Types of paint finishes: explained by interior designers

Selecting the right paint for your project can be difficult. Budget, brand, finish and durability are all factors you need to consider. While there are many decisions, one thing is certain - paint is a transformative tool for any interior designer.

Our in-house experts have put together this guide on what types of paint finishes are best for what locations, and how you can best prepare your rooms for them to look visually stunning. 







You should decide on a paint colour after you've made high-end purchases like flooring, furniture and lighting. Ensuring you use the right type of paint is essential as it can save you a lot of time and money.

Once you know your budget you can make more informed choices on paint. Remember that higher prices don't always mean a better product. Do your research and ensure that the product you choose meets the requirements of the job. A good quality paint should last several years so be sure that the paint you are using is fit for purpose. Consider the needs of your client. A family with young children or a household with pets will appreciate a harder wearing product.



When choosing paint, the finish is just as important as the colour. Different sheens affect how light reflects off the surface, how durable the paint is, and how easy it is to clean. Lower-sheen finishes tend to create a softer, more subtle look, while higher-sheen finishes are brighter, more durable, and easier to wipe down. The right choice depends on the room, the surface, and the style you want to achieve.



For example, interior paint for walls and ceilings has two main types of finish; matt or low sheen and soft or mid sheen. Doors, skirting and trim require a different paint finish. There are three types of finish for woodwork; eggshell, satinwood or gloss. 

Matt (3–5% sheen) is the most popular and widely used finish. It works well for most interior walls, including ceilings. It provides a smooth, elegant look but is less washable than higher-sheen paints.

Soft sheen (7–10% sheen) is more durable and moisture-resistant, making it a good choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-moisture areas. Traditionally the standard for kitchens, it has now been replaced in many homes by washable matt paints.

Eggshell (around 20% sheen) is a low-sheen finish mainly used on woodwork like doors, skirting, and trim. It suits traditional interiors, offers a softer look than satinwood, and is durable enough for everyday use.





Satinwood (around 40% sheen) is a mid-sheen finish for woodwork. It reflects more light than eggshell, giving a slightly brighter look, while still being tough and versatile. It works in both modern and traditional interiors and is also suitable for metal surfaces.

Gloss (around 80% sheen) is the highest-sheen finish, creating a shiny, reflective surface. It’s very durable and easy to clean, making it a strong choice for woodwork and metal. Gloss tends to highlight surface imperfections, so good preparation is important.

Interior paints are usually water based with low volatile organic compound (VOC) content. Water based can be a little more expensive, but it dries in only 4-6 hours and its low VOC means no nasty fumes. While it dries quickly, it does need to cure to reach its optimum condition. It can take up to 20 days before it reaches peak durability.

Trim or wood paints are available in both water and oil bases. While oil based paint is harder wearing, water based is improving all the time. Oil based paints are cheaper, but drying times range from 12-24 hours and they create fumes. Keep pets, expectant mothers and children out of the room during application and drying time.

This is a common question! How much paint you need depends on a few factors and actually, as a general rule, most paints can cover approximately an average sized room, with two coats. 

Once you've measured and calculated the room size, estimate how much you need using the information on the can. Always allow a little extra for touch ups. If you need more paint, bring the empty can back to the retailer to ensure that the same batch is available. In the case of mixed paints, ensure the same machine is used. Be aware that colours can vary if tinted from different machines.

Room calculators on various paint brand websites are useful for estimating the quantities yourself, but any reputable painter should be able to do this for you.

To prepare to paint a wall, you need to apply a base coat first. You can use a diluted PVA coating or a matt paint diluted with about 10% water to seal the surface. Apply the base coat once the walls are dried, filled and sanded. New wood will need a primer and an undercoat before you apply your chosen colour. Don't use soft sheen as a base coat because the surface may not fully dry and cause blisters when you apply a sheen coat.

Two coats is always advisable if you're introducing a new colour. You may need three depending on the depth of colour chosen. Generally, paler colours are easier to cover than dark colours, but a lot will depend on the quality of the paint.

 

Choosing the right paint finish makes all the difference in how a room looks, feels, and wears over time. From matt walls that create a soft backdrop, to satinwood and gloss trims that add durability and shine, every finish has its place. 

Pairing the correct product with the right preparation ensures not only a professional finish but also long-lasting results. By understanding your options and planning carefully, you can transform interiors with paint that is both beautiful and practical.

At the Institute of Creative Design, we offer industry recognized courses to help you build your confidence when it comes to paint, learning how to master it to apply your expertise as a career. 

Satin has more sheen and is easier to clean, making it good for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Eggshell is more matte, hides flaws better, and works well in living rooms and bedrooms.

Eggshell is often the best choice for bedrooms since it has a soft, low-sheen look that hides wall imperfections and creates a calm, cozy feel.

It depends on the room and how much traffic it gets. Satin works well in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways because it’s durable and easy to clean. Eggshell or matte are better for bedrooms and living rooms, where you want a softer look.