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How Lighting Affects Colour

15 August 2024

Have you ever walked into a room and noticed how the colour of your doors appears different at various times of the day? You are not alone. Here at Infinity Coatings, we often encounter customers who are amazed by the way lighting can transform the look of their 2 pack-painted doors. Think of it like a chameleon in your home, taking on different hues as the light changes. Now, isn't that something?

The influence of lighting on paint colour is one of the most fascinating yet often overlooked aspects of home décor, and today, we're here to shed some light on it (pun intended).

Natural Light and Your Paint Colour

Depending on the direction your windows face, the amount and type of sunlight coming in can significantly affect your shaker doors. Morning light tends to cast a soft, warm glow, which can enhance the richness of certain colours.

As the day progresses, sunlight becomes more neutral, which means your doors might look slightly paler. Come evening, the setting sun adds a golden hue, possibly making your doors look warmer than in the midday sun.

Artificial Light and Your Paint Colour

Different types of artificial light, including incandescent, halogen and LED, produce unique light hues that affect the colour of 2 pack painted doors. Incandescent lights, for example, give off a warm, yellowish light that can make red, orange, or yellow tones in your doors appear more vibrant. On the other hand, fluorescent lighting often emits a cooler, bluish light that tends to mute warm colours while accentuating blues and greens.

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How Different Finishes React to Lighting

Beyond colour, the finish of 2 pack paint can affect the appearance of a shaker door. From matte to satin, semi-gloss, and full gloss, each finish interacts with light differently.

Matte Finish

A matte finish, known for its non-reflective surface, absorbs light rather than reflecting it. This can result in a more uniform and consistent colour, regardless of the lighting. However, it may also make the colour appear darker, especially in low-light conditions.

Satin Finish

A 2 pack satin finish strikes a middle ground between matte and gloss. They have a slight sheen that reflects some light, which can enhance the colour's vibrancy and make it appear more lively and appealing in various lighting conditions.

Semi-Gloss Finish

Semi-gloss finishes reflect even more light, adding depth and richness to the colour. These finishes impart a luxurious appearance to your doors, particularly accentuated in well-lit settings. 

Full Gloss Finish

Full gloss finishes offer the highest level of reflectivity. They can make your colours pop, adding a dramatic effect that is especially noticeable under direct light.

Choose Colours and Finishes in the Right Light

So, what can you do when choosing 2 pack paint colours? It's simple: always consider the lighting. Before deciding on a colour for your doors, observe how the paint sample looks under different lighting conditions. Check it under natural light throughout the day and again under the artificial lights you typically use in your space. This way, you'll know exactly how your chosen colour will look in your home, no matter the time of day or type of lighting.

Keep the finish in mind as well. Whether you're choosing a matte, satin, semi-gloss, or full gloss finish, 2-pack paint can look significantly different under various lighting conditions. Instead of considering this a challenge, view it as an opportunity to experiment with light and colour to craft the ideal ambience in your space.

We’re Here To Help

Ready to transform your space with 2 pack paint? At Infinity Coatings, we're here to help you make the right choices. From colour selection to finish, we'll guide you every step of the way. Don't leave your shaker doors to chance; trust the experts. Contact us today at (03) 9791 4448, and let's create something beautiful. 

Infinity Coatings
34/36 Licola Crescent Dandenong South, VIC 3175


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