There’s something magical about watching a design vision come to life. The color choices, the textures, the interplay between interior paint and wallpaper—when done right, they transform a house into a work of art (that you can live in!).
Recently, we had the opportunity to do just that in Providence, R,I where we collaborated with Elms Interior Design on a breathtaking interior painting and wallpapering project. From deep blues to warm greens, and even wallpapered ceilings (yes, ceilings!), this home became the perfect example of how color can be used to create depth, character, and flow.
Let’s take a walk through the project!
A Home That Tells a Story
One of the biggest myths in interior painting is that all rooms need to match for a house to feel cohesive. This project? It proves exactly the opposite. Each space had its own personality, yet they all worked together beautifully.
Dining Room Drama with Blue Echo
Walking into the dining room, you’re immediately drawn in. The deep richness of Benjamin Moore’s Blue Echo coats the trim, baseboard radiators, and ceiling, creating a sense of intimacy and elegance. The walls? A stunning Schumacher wallpaper in Brindille Golden, a delicate nature-inspired pattern that softens the boldness of the blue. It’s a masterclass in contrast—bold yet balanced, sophisticated yet inviting.
A Study in Green
Step into the study, and suddenly, you’re surrounded by warmth. Benjamin Moore’s Kennebunkport Green brings built-in shelving to life, creating a cozy, enveloping feel. But the real showstopper? The ceiling, wrapped in Nickey Kehoe’s Floral Maze wallpaper. It’s a detail that might not be immediately noticeable, but it adds a layer of richness that makes the space feel complete.
Living Room Flow
Remember that relaxing blue from the dining room? We used its close cousin (Polaris Blue) in the living room, creating a cool, neutral vibe. This subtle similarity of color helps create a visual flow through the home, proving that consistency doesn’t have to mean uniformity.
A Light and Airy Entryway
The transition from the deep blues and greens to the entryway is stunning. Soft, bright walls provide a fresh contrast, allowing each room to feel intentional while still feeling part of the same design story.
Lessons from This Project: What You Can Learn for Your Own Home
Beyond just looking incredible, this project highlights a few key takeaways about interior painting:
- Dark Colors Don’t Have to Feel Heavy: Many homeowners shy away from deep blues, greens, and other bold shades out of fear that they’ll make a space feel cramped or cave-like. But the truth is, when used thoughtfully, darker hues can add incredible depth and warmth. The key is balance—pair dark walls or trim with lighter furnishings, reflective surfaces, and strategic lighting to keep the room feeling open and inviting.
- Wallpaper and Paint Can (and Should) Work Together: If you’ve ever struggled to choose between wallpaper and paint, here’s some good news: you don’t have to pick just one! When combined properly, they complement each other beautifully. Whether it’s a wallpapered accent wall or a full-room wrap paired with a complementary paint color, this technique adds depth and personality to any space.
- Ceilings Deserve Attention: Most people default to painting their ceilings white without a second thought. But why ignore the "fifth wall" when it has so much design potential? In this project, a stunning wallpapered ceiling in the study turns what could have been a standard room into something extraordinary. Even a subtle ceiling color—like a softer shade of your wall color—can create a more polished, intentional look. Want to make a bold statement? Try a deep, moody ceiling for a cozy and dramatic effect.
- Cohesion Isn’t About Using the Same Color Everywhere: One of the biggest misconceptions about home design is that rooms need to be the same color to feel connected. The reality? Thoughtfully chosen colors that complement one another create much more dynamic and engaging spaces. The secret is finding colors with similar undertones or intensity so they feel related without being repetitive.
Want the Dennis Moffitt Experience?
At Dennis Moffitt Painting, we love projects that push creative boundaries and showcase the power of color. This Providence home is a perfect example of how thoughtful painting and expert craftsmanship can completely transform a space. From rich, moody blues to elegant green built-ins and wallpapered ceilings, every detail was carefully executed to bring this stunning design to life.
Whether you're looking for a bold statement or a subtle refresh, our team is here to help you achieve the perfect look with precision and care. Ready to bring your own vision to life? Let’s talk!
FAQ: Interior Painting Questions Answered
Q: Will dark colors make my space feel smaller?
A: Not if used strategically! Pairing them with good lighting, reflective surfaces, and lighter accents can keep a room from feeling closed in.
Q: Can I mix wallpaper and paint in the same room?
A: Absolutely! It’s all about balance. A patterned wallpaper with a bold trim color, like we used in this project, can be stunning.
Q: Should I paint my ceiling?
A: If you want to create a more custom, polished look—yes! Ceilings don’t always have to be white. A subtle color shift or even wallpaper can make a big difference.
Q: How do I make colors “flow” in my home?
A: Instead of using the same color everywhere, choose shades that relate to each other. You can repeat an accent color from one room as the main color in another, like we did with Polaris Blue in this project.
Q: How long does an interior painting project take?
A: It depends on the scope, but most rooms take a few days, including prep work, painting, and drying time.
