Choosing the Right Paint Finish for Every Room
Your guide to selecting the perfect sheen level for walls, ceilings, and trims
When it comes to painting your home, colour isn’t the only decision that matters—the finish you choose can make or break the final look. At Gladstone Painting, we’ve helped hundreds of Melbourne homeowners achieve flawless results by matching the right paint sheen to the right surface.
Here’s our professional breakdown of the most common finishes and where they work best:
1. Flat / Matte Finish
Best for: Bedrooms, ceilings, low-traffic walls
This finish has no shine, making it perfect for hiding imperfections on older plaster walls or ceilings. It gives a rich, velvety texture that looks fantastic in cosy or heritage-style spaces. However, it’s less washable—so best used in areas with minimal scuffing.
2. Low Sheen / Eggshell
Best for: Living rooms, hallways, dining rooms
A low-sheen finish offers a subtle glow while still disguising surface flaws. It’s one of the most popular choices in Melbourne homes because it strikes the perfect balance between durability and elegance.
3. Satin
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, children’s rooms
Satin finishes are durable, easy to clean, and moisture-resistant—ideal for areas with regular activity or exposure to steam and grease. It provides a soft gloss without being overpowering.
4. Semi-Gloss
Best for: Doors, trims, windows, architraves
Semi-gloss paints are your go-to for woodwork. They highlight details beautifully and stand up well to knocks and cleaning. In older homes, we often use semi-gloss to breathe life into period features like skirting boards and picture rails.
5. Gloss / High Gloss
Best for: Front doors, statement trims, feature details
For a modern or ultra-polished look, gloss finishes offer a mirror-like sheen. They reflect the most light and create high drama—but also show every bump, so they require expert preparation (which we specialise in).
Our Expert Tip
If your space gets a lot of natural light (hello, Melbourne bay windows!), opt for a lower-sheen finish to reduce glare. For darker or enclosed spaces, consider a satin or semi-gloss to bounce light and make the room feel brighter.
Need Help Choosing?
Our free colour and finish consultation is included with every quote. We’ll help you select not just the best colours, but the ideal finish for every room. Get in touch for your instant quote today.
