Got a colour design conundrum? Let the experts help. We asked paint maker, Anna Hill, Managing Director of Norfolk‑based paint brand Fenwick & Tilbrook your burning questions, from adding impact through colour to decorating more sustainably.
Read the full article in the autumn issue of the at home magazine.
I want to refresh my downstairs space; how do I choose a paint colour?
Begin by defining the mood you want to create:
- Calming / serene: nature-inspired shades - think soft greens, muted blues.
- Entertaining / energised: bolder hues or a mix of two to three contrasting tones.
- Cosy / intimate: deeper, warmer colours.
Always test your selected shades under both natural and artificial light, especially if the space is used in the evening. Light has a huge impact on how colours appear, check the same sample morning, afternoon, and night to be confident in your choice.
How many different colours should I use in my home?
With so many paint options, it’s tempting to try a different colour in every room. But a harmonious palette is often more pleasing, especially in open-plan or connected spaces.
“I recommend sticking to around three to five key colours to keep things harmonious, while still allowing for variety and personality.”
To add interest without going overboard, use lighter or darker variations of one base colour across rooms or zones, or introduce an accent colour in smaller areas (a feature wall, doorway alcove, etc.).
I want my home to be as eco as possible. What paint should I use?
Choosing water-based paints is a good start but the key is to look for low‑VOC or trace VOC formulations. VOCs (volatile organic compounds) can be harmful to health and contribute to indoor air pollution; they’re also behind that lingering paint smell many people dislike.
At Fenwick & Tilbrook, sustainability is deeper than just emissions. Over 70 per cent of the solids in our paints come from UK‑sourced materials. We emphasise transparency, durability, and ethical sourcing, meaning less frequent repainting and reduced waste.
By prioritising quality, longevity and responsible production, your paint choices become part of a truly sustainable home aesthetic.
What’s the correct way to paint a room?
Follow this sequence for best results:
- Surface preparation: clean, fill, sand, prime (let everything dry fully).
If the existing paint was oil-based, lightly sand and use a compatible primer before applying a water-based one. - Order of painting:
a. Ceiling & coving
b. Walls
c. Skirting boards and trim
This avoids accidental drip marks on panels you’ve already finished. - Use painter’s tape or an angled brush for crisp edges.
- Protect your floors and furnishings with dust sheets.
- Use rollers for broad surfaces, brushes for edges and detail.
- Many designers favour a hand-brushed finish for its refined texture, though rollers are faster and perfectly acceptable.
In practice, it often comes down to how much time you have and your desired effect.
Want more pro pain tips? Our full paint colour and decorating guide is featured in the Autumn edition of our at home Magazine.