Paint is one of the most versatile decorating tools. It is possible to change the look of a room with nothing more than a can of paint. A fresh coat of paint in a vibrant color will not break the budget and can do wonders for bringing new life to an outdated or tired-looking space.

Depending on the color, paint can either be the focal point of a room or an unobtrusive backdrop. An individual who enjoys cooking might paint her kitchen a zesty red to indicate that culinary workroom is the main event in her home. A more contemplative person might opt for subdued colors of nature to turn her den into a restful retreat.

Other ways paint can change the look of a room:

* A long, narrow room

Painting one of the narrow walls a darker color and the remaining walls light will bring that wall in and give the illusion of a better proportioned space.

* A too-small room

Paint one wall in a lighter color, to contrast with the rest of the room, and that wall will actually appear to recede and give the illusion of a larger space.

* A too-high ceiling

Most of us crave space and seldom is there a complaint about a ceiling being too high, but should you want a cozier atmosphere, paint the ceiling a dark color. Another trick is to bring the ceiling paint down to the top 12 inches of the wall. A molding to separate the darker color from the contrasting paint on the wall below is an effective use of illusion.

* A too-low ceiling

Paint the ceiling a lighter color. Bring the wall paint up into six inches of the ceiling. This will give the room additional height. Painting the baseboards the same color as the walls is another way to enhance a small or short space.

* Room with no windows

When a room has no windows, such as a bathroom, paint the walls with a satin-finish or enamel paint that will reflect the light for an airy, more spacious feeling.

* Complement the light

For rooms that face north and get little sun, use warm, bright colors, in tones of red, orange, yellow. Even if you prefer neutral off-white or beiges for your walls, they can be tinted with the warmer colors. If your room faces south, east or west and will be receiving direct, or partial, sunlight, use cool colors in shades of blue, green, gray or brown.

The paint you chose can actually affect the mood of the occupants. Hues of green or blue will evoke feelings of peace and calm. Vibrant reds or oranges will stimulate activity and productiveness. A yellow room emits happiness. Grays and browns signify masculinity and most pastels give an aura of femininity.

One can even display a spirit of whimsy and playfulness through paint. In lieu of wallpaper, try your creative hand at painting the walls of children's rooms with contrasting colors in a plaid, striped or polka dot design. Geometric patterns on the walls of a teenager's room is always a hit.

Space can be defined, enhanced and updated with paint and some creative imagination.

If you are in an economic slump and a complete decorating overhaul is out of the question, that does not mean you cannot give your home a facelift. A fresh, new paint job will change the look of any room, and even make the contents appear new again.

Learn more about this author, Carol Gioia.
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