Choosing a colour is only half the decision — the finish (or “sheen”) matters just as much. The right sheen in the right place looks better and wears better. Here is a plain-English guide to the main finishes and where each belongs.
The finishes, from flat to shiny
- Matt / flat — no shine, hides surface imperfections beautifully. Great for ceilings and low-traffic walls, but harder to clean.
- Low sheen — a touch of sheen, more washable than matt. A popular all-round choice for living areas and hallways.
- Satin / eggshell — soft subtle sheen, durable and wipeable. Excellent for busy rooms, kids’ spaces and kitchens.
- Semi-gloss — noticeable sheen, tough and easy to clean. Ideal for trim, doors, window frames and bathrooms.
- Gloss — high shine, very hard-wearing. Used for feature trim, doors and where a crisp, traditional look is wanted.
A simple rule of thumb
The higher the sheen, the tougher and more washable the finish — but the more it highlights surface flaws. That is why walls usually get a lower sheen and trim gets a higher one: trim takes more knocks and benefits from being wipeable.
Matching finish to the room
Bathrooms and kitchens benefit from more washable, moisture-tolerant finishes; bedrooms and lounges suit softer sheens. Getting this mix right is part of the advice Steve, a Kiwi and trade-qualified painter, gives with every quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What finish is best for a bathroom?
A more washable, moisture-tolerant finish — typically satin or semi-gloss — handles the humidity and wiping far better than matt.
Can I use the same finish throughout?
You can, but you usually get a better result using a lower sheen on walls and a higher sheen on trim and wet areas. Steve can recommend the right mix.
Need a hand with your project?
Happy to tackle some of it yourself? Great — but for anything you’d rather leave to a professional, Steve Lunjevich is a Kiwi and a trade-qualified painter with 20+ years’ experience. Call or email for honest advice or a free, no-obligation quote.
