One of the most common questions homeowners ask before starting a decorating project is: which paint finish should I use? Matt, silk, satin, eggshell, gloss — the options can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the best paint finishes for every room in your home, so you can make a confident choice before your painter and decorator arrives.
Understanding Paint Finishes: A Quick Overview
Paint finish — sometimes called “sheen level” — refers to how much light the dried paint reflects. The higher the sheen, the more durable and washable the surface, but also the more imperfections it will show. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Finish | Sheen Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Matt / Flat | None | Ceilings, low-traffic rooms |
| Eggshell | Low | Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways |
| Satin | Medium | Kitchens, bathrooms, children’s rooms |
| Silk | Medium-high | Hallways, stairs, busy areas |
| Semi-gloss | High | Woodwork, skirting boards, doors |
| Gloss | Very high | Front doors, radiators, metal surfaces |
Best Paint Finish for Each Room
Living Room
For walls in a living room, eggshell or matt emulsion works beautifully. It gives a soft, elegant look that hides minor surface imperfections and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Avoid high-sheen finishes here — they can feel too clinical and will highlight any uneven plasterwork.
Bedroom
Bedrooms call for a matt or soft sheen finish to create a calm, restful environment. Feature walls look particularly striking in matt paint, especially with rich, deep colours. For woodwork such as skirting and door frames, use a satin or eggshell — it’s easier to wipe clean than matt.
Kitchen
Kitchens need a durable, washable finish. Satin or silk emulsion on walls can handle steam, splashes and regular wiping without peeling or staining. For kitchen cabinets and woodwork, a hard-wearing eggshell provides a beautiful finish that withstands daily use.
Bathroom
Bathrooms require moisture-resistant paint. Look for products specifically labelled “bathroom paint” or use a satin finish with anti-mould properties. Avoid standard matt emulsion in bathrooms — it will absorb moisture and quickly show damp patches or mould growth.
Hallway & Stairs
High-traffic areas like hallways and staircases need a silk or satin finish that can be wiped clean repeatedly without losing its colour. These areas take a lot of scuffs, handprints and general wear — a higher sheen finish will last much longer and look better for it.
Children’s Rooms
For children’s bedrooms or playrooms, choose a washable satin or silk emulsion — ideally one labelled “scrubbable”. Children’s walls take more punishment than any other room in the house. A mid-sheen finish means you can wipe away crayon marks and sticky handprints without damaging the paint.
What About Woodwork and Skirting Boards?
Woodwork — including skirting boards, door frames, window sills and banisters — should always be finished in a harder, more durable product than wall paint. Eggshell gives a contemporary muted finish, while gloss provides the traditional, crisp white look. Both are far more resistant to knocks and scuffs than emulsion.
Premium Paint Brands Worth Considering
Not all paints are equal. At Michael Rolicz, we often work with these trusted brands:
- Dulux Trade — excellent coverage, wide colour range, great value
- Farrow & Ball — premium pigments, stunning depth of colour, ideal for feature walls
- Little Greene — historic British brand with exceptional quality
- Johnstone’s Trade — highly durable, popular for high-traffic areas
Need Help Choosing? Ask Us.
Choosing the right paint finish is just as important as choosing the right colour. At Michael Rolicz Painting & Decorating, we’re happy to advise on paint types, finishes and brands as part of our free consultation service. With over 13 years of experience decorating homes across London, we know what works — and what doesn’t.
Call us on 0754 2019 007 or get in touch online for a free quote and expert advice.