Picking Paint Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

JCJ Residential Services
Jan 20
2 min read

a pile of paint swatches of many different colours

Picking paint might seem simple… until you open the swatches and realize there are literally hundreds of shades of gray. It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin.

At JCJ Residential Services, we get it. Paint can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. A few simple tips can make the process way easier and even kind of fun.

1. Start With How You Want the Room to Feel

Before worrying about exact colors, think mood. Ask yourself: How do I want this room to feel?

Cozy and calm? Soft neutrals or muted blues usually do the trick.
Bright and energetic? Go bold colours can totally change the vibe.
Classic and timeless? Whites, grays, and creams are always safe bets.

Basically, start with feeling, not formulas.

2. Check the Lighting

Lighting makes a HUGE difference. A color that looks perfect in the store can look totally different in your space.

North-facing rooms may need warmer tones so they don’t feel cold.
South-facing rooms get a lot of sunlight, so cooler shades usually work fine.
Don’t forget about your light bulbs! Warm vs. cool bulbs can make the same color look very different.

Pro tip: Paint a small patch on your wall first and watch it at different times of day.

3. Think About Your Furniture and Decor

Your paint has to get along with the stuff you already have.

Bring a pillow, throw, or fabric sample from your space when shopping.
Check your cabinets, countertops, or rugs too—sometimes the “perfect” color clashes with what’s already there.

4. Pick the Right Finish of Paint

Glossy, satin, eggshell, matte… it can get confusing. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Flat/Matte: Hides wall imperfections, but harder to clean.
Eggshell/Satin: Slight sheen, easy to wipe down, good for living rooms and bedrooms.
Semi-Gloss/Gloss: Best for bathrooms, kitchens, or high-traffic areas.

Think about both durability and the look you want.