Metallic paint has become an increasingly popular option for interior wall colors in recent years. Metallic paint contains tiny flecks of metal to give walls a subtle shimmery effect. The metallic sheen catches the light beautifully and can create depth, texture, and visual interest on walls. Using metallic paint allows you to add a hint of glamour and elegance to any room. But does metallic paint truly look good on walls? Here is a closer look at the pros and cons of using metallic paint for interior walls.
Quick Answers
– Metallic paint can add visual interest, depth, and elegance to walls when used well. It creates a soft shimmery effect.
– The metallic sheen reacts differently to natural and artificial light, so placement matters. It looks best on accent walls.
– Metallic paint is great for bedrooms, dining rooms, living rooms, and bathrooms when used selectively.
– The finish can show imperfections, so walls must be smooth and properly prepped. Metallic glaze or a subtle metallic sheen works better than highly reflective metal paint.
– Metallic paint works on many different wall colors and finishes but is especially striking over deeper base colors.
– It can be tricky to work with. Metallic paint requires extra care during application and may need multiple coats.
The Appeal of Metallic Wall Paint
So what makes metallic paint for walls appealing in the first place? Here are some of the reasons metallic wall paint has surged in popularity:
It Creates a Glamorous Effect
The soft shimmer given off by metallic paint instantly livens up any space. Just a touch of metallic on an accent wall can take a basic room from boring to elegant. The glimmering finish has an inherently glamorous, sophisticated look. Metallic flecks in the paint catch and reflect light beautifully. This luminous sheen makes the wall into a feature, like a piece of art. Metallic paint adds a feeling of luxury.
It Provides Depth and Dimension
The radiance of metallic paint makes walls appear more dimensional. As light moves across the metallic sheen, the walls seem to shift and change color subtly. This creates more visual depth and interest than flat paint. The eye is drawn to the richness, picking up different flecks of metallic glitter. Metallic walls do not seem flat or one-dimensional.
Metallic Paint is Versatile
One major advantage of metallic paint is its versatility. It can be used in many different rooms and decor styles from modern to traditional. A metallic wall can complement bold contemporary spaces or provide a glam touch to cozier traditional rooms. Metallic paint also pairs well with a wide range of base colors and finishes. For example, a bronze metallic effect over navy blue walls or a champagne shimmer over blush pink walls.
It’s Great for Accent Walls
Metallic paint truly shines when used selectively on an accent wall. Just one accent wall painted in a metallic finish can make that wall the focal point of any room. The eye is immediately drawn to the luminescent metallic wall. Accent walls are also easier to repaint later if you tire of the metallic effect. Using metallic paint to make one wall into an accent is the best way to incorporate this glamorous look without overdoing it.
Benefits of Using Metallic Paint on Walls
Now let’s explore some of the specific benefits that make metallic paint a great wall color choice:
1. Creates an Illusion of Space
The light-reflecting quality of metallic paint can actually make rooms appear larger. As natural and artificial light bounce off the metallic flecks, it illuminates the room. This creates the illusion of a bigger, more open, expansive space. Metallic walls help reduce that “cavelike” feeling in dark or small rooms.
2. Complements Artwork
Hang artwork on a metallic accent wall, and the art will truly pop. The radiance of the metallic wall becomes like an artistic background to spotlight paintings, photos, tapestries, or prints. Metallic walls enhance artwork displayed on or near them.
3. Works with Any Style
From modern lofts to farmhouse living rooms, metallic walls work with any style. The versatile sheen adds a hint of glamour and can be incorporated into eclectic, rustic, industrial, or minimalist spaces. Just adjust the finish to complement your decor. Brushed metals work for modern styles, while champagne and rose gold suit traditional tastes.
4. Easy to Incorporate
It’s simple to add a metallic wall. Since accent walls are the best approach, you don’t need to commit to metallic paint throughout an entire room. Use it on one focal wall to give spaces a lift without a major redesign.
5. Range of Finishes Available
There are so many metallic paint finishes to explore from bold reflective metals to subtler glazes. Brushed aluminum, chrome, copper, bronze, pewter, silver, gold, and more. This diversity makes metallic paint ideal for all different design aesthetics and color schemes.
Potential Downsides of Metallic Wall Paint
Metallic paint offers many benefits but also has some limitations to consider before using it on walls:
Can Overwhelm in Excess
A little metallic paint goes a long way. It’s best used sparingly on an accent wall or single feature. Covering all four walls in flashy metallic paint would be overkill for most rooms. Reserve metallic paint for select focal areas to avoid an overwhelming disco ball effect.
Lighting Affects Look
The lighting in a room significantly impacts how metallic paint looks. Under natural daylight or bright lighting, it will have a bold reflective shine. Under dim artificial light, the metallic sheen is more subdued. Make sure you like the look in all lighting before committing.
Shows Imperfections Easily
Metallic paint brings out any little flaws in drywall and plaster. Unlike flat paint, it will emphasize uneven textures, cracks, bumps, or imperfections rather than hiding them. Walls must be properly prepped and smoothed for the best results.
Takes Some Finesse to Apply
Achieving an even, flawless metallic finish requires care during application. Metallic paint is thicker and leaves obvious brush strokes if applied amateurly. It may take primer, multiple paint coats, and sanding between coats to perfect the look. This extra labor can be worthwhile for a striking metallic accent wall.
Not for Every Room
Think twice before using metallic paint in kitchens or bathrooms. The humidity and steam in these rooms may cause the metallic paint to oxidize, flake or deteriorate more quickly than in drier areas of the home. Stick to living spaces, dining rooms and bedrooms.
How to Choose the Right Metallic Paint
If you decide to try metallic paint on your walls, follow these tips for selecting the right metallic finish:
Pick Appropriate Rooms
Use metallic paint selectively in the most appealing rooms. Good choices are living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and dining spaces. Avoid high moisture areas like bathrooms or laundry rooms.
Determine Placement
Decide if you want metallic walls on one accent focal point or wraparound feature walls. Metallic paint on all 4 walls can be overwhelming, so choose placement wisely.
Complement Other Colors
Consider existing furnishings, floors and colors in the room. Pick a metallic hue that complements your color scheme. Warm golds, coppers and bronzes pair well with neutral palettes. Cool silvers and chromes pop against bold or dark colors.
Test Lighting Effects
Bring home metallic paint swatches and view them in the room’s lighting at different times of day. Make sure the finish interacts appealingly with natural and artificial light sources.
Match Room Style
A bright polished metallic finish might suit a contemporary loft, while a softly weathered metal finish fits better in a traditional farmhouse scene. Select a metallic style and sheen that enhances your overall room decor.
Consider Reflectivity
Highly reflective metallic paints look bold but may feel overwhelming in a small space. Soft glazes with subtle metallic sheen are easier to live with. Decide how much you want the wall to literally reflect light.
Prepare Wall Surface
Since metallic paint shows imperfections, ensure walls are properly repaired, sealed, primed and smoothed before painting. This prep work helps metallic paint look its best.
Application Tips for Metallic Wall Paint
Once you have selected the right metallic paint, use these application tips to achieve a flawless metallic wall:
1. Prime Walls
Use high-quality primer formulated for metallic finishes. Priming helps metallic paint glide on easily and evenly.
2. Use Proper Rollers
Invest in microfiber or foam rollers designed for smooth metallic paint application. Avoid regular rough nap roller sleeves.
3. Maintain Wet Edges
To prevent lap marks, always keep a wet edge when painting metallic in sections. Work fast so edges remain wet as you extend the area.
4. Apply Multiple Thin Coats
Applying 2-3 thin coats creates a better finish than 1 thick coat. Allow proper drying time between coats.
5. Sand Lightly Between Coats
Gently sanding creates an ultra-smooth surface for subsequent coats to adhere to evenly. It also removes any debris or imperfections.
6. Work Methodically
Apply metallic paint in careful, consistent strokes or rolls to prevent blotchiness. Work in a logical manner across the wall surfaces.
7. Check Lighting Often
Step back periodically and examine the metallic paint effect under natural and artificial lighting. Make sure the finish is developing as desired.
8. Touch Up Mistakes
Carefully touch up and blend any drips, errors, or uneven sections promptly before proceeding. Metallic paint dries fast so fix issues immediately.
Best Metallic Paint Brands
These top metallic paint brands offer excellent quality, coverage, and finish options:
| Brand | Known For |
|---|---|
| Behr | Wide range of metallic sheens and colors |
| Benjamin Moore | High-end metallic paints with striking finishes |
| Rust-Oleum | Metallic spray paints for DIY ease of use |
| Krylon | Trusted spray paint brand with metallic finishes |
| Valspar | Budget-friendly metallic paint options |
| Sherwin-Williams | Top quality metallic paint with excellent coverage |
These leading brands offer great selections of metallic wall paints from bright silver to warm coppers and muted metallic glazes. They provide excellent application properties, shine, durability and color choices. Consider the brand’s reputation and type of metallic look you want to narrow choices further.
Metallic Paint Color Ideas
Here are some appealing metallic wall colors to consider from cool silvers to rich golds:
| Metallic Color | Works Best With |
|---|---|
| Bright Silver | Modern styles, black and white palettes, blue and gray tones |
| Champagne Gold | Warm neutrals like cream, tan, light wood tones |
| Rose Gold | Blush pinks, grays, airy white decor |
| Weathered Bronze | Rustic or industrial styles, denim blues, brown leather |
| Oil Rubbed Bronze | Mission style decor, warm woods, terracotta tiles |
| Aged Pewter | Transitional or traditional rooms, gray and navy palettes |
| Brushed Copper | Terra cotta, light woods, teal and creamy white |
Browse metallic swatches to find the right tone and intensity. Prioritize colors within your existing scheme so the metallic wall harmonizes.
Where to Use Metallic Paint in Your Home
Here are some prime spots to add elegant metallic walls in various rooms:
Bedrooms
– Behind the bed on the headboard wall
– Accent wall with artwork
– As a bedroom closet door paint color
Bathrooms
– Behind wall mounted sinks or vanities
– On one shower wall tile (use special tile paints)
– On the back of a freestanding tub
Kitchens
– On an island or peninsula base cabinetry
– Inside glass front upper cabinets for a glam look
– On the backsplash or even under cabinet lighting
Living Rooms
– As a fireplace surround paint
– Behind a sectional, media console, or entertainment center
– On the wall behind floor lamps or table lamps
Dining Rooms
– As an accent wall behind buffets or china cabinets
– On the wall behind the head dining chair
– Inside a glass front display cabinet
Faux Metallic Wall Finishes
For a metallic look without true metallic paint, consider these faux finishes:
Metallic Glazes
Subtly shiny glazes contain a touch of mica powder or ground metals. When painted over base coats, they add a soft metallic sheen for an elegant, vintage style. Glazes take less work than metallic paint.
Metallics Over Texture
For a weathered industrial feel, add metallic paint over textured wall coverings like faux brick, metallic foil wallpaper, stenciled patterns, or trowel-textured plaster. The texture makes metallic paint pop uniquely.
Mica Powder Mix-Ins
Stir mica powder into clear topcoats or glazes and apply over base paint. The powder creates a customizable metallic or pearlescent sheen.
Metallic Faux Finishing
Faux finishing techniques like ragging, sponging, or dragging tools through paint create organic, mottled metallic textures. This adds depth without uniform metallic paint.
Maintenance for Metallic Walls
To keep metallic walls looking their best:
– Dust frequently with a microfiber cloth to prevent buildup on the reflective surface
– Use mild cleaners and avoid abrasive scrubbing which can dull the metallic shine
– Spot clean fingerprints or marks gently
– Repair any nicks or damage promptly to avoid oxidation
– Consider reapplying a fresh metallic coat after 3-5 years when natural fading occurs over time
With regular easy care, metallic painted walls will maintain their gorgeous glimmering luster for many years.
Conclusion
Does metallic paint look good on walls? The answer is yes—when used strategically. Metallic wall paint adds radiance, depth, and style to any room when applied properly on accent walls. The versatile paint can suit any style from glamorous to rustic. While metallic paint has unique application requirements and won’t work everywhere, the luminous, elegant finish is worth the effort for the right space. Approach metallic walls selectively rather than going overboard, preparing surfaces thoroughly. Use these tips to incorporate metallic paint successfully as a striking yet livable focal point in your home’s decor. The dazzling results will add a touch of glamour to any room.
