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Dr Dulux: Understanding Different Paint Finishes

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 Dr Dulux is here to help clear up the confusion. Q: Hi Dr Dulux, I’m redecorating and I'm confused by all the different paint finishes . I know what Matt and Gloss are, but what about Satin , Eggshell , Silk , and Sheen ? Which one should I use? Thanks, Maggie from Cheshire. A: Choosing the right paint finish can really change how your walls look, so it’s important to pick the best one for your space. Here’s a simple guide to help you: Matt paint is smooth and velvety. It’s great for hiding wall imperfections and gives a soft look. Flat Matt is even more velvety and doesn’t reflect light, making colours look the same in different lighting. It's great for deep shades and hiding flaws. Satin and Silk are "mid-sheen" finishes, meaning they have a slight shine. Silk is mainly used on walls, while Satin is often used for woodwork. Both are easy to clean, but Silk may show imperfections on the walls. Satin on wood helps hide flaws and gives a softer appeara...

How to Decorate a Room That Faces North: Expert Tips for Brightening Dark Spaces

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When decorating paint colors for north facing rooms , it’s important to focus on maximizing light and warmth to combat the typically cooler, darker atmosphere.  One of the best approaches is to choose lighter shades that can reflect more light. Dulux’s Light + Space range, which features Lumi Tec technology, is a great option as it helps reflect up to twice as much light around the room, making the space feel brighter and more open. For walls, consider warm neutrals like Desert Wind or Morning Light, which balance out the blue-tinged light that often filters into north-facing rooms, adding warmth and coziness. Additionally, painting ceilings with a bright white, like Dulux Ultra White Matt, can enhance the light reflection and create a sense of height in the room. Furniture choices should also be light, so opting for pale-colored sofas and light wood furniture helps avoid further darkening the space. Mirrors can be used effectively to reflect and amplify natural light, so consider ...

Transform Your Home Office with Chocolate and Gold Elegance

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Imagine sipping chai on a quiet evening, unwrapping a piece of rich chocolate, and admiring the golden foil glinting beneath. This indulgent combination of warmth and luxury doesn’t have to be limited to treats—it can inspire your home office décor. The Cozy Appeal of Chocolate Chocolate is universally adored—not just as a sweet delight but as a colour that radiates warmth and comfort. Think of a plush, chocolate-toned blanket on a chilly evening, wrapping you in coziness. Bring this same inviting ambiance to your workspace with deep chocolate walls or a wooden desk in the same hue. This rich tone can transform your office into a sanctuary of focus and relaxation. The Timeless Elegance of Gold Gold isn’t just about sparkle—it represents sophistication and heritage. In Pakistan, gold is woven into our traditions, from bridal ensembles to festive decorations. Introducing subtle gold accents to your workspace—such as a sleek golden lamp, an elegant tray, or a decorative calendar—can ...

Pick the Ideal Paint Finishes for Beautiful Walls

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Are you overwhelmed by the endless options for paint finishes? Don’t worry! This guide will help you choose the ideal paint finish to make your walls stand out beautifully. Before you buy that can of paint, take a moment to review these practical tips for achieving flawless results every time. Discovering the Magic of Paint Finishes The right paint finish can completely change the feel and character of a room. Let’s explore the most popular options and what makes each one unique: 1. Matte Finish: Timeless Sophistication For a classic, elegant look, matte finishes are a top choice. With their smooth texture and low sheen, they offer a refined charm, perfect for formal living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas. Bonus: Matte finishes are excellent at hiding wall imperfections, ensuring a seamless finish. 2. Gloss Finish: Glamorous Shine If you want to add a dramatic touch of luxury, gloss finishes are ideal. With their high sheen and reflective surface, they enhance brightness and bring a...

Refresh Your Bedroom Design with Sorbet Shades

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Transform your bedroom into a cheerful retreat with the uplifting combination of lemon and mint sorbet shades. These fresh, vibrant hues can create a sanctuary that radiates positivity and joy, perfect for recharging your energy after a long day. Here's how to incorporate these delightful colors into your bedroom design . 1. Start with Sunny Lemon Walls Give your bedroom an instant boost of warmth by painting the walls in lemon sorbet tones. This vibrant yellow hue brightens up the space and creates an inviting, sunny atmosphere. It's a perfect base for a cheerful and lively room. 2. Add Refreshing Mint Accents Balance the energetic lemon with soothing mint accents. Introduce mint through furniture, accent walls, or decorative accessories like throw pillows and rugs.  This cool tone complements the vibrancy of yellow, creating a harmonious and calming colour scheme for your bedroom design. 3. Layer with Vanilla Neutrals To tie the look together, incorporate neutral vanilla ...

Refresh Your Room: How to Paint Wall Panels

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Wall panelling adds character and interest to any room. If yours is looking tired, a fresh coat of paint is a quick and easy way to give it a stylish update. Here's a step-by-step guide to transforming your wall panels with Dulux Simply Refresh. Preparation is Key: Before you start, protect your work area with dust sheets. If your panels are already painted, lightly sand them to remove any loose or flaking paint and create a smooth surface. Use a sanding block for the main areas and sandpaper for hard-to-reach spots. Wipe away dust with a degreaser and let it dry. Apply masking tape along the edges where the panelling meets the skirting, flooring, walls, or ceiling. Painting Made Easy: Stir your Dulux Simply Refresh paint thoroughly and pour it into a paint tray. Use a brush to paint the detailed areas of the panelling first, then switch to a roller for larger surfaces. Check the paint tin for drying times. Between coats, store your brush and roller in a plastic bag to keep them mo...

Create a Royal Retreat: Designing Your Luxurious Purple Bathroom

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Purple, a colour historically associated with royalty and luxury, can transform your bathroom into a majestic escape. Let's explore how to incorporate this rich hue for a truly opulent experience, featuring ideas for lavender bathroom paint and stunning purple bathroom walls. Setting the Stage with Purple The easiest way to infuse your bathroom with purple's regal aura is through paint. Imagine walls bathed in deep plum or a softer lavender bathroom paint, instantly creating a luxurious ambiance. If paint feels too permanent, consider wallpaper with subtle floral patterns or bold geometric designs in shades of purple. Alternatively, a mosaic tile backsplash in varying purple tones can create a striking focal point. Vanity and Mirror as Centrepieces A statement-making vanity and mirror are essential for a luxurious bathroom. A dark wood vanity offers a rich contrast against purple bathroom walls, while white or metallic options add modern glamour. An oversized mirror with an orn...