How to Pick Stunning Paint Colors for East Facing Rooms
Choosing paint colors for an east facing room can seem daunting. The changing light throughout the day can really impact how colors look on the walls. But with some expert tips, you can select stunning paint colors that pop in an east facing room.
The key is understanding how the natural light transforms in east facing rooms. In the morning, golden sunlight streams in, casting colors in a warm, vibrant glow. As midday hits, the overhead light becomes cooler and crisper which can drain certain paint colors. To pick shades that shine, you need colors that work with both lighting conditions.
Avoid Light, Cool Paint Colors That Wash Out
When selecting paint colors for your east facing space, it's best to stay away from very light and cool-toned shades. These include pale neutrals like greys, off-whites, and muted blue-grays.
While these colors may seem soothing, the changing daylight can really drain them of their depth. When the midday sun beats down from overhead, pale neutrals can appear flat and almost disappear into the walls.
The same goes for light pastels. A very soft sage or powder blue might look pleasant in the morning light, but by noon, can end up looking faded and dull.
Steer clear of these light, cool paint colors which lack the richness to withstand the high-contrast light in east facing rooms.
Embrace Warm Color Tones and Deep, Vibrant Hues
Instead of cool neutrals, lean towards paint colors with warm undertones. Soft beiges, pinks, peaches, and butter yellows have hints of red or orange that make them more versatile in different lighting.
Warm white is a popular neutral shade for east facing spaces instead of stark white. It adapts well as the daylight shifts. For bolder shades, rich emerald greens, navy blues, and deep plums pop against the morning light.
Saturated, intense colors really come alive in that early sunlight. Just take care that dark shades don't end up feeling too overwhelming by midday.
Look for hues with enough depth and dimension to maintain their charm as the sun traverses the sky.
Smart Color Combinations
Pair deeper shades like berry red with warm neutrals like brown or tan which anchor the space as the light changes.
Or complement a saturated green with muted dusty pinks and purples which add softness in the afternoon light.
Test Paint Samples at Different Times of Day
With so many potential paint options, it's essential to test out samples before committing to the color.
Paint several swatches of your top choices and evaluate them in both the morning and midday light. This shows how the shades transform. Seeing a grey go from elegant to lifeless in the changing light may change your mind.
Move the samples around the room as well. Colors look different on various walls and angles. Take your time evaluating so you select a hue that complements the space all day long.
Use the Right Paint Finish to Minimize Glare and Fading
For east facing rooms, consider matte or eggshell paint finishes. The subtle sheen doesn't reflect as much intense light, preventing glare on the walls which can spoil the look of any color.
These paint finishes also stand up better to the UV light streaming in. Glossier paints tend to fade more quickly from sunlight exposure.
Low VOC (volatile organic compound) paint also withstands fading more than conventional options. Investing in paint designed to handle sunlight can make colors look rich for years.
Arrange Your Room to Maximize the Morning Light
Since east facing rooms are blessed with ample morning sunshine, arrange furnishings to benefit. Place your desk or workspace beside the windows to soak up the cheery dawn light.
Hang drapes wide to welcome in the sunrise. You can draw them partially closed in the afternoon to mitigate glare but still allow incoming light.
Turn chairs and sofas so they capture the warm morning rays shining in. Bask in the early light while showcasing your gorgeous paint colors.
Add Layers of Lighting for Afternoon Dimness
Come midday when shadows start to fill the room, incorporate layers of lighting to compensate. Ambient fixtures like floor and table lamps add soft overall illumination.
Then strategic task lighting by your workspace, reading nook, or kitchen provides direct light right where you need it most.
Consult Experts for More Color Recommendations
If struggling to settle on the perfect paint color yourself, consult design professionals. Many paint brands offer expert color advice to find a customized hue for your space.
Interior designers also have an eye for choosing colors that complement both the architectural details and lighting conditions in a room.
Take advantage of these experts to get suggestions tailored to your unique east facing space.
With the right paint colors, an east facing room can feel inviting morning, noon, and night. The secret lies in understanding how the natural light shifts and accentuating the room's lovely morning glow.
Embrace warm, dimensional tones that hold their own as daylight fades. Steer away from pale shades that wash away. Test out samples at all times of day. And decoratively arrange your furniture to maximize cozy morning sunshine streaming in.
An east facing room offers amazing potential if you choose colors to match. With the perfect paint, you can unlock the full beauty of your lovely space during every hour.