Jackie Jordan, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams, joined Washington Post staff writer Jura Koncius recently for an online chat. Here is an edited excerpt.
Q. Why so many gray walls? On so many of the HGTV, DIY and other shows it seems as if every house has at least one room with gray. I like it myself, but that and Moroccan patterned rugs seem everywhere.
A.Beige and off-white have been the standard for so long that we are finally making a shift to a new neutral, and that color is gray. Gray has amazing potential, as it can be warm or cool, light or dark, and it supports all types of decorating styles: casual to contemporary, traditional to eclectic.
Q. Is it really a smart investment to paint kitchen cabinets, or just bite the bullet and replace them? I like the look but wonder whether, after painting and then replacing countertops, will the paint finish really last? What specific paint do you recommend for this?
A. If your cabinets are still in good shape and you like the style, then painting is a very viable option. The most important thing is proper preparation of the surface and using a product that dries very hard. Yes, the finish will last. Our ProClassic line of interior paints is perfect for these kinds of projects. Using a professional contractor who can use a spray application for a perfect finish is worth the investment.
Q. My north-facing bedroom gets very little light. I’m ashamed to admit that the walls have had only white primer on them for years as I’ve been struggling to find the “perfect” color to bring the walls to life. I went to a model home and loved the paint color, which was Sherwin-Williams’ Cottage Cream, a soft yellow with a hint of beige. However, that house had a ton of natural light. Will that color work in my dark room? My furniture is light cherry, with tan carpet.
A. A north-facing bedroom gets cool light, which can dull a color. You may want to try a slightly brighter cream, such as Jersey Cream or Inviting Ivory.
Q. Our 1960s ranch house has solid oak doors, oak trim and natural oak floors. I like the wood, but I do feel it can look a little dated. I never see trim done in natural oak these days. Since there are so many trees, the inside of the house often doesn’t get much light. The house is about 1,000 square feet, and I’d like to go with a light paint color throughout with a natural, earthy tone that feels cozy and light. I thought maybe Sherwin-Williams’ Wool Skein?
A. Wool Skein is a great color, but it can have a green hint to it, so be sure you like that tone. You could also try Softer Tan or Moderate White, both neutral and natural with a little less green. I always suggest painting a sample first, either on the wall or on a separate board.
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