Washed Walls

As a designer, I like to change things up a bit. One way I like to do this is by adding a wash or a glaze to interior walls. Not only does it add another dimension to a room by bringing in the element of texture, but by using a wash, you can add color to a wall without overdoing it.

Here’s my guest half bath. I painted a glaze on the walls and the ceilings to add some dimension. I like that the ceiling is painted too.

Curved elements scream ‘add plaster to me’. I love that this room is finished with a honey plaster glaze. The rounded doorway is reminiscent of the old European architecture that used plaster as their primary wall finish.

Adding a tone on tone glaze like the one above, is a great way to create a feature wall.

Here’s a way to bring in color without overdoing it. This turquoise wall wash adds antique romance while the clean lined shelf adds a modern element. I like the warm wood against the contrast of the greens and blues.

Below are some photographs of interior designer Dana Oatley Ortego’s work. She uses washes and glazes to bring in color and add interest.

House Beautiful

A good source for washes and glazes is Portola Paints and Glazes. Here are a couple examples of their work.

So what are you waiting for? Add some interest to a boring wall and get started washing your walls. I plan on doing it this weekend to my office…am I crazy?