HouseFinder Magazine is a practical home-and-garden-magazine. We feature a selection of properties for sale and rent from leading real estate agents in Namibia and deliver in-depth articles and expert insights on property trends and news.
Time for painting your inner sanc-tuary comes round every so often. Try making it an adventure instead of a chore. Trending this year are techniques such as lime washing, Roman clay or colour drenching.
The choices are varied: One could select one or more rooms, pinpoint the accent walls and bedeck them in the colour paint of choice. Alternatively, paint only certain features for effect such as a niche, a fireplace or an arch. If none of these are present, consider creating a visual attraction in the form of coloured geometric shapes.
When it comes to the deep earthy hues which are popular now, scrutinise your home. Will deep, dark colours suit your space? A deep indigo or navy feature wall could be ideal behind a couch, double bed or in an entrance hall. Deep blue feels modern, calm and luxurious. If large, flat colour is less appealing to your taste, consider a limewash or textured paint effect. Globally, designers are pointing out that textured finishes are very popular because they add movement and softness to a room. The feeling of movement is created when light enters the room at different times of day. Lime paint, mineral finishes and subtle texture make a wall feel layered without needing busy décor.
Pre-mixed lime wash is available, or do it yourself: Buy hydrated lime and the pigment. A typical mix ratio is 1 part hydrated lime to 3 parts water. First mix the two until smooth and creamy, then add natural pigments and blend thoroughly. The ingredients must bind well, so let the limewash sit for about 24 hours before use. Meanwhile, clean the surfaces, then apply your mix with a brush or roller. You will need several coats and allow 24 hours for drying in between. You can look forward to a unique, textured finish that will add character to your space.
Brave decorators will enjoy colour drenching. Drench is the operative word: Whole surfaces in a space are painted in one colour from top to bottom –ceilings, trims, doors and even shelves. This works well with muted greens, soft blues, browns and dusty pinks. It creates a cocooned, warm effect.
Beyond painting, the idea of texture may appeal to you and some options to consider are wallpapers, Roman clay plastering or microcement. Applied with a putty knife, Roman clay is sanded down to a silky, marble-like finish. It offers depth and movement but feels like smooth stone. Microcement is a smooth, continuous coating used to create soft, seamless finishes that are entirely flat and incredibly easy to wipe down.
Textured wall technique
Geometric shapes
Deep blue accent walls
Colour drenching
Lime wash