Date:  May 19, 2016  |   Photography: Nancy Nolan, Rett Peek, Courtesy Sherwin-Williams  |   Producer: Tiffany Adams  |  

Three designers dish on their go-to hues, emerging trends, and tried-and-true tips when it comes to wall colors

Sherwin-Williams’ Alabaster creates a tranquil neutral backdrop in this spacious bath.

3 Words to Describe Andrea’s Use of Color:
Layered, Spirited, and Thoughtful

Her Words of Wisdom:
• Try a pink! From chic blush tones to flirty hot pink and bold fuchsia, I’m loving that pink—my favorite color—is getting so much love now. You can find it layered, on it’s own, or mixed with all shades of blue and green.
• With trim color selection, I always think of why you do it, not how you do it. First, consider all of the fixed finishes in your space (flooring, countertops, carpet, tile, fireplace, etc.). Why? If these finishes include fresh, cooler colors, black or gray, your trim color should fall in the spectrum of blue-white to off-white. If the finishes are earthy or warmer colors like browns, beiges, or muted greens, you should choose an off-white or cream.
• For a great resource, I recommend checking out Maria Killam’s ebooks, How to Choose Paint Colours and White Is Complicated from mariakillam.com.

Andrea Brooks Interiors, El Dorado, (870) 314-1334, andreabrooksinteriors.com

3 Words to Describe Garry’s  Use of Color:
Bold, Timeless, and Unifying

His Words of Wisdom:
• For a small home, condo, or apartment, use one color throughout the space. It will make the rooms feel larger and create a nice flow.
• If you like monochromatic color schemes, use a high-gloss finish on the trim, doors, and cabinets and use matte on the walls to create contrast. You can do this all with one color or use shades that vary only slightly.
• If you want to do a high-gloss finish on doors, trim, or cabinetry, I suggest a spray-on finish. Hire a professional painter to do this, and you’ll love the results.

Garry Mertins Design Inc., Little Rock, (501) 376-6600

3 Words to Describe Sha’s Use of Color:
Classic, Cohesive, and—occasionally—Unexpected

Her Words of Wisdom:
• I think muted colors provide a better backdrop for a room; save the brighter colors for the art and accents.
• Don’t be afraid to use a different color on bathroom or kitchen cabinets.
• Try Sherwin-Williams’ Duration matte finish.  It looks like flat paint, but is washable.
• Think of your wall color as the first layer of a design plan—the foundation. It sets the stage for the rest of the design.

Art of Design, Little Rock, (501) 615-8565, shadavari.com