A Painter Once Said
We make your project our priority from start to finish.
Painting and decorating! the most effective way to transform the look and feel of your home. As a painter with years of experience, I've seen first-hand the difference that a fresh coat of paint or new wallpaper can make in a room. In this blog post, I'd like to share some tips and insights about painting and decorating from a painter's point of view.
First and foremost, it's important to choose the right colours for your space. When it comes to choosing paint colours, I always recommend picking colours that you love and that reflect your personal style. If you're unsure about which colours to choose, try creating a mood board or collecting paint swatches to get a better sense of what you're drawn to. Don't be afraid to be bold and experiment with different colours - you can always repaint if you don't love the result.
Once you've chosen your colours, it's time to prep your space. This means covering floors and furniture with drop sheets or plastic sheeting, and taping off any areas that you don't want to be painted. It's also important to fill in any holes or cracks in your walls, and to sand down any rough patches. A smooth surface will ensure that your paint goes on evenly and looks professional.
When it comes to actually painting, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, always use high-quality paint, brushes or rollers. Cheap paint and tools may save you money upfront, but they'll likely result in a sub standard finish. It takes a little while to work out how much paint to load your roller or brush with. Don’t spread it too thinly as it can look scratched on. Too much, and you’ll have runs and dripping paint. But, I always say, don’t be afraid to use the paint! And allow each coat dry completely before applying another. This will ensure that your paint goes on evenly and looks smooth.
When it comes to decorating, there are countless options to choose from. Wallpaper, decals, and artwork are just a few of the ways that you can add personality and style to your space. As with paint colours, I recommend choosing pieces that reflect your personal style and that make you feel happy and comfortable in your home.
In conclusion, painting and decorating are two powerful tools for transforming your home. With a little planning and preparation, and some expert advice from a professional painter, you can create a space that's beautiful, functional, and uniquely yours. So grab a paintbrush and get started - your dream home is waiting!
A Brush with History: The Transformation of Paint Finishes in Australian Interior Design
It all begins with an idea.
The history of paint finishes is an often-underappreciated narrative of artistic evolution and style in Australia. These finishes have left their unique marks on the aesthetic sensibilities of Australian design, embracing innovations, creative expression, and ever-changing tastes. In this blog post, we'll explore the captivating history of paint finishes, from the artistry of faux finishes to the tactile allure of textured surfaces, while shedding light on their adaptation to Australian buildings and interior designs.
Faux Finishes: Mastering the Art of Deception in Australia
Faux finishes, rooted in ancient civilizations, have a deep historical connection with Australian design. These techniques involve imitating the appearance of expensive or exotic materials, and their journey in Australia is a remarkable one:
Ancient Indigenous Techniques: Indigenous Australians were pioneers in using natural pigments and textures to create decorative art. They adapted the unique hues and textures of the Australian landscape, embedding them in rock art and cave paintings.
Colonial Era Faux Wood Graining: During the colonial period, European settlers used faux finishes to replicate the look of expensive timber on local, more affordable materials. Australian craftsmen excelled in the art of wood graining, imitating the rich textures of native timber.
Renaissance in Australian Interiors: The 19th century saw a resurgence of faux finishes in Australian interior design. Skilled artisans mimicked costly woods and marbles, making luxurious aesthetics more accessible to the masses.
Modern Australian Faux Finish Adaptations: Contemporary Australian interior designers continue to employ faux finishes. They apply advanced techniques and materials to imitate various surfaces, from coastal driftwood to outback red rocks, showcasing the diverse Australian landscape.
Textured Finishes: The Sensory Revolution Down Under
Textured finishes have left an indelible mark on Australian interior design by introducing depth and dimension to surfaces. Here's a glimpse of their history:
Ancient Indigenous Textures: Indigenous Australians incorporated tactile textures into their artistic traditions. The intricate dot paintings, created with natural pigments and unique textures, stand as iconic examples of textured art in Australia.
Colonial Era Stucco: Australian architecture during the colonial era often featured stucco and relief work. These textures were used not only for decorative purposes but also for practical protection against harsh climates.
Venetian Plaster in Modern Australian Homes: Venetian plaster, a textured finish with origins in Renaissance Italy, has been embraced in Australian interior design. It's utilised for its smooth yet visually textured appeal, enhancing the modern Australian living space.
Contemporary Australian Textured Innovations: Australian designers have witnessed an array of textured finishes in contemporary interior design, incorporating techniques such as sand finishes, trowel-applied textures, and decorative plaster. These approaches add a tactile and visual dimension to Australian walls and ceilings, mirroring the diversity of the Australian landscape.
Conclusion: A Transformation from Illusion to Sensation in Australian Design
The history of paint finishes in Australia is a testament to human creativity and the pursuit of beauty. Faux finishes have been imitating the extraordinary Australian landscape for centuries, while textured finishes have introduced a tactile dimension to the country's interiors.
Today, both faux and textured finishes continue to thrive in Australian interior design, offering a plethora of possibilities. Whether you seek the illusion of Australian native timber or the sensory allure of Venetian plaster echoing the beauty of the Australian coast, the history of paint finishes has played a vital role in shaping Australian living spaces into unique canvases of imagination and sensation. Explore these finishes and celebrate their remarkable journey as they continue to enrich Australian interiors.