or finishes.

A fresh coat can make even dated cabinets look modern and luxurious while saving your budget.

As you explore new colour and design options for your kitchen, don't hesitate to enlist professional help. Experienced kitchen cabinet decorators understand the nuances needed to apply the latest trends into a cohesive, stunning space you'll enjoy for years to come.

Contact Borthwick Decorators today to get started transforming your kitchen with 2024's hottest cabinet painting trends tailored precisely to your unique style.

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BORTHWICK DECORATORS WINS HIGHLY COMMENDED IN PRESTIGIOUS HISTORIC PROJECT OF THE YEAR AWARD 2023

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 14:56:53 GMT

Borthwick Decorators Wins Highly Commended In Prestigious Historic Project Of The Year Award 2023

Borthwick Decorators is proud to announce that our team has been awarded the highly commended accolade for Historic Project of the Year 2023 by The Scottish Decorators' Federation.

This prestigious recognition was earned through our meticulous work on The Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh, a project led by our master tradesman, Kamil, alongside a dedicated team of our finest painters.

The Royal Lyceum Theatre, a gem in Edinburgh's architectural crown, stands as a testament to the opulent design and acoustic brilliance of late Victorian "picture frame" playhouses.

Designed by C.J. Phipps and inaugurated in 1883, the theatre showcases an Italian Renaissance style, with seating arranged over four levels, including Stalls and three horseshoe-shaped Balconies, supported by elegant cast iron columns.

Our task focused on the theatre's ceiling, renowned for its circular panelled design and ornamented coves, rising majestically above the audience. The use of patent fibrous plaster not only contributes to the ceiling's stunning appearance but also plays a critical role in the venue's acoustic properties – a vital aspect for a space dedicated to drama and opera.

At the heart of our restoration work was the preservation of the ceiling above the proscenium arch, featuring a tympanum with a painting of Apollo and the Muses by the French artist Ballard.

This artwork represents the Lyceum Theatre's long-standing commitment to fostering the arts, a tradition that has been alive since its inception.

The challenge of this project lay not only in the technical skills required to restore and preserve the theatre's historic features but also in the need to complete our work quickly and professionally.

Under Kamil's leadership, our team succeeded in enhancing the beauty and integrity of this historic venue, ensuring that it continues to delight audiences and serve as a cultural beacon in Edinburgh.

At Borthwick Decorators, we are honoured to have played a part in preserving a piece of Edinburgh's rich cultural heritage. This award from The Scottish Decorators' Federation is a testament to our team's commitment to excellence in the field of historic restoration and decoration.

We look forward to bringing our expertise and passion to many more projects in the future, continuing to preserve the beauty and history of our surroundings for generations to come.

If you're inspired by the meticulous care and expertise demonstrated in our work at The Royal Lyceum Theatre, Borthwick Decorators invites you to consider our services for your next historic building project.

Whether it's theatres, stately homes, castles, or any heritage property, our team possesses the specialised skills and experience to breathe life into your vision, ensuring the preservation and enhancement of your building's unique character and history.

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10 ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT PAINT COLOUR FOR YOUR HOME

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 09:16:53 GMT

10 Essential Tips For Choosing The Right Paint Colour For Your Home

Choosing the right paint colour for your home is an essential decision that can influence the atmosphere and aesthetic appeal of your entire living space.

However, with an endless spectrum of colours available, the selection process can be overwhelming.

Here are ten essential tips to guide you through selecting the perfect hue for your home.

1. Consider the Room's Purpose and Mood

Before you dive into colour swatches, take a moment to think about the function of the room and the atmosphere you want to create. Each room serves a different purpose, and the colour should enhance its function. For example, calming hues like soft blues and greens are perfect for bedrooms, promoting relaxation and rest.

2. Assess the Natural Light

Natural light plays a crucial role in how a paint colour looks in your space. Rooms facing north receive less direct sunlight and can benefit from warmer tones to offset the cool light, while south-facing rooms with abundant sunlight can handle cooler colours.

3. Understand Colour Psychology

Colour psychology offers valuable insights into how different hues can influence mood and behaviour. Warm colours can create a cosy and stimulating environment, whereas cool colours are often calming and soothing. Incorporating these principles can help you achieve the desired effect in your home.

4. Test Colours in Your Space

Before making a final decision, it's essential to test your chosen colours directly on the walls. Paint large swatches in various parts of the room to see how the colour looks under different lighting conditions throughout the day.

5. Take Inspiration from Your Furnishings

Your existing furnishings can be a great source of inspiration for your paint colour. Select a colour that complements your furniture, artwork, and textiles, creating a cohesive look throughout the room.

6. Think About the Whole House

While each room can have its own identity, it's important to consider the flow and cohesion throughout your home. Choose colours that transition smoothly from one space to another, maintaining a harmonious feel.

7. Experiment with Neutrals

Neutrals are far from boring; they offer a sophisticated and flexible backdrop for any room. Experiment with shades of grey, beige, and taupe to find a neutral that adds depth and character to your space.

8. Don't Underestimate the Power of White

White paint can transform a room, making it feel fresh, clean, and spacious. There are countless shades of white, each with different undertones, so choose one that complements the room's lighting and furnishings.

9. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Modern technology offers tools and apps that can help you visualise paint colours in your space before committing. Use these resources to experiment with different options and find the perfect match for your home.

10. Consult with Professionals

If you're still unsure, consider consulting with a professional decorator or interior designer. Their expertise can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your space and preferences.

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TOP SEASONAL PAINTING TRENDS FOR 2024

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:40:52 GMT

Top Seasonal Painting Trends For 2024: Elevate Your Space With Fresh Palettes

Are you wondering what paint colours will define 2024’s seasons? Skip the guesswork with our guide to the seasonal painting trends for 2024.

Whether you're planning a complete overhaul or looking for a subtle refresh, these trends will inspire and guide you toward creating a space that's not only on trend but timelessly appealing.

Key Takeaways

Pantone Color of the Year, Peach Fuzz, and other key colours like pastel greens and delicate lilacs are shaping the spring interior colour trends, focusing on soft, earthy tones that evoke growth and optimism.
For summer, vibrant colours such as Renew Blue, Loving Orange, and Fireweed are popular, with an emphasis on paints that are environmentally friendly and exhibit sophisticated warmth.
Autumn and winter colour trends lean towards earthy tones, rich neutrals, and moody jewel tones, with colours like London Clay, Chocolate Color, and Cracked Pepper providing a cosy atmosphere during the cooler months.

Spring Refresh: Blossoming Hues

As winter fades, spring introduces new possibilities for home decor. Update your space with Peach Fuzz, the Pantone Color of the Year , along with soft pastel greens and lilacs. These colours create a calm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for the season of renewal.

Incorporating these central shades, which draw inspiration from earthy tones and neutrals found in nature, cultivates an atmosphere filled with hope and refreshment. These colours merge to form an inspiring hue that transforms our homes into sanctuaries characterised by comfort and vitality.

Peach Fuzz

The Color of the Year, known as Peach Fuzz by Pantone, is a soft white with a hint of warmth, providing a cosy and inviting feel. This colour is versatile and has been chosen for its comforting qualities. After the lively Viva Magenta, Peach Fuzz is now internationally popular for creating a comforting and unified atmosphere in various spaces.

Pastel Greens

This spring, pastel greens like Viridis, Mountain Sage, and the lively shade of pistachio are at the forefront of design trends. They deliver a dynamic and rejuvenating touch that fosters both creativity and efficiency.

These particular tints not only provide an alluring colour scheme for interior decoration, but also encourage a healing and stimulating atmosphere—particularly beneficial in work settings where they have been shown to boost creativity by up to 15% while increasing productivity by 6%.

These subtle green shades are very adaptable. Their harmonious relationship with white accents and natural wood hues allows them to act as the ideal backdrop within any room. This adds a lively touch that symbolises renewal and energy.

Delicate Lilacs

Lavender and lilac shades are becoming popular for their flexibility and contemporary feel. These lighter purples work well with many colours, providing a fresh, modern look to rooms.

Their ability to adapt to different materials and designs, from metallic wallpapers to modern furniture, makes them a good choice for creating spaces that are both stylish and comfortable.

The blend of these soft colours creates a serene atmosphere, offering a simple comfort that calms the mind.

Summer Sensations: Vibrant and Bold Colours

As summer arrives, it brings with it a need for colours that match its energy. The cool Renew Blue, the bright Loving Orange, and the warm Fireweed are standout choices that capture the spirit of the season.

These colours have been carefully selected by paint experts to enhance the mood of any room, making it a perfect place for relaxation or social gatherings.

Introduce these key colours into your home decor to create an environment that's both lively and appealing, sure to stir the senses.

Renew Blue

The Color of the Year for 2024, chosen by Valspar , is an inviting and serene hue called Renew Blue. This shade seamlessly blends blue with hints of green undertones, reminiscent of a peaceful retreat that quiets the mind while providing visual comfort. Its versatility makes it especially well-suited to:

Establishing a tranquil atmosphere in any room
Covering walls in bedrooms and areas designed for relaxation
Bringing serenity to bathroom settings or places resembling spas
Enhancing home decor through thoughtful application on accent walls or furnishings

Renew Blue is a versatile shade that brings a sense of calm to any room, making it feel like a fresh start. This colour is perfect for creating a relaxed environment, whether it's used on the walls of a bedroom or as an accent in a living room.

Loving Orange

YesColours’ Loving! Orange paint is not just a great choice for adding a warm and inviting touch to living rooms; it also stands out for its eco-friendly production. This vibrant colour is excellent for complementing rustic decor and antique furniture, making it a great fit for bedrooms, dining areas, and living rooms.

This water-based paint is vegan, free of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and microplastics, and comes in fully recyclable packaging. This makes it a top choice for those looking to decorate their homes in an environmentally conscious way.

Fireweed

Fireweed by Sherwin-Williams is a modern red with earthy tones that brings warmth to any room. This colour is great for common areas like kitchens and dining rooms, where it creates a welcoming environment for guests and family gatherings.

The colour red can increase energy and excitement, making Fireweed an excellent choice for areas where you want to add some life and vibrancy.

Autumn Allure: Earthy Tones and Rich Neutrals

Autumn introduces a palette of earthy tones and rich neutrals, perfect for creating a warm atmosphere in our homes. The season's colours include shades like London Clay, Chocolate Color, and Ironside, which bring a sense of comfort and sophistication to any space.

This year's autumn trend is about embracing warm caramels and deep browns that make rooms feel welcoming and cosy as the weather cools down. These key colours work well with natural materials and help to create an inviting space that feels like a cosy retreat.

London Clay

Farrow & Ball’s London Clay is characterised by:

warm, deep tones of brown accompanied by subtle grey nuances that underscore the rich browns
it introduces a sense of depth and cosiness to any area
seamlessly complements a variety of colour palettes
offers a strong and elegant backdrop suitable for various interior designs.

Especially adept at transforming dimly lit areas, London Clay proves to be an excellent selection for fostering a welcoming atmosphere in spaces lacking natural illumination. This makes it an essential pick for the autumn season.

Chocolate Color

Chocolate Color by Little Greene is a warm and neutral shade. It's ideal for creating a standout feature in any room, making it a top choice for accent walls or to enhance smaller spaces like hallways and powder rooms.

The depth of this paint adds a cosy feel, turning any room into a welcoming space. The colour works particularly well when paired with soft, light colours like champagne, which add a calming effect.

Ironside

Ironside is a rich olive green from Dutch Boy Paints . It's a bold colour choice that brings a unique touch to any room, and its One-Coat formula ensures easy application with just one layer needed for full coverage.

The versatility of this olive green paint makes it easy to match with your favourite decor, creating a peaceful and comfortable space.

Winter Wonderland: Moody Shades and Jewel Tones

As winter sets in and the days get shorter, we see a shift towards deeper, more saturated colours in our homes. Behr’s Cracked Pepper, Benjamin Moore’s Blue Nova, and Sherwin-Williams’s Sealskin are popular choices that bring warmth and comfort to counteract the cold and grey of the season.

These colours are practical too, offering a stylish yet cosy feel that’s perfect for the winter months. They work well in any space, making rooms feel more inviting for quiet evenings or lively social events.

Blue Nova

Benjamin Moore's Blue Nova is a mid-tone blue with violet undertones, reminiscent of the evening sky. This colour offers a blend of depth and tranquillity, ideal for creating a peaceful environment.

This versatile colour is perfect for:

Designing calm and restful spaces.
Encouraging creative thinking.
Providing a soothing backdrop in homes.

Sealskin

Sherwin-Williams’ Sealskin is a dark brown that adds a touch of elegance to any room. It's perfect for making living rooms or home offices feel more upscale and cosy.

Pair Sealskin with lighter colours like Origami White and Elephant Ear to bring out its warmth and create a stylish look.

Cracked Pepper

Cracked Pepper by Behr is a versatile colour that offers warmth and comfort, making it ideal for creating a cosy feel during the colder season.

This shade can enhance a variety of architectural styles, from classic coastal homes to mid-century modern buildings, and is suitable for both interior and exterior use, adding a sophisticated touch to contemporary spaces.

The Power of Neutrals: Versatile and Timeless Options

Neutrals have a subtle yet significant impact in interior design, with a wide range of shades that can easily integrate with seasonal colour trends. Colours like Dulux’s Sweet Embrace, Glidden’s Limitless, and Sherwin-Williams’s Stardew showcase the practicality and understated elegance that neutral paints can bring to different spaces.

As foundational colours, these neutrals can either complement bright tones or stand on their own to create a calm and stylish atmosphere in any room.

Their lasting popularity in interior design stems from their ability to fit seamlessly into various decorative styles.

Sweet Embrace

The 2024 Colour of the Year from Dulux , Sweet Embrace, is a versatile neutral that adds comfort and a welcoming feel to any space.

It's a colour that promotes a quiet and safe environment, ideal for rooms where you want to relax and unwind. Its calming presence works well with a variety of decor pieces and can either contrast with darker colours like soft black or complement the changing natural light throughout the day.

Limitless

Glidden’s Limitless is a neutral paint with warm undertones that pairs well with a variety of colours, making it a practical choice for many design styles. It has a contemporary feel that offers an alternative to traditional cool greys.

Limitless is versatile, able to stand out in a room or contribute to a calming atmosphere. It can be used on a front door to create a welcoming entrance or even potentially increase a home’s value.

Stardew

Sherwin-Williams’ Stardew, a highly adaptable and versatile colour, demonstrates qualities such as:

A subdued blue tinged with grey
The ability to adjust in response to varying lighting environments
Capability to elevate a range of design aesthetics
Compatibility when matched alongside gentle neutrals or paired with wood and stone accents for interior décor
Applicability for both indoor and outdoor settings

This colour affords the user ample flexibility in devising cohesive colour palettes that align closely with personal style choices.

How to Choose the Right Paint Finish

Choosing the right paint finish is important because it affects how the colour looks and how practical the painted surface will be.

A gloss finish will reflect more light and make colours look more intense. On the other hand, matte finishes make colours look softer and can hide imperfections in walls better.

For areas like kids' rooms or kitchens, where walls might get dirty, it's smart to choose a finish that's easy to clean, like a washable paint or one that's stain-resistant.

So, when you're picking out paint, remember to consider the type of finish as well as the colour.

Tips for Incorporating Seasonal Colors into Your Home

Enhance your living spaces with the right mix of seasonal colours to breathe new life into your home. From the soft pastels of spring to the cool tones of winter, understanding the unique colour trends for each season can transform your rooms.

Add a splash of colour to a neutral kitchen with brightly coloured bar stools or incorporate vibrant throw pillows and plant arrangements for a constantly refreshed look.

Even small areas like breakfast nooks can become more inviting with the addition of bright colours, making everyday moments more enjoyable.

By incorporating different textures and decor that reflect each season, you can celebrate the year in a way that feels true to the season's character.

The Impact of Color Psychology in Interior Design

Choosing colours for your home isn't just about what looks good. It also plays a big role in how we feel and behave, often without us realising it. Interior designers use colour psychology to create spaces that can influence our mood and well-being.

For example, the calming effect of Renew Blue can make a living room more relaxing, while the gentle hues of Sweet Embrace can make a space feel safe and quiet.

Cultural factors and where you live might also affect which colours you're drawn to, with brighter colours often preferred in places closer to the equator.

So, picking the right colours for your home is really about mixing what you like, where you live, and knowing a bit about how colours can affect your mood.

Tips for Hiring a Painter and Decorator

Hiring a skilled painter and decorator is essential when you're looking to bring the latest paint trends into your home. These professionals have the know-how to apply paint correctly and ensure that the colours stand out and the finish is durable.

Their support from choosing the right colours to the final brush stroke makes updating your space a smooth and stress-free process.

By hiring a qualified painter and decorator, you can ensure a professional and high-quality update to your home's interior with the latest colours and versatile tones for 2024.

Summary

Each colour trend we’ve examined offers a fresh perspective, an opportunity to infuse our homes with energy, calm, sophistication, or comfort.

Whether it’s the nurturing Peach Fuzz or the bold Fireweed, these hues have the potential to create spaces that resonate with our emotions and enhance our daily lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the ‘in’ colour for 2024?

Peach Fuzz (Pantone 13-1023), the chosen colour for 2024, epitomises a longing for warmth and peace as well as fostering feelings of cosiness.

What’s the expected paint trend for 2025?

For the year 2025, the trending paint hue has been identified as Future Dusk—a rich and enigmatic blue-purple that evokes a celestial ambiance. This particular shade has earned the distinction of being designated as the Color of the Year for 2025.

What are some eco-friendly paint options for those looking to be more environmentally conscious?

Opt for an environmentally conscious alternative with YesColours’ Loving Orange, a water-based paint that is both vegan and cruelty-free. It’s packaged in materials that are 100% recyclable.

This paint represents an excellent selection for individuals aiming to make more eco-friendly choices.

How do I select the right paint finish for my project?

Select the paint finish that aligns with the purpose of your room and the durability necessary for maintenance. Opt for eggshell finishes on walls, while semigloss is preferable in spaces that demand regular cleaning.

Can I use bold colours like Fireweed in small spaces?

Yes, you can use bright colours like Fireweed in small spaces. Use them strategically, such as on an accent wall or in decor, to add energy without overwhelming the room.

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HOW TO DECORATE YOUR EDINBURGH RESTAURANT: LOCAL STYLE TIPS

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:22:31 GMT

How To Decorate Your Edinburgh Restaurant: Local Style Tips

Decorating a restaurant in a city as unique as Edinburgh can be an exciting yet daunting task. With its rich history and seamless blend of Gothic, Georgian, and contemporary architectural styles, creating the right ambiance is key to attracting customers. This article will provide tips on understanding Edinburgh's design aesthetic, integrating local influences, and working with professionals to make your restaurant décor stand out.

Introduction

The décor and atmosphere of a restaurant play a huge role in shaping the overall dining experience. From the moment customers walk through the doors, the lighting, furnishings, artwork, and decorative accents set the tone.

When done right, restaurant design has the power to delight the senses and make customers feel comfortable, relaxed, and even transported.

In a city like Edinburgh, with its iconic skyline and vibrant food scene, the possibilities for one-of-a-kind restaurant décor are endless. Old Town exudes history from mediaeval buildings and cobblestone streets, while New Town ushers in neoclassical Georgian architecture and gardens.

The two 'towns' seamlessly converge in a way that perfectly balances old and new – and this unique blend can inspire truly special dining spaces.

From cosy neighbourhood bistros to Michelin-starred eateries, Edinburgh restaurants have an opportunity to weave in design elements that celebrate both the past and present . Doing so creates an ambiance deeply rooted in the heritage of the city, helping connect customers to centuries of culture with every visit.

Understanding Edinburgh's Design Aesthetic

Edinburgh's architecture and décor is influenced by styles from various eras, with Gothic, Georgian, and contemporary elements coming together in perfect harmony.

Gothic Inspirations

The Old Town boasts remnants of Edinburgh's mediaeval Gothic past, from the 12th century Edinburgh Castle to narrow alleyways traversing ancient buildings. Restaurants can embrace Gothic style with:

Vaulted ceilings with stone arches
Intricate black wrought iron accents
Dark wood furnishing with ornamental details
Textured stone walls or exposed brick
Dim mood lighting such as lanterns or sconces
Tartan patterns and richly coloured fabrics

This creates a cosy, romantic ambiance perfect for intimate neighbourhood eateries.

Georgian Elegance

In the 18th century New Town, Neoclassical Georgian architecture emerged as the city expanded. Georgian style strikes a balance between simplicity and refinement. Restaurants can infuse its elegance with:

Tall sash windows welcoming natural light
Column accents and decorative moulding
Crystal chandeliers illuminating ornate ceilings
Tufted leather booth seating
Bold geometric floor tiles
Art featuring natural scenery

The resulting vibe exudes sophistication - ideal for upscale bistros and wine bars.

Modern Minimalism

Over the centuries, Edinburgh has also welcomed contemporary design influences. The best restaurant décor often seamlessly blends old and new architectural details through clever repurposing. Modern touches like:

Sleek pendant lighting above antique table settings
Mid-century lounge seating near stone archways
Abstract artworks displayed on textured walls

This harmonious fusion creates a dining room full of visual intrigue and contrast

The Role of Local Artisans and Commercial Design

When designing restaurant décor, engaging local Edinburgh artisans and designers is a rewarding investment. Not only does it support local businesses and talent, it infuses spaces with personal touches connecting diners to the community.

Local Artisans Bring Custom Touches

Edinburgh is home to a thriving community of artists and craftspeople specialising in woodworking, ironwork, textiles, ceramics, and more. Commissioning custom pieces is a way to make décor truly one-of-a-kind while also supporting the local creative economy.

Statement light fixtures, intricate tilework, displays of hand-blown glassware - collaborating with artisans allows restaurants to integrate local influences through specialty detailing and functional art. Make sure craftspeople source regional construction materials as well to reduce environmental impact.

Commercial Design Unites Functionality and Style

While local artisans provide those special touches, partnering with qualified commercial interior designers is crucial for tightly orchestrating the overall vision. From laying out floor plans, furniture placement, and kitchen ergonomics to handling lighting design, acoustics, and traffic flow - commercial designers keep functionality and ambiance aligned.

For Edinburgh restaurants dealing with older architectural elements, experienced designers know how to enhance centuries-old assets through strategic and thoughtful adaptive reuse. They also manage vital details like:

Permitting and building codes
Sourcing durable, sustainable furniture and materials
Project management of construction and tradespeople

This alleviates headaches so owners can focus on day-to-day restaurant operations.

Integrating Edinburgh's Heritage into Your Décor

The close proximity of Old and New Town provides ample opportunities to incorporate Edinburgh's cultural heritage into restaurant spaces in crafty ways:

Weave in Stone, Ironwork, and Wood Details

As a nod to mediaeval architecture, exposed stone, iron, and wood can feel both historical and modern:

Incorporate salvaged wooden ceiling beams or an antique stone archway
Display wrought iron wall sconces or candle holders resembling ancient torch fixtures
Add an accent wall showcasing stacked stone or reclaimed wood
Frame artwork and menus in old whiskey barrel staves

Display Vintage Maps and Historical Imagery

Vintage maps, landscape artwork, and black and white photography of Edinburgh's iconic architecture and historical figures educates diners on heritage:

Line an accent wall with framed antique maps of Old Town and New Town
Intersperse artwork depicting Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, or Calton Hill around the space
Blow up historical photos of local streets and architecture as wall art
Project vintage Edinburgh imagery on blank walls as décor

Add Tartan and Tweed Fabrics

The iconic patterns represent Scottish textile tradition. Use touches of tartan or tweed to link back to Edinburgh heritage via:

Tartan upholstery on banquettes or dining chairs
Tweed pillows adding comfort to bench seating
Tartan table runners down rustic wood tables
Window treatments in traditional patterns like Royal Stewart or Black Watch

Sustainable Design and Eco-Friendly Practices

Alongside aesthetics, restaurants have an opportunity to reduce their environmental impact through conscientious design choices. Sourcing local and sustainable materials supports both Edinburgh artisans and the planet. Some ideas include:

Repurposed and Reclaimed Materials : Using salvaged wood, reused bricks, and antique lighting gives waste new life while preserving history.
Sustainable Textiles : Choose FSC-certified timber, table linens/upholstery made from organic cotton or wool, and recycled polyester.
Eco-Friendly Flooring : Opt for wood from responsibly managed forests. Other options – bamboo, natural linoleum, recycled glass tiles, reclaimed oak wine barrel staves.
Energy Efficient Equipment and Lighting : Install LED fixtures, occupancy sensor switches, insulated low-E windows/Doors, ENERGY STAR commercial appliances.

Professional Painting and Decorating Services in Edinburgh

Once the vision is defined and major construction details finalised, executing finishes and fine details relies upon the refined sensibilities of professional painters and decorators in Edinburgh. Their seasoned handiwork actualizes design schemes with polish and panache.

Achieving an Elegant, Cohesive Aesthetic

From initial concept to opening night, multiple players contribute to creating restaurant interiors. Pros understand how lighting, colour schemes, textures, and architectural finishes come together for a unified aesthetic. They know how to translate inspiration from initial mood boards into flawlessly painted walls, faux finishes, and artwork setup.

Long-Lasting, High Quality Results

Seasoned pros also have aesthetic vision paired with technical know-how for durable finishes that withstand commercial demands without sacrificing beauty. They prepare surfaces meticulously and use top-grade commercial paints to achieve stunning looks with exceptional resistance. Whether gracefully distressed textures or vibrant accent walls, their techniques create show stopping style built to last.

Compliance with Safety Standards

Painting commercial spaces requires knowledge of building codes, environmental regulations, and accessibility standards for businesses open to public patrons. Qualified professionals ensure decor ticks all boxes so restaurateurs avoid liability or violations.

Final Thoughts

Edinburgh restaurant décor requires marrying preservation and innovation. Old Town exudes history; New Town balances tradition and progress. Infuse your space with tartans, textures, and other cultural symbols while also mixing in modern minimalism through creative reuse and sleek lines.

Supporting local artisans and sourcing ethically respects Edinburgh's roots yet keeps the city at culinary's forefront.

With authentic nods to heritage thoughtfully threaded throughout your dining room's fabric, you craft a uniquely Scottish style sure to charm customers for generations to come.

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TRANSFORM YOUR PROPERTY'S FACADE: EXPERT EXTERIOR PAINTING TIPS

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 08:51:36 GMT

Transform Your Property's Facade: Expert Exterior Painting Tips

Introduction

The first impression your property makes plays a pivotal role in people's perception. Whether a quaint cottage retreat or a bustling city coffee shop, maintaining an attractive exterior should be a priority.

Borthwick Decorators offers specialised services to transform the facade of homes and businesses with expert exterior painting . This guide covers essential tips for various external surfaces and properties.

Section 1: Understanding Exterior Surfaces

When revitalising your property's facade with a fresh coat of paint, it's crucial to consider the unique requirements of different exterior surfaces.

Proper preparation and using finishes suited to each material are key to achieving long-lasting, high-quality outcomes.

Masonry

Masonry surfaces like brick, concrete, stucco and stone require extra preparation before painting. Pressure washing effectively removes built-up dirt and debris.

Filling cracks with appropriate sealants prevents water intrusion which causes further damage. Priming patches helps paint adhere properly.

When selecting paint, absorbent masonry surfaces often benefit from masonry paints or exterior primers to seal pores before finishing coat application.

For the top coat, high quality 100% acrylic latex or silicone-enhanced paints provide maximum adhesion, resistance to peeling and protection from moisture.

Flat, satin or matte sheen's showcase a masonry wall's natural texture.

Harling and Roughcast

Harling and roughcast present unique challenges for exterior painting because of their coarse, irregular textures which require thick coverage.

Filling gaps and holes ensures paint adhesion. Oil-based primers or alkali-resistant primers properly prepare the porous surface.

To account for the texture, rolling paint onto harling or roughcast can help force it into the indentations effectively.

High-build paint formulated for masonry surfaces offer thicker consistency for hiding imperfections.

Plan for additional coats as needed to achieve full, even coverage compared to smooth surfaces.

Woodwork

When preparing woodwork for painting, inspect for areas in need of repair, sand to remove loose paint or splinters and clean thoroughly.

Using oil-based primers on bare wood prevents tannin bleed-through. For previously painted wood, water-based bonding primers help new paint stick.

Moisture-resistant exterior paints defend against wood rot and deterioration while allowing humidity release to prevent bubbling. Semi-gloss or high-gloss sheens make trim pop while complementing adjacent siding.

Plan to recoat wood every 3- 5 years as needed to protect from environmental damage over time.

Metalwork

Painting metal surfaces like railings, downpipes and ornamental iron requires removing rust, priming and using specially formulated paints.

Wire brushing, sanding or chemical rust removal, prepare the surface while metal etch primers provide maximum adhesion.

Anti Rust enamels, high heat paint (if applicable) or industrial enamels in metal-appropriate finishes defend against future corrosion.

Plan to regularly inspect metalwork and touch-up paint as needed, to prevent moisture penetration leading to rust and other damage.

Section 2: Property-Specific Painting Advice

In addition to surface-specific considerations, choosing facade paint colours and finishes depends largely on your property type. Coordinate schemes that enhance houses, highlight historic details or make businesses stand out.

Houses

For homes, selecting an exterior colour palette that compliments architectural style and surroundings creates maximum appeal. Neutral shades accent unique details while bolder hues make a dramatic statement according to preferences.

Ensure paints withstand local climate conditions and recurring maintenance needs. For example, regions with harsh winters require flexible paints that won't crack or peel during freeze/thaw cycles. Plan to repaint every 5-7 years.

Tips for House Exterior Paint

Accent siding or trim with contrasting tones
Coordinate roof, entry door and window trim colours
Use multiple shades of one hue for visual interest
Reflect natural surroundings with earthy, green or blue tones
Define home themes with traditional reds, tranquil blues or bright whites

Country Estates

Updating historical estate facades with paint requires balancing preservation with practical needs. Maintaining original brick, stone or other masonry as much as possible retains authentic charm.

Use colours in keeping with the era like Victorian jewel tones. For sections needing paint, use high quality primers and finishes allowing walls to breathe. Regular upkeep preserves integrity and your investment.

Student Flats

Frequent tenant turnover means student flat exteriors require cost-effective, durable paint solutions that provide long-lasting vibrancy between touch ups.

Start with thorough cleaning and repairing any structural damage for a smooth, consistent foundation.

Flat or matte finish vinyl acrylic paint resists stains, moisture and scrubbing for high-traffic areas students pass through regularly.

Bold accent colours paired with creams or tans hide scuffs effectively while coordinating with university brand standards.

Coffee Shops

As a gathering space, your coffee shop's exterior paint presents a prime opportunity for attracting customer attention.

Use colours that stimulate appetite and energy like crimson, orange or yellow. Consider painting the door an eye-catching accent shade or using stencils for branding.

For longevity, commercial-grade acrylic or urethane paints withstand heavy contact and environmental factors.

Graffiti-resistant coatings prevent vandalism issues. Maintain your artful facade with touch ups every 2-3 years.

Section 3: Why Engage with Professional Decorators?

While DIY painting projects appear straightforward, complexities arise needing expert knowledge and equipment.

Professional exterior painters offer value through specialised expertise, efficiency and assurance - key reasons to partner with Borthwick Decorators for facade transformation success.

Expertise and Experience

No amount of online advice equips homeowners with the insight professional painters gain from years of experience across varied properties.

Familiarity with regional conditions, surface-specific preparation and using the right painting technique for your property type leads to unparalleled outcomes residential novices simply can't achieve.

Their artistic eyes also blend colours beautifully.

Time and Cost Efficiency

Attempting large-scale painting without proper tools risks increasing mistakes requiring expensive fixes that professionals aptly avoid.

Their equipment efficiency, such as using sprayers rather than rollers for large walls, significantly speeds application compared to DIYers, saving money down the road.

Quality Assurance

Engaging reputable painters like Borthwick Decorators provides peace of mind through guarantees ensuring satisfaction with the transformation.

Rigorous standards mean no peeling, cracking or chipping embarrassments after the job. Consistent results project professionalism whether for homes or businesses.

Conclusion

Revitalising tired exteriors with fresh paint requires balancing aesthetics and practical preparation based on your property's unique facade.

While DIY provides budget appeals, professionals like Borthwick Decorators offset short-term savings through enduring quality only years of experience provided across different surfaces and property types.

Their transformation expertise enhances your home's first impression for long-term value.

Discover new inspiration for your house, historic estate, flats or coffee shop with exceptional exterior painting services .

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HOW EXTERIOR DECORATING SERVICES CAN ELEVATE YOUR PROPERTY'S CURB APPEAL

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 12:45:36 GMT

How Exterior Decorating Services Can Elevate Your Property's Curb Appeal

Introduction

Curb appeal is one of the most important factors that influences a property's perceived value. Whether residential or commercial, the exterior appearance makes the all-important first impression. There are few faster or more effective ways to give your property a fresh new look than by elevating its curb appeal.

Investing in professional exterior decorating services can provide an array of aesthetic and practical benefits. A quality paint job not only makes your property look well-kept and vibrant, but it also protects exterior materials from weathering damage over time. The visual impact of a colour change or facelift on the outside of a home or building can be remarkable.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how specialised exterior decorating can drastically boost your property's aesthetic value in the eyes of tenants, customers, visitors and prospective buyers.

Exterior Decorating Explained

Exterior decorating encompasses various professional services designed to visually enhance the outside appearance of a property for aesthetic and practical reasons.

Key aspects include:

Painting: Applying new coats of paint and finishes on surfaces like siding, trims, decks, fences or ornamental decor
Power washing: Deep cleaning exterior surfaces prior to painting or sealing
Sealing: Protecting fences, decks, concrete and other materials with protective sealants
Specialty finishes: Enhancing ornamental rails, trims or decorative elements with finishes like faux wood grain, metallic or aged copper

For our discussion, we will focus primarily on the painting aspect of exterior decorating services and its dramatic impact.

DIY Efforts vs Professional Services

Ambitious homeowners sometimes take on do-it-yourself (DIY) exterior painting projects to save on labour costs. However, lacking professional expertise, specialised tools and access to commercial-grade supplies can compromise the quality and longevity of the paint job.

Benefits of professional exterior painting services include:

Save time and effort
Access to commercial-grade paints and finishes
Specialised tools like sprayers, lifts and scaffolding
Precision application techniques
Multi-layer coatings for maximum protection
Ongoing maintenance services available
Licensed and insured for peace of mind

This level of quality, efficiency and convenience simply cannot be matched by DIY efforts. Professional services yield longer-lasting results, freeing homeowners to spend time on other more rewarding projects.

Benefits of Professional Exterior Painting

Investing in professional painting services can drastically improve your property's aesthetic appeal, protective weatherproofing and even monetary value over time.

Aesthetic Appeal

A fresh coat of exterior paint can make an older property look brand new. Dramatic colour changes especially can modernise a building and breathe new life into tired architecture. Decorative accent painting also falls under the realm of professional exterior painting:

From simple facelifts to ornate transformations, a paint job upgrade makes properties far more appealing to the eye. Storefronts, rental properties and commercial buildings all gain value from attractive exterior decor.

Protection

Another key benefit offered by professional painters is the multi-layering of high-performance exterior paints and clear protective sealants:

Typical exterior painting process:

Wash and prepare surfaces thoroughly
Seal cracks, sealant gaps and make repairs
Apply 2-3 coats of primer/paint for full coverage
Finish with a clear sealant topcoat
Touch up ornamental decor as needed

Following this meticulous process using commercial-grade paints and tools ensures maximum adhesion and durability. The end result is a vibrant, long-lasting paint finish that stands up to sun exposure, moisture and extreme weather shifts. This protective coating extends the lifespan of underlying wood, masonry and architectural details.

Property Value

Great looks and protective coatings aside, a professional paint job also directly correlates with increased property value over time, both residential and commercial. Investing to elevate your property's aesthetic appeal through exterior decorating services offers excellent ROI in terms of attracting buyers, driving up sale prices and raising rental income.

A quality exterior paint job offers one of the highest resale value returns compared to other renovation projects. The visual impact makes an outstanding first impression on visitors and buyers alike.

So while decorating services require an upfront investment, this pays off exponentially in the long run between visual appeal, protection from elements and boosting property valuation.

Choosing Exterior Painting Services

When selecting professional painters for your exterior decorating project, look for these key traits:

Experience

The experience level of the company and the longevity of its skilled tradesmen make a significant difference in overall quality. Multi-generational family-owned companies with decades of experience are preferable.

Accreditation

Professional painters should carry up-to-date accreditation and liability insurance at UK regulated levels. Look for accreditation and licensing by organisations like CHAS, SMAS, SafeContractor, PASMA, PPG Trade Elite, IPAF and PAL.

Customer Feedback

Online customer reviews offer transparent insight into a company's reputation for delivering on professionalism, quality workmanship, attention to detail and service. Be sure to check independent third-party review sites in addition to a company's website. Facebook and Google Reviews now feature as crucial evaluation metrics for service contractors like painters.

Between verifiable experience, accreditation and positive customer feedback, you can feel confident entrusting your property's curb appeal facelift to the right provider.

Current Trends in Exterior Paints and Design

Professional painters stay closely in touch with emerging innovations in paint technology and shifts in colour palette trends. Property owners looking to elevate their building can choose from today's cutting-edge options:

Popular Color Scheme Trends

Neutrals in warm greiges, taupes and tans
Deeper, moodier hues in all colour families
Black finishes, accents and trims
White and light tones as an enduring classic

Eco-Friendly Paint Options

Water-based paints - cause less harm than hydrocarbon-based alternatives
Mineral silicate paint - greatest vapour permeability
Low & Zero VOC Paint - non-toxic, eco-friendly

Technological Advancements

Electrostatic spray painting – achieves wraparound coating coverage
Infrared cameras detect failing paint/moisture issues
Robotic sprayers now mimic hand application

Today's commercial-grade exterior paint formulas offer exceptional weatherproofing, breathability, adhesion and touch-up capability. Mineral silicate and clay paints offer natural composition free of VOCs, toxins or emissions.

Painter training now incorporates leading-edge technologies like electrostatic spraying for unrivalled precision and efficiency. This combination of industry knowledge and state-of-the-art tools ensures contemporary painters deliver visually stunning results built to stand the test of time using the latest methods.

Preparing for an Exterior Painting Project

To ensure your exterior decorating plans get smoothly and efficiently from conception to completion, advance preparation is key. Professional painters actually prefer clients who plan ahead.

Follow these best practices when prepping for a pro paint job:

Schedule Consultations

Discuss goals, budget, scope, materials and process with multiple providers before deciding
Request a detailed site evaluation - accurate measurements = accurate quotes

Make Critical Decisions

Which exterior elements will be updated? Walls, trims, shutters, railings?
Which colours have you chosen from siding to accents?
Any specialty finishes like stonework or ornamental patterns?

Secure Permits

If required, work permits for public/commercial sites should be obtained by property owner

By answering these questions early and conveying clear direction on the defined scope, you empower painting pros to craft a tailored plan for achieving your vision efficiently.

Few things slow down a paint project more than last-minute surprises and indecisiveness. The clearer your communication and foresight, the smoother the process.

Maintaining Your Property Post-Painting

After investing extensive time and money into elevating your property’s curb appeal with professional exterior painting services, protect that asset through proper maintenance:

Regular Upkeep

Inspect painted areas yearly before extreme weather (storms, winter, etc)
Clean mould/mildew gently with diluted bleach/soap and low-PSI rinse
Replace loose or missing sealant to avoid moisture entry behind paint
Fading and flaking should prompt spot touch-up paints

Touch-Up Painting

Use leftover paint if available, store tightly sealed.
If repainting a full wall due to new damage, feather cut the edges into old paint to blend
Spot repairs on siding often need re-priming first before touching up paint

When to Repaint Entire Home Exterior

Every 5-8 years is optimal depending on original quality
If >25% of façade paint shows fading, flaking or substantial cracking
Before attempting to sell property for maximum ROI

Proper maintenance preserves your property investment and retains positive curb appeal by keeping exteriors looking fresh year after year.

Conclusion

The power of exterior decorating services to elevate a property’s aesthetic appeal cannot be overstated. The striking visible transformation displayed on building exteriors directly impacts perceived value from the viewpoint of visitors, tenants and prospective buyers.

A professional paint job acts as one of the highest yielding investments in terms of residential resale value and commercial property income growth. Vivacious new colours, ornamental accents and decorative textures breathe new life into tired architecture. At the same time, multi-layer exterior painting provides protection from harsh weather deterioration over time.

Yet realising this dream vision requires careful research and selection of legitimately qualified exterior painters. Optimal results depend on contracting companies with verifiable experience, accreditations and consistently positive customer endorsements. Trusting your valuable asset in the hands of true painting professionals ensures peace of mind along with fantastic curb appeal.

High Impact Decorating

If your property’s lacklustre exterior could use a revive through high-impact decorating services, why wait?

Now is the time to explore your options by contacting Borthwick Decorators Ltd today.. An initial meeting allows you to convey your unique vision while gaining insight into suitable paints, finishes and application techniques from the experts.

Take that first step by requesting a quote from the most trusted local provider.

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TRANSFORM YOUR HOME: TOP 10 DECORATING TRENDS TO WATCH IN 2024

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Transform Your Home: Top 10 Decorating Trends to Watch in 2024

Introduction

As 2024 approaches, the interior decorating scene is witnessing the emergence of new trends that are set to redefine our living spaces.

With a significant emphasis on wallpapers and paints, these elements are key in reshaping any room's ambiance. This guide aims to explore the top decorating trends for the upcoming year, offering useful insights for those eager to refresh their home environment.

Quiet Luxury and Post-Barbiecore Pink

The trend of 'quiet luxury' is making waves in 2024, championing the creation of sophisticated yet timeless spaces. This style is marked by its use of neutral colours, warm woods, and an overall understated elegance.

In parallel, there's a revival of pink hues, albeit in a more toned-down form. Dulux's colour of the year 2024, Sweet Embrace, exemplifies this trend. This soft blush tone brings a soothing presence to rooms, fostering a tranquil and serene setting suitable for contemporary lifestyles.

Warm Colour Palettes

2024 is also the year of warm colour palettes, moving away from the stark and sterile to embrace more comforting and earthy tones. Think along the lines of warm beiges, rich browns, and soothing creams.

These colours not only add a comforting touch to your home but also create a grounded and inviting atmosphere. It’s a shift from cooler shades to hues that evoke a sense of warmth and cosiness.

Wheatfield Neutrals

Complementing the warm palette, wheatfield neutrals are making a notable entry. These aren't your typical neutral shades; they come with subtle undertones of yellow and gold, adding considerable warmth to any space.

As grey-based neutrals make way for these warmer tones, the result is a colour palette that’s both enduring and soothing. These hues work exceptionally well with vibrant colours, creating a balanced and harmonious look.

The beauty of these shades lies in their response to natural light, revealing subtle pink and green undertones during the day and transforming into warm peaches and yellows at night.

Organic Modern Decor

Organic modern decor is all about creating a contemporary yet cohesive look. The focus here is on light and warm colour palettes, breezy aesthetics, and a comfortable, relaxed vibe.

This style is perfect for those looking to bring a modern yet organic feel to their interiors. It often incorporates colours and textures from nature, including natural wood furniture, baskets, natural fibre rugs, and woven elements, paired with easy-care textiles like cotton and linen.

Nourishing Greens

Alongside organic modern decor, the colour green, in various shades, is being championed for its revitalising qualities. This includes mid-greens that mirror nature, providing a restful and secure feeling.

The use of green in interior design not only brings a slice of the outdoors inside but also offers a healing and rejuvenating touch. Light pastel greens are also in the spotlight for their ability to soothe the mind and evoke restfulness and reflection

Natural Materials

Natural materials continue to be a significant trend in 2024. This includes a focus on real elements like warm wood furniture, cabinetry, natural textiles, and rugs crafted from materials like wool, jute, silk, or textured cotton.

The aim is to add warmth and depth to your spaces, making them more inviting and comfortable.

Ink Blue

Ink blue is emerging as a popular colour trend, particularly in shades inspired by the night sky. This colour can be used in place of traditional neutrals like greys or beiges, offering a richer and more intriguing option.

Ink blue works well in traditional settings, like shaker-style kitchens or hallways with rich herringbone flooring, and is perfect for adding a touch of architectural heritage through elements like wall panelling.

Warm Minimalism

Warm minimalism is about creating spaces that are both calming and aesthetically pleasing while reducing visual clutter. It focuses on earth tones and emphasises the primary purpose of a room, making it easier to focus and relax.

This trend is all about enhancing the livability of a space, making it feel more welcoming and serene.

Sunrise Hues

Complementing warm minimalism are sunrise hues. These include fresh and energising colours like apricot, mustard, and sun orange.

Such hues are particularly effective in north-facing rooms or smaller spaces, where they can make the area feel more cheerful and less cramped. These colours have a psychological impact, making spaces feel more open and uplifting.

The Rise of Textured Wallpapers
Textured wallpapers are gaining traction in 2024, offering a dynamic way to add depth and character to your walls. From subtle embossed patterns to more pronounced tactile surfaces, these wallpapers are perfect for creating a focal point in any room.

They also add a layer of sophistication and can be used effectively to enhance the overall theme of your space. When selecting textured wallpaper, consider the room's purpose and existing decor to ensure a harmonious blend of style and function.

Bold and Expressive Paint Colours
This year, bold and expressive paint colours are in the spotlight. We're seeing a departure from safe, neutral tones to more adventurous hues.

This includes dramatic moody colours and vibrant greens, which can transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary. When incorporating these bold colours into your home, consider using them on an accent wall or in combination with more subdued tones to strike the right balance.

Geometric Patterns and Abstract Designs in Wallpapers

Geometric patterns and abstract designs are making a statement in wallpaper trends. These designs range from subtle, intricate patterns to bold, eye-catching prints.

They are an excellent choice for adding visual interest and can be used to create a modern, edgy look in your home. When working with these patterns, it's important to consider the scale and colour to ensure they complement rather than overpower the room.

The Role of Accent Walls

Accent walls continue to be a popular trend in 2024, with a shift towards more immersive designs. This includes the use of murals and creative wallpaper choices that turn a simple wall into a piece of art.

Accent walls are a great way to inject personality into a room and can be used to highlight a particular architectural feature or simply to add a splash of colour.

The Advantage of Professional Decorating Services

With the complexity of 2024’s trends, the advantage of hiring professional decorating services becomes apparent. Professionals can help navigate these trends, offering expertise in material selection, colour coordination, and overall design.
They ensure that the implementation of these trends is seamless and aligned with your personal style and the functional needs of your space.

DIY vs Professional: Making the Right Choice

While DIY projects can be fulfilling, there are times when professional assistance is invaluable, especially with the sophisticated trends of 2024. Professionals bring a level of expertise and precision that might be challenging to achieve on your own.

When considering a major redesign or working with complex materials and patterns, it’s worth consulting with a professional to achieve the best possible outcome.

Conclusion

The decorating trends of 2024 offer exciting opportunities to refresh and reinvent our homes. From the calming influence of warm minimalism and sunrise hues to the bold statements of textured wallpapers and expressive colours, there is something for every taste and style. Whether you choose to embark on a DIY journey or seek the assistance of a professional decorator, these trends provide a wealth of inspiration for creating a home that feels both current and uniquely yours.

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DECORATING EDINBURGH'S NEW TOWN: CRAFTING ELEGANCE IN HISTORIC SPACES

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 14:38:21 GMT

Decorating Edinburgh's New Town: Crafting Elegance in Historic Spaces

Introduction

Edinburgh's New Town is known for its beautiful Georgian architecture, orderly streets, and stately stone buildings. Decorating a home in this historic area comes with great design potential, but also special considerations.

This comprehensive guide will explore popular interior design trends and ideas tailored to Edinburgh’s New Town homes.

Brief History of Edinburgh's New Town
Edinburgh's New Town refers to the areas to the north of Old Town that were built in stages starting in the late 1700s through the 1830s. After overcrowding plagued Edinburgh's mediaeval-era Old Town, the New Town was commissioned to provide upscale new housing, retail, and pleasant community spaces.

Key characteristics of architecture in the New Town include:

Georgian and neoclassical styles with Greco-Roman influences
Stately facades of sandstone buildings along orderly streets
Large sash windows to maximise light
Ornate cornices, ironwork, pillars, and detailing

Today, New Town remains an extremely desirable area known for its cache, walkability, commercial hub, and simply beautiful architecture. Decorating a home there requires careful consideration to complement the exterior surroundings.

Popular Interior Design Styles for New Town Homes
When decorating New Town dwellings, three interior design aesthetics prove popular for meshing with the exteriors while putting a personal stamp inside:

Traditional Elegance

This style embraces the Georgian roots with characteristics like:

Dark woods like mahogany for furniture
Elaborate wallpaper, crown moulding, and trims
Touches of tartan plaid and leather
Tufted furniture and chandeliers
Accent antiques for an established look

Refined Modern

For a cleaner contemporary twist, New Town homes gracefully incorporate:

Light grey walls or neutral paint colours
Sleek lines and minimalist shapes for furnishings
Textural elements through rugs, pillows and throws
Pops of colour via artwork and accessories

Eclectic Classic

Mixing eras and styles strikes an inviting balance with:

Mid-century Scandinavian wood pieces
Plush classic furnishings for seating
Elegant fixtures juxtaposed with rustic touches
Attribute a sense of history with natural wall-coverings and woven rugs

The Appeal of Decorating a New Town Home
What draws design enthusiasts to decorate dwellings in Edinburgh's New Town?

For starters, the architectural elements like large sash windows, moulded ceilings, and period detailing provide built-in character. The grand stone exteriors and winding cobblestone streets also deliver dramatic curb appeal.

Inside, New Town homes possess enviable original details from intricate cornices to marble mantles alongside generous ceiling heights and oversized rooms prime for designing.

Residents often remark feeling as if they are privileged keepers of history while putting their modern-day stamp through interior finishes.

Getting Inspiration for Decorating Your Home
When tackling decorating a New Town residence, where should you look for additional inspiration?

With such a specific architectural style and neighbourhood aesthetic, seeking ideas from locals proves helpful. Some inspirational jumping-off points include:

Touring other neighbourhood homes: New Town holds several annual home tours allowing access inside private residences to glean ideas from how others in the community have decorated.
Finding inspiration outdoors: Simply walking New Town streets reveals possible exterior architectural details to carry inside like ironwork designs or fan light window shapes. The ordered greenery of nearby Queen Street Gardens and other ornate landmarks also influence interior motifs.
Incorporating traditional Scottish elements: From tartan plaid to Fair Isle knits, emblemising cultural heritage through decorative accessories and textiles connects the interior with Edinburgh's compelling narrative. Brands like Begg Scotland offer such finely crafted additions sourced and made locally in bold plaids and distinct patterns endemic to Scotland.
Browsing magazines and websites: Publications like Homes and Interiors Scotland alongside the proliferation of interior design blogs and apps like Houzz deliver inspiration for everything from colour palettes to storage solutions well suited to New Town's structural style.

Choosing a Colour Palette
One of the most impactful yet challenging decor decisions involves selecting an appropriate, cohesive colour palette. When painting the interior of an Edinburgh New Town home, popular elegant paint colours include:

Go-To Neutrals

Soft greys like Benjamin Moore's Chelsea Gray
Light taupes such as Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige
Warmer hues like Revere Pewter

These muted neutrals allow bolder fabrics and furnishings to shine while seamlessly complementing most wood tones.

Characterful Accents
For accent walls, entryways, and dining rooms, posh colours like these build upon neutral foundations:

Deep emerald greens (Farrow & Ball's Studio Green)
Lush blue tones from navy to teal
Regal reds and purples like damson and amaranth
Rich metallics such as gold, silver, or bronze

Selecting Flooring and Finishes
Flooring proves foundational to decor flow in New Town interiors. Options include:

Hardwoods like oak or American black walnut add ageless warmth
Stone surfaces like tile, concrete, or grouted slate nod to the masonry outdoors
Wool area rugs over existing surfaces contribute dimension and sound absorption.

Wallpaper makes a dramatic impact in New Town decor. Many residences incorporate wallpaper in entryways, libraries, or dining rooms for visual depth. Look for styles like:

Damasks: Complex woven patterns popular in Georgian times
Chinoiserie: Vignettes mixing Asian and European motifs
Modern geometrics: Angles and shapes referencing architectural details

Finally, ornamental trims and textures finesse New Town homes via:

Crown mouldings, ceiling rosettes, and accent medallions
Columns, pilasters, niches and arched detailing
Heavy window treatments like curtains sashed with tiebacks

Creating a Cohesive Look Throughout
When designing New Town interiors, a polished cohesive feel reigns supreme from the decor flow between rooms to coordinated furnishings that collectively tie the home's narrative together. Several tactics help cultivate this effect:

Repeat paint colours in multiple areas like the main neutral throughout then accent walls to distinguish certain spaces
Use varied textiles and window treatments to link rooms through complementary patterns and colour palettes
Incorporate cohesive sets of furniture for a tailor-made feel across living areas
Echo motifs through framed artwork, statues, and featured collectibles

Incorporating Architectural Details
New Town's exquisite exterior architecture remains an endless font of inspiration for interior finishings and features. Some elements to consider including:

Windows as Focal Points
The expansive sash windows signature to New Town architecture allow ample light. Dress them to match their impact with:

Elegant curtains, layered panels and roman shades
Curtain poles and finials that complement the era
Window seats, shutters and area rugs to frame views

Statement Lighting
From the Georgian penchant for candle lit chandeliers to taking cues from Gothic architecture, New Town invites bold lighting choices through:

Iron candelabras and tiered crystal chandeliers
Ornate torchères, sconces and table lamps
Recessed lighting to spotlight motifs and furnishings

Textural Touches
New Town architecture strikes a refined yet slightly austere initial impression on the exterior. Adding sumptuous textural layers inside helps a space feel warm and collected through:

Area rugs in wool, mohair or lambswool
Throws, pillows and pouffes across seating and beds
Gallery walls mixing artwork, plates, photos and tapestries
Accessories of glass, ceramic and marble

Statement Hardware
Finally, select door knobs, pulls, and light switch plates provide small touches with big visual impact. New Town homes suit commanding blacks, bronzes, subdued brasses, or antiqued metals across these hardware details.

Displaying Art, Accessories and Collections
Artwork, accessories, and curated objects breathe life into New Town homes. Some refined display suggestions include:

Local Photography and Paintings

Sourcing original works showcasing New Town iconography or Edinburgh's allure supports local artists while paying homage to your unique setting.

Bookshelves

Built-in, standalone, and even freestanding ladder options hold books while honouring the heritage of literature and education in Edinburgh.

Accessory Styling

Groupings of objects like stacks of cocktail table books alongside vases and small sculptures make mantels, consoles and credenzas doubly functional.

Memorabilia Displays

For travels near and far, frame or display one-of-a-kind souvenirs in groupings, narrow shelves, or cases instead of tucking away.

Additional New Town Decor Ideas and Inspiration
For those renovating or seeking full-service design guidance for New Town homes, several acclaimed local interior design experts include:

Ampersand Interiors
Inspired Interiors Edinburgh
Jeffreys Interiors

Neighbourhood home tours also provide in-person inspiration plus community camaraderie with events like the annual New Town House Tour each September.

Top online destinations to spark additional New Town interior design creativity feature:

The Skirted Roundtable interior design podcast and blog
Scottish Interiors blog and instagram page

The diverse architectural landscape of Edinburgh offers a unique canvas for interior decorating.

By blending modern and traditional elements, embracing local art and culture, and prioritising sustainable practices, homeowners can create living spaces that reflect both their personal style and the rich heritage of Edinburgh’s New Town.

Borthwick Decorators (Edinburgh) Ltd have over 50 years experience decorating properties in the elegant streets of Edinburgh’s New Town. Our expertise in traditional and contemporary styles, combined with a commitment to quality and sustainability, equips us to bring your vision to life.

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ARE EXPENSIVE HOUSE PAINTS WORTH THE COST?

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 14:55:57 GMT

Are Expensive House Paints Worth the Cost?

Introduction

We obviously advise hiring the professionals, but if you do decide on decorating or renovating your home yourself, it will mean an arduous trip to the paint store.

When browsing the aisles of colour swatches and sheens, the decision on which paint to choose can prove paralysing.

Should you opt for a budget-friendly brand to cover more ground? Or is it wise to invest in those pricier paints that promise exceptional quality and durability?

This article will explore the key differences between paint types across the pricing spectrum. You’ll uncover the specific benefits of both value and premium paints to determine which choice makes the most sense for your unique project and budget.

With an understanding of what you gain and give up with each option, you can paint your home beautifully without breaking the bank.

Let’s explore what makes some paints worth their higher cost, and when it pays to go frugal.

The Main Differences Between Paint Types
Before determining if expensive paints are worth it, it helps to understand what accounts for the wide range in pricing.

While all architectural paints contain basic ingredients like pigments, resins, solvents and additives, the quality and ratios of these components set premium brands apart.

Pigments

The pigments used provide paint with its colour, coverage and durability. Premium paints use larger volumes of higher-quality pigments that provide richer, longer-lasting colour and require fewer coats to fully cover a surface.

Titanium Dioxide

This key ingredient enhances paint’s opacity and durability. More titanium dioxide equals greater hide and longevity. Expensive paints contain higher concentrations of this component.

Resins

The resins bind paint components together while allowing them to adhere to surfaces. More abundant resins in costly paints make the paint itself stronger and more protective.

Additives

Additives give paint desirable properties like mildew resistance and hide. Pricier paints feature additives for enhanced performance and longevity.

Understanding what goes into the paint itself clarifies why you pay more for premium brands promising better coverage, durability and colour retention. But are these costly paints worth their lofty price tags?

The Potential Perks of Premium Paint

Higher-end paints promise a number of advantages that justify their price for many homeowners and pros. Let’s examine the benefits that come with upgrading beyond basic budget paints.

Less Paint Needed for Coverage

Thanks to abundant pigments and titanium dioxide, premium paints contain more hiding power and opacity. This allows them to fully cover surfaces with fewer coats. Rather than applying three or more coats of cheaper paint, you may achieve full coverage with just one or two coats of a pricier formulation.

Enhanced Durability and Longevity

Quality paints withstand wear and tear better thanks to abundant binder resins and additives that create a more durable film. They maintain their like-new look longer and are scrub-resistant, retaining colour despite cleaning. Less frequent repainting saves money long-term.

Richer, More Consistent Colour

With more concentrated pigments and advanced tinting colourants, expensive paints produce deeper, more vibrant hues that don’t fade over time. Their colours are also highly uniform from batch to batch for seamless touch-ups.

Higher Quality Finish and Appearance

Higher solid resins provide a smoother, more even finish with superior hide. No unsightly lap marks or coverage gaps. Premium paints give walls and trims a noticeably finer finish quality.

For major home decorating projects, these performance benefits make premium paints worth considering. But what about the downsides?

Potential Drawbacks of Pricey Paints

While offering robust durability and coverage, costly paints come with some caveats to factor in as well:

Substantially Higher Upfront Cost

There’s no way around it – premium paints carry a significantly heavier price tag than budget options. Expect to pay up to £14.00 per litre more for premium paints in comparison to cheaper paints. This hurts the wallet despite long-term savings.

Limited Selection and Availability

Except at specialty paint stores, expensive paint brands usually offer a slimmer range of unique colours and sheens compared to mass market options readily found at any hardware store. Less selection can limit creativity.

More Skill Required for Best Results

Higher quality paints are thicker and more challenging to apply. Without proper prep and technique, the results may not outweigh the cost. Professional skills are ideal to maximise the benefits.

While superior in many respects, even premium paints have limitations to weigh against needs and resources. But how do budget brands compare?

Pros and Cons of Value Paints

Affordable, lower-end paints provide a more accessible option that works for many applications. But you compromise some performance for the cost savings.

Very Budget-Friendly Initial Price

With litres as low as £10-15, inexpensive paints allow you to complete jobs affordably and experiment more freely. The initial price point can’t be beaten.

Wide Range of Brands and Colours

From major brands like Behr and Valspar to house brands, cheap paints offer endless colour and sheen options. You’ll find something suiting each room and taste.

Requires Multiple Coats for Good Coverage

With less pigment and weaker hide, achieving full coverage takes 2-3 coats with basic paints. The time and labour costs add up despite the lower material price.

Durability and Longevity Limitations

Lower-grade paints sacrifice longevity, needing touch-ups and full repainting more frequently as they wear, scuff or fade over 1-3 years. This diminishes the value benefit.

While initially tempting, skimping too much on paint quality can backfire over just a few years. But how exactly do paint prices correlate with real world performance?

Evaluating True Longevity Between Paint Types
When weighing expensive paints versus budget picks, longevity proves the definitive factor in determining actual value. Professional testing confirms cheap paints fall short here.

Consumer Reports Findings

In a 10-year study, Consumer Reports found that top-rated premium exterior paints maintained good colour and hide after 8-10 years. Meanwhile, cheaper paints showed noticeable fading and peeling in just 2-4 years.

Additional longevity stats

Despite costing 50-100% more upfront, high end paints lasted 2-5 times longer before needing repainting or showing signs of failure and deterioration. This justified their pricing with dramatically extended maintenance-free life.

The DIYer's Dilemma

However, homemade paint jobs may not always do expensive paints justice. Without proper surface prep and application skills, premium paints underperform their potential. Yet when professionally applied, their superiority emerges clearly in durability and longevity.

In the end, while initially costlier, quality paints win for long-lasting performance. But how do you choose the right option for your specific home and needs?

Selecting the Best Paint For Your Project

Rather than uniformly opting for the cheapest or most premium paint, the ideal choice depends on several factors:

Budget

Consider the size of the project and your paint budget. Calculate the upfront cost difference between paint options. For an entire exterior, the price jumps quickly for premium paint.

Scope and Purpose

Small projects or experimental colours allow for more flexibility to choose budget-friendly paints. Major overhauls where longevity is critical merit investing in quality.

Application Skill Level

Those newer to painting may not justify premium paints if application flaws undermine durability. Build skill with cheaper paints first before upgrading for key projects. Consider hiring pros.

Priorities

Do you desire deep, flawless colours everywhere? Or are you comfortable with paints requiring more coats and touching up? Your goals help determine whether durability and vibrancy warrant premium paint costs.

House Size and Layout

For homes with lots of high-traffic areas or tall, difficult to access walls, longer-lasting paints save substantial time, effort and money over time. Prioritise quality for hard-to-maintain spaces.

By objectively assessing your specific home, budget, goals and abilities, you can select paints with the ideal balance of affordability and performance. Let your unique needs rather than blind loyalty to a brand determine what paint suits you best.

Final Takeaways on Paint Costs and Performance

When navigating the paint aisle, remember:

Premium paints deliver better durability and longevity that can provide real value for the money over time.
Budget paints offer immediate cost savings but compromise on hide, longevity and colour vibrancy.
Consider scope, skill level, project goals, and house layout when choosing between tiers of paints.
Proper prep and application affects results more than paint cost alone.
DIYers may gain more benefit from inexpensive paints to build skill first.

The right choice balances affordability with the level of quality and longevity needed for your circumstances. With an understanding of paint essentials, you can feel confident tackling any painting project stylishly within your budget.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

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THE BEST PAINT COLOURS TO INCREASE YOUR HOME'S VALUE IN 2024

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:30:18 GMT

The Best Paint Colours To Increase Your Home's Value In 2024

Introduction

When it comes to selling your home or just making it look its best, one of the easiest and most effective things you can do is give it a fresh coat of paint. The right paint colour can totally transform a room and make your whole house feel more appealing to potential buyers.

But how do you choose a shade that will add real value to your property in 2024?

In this guide, we'll look at the current paint colour trends that can help maximise your home's worth in today's market. Whether you want to play it safe with timeless neutrals or make a bold statement with vibrant tones, we've got you covered.

Let's explore some of the hottest hues that not only look great but also offer a terrific return on investment.

The Power of Paint in the Property Market

Before we explore specific colours, it's worth understanding just how much of an impact paint can have on your home's marketplace value. Choosing a shade you love is important, but you also need to consider what appeals to buyers.

The right colours can not only make your home look more aesthetically pleasing but also feel more welcoming and inviting to potential purchasers. So while trendy paint choices won't solely determine the value of your home, they do play a key role in that all-important first impression.

Vibrant, modern colours and cohesive colour flows between rooms can really excite buyers.

On the other hand, outdated or distracting colour palettes can be a real turn-off. They date your home and make rooms feel smaller or awkwardly configured.

So if you want your property to stand out for the right reasons, your palette needs to impress.

Current Trends in Paint Colours

Home décor trends are constantly evolving. What was popular five years ago may seem dated today. So when it comes to painting, you want to choose hues that align with current styles and buyer preferences. Here are some of the top paint colour trends right now:

Earthy and Organic Colours

Natural, earthy tones are set to remain huge in 2024. Think mossy greens, warm terra cotta, soothing blues reminiscent of sky and sea, and earthy beiges and browns. These grounded, zen shades create a sense of balance and tranquillity. Greens and blues also offer a strong connection to nature, bringing the outdoors in. That feeling of airiness and space is so appealing to buyers.

Bold, Dramatic Colours

On the flip side, vibrant splashes of colour also speak to contemporary tastes. Jewel tones like deep sapphire, ruby red, and emerald green inject drama and luxury into a space. When used strategically - like on an accent wall in a living room - they make a real statement.

Soft, Light Pastels

For a more subdued take on colour, soft pastels like pale pink, lavender, buttery yellow and seafoam are very chic right now. These tender hues lend a soothing, peaceful ambience to bedrooms or bathrooms. They certainly have a charming, feminine appeal.

Warm Neutrals

While bold colours get all the hype, warm neutral backdrops remain incredibly popular. Who doesn't love an airy beige or cosy taupe? New modern neutral shades like oatmeal, warm grey, and greige (a grey-beige hybrid) offer a flexible, welcoming backdrop that works with any style.

The Value of Exterior Paint

It's easy to obsess over your interior paint colours, but don't underestimate the power of your home's exterior palette. That streetside first glimpse sets the tone for buyers, so you want the colours to complement your property's materials and architecture.

Earthy colours like sage green, warm greys, and terra cotta remain popular exterior choices, as they blend nicely with stone, brick, and wood.

Deep charcoals or navies can look sharp and modern too, if done well by professional exterior decorators . Just avoid anything too jarring or bright, as you want buyers to feel welcomed, not overwhelmed.

A cohesive exterior colour scheme also adds to that all-important curb appeal, drawing people in. Your landscaping can then build on that inviting first impression.

Choosing the Right Colours

Clearly, paint colour has a big impact on your home's perceived value. But with limitless options, how do you settle on the perfect palette? Here are a few tips:

Lighting matters. Test samples on the wall in different lighting at various times of day. Colours look different in morning sun vs evening lamplight.

Consider room size and usage. Bolder colours suit bigger spaces, while soft tones feel airy in small rooms. Bedrooms and dining rooms tend to be more traditional, while living areas can handle stronger colours.

Coordinate with furnishings. Make sure your new hue complements your existing furniture, flooring and decor. You want a cohesive flow.

Factor in architectural style. A Victorian house calls for more classic colours than a mid-century modern space, for example. Let the building guide you.

Stay true to your own taste. While trends matter, choose colours you actively enjoy. This is still your home, after all

Don't forget the exterior. Curb appeal is key, so consult a colour wheel and drive around for inspiration before painting your exterior.

Conclusion

Whether you currently have a "for sale" sign on your lawn or just want your home to look its best, a strategic paint job can significantly boost your property's value.

By aligning with current colour trends that impress potential buyers, while still suiting your personal taste, you get the best of both worlds - a beautiful, appealing home that maximises marketability when the time comes to sell.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading hand painted and spray painted kitchen companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business that offers all aspects of interior and exterior painting and decorating. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential painters and decorators since 1959.

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT COLOUR PALETTE FOR AN OPEN FLOOR PLAN

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 10:36:00 GMT

How To Choose The Perfect Colour Palette For An Open Floor Plan

Introduction

Open floor plans are all the rage in modern homes. Knocking down walls creates this gorgeous, airy feel and helps your space feel more open and connected. But when it comes time to decorate an open floor plan, suddenly you're faced with this huge, unbroken canvas.

Where do you even start with colour?

Choosing a cohesive colour palette for an open floor plan comes with its own set of challenges. Without defined rooms telling you what colours to use where, it can be tricky to create a scheme that flows beautifully throughout your space.

But with some strategic planning and a basic understanding of colour theory, you can pick a palette that enhances - not fights against - your open layout. Let's explore some savvy tips for choosing colours that unify your look and create the vibe you're going for.

The Pros and Cons of an Open Floor Plan

Before we explore colours, let's look at why open floor plans have become so popular in modern homes. Knocking down dividing walls offers some stellar perks:

Enhanced Socialising: With fewer physical barriers between rooms, open floor plans make chatting with family and guests way easier.

Awash in Natural Light: When walls come down, light can flood into the space unobstructed. It feels bright and airy.

Flexible Furniture Arrangement: No walls means you can place furniture wherever you want and reconfigure things easily.

But open floor plans also come with decorating challenges:

Undefined Spaces: With no walls signalling "this is the living room," it can be tricky to create distinct spaces for different functions.

Noise Issues: Sound travels freely in open floor plans. You might hear kitchen noise from your sofa, for instance.

Need for Cohesion: Achieving a unified, consistent look throughout the space requires more intention.

This is where your colour palette comes in - to enhance the pros and open floor plans while minimising the cons.

The Power of Colour in an Open Layout

Colour is hugely impactful in an open floor plan. It can make the space feel cohesive and flowing, or disjointed and messy. Here are some of the biggest ways colour influences an open layout:

Defining Areas: You can use colour to designate different functional zones - soft blues in the living area, bolder reds in the dining space etc.

Adding Dimension: Strategic colours can prevent a space from feeling flat and monotonous.

Guiding the Eye: Your colour scheme can lead the eye smoothly from one area to the next, creating flow.

So your goal is to pick a colour palette that unifies your look while allowing you to delineate different living areas. Achieving visual harmony and cohesion is key.

Choosing a Versatile Base Colour

A base colour - one dominant shade used throughout the space - is a great place to start when decorating an open floor plan. This colour will set the backdrop for your overall look.

Some tips for choosing a base colour:

Go Neutral: Timeless neutrals like warm white, beige and greige suit any style. They won't clash with accent colours.

Set a Mood: Do you want an airy, beachy vibe or cosy cabin feel? Your base colour can determine the mood.

Consider Existing Elements: Look at your flooring, kitchen cabinets, etc. Your base colour should complement those fixed elements.

Once you've selected your base colour, be consistent in using it throughout the open concept space - on walls, built-ins, large furniture pieces etc. This creates harmony while allowing accent colours to shine.

Accent Colours: Adding Personality

Accent colours prevent a space from feeling flat and boring. They liven things up! Use accent colours to highlight specific furniture pieces, artwork or designate certain areas.

Some tips for effectively using accent colours:

Complement Your Base: Contrasting shades usually work best. For a beige base, try navy blue accents.

Use Sparingly: These colours make the most impact when used judiciously. Just a pillow or piece of art packs a punch.

Spread Them Around: Sprinkle different accent colours throughout so no one area is overwhelmed.

Vibrant accent colours work best when they have a neutral, understated base to play against. Achieving balance is key.

Factor in Lighting Conditions

Open floor plans get awash in gorgeous natural light. But this can really impact how paint colours appear as sunlight shifts throughout the day. Make sure to:

Test Paint Samples at different times and in various lighting conditions. A colour can look totally different in morning vs. evening light.

Consider Direction: North-facing rooms get cooler, indirect light. South-facing rooms get warmer direct sunlight. This affects colour perception.

Check Bulb Type: LED, incandescent and fluorescent bulbs all emit different light spectrums that interact with colour differently.

Define Zones with Colour

Even without walls, you can use colour to create separate functional areas or "zones" within your open floor plan.

Contrasting Shades: Use a deeper tone in the dining area and lighter one in the sitting area to differentiate the two spaces.

Accent Walls: Paint an accent wall a bold colour like red only in the cooking zone to distinguish the kitchen.

Colourful Accessories: Place rugs, pillows and art in certain colours only in specific zones.

Achieving Colour Harmony

Creating a harmonious, balanced palette comes down to blending and contrasting your colours thoughtfully. Here are some tips:

Mix Warm and Cool Tones: Contrasting warm reds with cool blues stops a space from feeling too sterile or overly cosy.

Gradual Transitions: Slowly transition from darker to lighter shades as you move from one area to the next for a smooth colour flow.

Test, Test, Test! See how your colours look at different times of day before fully committing.

Take time experimenting until you find a balanced, cohesive palette that enhances your open concept space. The right colours can make it look and feel absolutely amazing!

Key Takeaways for Open Floor Plans

Base colours like neutral beige or greige establish cohesion. Use consistently throughout.
Vibrant accent colours add personality. Use strategically in accessories and artwork.
Lighting impacts colour perception. Test samples at different times of day.
Define zones with contrasting shades and accent walls.
Seek balance and harmony between warm and cool tones.

With a thoughtful, strategic approach, you can pick the perfect palette for your open floor plan! Use these tips to create a colour scheme that flows beautifully throughout your gorgeous, airy space.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading hand painted and spray painted kitchen companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business that offers all aspects of interior and exterior painting and decorating. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential painters and decorators since 1959.

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WHAT PAINT COLOURS ARE BEST FOR A BEDROOM?

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 12:30:21 GMT

What Paint Colours Are Best For a Bedroom?

Introduction

Choosing paint colours for a bedroom may seem simple, but the colours you select can have a major impact on the overall feel of the space. From influencing emotions to tricks that visually change room dimensions, paint colour is key to creating your ideal sleeping sanctuary.

Beyond just personal preferences, factors like room size, natural light, and desired atmosphere should all inform your bedroom colour choices. By understanding the psychology of colour and techniques that play with perception, you can curate the perfect colour scheme.

Let's explore popular paint colours for bedrooms and how they shape the vibe of your space.

The Psychology of Colours in Bedrooms

Colour psychology suggests bedroom hues directly impact relaxation, sleep quality, and even intimacy levels. Certain shades are known to evoke calmness or energy, while others feel warm or cool. Consider the emotions you want to experience in your bedroom, and choose colours aligned to that mood.

Influencing Relaxation and Sleep

Cool, soft blues and greens have tranquil properties to promote deep sleep and relaxation. Warm yellows and oranges, on the other hand, are more energising so better suit morning people. For couples sharing a bedroom, compromise on tones acceptable to both parties.

Cultural and Personal Associations

Bedroom colours may have personal, cultural, or symbolic meaning. For example, white and blue are linked to purity in some cultures, while red can symbolise passion. Remember your colour associations are unique when selecting bedroom shades.

The psychology of colour is highly subjective. It's perfectly acceptable to simply choose tones you find beautiful or uplifting, regardless of broader meanings.

Paint Colours to Make a Small Bedroom Look Bigger

Strategic paint colours can visually expand a cramped bedroom. Here are hues that make small rooms feel more spacious:

Light Neutral Tones

Pale beige, off-white, and light greys reflect light to create an airy, expansive look. Avoid going too stark white, which can feel sterile. Warm off-whites like Almond Wisp or Swiss Coffee open up the space.

Soft Pastel Shades

Delicate pastel pinks, lavenders and muted blues subtly brighten a room. The lighter value and less saturation prevents closing in the space. Stick to pastel hues – vivid ones overwhelm a small room.

Cool Colour Tones

Light to mid-range blues, greens, and violets can recede, giving the illusion of added space. Deep jewel tones of the same colours will make walls seem nearer, though. Sage, sea foam, and robin's egg blue work well.

Painting the ceiling a lighter tone than walls also adds height to a low-ceilinged room.

Paint Colours to Make a Bedroom Look More Inviting

Certain shades inherently provide a welcoming, cosy appeal perfect for bedrooms. Some top options include:

Warm, Earthy Neutrals

Natural tones like cream, camel, tan, and light brown have an organic feel. They remind us of sunlit sand, enveloping us in warmth. Accent walls in deeper camel or brown can anchor the space.

Burnt Oranges and Yellows

Burnt orange, ochre, amber – these shades bring to mind images of flickering candlelight or cozying up next to a fireplace. Coupled with textiles in earth tones, you get a welcoming nest.

Terracottas and Burnt Reds

For an elegant, vintage look, rich terracotta is perfect. Deep maroon and brick reds also provide plush, welcoming depth ideal for bedrooms. Just ensure adequate lighting, as these tones can get dark.

Paint Colours to Make a Bedroom Feel More Spacious

Don't have an expansive master suite? Certain paint techniques can make bedrooms visually larger:

Monochromatic Colour Schemes

Painting a bedroom in varying tones of a single colour – lighter on walls and darker on accents – creates depth that makes rooms feel bigger. Grey, blue and green lend themselves well to this technique.

Reflective and Gloss Finishes

Semi-gloss or high-gloss paint has a reflective, mirror-like quality that bounces light around. This makes walls seem further away. Use gloss finishes strategically – like only on an accent wall.

Neutral Ceilings and Trim

Painting ceilings and trim a bright white, while walls are a darker neutral shade, fools the eye by extending lines and boundaries. The contrast also adds dimension.

Paint Colours to Make a Bedroom Feel Airy

Some hues simply evoke feelings of openness, light, and fresh air. Try these airy paint colours in bedrooms:

Clean Whites and Off-whites

Stark bright white can feel harsh. Opt instead for soft off-whites like Alabaster, Vanilla Milkshake, or Whisper White to get an illuminated feel. Accent walls in deeper tones prevent too much whiteout.

Light Blue and Green Tones

Pale sky blue, mint, and seafoam conjure up imagery of water and open skies. These brisk, ethereal tones make small spaces feel expansive and free. Robin's egg blue is a popular choice.

Barely-There Neutrals

The slightest tint of colour in an otherwise neutral backdrop can make a room airy without overwhelming it. Barely Pink, Hint of Pale, and Wisp of Lime give a breathable quality.

Paint Colours to Make a Bedroom Feel Cozy

For a snug, enveloping ambiance perfect for sleeping, consider warm deep hues like:

Rich Blues and Greens

Deep shades like forest, emerald, or navy blue absorb light, creating an intimate cocooning effect. Accent walls in these mystic tones lend character. Just ensure adequate artificial lighting.

Plush Purples and Reds

Eggplant, burgundy, maroon – these lush shades wrap you in luxury. Their inherent depth provides a dramatic yet cosy tone. Don't overdo it on all walls – better on accents.

Chocolate Browns

Deep coffee, chocolate, and cocoa brown hues feel decadent and enveloping, like a comfy leather sofa. Brown's work well for masculine-themed bedrooms.

Paint Colours to Make a Bedroom Feel Modern

Contemporary bedrooms require paint shades that feel fresh and current. Some options:

Bold Accent Colours

Expressive accent walls in vibrant jewel tones, charcoal grey or near-black make a dramatic style statement. Favourites like Kelly green, crimson and sapphire blue pack visual punch.

Metallic Finishes

For a seriously modern edge, metallics like champagne gold, bronze and pewter provide depth with a hint of glam. Bronze works well with concrete grey and charcoal tones. Metallic paints add cost but impressive style.

Vivid Art Palette Colours

Drawing inspiration from modern art palettes, citrus brights, plum, parakeet green and canary yellow all make vibrant, energetic accents. Just use sparingly to avoid sensory overload.

Conclusion

The perfect bedroom paint ultimately comes down to the desired mood, room dimensions, and personal tastes. Warm hues make bedrooms more inviting, while cool tones feel relaxing and airy.

Monochromatic schemes and reflective finishes expand small spaces.

No universal formula guarantees bedroom painting success. Focus on how you want the room to make you feel when selecting soothing, uplifting shades.

Sample painted swatches on walls before fully committing. With some thoughtful colour psychology and experimentation, you can curate the ideal bedroom colour palette.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading hand painted and spray painted kitchen companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business that offers all aspects of interior and exterior painting and decorating. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential painters and decorators since 1959.

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THE EVOLUTION OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES IN EDINBURGH

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 09:53:56 GMT

The Evolution Of Residential Properties In Edinburgh

Historical Foundations of Edinburgh's Residential Properties

The influence of historical periods is undeniable when traversing the landscape of Edinburgh’s residential properties. Let’s take a look at how the Mediaeval Period, the Renaissance and Edinburgh Castle have played such a significant role in its makeup.

The Mediaeval Period

It’s no secret that Mediaeval times inspired Edinburgh’s numerous castles and fortifications, defensive walls and gates, as well as the winding alleys known as closes and wynds that connected main thoroughfares.

Gothic architecture was scattered around the city, including St. Giles' Cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, as well as several other churches and chapels – many of which there are only remnants left.

Residential properties were cast out of thick brick and small windows were installed to accommodate the confinements and conditions of the city at the time, as well as to stand up against intruders.

These properties in particular are reflective of the Old Town and have either been restored to reflect the time period when they were first built or mirrored in modern developments in the New Town .

The Renaissance Influence

The 16th and 17th centuries brought with them a strong shift in the creation of structures as designers and builders alike began to incorporate more classical design principles into their work.

A focus on symmetry, proportion and a revival of the architectural styles of ancient Greece and Rome were adopted, and principles of the Renaissance were adapted to suit the climate through the use of local materials.

A growing interest in classical learning, humanism, and artistic pursuits during this time led to more intricate detailing in the making of residential properties, both in terms of their facade and their interior.

With the rise of the merchant class, many of whom lived in the heart of the city, they began to take over many developments through their involvement in the trades and market spaces, urban development and much more.

When building townhouses, how they were constructed became a reflection of a person’s wealth and status in society, characterised by their size and the level of detail afforded to them.

Edinburgh Castle and its Influence

We can’t talk about the mediaeval period and the influence it had on how residential properties were structured in Edinburgh without talking about Edinburgh Castle.

An idol for the type of construction other buildings emulated, it served as a fortress, royal residence and refuge during mediaeval war times to protect the Scots from attacks.

Dating back to at least the 12th century, its positioning on Castle Hill was nothing short of strategic in terms of its ability to act as a place of security, and everything built around it was designed to do the same.

Edinburgh Castle's architectural influence extends beyond its walls, shaping the urban fabric, landmarks, and infrastructure of its surrounding areas.

There’s no doubt about it, its historical and cultural significance has contributed to the identity and development of the city of Edinburgh as a whole and will continue for generations to come.

Victorian and Edwardian Influences

During the Victorian and Edwardian periods, the focus of architecture turned towards reviving styles of the past, including Gothic Revival, Italianate, Scottish Baronial, and Classical Revival.

From extensive rustication to domed corner top roof pavilions and ornate maximalist interior design, their influence is evident in the residential properties still standing today.

The Grandeur of the Victorian Era

The Victorian era during the 19th and 20th centuries brought with it an eclectic fascination with design styles of the past, much of which exuded elegance and an immense amount of attention paid to detail.

The Gothic Revival looked a lot like buildings with pointed arches, ribbed vaults and decorative latticework, with many residential properties consisting of steep roofs, pointed windows and intricate stone carvings.

Italianate architecture was also heavily drawn from for inspiration, as Italian-style villas with their tall, narrow windows, decorative brackets and low-pitched roofs became a common sight to see.

Also influenced by other European architectural designs, the Victorian era embraced the Second Empire Style which originated in France, as well as the Romanesque Revival, and the Neo-Classical Revival.

These styles were showcased through mansard roofs, ornate ironwork, decorative windows, rounded arches, massive stonework, columns, pediments and symmetrical facades – just to name a few.

During this time, as industries began to grow, an influx of people from rural areas made the move to the urban centres and a re-think of how the city layout would accommodate all the new people was required.

Tenement housing, where blocks of flats or apartments were stacked vertically, became the new normal, and working-class families in particular were squeezed into compact units.

Brick and steel began to be mass-produced, and the increase in available materials led to multi-story flats and ever-expanding neighbourhoods.

As a result, with that came various regulations on overcrowding, safety and sanitisation.

Not too dissimilar from how most communities are set up now, certain areas were attributed to wealthier people and more extravagant dwellings, while others were known as being home to lower socio-economic groups.

The Edwardian Era and the Royal Mile

While the Victorian and Edwardian styles are incredibly closely related due to the time period they were most prevalent in, there are some distinct differences when it comes to their impact on residential property styles.

Both born in the 19th and 20th centuries, the Victorian era came first and covered the reign of Queen Victoria between 1837-1901. The Edwardian era followed and refers to the period during the reign of King Edward VII from 1901-1910.

As discussed earlier, the Victorian era was renowned for its willingness to welcome a real mix of historic design styles that were reflected in the details of many residential properties in Edinburgh .

On the other hand, the Edwardian era was much more focused on keeping things simple – there was no need to complicate design techniques and restraint was shown in terms of decoration limits.

While Victorian buildings were characterised by their ornate and intricate detailing, contrasting materials and incorporation of history, Edwardian-style properties were influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement where clean lines, order and refinement were of the utmost importance.

Brick, stone and wood were often combined and commonly used to construct elaborate Victorian styles in all their glory.

The same materials were used in Edwardian homes but rather the emphasis was laid on showing their inherent beauty.

The Royal Mile played an enormous part in how residential structures were built during this time due to the increased need for tenements that could be constructed quickly and house many.

Located in the Old Town, it consists of a series of streets that run off it and connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where these tenements line the main thoroughfare and are home to a large population.

Modern Residential Properties and the Blend of Old and New

There’s no way around it, we can’t focus on the new without acknowledging and respecting how the past has paved the way for Edinburgh’s architecture and relevance as a historical site.

Let’s take a look at how the blend of Old and New has shaped this beautiful city and its residential properties.

The Rise of Modernist Architecture in New Town

Unlike many modern structures, historic buildings seem to mostly stand the test of time thanks to the materials used and the quality of the craftsmanship from the period in which they were built.

This is most definitely the case when it comes to Edinburgh.

When the New Town was developed, extending the Old Town and creating more dwellings to house as many people as possible was all part of the plan.

Known for its Victorian and Neo-classical architecture, much of its history has been preserved in the residential buildings that stand there today, but as with anything, time tends to wear features thin.

Scottish architecture is sacred to the city, so when repairs or renovations are required for these New Town homes , the goal is often to future-proof them all while maintaining the historic style and unique elements of the home.

At the same time, some wealthier areas have taken on more of a modernist approach, as new developments move away from efficiency and toward open-plan spaces, large windows and higher ceilings.

Sustainable Designs and Green Buildings

Like many countries and cities across the globe, Edinburgh has jumped head-first into launching sustainability initiatives to lessen its carbon footprint and have a more positive impact on the planet.

So much so, the city has set a goal to become carbon neutral by 2030, a process which includes retrofitting existing buildings and encouraging more sustainable building practices.

Part of this involves companies working towards gaining sustainable certifications such as the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) title.

In addition to encouraging energy-efficient renovation practices, buildings exist like the Scottish Parliament Building, which is designed to use natural light where possible to reduce the need for electricity, and the Edinburgh College of Art roof, which helps with rainwater management and wildlife preservation.

Preserving Heritage while Embracing the New

Edinburgh’s architecture and the rich history and cultural heritage that lies within its walls are inevitably part of its identity, providing those who live there with a strong sense of place and purpose.

While change is the only constant and the introduction of more modern architecture will continue, conservation regulations and historic delegations have been put in place to protect the history of these buildings and residences.

When it comes to urban planning, designers and those involved in bringing a vision to life are required to pay careful consideration to the old and the new, allowing Edinburgh’s story to continue to develop.

Public consultations are also regularly held whenever a new project for the city has been presented to allow for voices to be heard, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.

Final Thoughts

All you have to do is look at the shapes and angles of vertical housing, tall, narrow windows and detailed ornamentation to know that you’re in Edinburgh – a place where the architectural history runs as deep as the culture that has always surrounded it.

From influential style periods to traditions and the socio-political state of the city, it is impossible not to see that every part of Edinburgh’s composition tells a story from a moment in time.

And while times are always changing and modernisation continues to take over in more ways than one, one thing is for sure – the evolution of residential properties in Edinburgh will never stray too far from where it all began.

Borthwick Decorators: Preserving and Enhancing Edinburgh's Residential Beauty

At Borthwick Decorators, our intention is just that – to create a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation in Edinburgh’s residential areas.

With over 60 years of experience working in residential painting and decorating, we’ve worked on countless properties that serve as proof of the journey the city has made through time, historically and culturally.

Each job we undertake in Edinburgh and Central Scotland is handled by our fully qualified in-house painters and decorators using the best materials on the market to reinforce and renovate historical architecture.

From Victorian-style archways to mediaeval-inspired finishings, we take pride in our ability to preserve the natural state of older homes and give them the love and attention they require to be enjoyed for many years to come.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading hand painted and spray painted kitchen companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business that offers all aspects of interior and exterior painting and decorating. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online appointment form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

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PERIOD PROPERTY DECORATION IN EDINBURGH'S AFFLUENT NEIGHBOURHOODS

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 15:58:42 GMT

Mastering the Art of Period Property Decoration in Edinburgh's Affluent Neighbourhoods

Edinburgh's affluent areas boast a rich architectural heritage that is second to none. From the elegant Georgian townhouses of Stockbridge to the grand Victorian villas of Morningside and the neoclassical splendour of New Town.

These neighbourhoods are a treasure trove of period properties. As an expert in decorating period housing, Borthwick Decorators has extensive experience working in these elite areas.

In this article, we delve into the world of period properties in Edinburgh's affluent neighbourhoods, exploring their unique features, the challenges they present from a decorating perspective, and how the experts approach their decoration.

Exploring Affluent Edinburgh and Its Period Properties

Edinburgh's affluent areas are known for their stunning period properties that exude charm and elegance.

One such area is Stockbridge, located just north of the city centre. Here, you will find a plethora of Georgian townhouses, characterised by their symmetrical facades, tall windows, and classical proportions.

The leafy streets of Stockbridge are also dotted with Victorian villas, which offer a slightly different architectural style with their decorative details and expansive gardens.

Moving southwards, we come to Morningside , another affluent area that is famous for its Edwardian terraces. These properties feature distinctive red sandstone exteriors, bay windows, and intricate wrought-iron balconies.

The Grange , located adjacent to Morningside, is home to some of the city's most luxurious Victorian villas, which boast impressive proportions, ornate detailing, and expansive grounds.

Lastly, we cannot forget the iconic New Town , a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its neoclassical and Georgian architecture. The glamorous townhouses of New Town are characterised by their elegant stone facades, grand entrances, and soaring ceilings.

With their exquisite interiors and beautiful gardens, these properties are the epitome of luxury living.

Unveiling the Unique Features of Period Properties

One of the defining features of period properties in Edinburgh's affluent areas is their impressive ceiling height. High ceilings not only create a sense of grandeur but also allow for the inclusion of ornate cornicing and ceiling roses.

These decorative elements, often crafted with intricate plasterwork, add a touch of sophistication and uniqueness to these properties. The cornicing, with its delicate patterns and motifs, serve as a testament to the craftsmanship of the past.

Another prominent feature in many period properties is the presence of period fireplaces. These architectural gems, often made from marble or cast iron, were once the centrepiece of the home, providing warmth and serving as a focal point in the room.

Today, period fireplaces are highly sought after for their aesthetic appeal and can be restored to their former glory with the help of skilled craftsmen.

Sash and case windows are another common feature found in period properties. These windows, typically made from wood, are characterised by their sliding mechanism and multiple panes of glass.

While they may require regular maintenance, they offer a timeless elegance that perfectly complements the overall aesthetic of these homes.

Challenges and Solutions in Decorating Period Properties

Decorating period properties in Edinburgh's affluent areas comes with its own set of challenges. One primary challenge is preserving the original features while breathing new life into the space.

It is essential to strike a delicate balance between honouring the property's historical charm and incorporating modern conveniences. This involves careful restoration techniques, such as repairing damaged plasterwork or restoring period features to their original condition.

Age-related wear and tear can also pose challenges when decorating period properties. Cracks in walls and ceilings, peeling paint, or faded wallpaper are common issues that need to be addressed before embarking on any decorative work.

At Borthwick Decorators , we have the knowledge and skills to identify and rectify these problems, ensuring a smooth and flawless finish.

In some cases, period properties may be subject to preservation regulations, requiring decorators to adhere to specific guidelines. This can limit the use of certain materials or techniques, necessitating creative solutions to maintain the property's historical integrity while still achieving the desired aesthetic.

To overcome these challenges, Borthwick decorators employ a range of solutions. We carefully select appropriate materials that are sympathetic to the period of the property, ensuring authenticity and longevity.

We also utilise innovative methods to integrate modern conveniences without compromising the charm and character of the home.

By employing skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail, period properties are transformed into stunning spaces that seamlessly blend the old with the new.

An Expert Guide to Decorating Period Properties

Decorating period properties in Edinburgh's affluent areas requires a deep understanding of the historical context and a keen eye for design. It is crucial to respect the period of the property while adding modern comfort and style. The goal is to create a harmonious space that pays homage to the property's heritage while meeting the needs of contemporary living.

One of the key principles in decorating period properties is to strike a balance between preservation and innovation. It is important to maintain and enhance the period features that give the property its unique character while updating certain aspects to suit modern lifestyles. Here are some tips and techniques to achieve this delicate balance:

1. Colour Selection:

When choosing colours for period properties, it is essential to consider the architectural style and historical context. Researching the original colour schemes used during the period can provide valuable insights.

Soft, muted tones such as pastels or earthy shades are often preferred, as they create a timeless and elegant atmosphere. However, it is also possible to introduce bolder colours in a tasteful and restrained manner to add a touch of contemporary flair.

2. Furniture Placement:

The layout and arrangement of furniture play a critical role in enhancing the period features of a property. It is important to consider the proportions and flow of the space.

Placing furniture in a way that highlights architectural details, such as positioning a sofa to complement a fireplace or showcasing a beautiful sash window with an appropriate seating arrangement, can amplify the charm of the period property.

3. Lighting:

The right lighting can greatly enhance the ambiance of a period property. Utilising a combination of natural light and carefully selected artificial lighting fixtures can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

It is important to consider the scale and proportion of the space when choosing light fixtures, ensuring they complement the overall design aesthetic. Using dimmers and adjustable lighting can provide flexibility and allow for different moods throughout the day.

4. Integration of Modern Conveniences:

While preserving period features is essential, integrating modern conveniences is a practical consideration in today's living. Careful thought should be given to the placement of electrical outlets, heating systems, and technology.

Concealing wires and cables, using discreet sockets and switches, and incorporating smart home technology can help maintain the historical integrity of the property while providing modern comfort and convenience.

5. Attention to Detail:

The devil is in the details when it comes to decorating period properties. Paying attention to small details such as door handles, curtain rods, and light switches can make a significant difference in maintaining the authenticity of the property.

Opting for period-inspired or reproduction fittings that are in keeping with the overall style of the property can elevate the overall design.

By following these expert guidelines, it is possible to create a beautifully decorated period property that combines the best of both worlds - historical charm and contemporary comfort.

The key is to approach each project with sensitivity and expertise, ensuring that every design decision respects the integrity of the property while enhancing its unique character.

Case Study: A Transformation Story

To illustrate the expertise of Borthwick Decorators in decorating period properties, let's look at a recent project that showcases our skills and attention to detail.

The project involved the complete redecoration of a two-bedroom flat located in the prestigious New Town area of Edinburgh. The client had recently moved in but had not yet unpacked, so there was some flexibility in terms of moving furniture and boxes from room to room.

Borthwick Decorators began by painting all the cornice, ceilings, and walls with Little Greene Absolute Matt, a paint known for its high-quality finish and durability. The choice of paint was carefully selected to complement the period features of the property while providing a long-lasting and visually appealing result.

The cornice, with its intricate detailing, was given special attention to preserve its original charm.

All woodwork, including skirting boards, doors, and window frames, was painted with Little Greene ASP (all surface primer) and Intelligent Eggshell.

This combination provided a smooth and hard-wearing finish that would withstand the test of time. Attention to detail was paramount when painting the woodwork, ensuring clean lines and smooth surfaces that would enhance the overall aesthetic of the property.

One of the biggest challenges in this project was picking out the ceiling roses with a different colour from the cornice and ceilings. Borthwick Decorators carefully selected a complementary shade that would accentuate the unique features of the ceiling roses without overwhelming the space.

This nuanced approach added depth and visual interest to the rooms while maintaining a cohesive and harmonious design.

The transformation of the flat was remarkable. The fresh coat of paint breathed new life into the space, enhancing its character and elegance.

The client was delighted with the results, as the new colours brought out the best in the period features and created a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout.

This case study is a testament to the expertise and craftsmanship of Borthwick Decorators. Our meticulous approach to decorating period properties, combined with their knowledge of materials and colour selection.

The result was a stunning transformation that honoured the property's heritage while infusing it with a contemporary touch.

Finishing Touches

Edinburgh’s showpiece areas are home to period properties that exude charm and tell stories of the city's rich history. At Borthwick Decorators, we have honed our expertise in decorating these remarkable homes, preserving their character while adding a touch of modern comfort.

In this article we have looked at the unique features of period properties in Edinburgh's elite neighbourhoods. From the high ceilings adorned with intricate cornicing to the grand fireplaces and elegant sash windows, these homes possess a captivating allure.

Decorating period properties comes with its challenges. It involves a delicate balance between preserving original features, addressing wear and tear, and respecting preservation regulations.

Our team of skilled craftsmen tackles these challenges head-on, employing careful restoration techniques and selecting materials that honour the property's history.

In this guide, we’ve shared some practical tips for decorating period properties. From choosing colours that complement the property's style to placing furniture in a way that highlights architectural details, every decision is made with respect for the property's heritage while incorporating modern living.

To illustrate our expertise, we presented a case study of a New Town flat transformation. Through meticulous paint selection and attention to detail, we brought new life to the space while preserving its character.

Your period property deserves the touch of a skilled decorator. Contact Borthwick Decorators today to embark on a journey of transformation and preservation. Discover how we can enhance the beauty of your home. Let us create a space that captures the essence of history while reflecting your unique style.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading hand painted and spray painted kitchen companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business that offers all aspects of interior and exterior painting and decorating. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online appointment form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

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7 SIGNS THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS REPAINTING

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 17:45:40 GMT

7 signs the exterior of your home needs repainting

Are the exterior walls of your home looking tired and dirty?

Are there cracks in the masonry? Are they starting to cause issues with damp and mould?

Are your beautiful timber window frames and doors starting to flake and go rotten?

If so, you may need to look at repairing and repainting these areas to protect your home.

Let’s look at the symptoms in more detail:

Blistering / bubbling

If the paint on the exterior of your home is starting to blister and bubble like this, then it means moisture is getting behind the paint and pushing it off.

There are several causes for the moisture getting behind the paint. It could be moisture coming from within the property, it could be coming in via cracks in the masonry, rising damp due to an ineffective damp proof course or even rainwater penetrating through the aging paint.

We can assist in identifying the root cause of the issue.

Dealing with these blisters / bubbles early is important because when they begin to burst and peel off, it will leave the surface exposed and will exacerbate the problem.

Chalking

When a paint starts chalking like this it means that the resin in the paint has started breaking down. This is typically caused by UV light from the sun.

Essentially, the resin is the glue that holds all the other paint ingredients together.

Once the resin breaks down, the powders and pigments are no longer being held together. So, they simply turn back to a fine powder.

Some paints are more resistant to UV breakdown than others but over time this will happen to all paints.

When a paint starts chalking then it is at the end of its life cycle and needs to be re-done. Otherwise, the paint then starts to come off and leaves the surface underneath exposed.

It is common to see this sort of thing on garage doors that have been neglected, as well as masonry surfaces.

Cracks or blown render

Cracks and blown render are typically caused by rainwater penetrating a wall, then expanding through freezing/thawing.

Running a ring spanner across your masonry is a quick and easy way to identify blown render. Any areas that sound hollow have ‘blown’. Which essentially means the render has come away from the surface underneath.

Repairing cracks and blown render is essential to maintaining your property and should be done before any painting takes place. Otherwise, water will still be able to get in behind the paint and cause issues.

Peeling / flaking

If your paint starts looking like this then it means, there is an issue with the adhesion. (The paint has not stuck to the surface properly).

This can be caused by several things. Including incorrect products being used or the surface being dirty or dusty before the paint was applied.

Dealing with this promptly will ensure your property does not remain exposed to further weather damage.

Mould / Dirt pick up

If you notice mould or high dirt pick up on a painted surface then you need to rectify the situation.

Organic growth, such as mould, algae and lichen need moisture to survive and grow. So, if you have this on your walls then it means the surface has become porous and is holding moisture.

This is a good sign that the paint is coming towards the end of its life and needs to be re-done.

Rotten windows and doors

When moisture gets into wooden doors and window frames it can cause a lot of damage. Including making them go rotten. Regular maintenance is the best way to stop this happening and avoid having to replace all your windows and doors.

It can also mean windows and doors swell, making it impossible to close and secure them properly!

Faded colour

Another issue caused by UV light from the Sun is colour fading. Certain pigments in paint can fade over time and depending on which areas of your home get more sunlight than others you can start to see areas becoming patchy.

Investing in higher quality paints can reduce this issue.

What other benefits are there to painting the exterior of your home?

Painting the exterior of your home doesn’t just protect against these issues, it can also transform the look.

This gives your home ‘kerb appeal’

This can be brilliant for the value of your property…plus it’ll make the neighbours jealous!

Summary:

More often than not, prevention is cheaper than cure.

So, regular maintenance to the exterior of your home is essential.

If you spot any of these issues with your home, or you just fancy giving it a re-vamp then get in touch with us on the link below to book a free consultation meeting.

We can then assess the situation and explain your options.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading hand painted and spray painted kitchen companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business that offers all aspects of interior and exterior painting and decorating. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online appointment form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

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HOW TO GET THE KITCHEN OF YOUR DREAMS…FOR A FRACTION OF THE PRICE

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 19:07:43 GMT

How to get the kitchen of your dreams…for a fraction of the price

Are you getting tired of your kitchen? Has it become a boring and functional room?

This shouldn’t be the case.

The kitchen is the heart of the home.

A place where family and friends come together.

It used to be that changing the look of your kitchen was an expensive thing to do.

As well as that, it would also cause a lot of hassle and disruption in your home.

We decided there must be a better way.

That’s why we started our hand painted and spray painted kitchen service.

Now you can transform the look and feel of your kitchen, quicker, with less hassle and for a fraction of the cost.

How it works

We’ve invested in the latest spraying equipment and tested the most advanced paint systems on the market so that we can make your kitchen look brand new again.

You can even pick from thousands of colours at no extra cost, so your kitchen can be truly unique.

To minimise disruption, we also offer an offsite service. We will safely remove your cabinet doors, paint them in our custom built workshop and re-install them once they’re done.

But what about the durability?

The techniques and paints we use match the quality and standards of UK kitchen manufacturers.

So, you can be sure your new kitchen will stand up to the wear and tear of everyday life.

With our time tested process, you’ll literally be getting a factory like finish.

Added bonus…

Want to complete the look?

We can even change the handles and worktops to match your new style.

What next?

Ready to get a kitchen you are proud of, and love spending time in?

A kitchen that’ll make everyone you know jealous!?

Arrange your FREE consultation using our online booking tool and we can discuss your ideas, time frames and pricing.

Click the below to get started:

https://www.borthwickdecorators.co.uk/hand-painted-kitchens

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading hand painted and spray painted kitchen companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business that offers all aspects of interior and exterior painting and decorating. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online appointment form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

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HOW TO PREPARE WALLS BEFORE PAINTING THEM

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 11:10:11 GMT

How Best To Prepare Walls Before Painting

There's no doubt about it, preparing walls before painting them is easily the most boring part of the project. We all want to get to the most interesting part of the job so it's very tempting to bypass the tedious steps of preparation. Don't do it! Proper preparation is vital to create a professional finish to the walls. Please don't make the mistake of skipping these crucial steps and follow the below guidelines to prepare your walls for painting.

1. Protect Floors, Furniture and Fixtures

In all likely hood you will spill paint or you will at least get paint spots on parts of the room that are not the walls. Don't take any chances ! Move your furniture and ornaments out of the room if you can. If this isn't possible, move everything into the centre of the room and cover them with plastic dust sheets. Remember to remove sockets and light switches from the walls slightly and put masking tape around them. Also do n't forget to cover door handles and other i ronmongery with masking tape .

2. Repair Any Imperfections

Look closely at your wall for any imperfections. Sorting problems now will ensure any paint goes on smoothly and evenly, leaving you with a professional finish. If you find flaking paint, scrape it off with a scraper and sand down the edges.

Fill holes with interior filler and let it dry. If the holes are big or deep you may need to apply filler a second time. Also, some large may need filled with filler and a patch repair kit. Once dry, sand the area to a smooth finish. Apply caulk to corners that are cracked and to gaps between walls and woodwork. After that apply a primer to the filled or caulked areas. Don't leave any of these imperfections without sorting them. New paint won't hide them, it will draw attention to them.

3. Clean The Walls

Painting over dirty walls will lead to visible imperfections in the finished paintwork. Begin cleaning the walls by vacuuming the skirting. Clean the whole wall with a damp towel, working in a circular motion. If you're painting your bathroom you may need to use bleach to remove mildew before painting. Similarly, if you're painting your kitchen you may need to use degreaser to remove food splatters before applying paint.

4. Apply Masking Tape

Once your walls are completely clean and dry, apply masking tape to the sides of architraves and tops of skirting. Try your best to use long lengths of masking tape. Shorter lengths can create gaps that paint can leak through and also doesn't give as clean lines as long lengths. Use a snap off blade to cut the tape at corners and use a scraper to press the tape down if it's not sticking properly.

The above steps will ensure you achieve a professional finish and create beautiful looking walls.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading painting and decorating companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business with £10 million public liability insurance. We are also a SafeContractor, CHAS and SMAS accredited company and IPAF and PAL licensed to operate cherry pickers. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential and commercial painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online appointment form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

Subscribe to our newsletter and get our 25-page Ultimate Guide to your next decorating project for FREE!

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COLOUR SELECTION, WHAT IS RIGHT FOR YOUR ROOM?

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 15:00:22 GMT

Colour selection, what is right for your room?

Paint colour choice is a personal thing and what may be right for one person is not right for the next person. Equally most rooms are very different and influenced by several factors, e.g. natural or artificial light, regular or irregular shape and the purpose of the room etc.

The right use of paint can create a calming effect, warmth, improve the aspect of a room and sense of size, also providing sophistication, welcoming and spiritual moods. Equally, over doing something can have detrimental and negative impact on the look and feel you are trying to achieve.

The paint sheen should also be a consideration. Is it going to be flat matt, matt, semi-matt, eggshell, satin or gloss? These will all have an impact on the colour and effect you are trying to achieve.

The following is our rough guide to creating the correct mood or feeling through correct colour choices.

To Reduce Size – Absorbs light, makes the room feel snug and cosy

• Dark Reds

• Dark Blues

• Dark Greys

• Blacks

To Increase Size – Reflects light and therefore increases spatial awareness

• Whites

• Pastels

• Yellows

To add Warmth – Think of Summer and Autumn Colours

• Reds

• Yellows

• Oranges

• Light Browns

To add Cool Tones – Clean and Crisp Colours, Think of a Frosty Winters Morning

• Blues

• Greens

• Whites

• Light Greys

To add Sophistication - Use Dark Colours

• Blacks

• Golds

• Dark Reds

• Dark Greys

• Dark Blues

Spiritual – Religious and healing colours, calming and serenity

• Pinks

• Oranges

• Browns

• Violets

Calming – Often associated with holidays, sunny days and nature

• Yellows

• Blues

• Greens

• Oranges

• Reds

The above gives a breakdown of the primary and secondary colour palate but consideration should always be given to the shades and blends of colours. There are literally tens of thousands of colours to choose from! Also feature walls in one colour and the rest of the room in another colour can provide a talking point or change the overall look and feel of the room but please keep in mind overdoing certain colours can have a negative impact on the entire room .

So, let's use a large dining room as an example. What might work well is a mid to dark “Red” with “Gold” highlights. This will provide sophistication and warmth and will also absorb light, therefore drawing the room in to provide a cosy dining space that's inviting and relaxing, somewhere everyone will feel comfortable in .

Another example would be kitchens. They will often be painted in clean and bright colours with features highlighted in darker colours to provide a good contrast and add some interest to the room. Equally, the use of warm colours like Little Greene "Tuscan Red" may be used to give a mediterranean feel to the kitchen, whereas whites and off whites will provide a clean, crisp, modern living space.

Lastly, lots of bathrooms are painted in Blues, Greens and Whites. These colours provide clean, calming and cool tones as a contrast to the environment of heat and steam whilst giving a sense of a larger room.

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading painting and decorating companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business with £10 million public liability insurance. We are also a SafeContractor, CHAS and SMAS accredited company and IPAF and PAL licensed to operate cherry pickers. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential and commercial painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online appointment form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

Subscribe to our newsletter and get our 25-page Ultimate Guide to your next decorating project for FREE!

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CASE STUDY: FOUR STOREY STAIRCASE IN THE NEW TOWN OF EDINBURGH

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 09:12:28 GMT

INTERIOR DECORATING TO FOUR STOREY
GEORGIAN STAIRCASE IN EDINBURGH

We undertook the decoration of this beautiful staircase inside a Category A listed Georgian townhouse in The New Town of Edinburgh. We thoroughly prepared all surfaces including some remedial work to the cupola and face filling of all joints on the existing lining paper with Toupret interior filler and caulking tops of skirting and sides of architraves with Polycell caulk. We also used Repaircare SF on larger areas of woodwork that required filling. Tesa Yellow interior masking tape was used to protect lights, sockets and switches.

THE SPECIFICATION

Before applying any paint all areas were spot primed with Zinsser B-I-N Primer. The ceilings were painted in Farrow & Ball Estate Emulsion “White Tie”, walls in Farrow & Ball Modern Emulsion “String” and the woodwork in Farrow & Ball Estate Eggshell “White Tie”. The balustrade was painted with Dulux Trade Metashield Gloss in “Black” and the handrail was varnished with Dulux Trade Diamond Glaze.

Quality Equipment

The painting of the cupola was a bit of a challenge due to accessing it safely. To overcome this we had to build a scaffold at various heights. We used Youngman Group scaffold and Staging Boards for this. Werner step ladders and ladders were used along with a Stairmate to do the tricky bits of cutting in down each flight of stairs. We also used Purdy rollers and brushes along with Proform Picasso Stylus brushes for all of the painting work.

TRANSFORMATION

Our clients were very happy with the results, we did the job in eight days and to a fixed price quotation. This staircase has been transformed with new colours which will last for years to come. We are particularly happy with the centre piece of this stair which is the beautiful cupola.

ABOUT BORTHWICK DECORATORS LTD

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading painting and decorating companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business with £10 million public liability insurance. We are also an Edinburgh Trusted Trader , SafeContractor, CHAS and SMAS accredited company and we are IPAF and PAL licensed to operate cherry pickers. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential and commercial painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online appointment form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning our main office in Edinburgh on 0131 235 2733 or freephone 0800 772 3973 .

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PAINT SHEEN - WHAT IS IT AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 17:07:42 GMT

What is Paint Sheen?

There's more to choosing the right colour and paint than looking through colour cards and finding the right one to match your decor. Another very important consideration is the paint's sheen, or the finish of the paint. This article will help you understand what paint sheen is, what the differences are, and which finish will be best for your project.

Paint sheen, or finish, refers to the level of shine in the paint. In layman's terms, the more sheen a paint has, the more shine the finished results will have. Generally speaking, the shinier the finish, the more scrubbable and durable the end product will be, but there are tradeoffs. Let's take a look below.

Flat Finish

The flatter and more matt the finish is, the less shine on the finished product. The result is a surface that doesn't stand up well to fingerprints, scuffing and stains. Excessive cleaning and scrubbing is likely to damage the finish. The tradeoff is an exceptional ability to hide flaws and imperfections.

A flat matt sheen is the perfect way to hide rough ceilings and walls, or textures that you don’t like. It helps the ceiling or wall have a uniform appearance and doesn’t highlight surface imperfections at all. The lack of sheen means lights and strong daylight won't show up imperfections such as dings, dents and bad tapes. Flat matt sheen belongs in only low traffic areas where there won’t be a lot of hands touching it. A flat matt finish will provide a traditional finish and is the right choice for low traffic walls in bedrooms and formal spaces. Flat matt comes to the fore when used on ceilings and rough textured walls as long as it is not used in damp or high humid rooms like in bathrooms or kitchens.

Matt Finish

Matt is a move up the sheen scale from flat matt and doesn't have much shine. It comes in several forms in the U.K.

Vinyl matt is slightly more durable than flat matt and can be used in main living areas where occasional cleaning is necessary. It's not recommended for high traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens or children's rooms.

Durable matt is suitable for high traffic areas but it is generally a little bit shinier than vinyl matt. It is a good compromise where people would like a durable finish with least sheen possible.

Eggshell and Satin Finishes

Next up on the sheen scale are eggshell and satin finishes.

Much like a real eggshell, the finish isn't glossy, but it does have a bit of lustre to it. Eggshell is a good all around sheen for walls where it offers good durability and is easy to clean. If your walls are in decent shape, you can use an eggshell sheen - it won’t make you cringe at the flaws it reveals! Eggshell is also used on traditional woodwork internally.

Satin finishes are suitable for virtually any room of the house . Satin paint is a good all around paint and it can honestly work just about anywhere you want. Satin is best reserved for walls in bathrooms and kitchens because of its very good cleaning ability. Satin is also used on trim, windows, and doors. It is durable and gives an attractive appearance. Satin will help hide trim imperfections compared to its higher gloss cousins below.

Semi-Gloss and High Gloss Finishes

Glossy paints offer the highest level of durability, but it comes at a cost; glossy finishes are likely to expose even minor imperfections on the surface you are painting. When choosing a glossy finish, surface preparation is key and taking the time to create a surface that's as smooth as possible will pay off dividends in the long run.

Semi-gloss is a great all around paint for trim, windows, and doors. It is very cleanable and takes years of heavy traffic before needing recoated. The reason for its popularity is it looks almost as shiny as high gloss paint without showing every single flaw. It’s relatively easy to apply compared to high gloss paint and generally doesn't run as much.

For the greatest wow factor, nothing beats a high gloss finish. If done correctly it's like a mirror, has an incredible shine and it's extremely durable. With that in mind, it requires exceptional skill to apply properly. High gloss paint is not forgiving of surface imperfections and shows every single brush mark for everyone to see. There is no escaping the flaws that high gloss shows. We recommend high gloss is only applied to traditional exterior doors and windows.

Our advice is to avoid using semi-gloss and high gloss on ceilings or walls - don't do it, you will regret it!

About Borthwick Decorators Ltd

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading painting and decorating companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business with £10 million public liability insurance. We are also a CHAS and SMAS accredited company and IPAF and PAL licensed to operate cherry pickers. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential and commercial painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online enquiry form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

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CASE STUDY: EXTERIOR MASONRY PAINTING, GLENEAGLES, PERTHSHIRE

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 15:14:15 GMT

EXTERIOR MASONRY PAINTING, GLENEAGLES, PERTHSHIRE

We undertook extensive exterior masonry painting works to ten blocks of residential flats and associated garage blocks at Gleneagles Village, Perthshire.

Access was a big problem at the development, because of this we had to employ the use of two mobile booms and one tracked boom on the job to save on scaffolding costs. We had numerous access problems to contend with, in particular above the front and rear entrances and above and around lots of mature shrubs situated close to the buildings. We used mobile booms in the car parks and a tracked boom for the harder to reach areas on grassed and paved areas. This allowed us to minimise the disruption caused to the residents and do the job efficiently.

THE SPECIFICATION

The work undertaken was done to Johnstone's Trade Paints full specification which included painting all of the masonry (roughcast) walls, ingoes, bands and window sills on sixty flats plus four blocks of garages. Initially Johnstone's Trade Fungicidal Wash was applied to all areas to kill any organic growth, all windows and doors were then protected with Packexe Window Protection Film and the brick base course was protected with Visqueen, all bare and flaking areas of masonry were prepared then touched up with Johnstone's Trade Stabilising Solution and afterwards all masonry surfaces were coated with two coats of Johnstone's Trade Stormshield Pliolite Based Masonry Finish.

QUALITY FINISH

All paint spray which unavoidably ended up on timber windows and metal balconies was touched up with the original colour. We also made sure all other windows, doors and pathways were cleaned before leaving site. All of the masonry walls were rolled using 9" extra heavy pile roller sleeves, 9" Fat Hog roller arms and Structron roller poles. We used 2" and 3" Wooster brushes for the cutting in and Two Fussy Blokes 4" (10mm) roller sleeves for the ingoes, bands and window sills.

In total we used over 70 rolls of masking tape, 52 rolls of Packexe, 2 rolls of Visqueen, 150 heavy duty cotton dust sheets, 80 roller sleeves, 25 brushes and 2,350 litres of Pliolite on this project. Unfortunately it isn't possible to spray Pliolite, hence why the masonry was rolled.

TRANSFORMATION

The exterior of this development has been transformed with a new modern colour scheme which was chosen from over fifteen samples that were applied before the job commenced. The total time on site was twenty three days which was within our initial target for the project. Although there was a prolonged period of wet weather, we were very pleased with the time it took to complete the job and more importantly the quality of finish that we achieved. Our client was really delighted with the result.

ABOUT BORTHWICK DECORATORS LTD

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading painting and decorating companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business with £10 million public liability insurance. We are also a CHAS and SMAS accredited company and IPAF and PAL licensed to operate cherry pickers. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential and commercial painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online enquiry form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

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BOOST THE VALUE OF YOUR HOUSE WITH EXTERIOR PAINTING

Fri, 22 May 2020 10:52:54 GMT

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER PAINTING THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR HOUSE

If you are thinking about selling your home in the near future, you really should consider having the exterior of it painted by a professional painting company. Alternatively, if you're not moving house it should be painted regularly to maintain the exterior and to keep it looking tip top. I n this article, we are going to run through some of the ways exterior painting can boost your house's value, street appeal and attract potential buyers.

DOES PAINTING THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR HOME REALLY INCREASE IT'S VALUE?

Well, this might not come as a surprise, but the answer is a resounding yes! A house that has been painted recently won't need to be painted anytime soon and therefore is more attractive to a buyer. Since good exterior painting work doesn’t have to be redone for years, you are removing a big obstacle from the buyer’s list of doubts.

IF YOU'RE TRYING TO SELL YOUR HOUSE, STREET APPEAL REALLY DOES MATTER!

An estate agent will tell you street appeal is very important. It really does matter if your property doesn’t look good on the outside. You are not going to attract buyers with a badly maintained exterior. Think about it like this; when you are looking at houses online, you will see the exterior of the property first. If your house isn’t making a good first impression, most people are going to lose interest quickly and won't bother looking at what the inside looks like.

A repainted exterior on a house is something you get to enjoy too. Even if you’re not selling your house, you get to go home to a beautiful, visually appealing house every single day. That a big positive in my book!

A FRESHLY PAINTED EXTERIOR SENDS A MESSAGE

What do you want prospective buyers to think when they see your home? A recently painted exterior shows that you care about your house and that you maintain it regularly. If the exterior paint on your harling, roughcast or pebbledash is drab, faded, peeling, or flaking, it’s time to call in the professional exterior painters to repaint your home.

COLOURS CHOICES

When choosing the colour of the exterior of your house, treat it as you would the interior. We advise people to get sample pots and apply them to the relevant substrates. This will allow you to see the contrast between different colours as they appear in daylight and on different sides of your house. Most houses have sunnier sides and darker sides, this will affect the way your house looks on different elevations and will play an important part in deciding colours.

HIRE PROFESSIONALS

I'm sure I don't need to tell you this but painting an exterior isn't the same as painting a feature wall in your living room. We recommend you hire a professional exterior painting company for your house.

Why hire professionals? Well, firstly, they know how to prepare substrates before painting them. Secondly, your house will only gain value if the job is done right and to a professional standard. Any shortcuts that result in a less than professional exterior painting job are likely to be to be major turn offs for prospective buyers.

ABOUT BORTHWICK DECORATORS LTD

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading painting and decorating companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Perth, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland including Fife and Tayside. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business with £10 million public liability insurance. We are also a CHAS and SMAS accredited company and IPAF and PAL licensed to operate cherry pickers. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential and commercial painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online enquiry form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

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OFFICE PAINTING: FOUR CONSIDERATIONS FOR A BUSINESS OWNER OR MANAGER

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 16:56:46 GMT

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER PAINTING YOUR OFFICE

When customers walk into your office or work, your space says a lot about your care and your attention to detail. As a business owner, you need to make sure that interior of your office looks amazing. So how do you keep your place of work looking tip top for a long time? Let's take a look at a few ways to do that.

1. USING THE BEST MATERIALS AND PAINT FOR THE JOB

If you have an office or place of business where there is high traffic areas, it would be best to paint your walls with a high quality durable matt. Something that can be easily cleaned and maintained. The higher the quality the more durable it will be and it can be washed more often. Durable matt is not porous like matt paint. If you buy cheap paint you will have problems with colours and have to apply more coats. If you are in a business where you have a showroom or a well lit area, matt or flat paint is best. The reduction in reflection of light, shows less imperfections on the ceilings and walls and looks superb. Cheap paint is no good for offices and places of business, it will cost you a lot more money in the long run.

2. CLEANING PAINTWORK

Clean the marks as fast as possible or immediately when you see them. The longer that mark is on the surface, the harder it will be clean and remove it. Try not to scrub the wall, wash the walls gently with clean water. You want to limit the damage of scrubbing and abrasion, so start cleaning the area lightly, then work your way to scrubbing if you have to. Use a soft cloth and water at first. If that doesn't work add a little detergent then rinse with a clean cloth and clean water.

3. TOUCHING UP MARKS

Now this is tricky! The older the paint, the harder it is to touch up due to wear and tear and also due too much or too little uv light and furniture placed against walls etc. If the paint is within a few years old you may get away with touching up with the same type of application method used originally by feathering it out. The flatter and more matt the paint is the easier it will touch up. Paint like durable matt is almost impossible to touch up over time, it stands out like a sore thumb. Unfortunately the only way to touch up this is by painting entire sections of ceilings, walls, woodwork or metalwork.

4. MAINTAINING YOUR PAINTWORK

Invest in a company that maintains your property: You want your paint job to last for a lot of years, not a couple of years. If you have a company that does the job correctly the first time, it will last for a long time. Pay less money for an inferior job is false economy.

ABOUT BORTHWICK DECORATORS LTD

At Borthwick Decorators Ltd you have found one of Scotland’s leading painting and decorating companies, where quality, reliability and professionalism come as standard. We are based in Edinburgh, with affiliated branches in Glasgow, Stirling and Crieff which allows us to cover the whole of Central and South Scotland. We are a Painting and Decorating Association and Scottish Decorators Federation accredited business with £10 million public liability insurance. We are also a CHAS and SMAS accredited company and IPAF and PAL licensed to operate cherry pickers. All of our tradespeople are fully qualified painters and decorators. We also offer plastering, joinery and multi-trade services in conjunction with our painting and decorating jobs. Residential and commercial painters and decorators since 1959.

If you have any questions regarding the painting and decorating services we offer or you would like to book a free no obligation quotation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us via our online enquiry form or alternatively by sending us an email or by telephoning 0131 235 2733 or 0800 772 3973 .

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