Biggest Paint Trend for Atlanta Homeowners

by Angie Hicks, founder of Angie’s List

Summer is the time of year when home improvement projects kick into full swing. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to give your home a complete makeover is to paint it. Regardless if you plan to stay in your house for years to come, or hope to sell it in the near future, a new paint job will refresh the look of the home while boosting curb appeal along the way.

I spoke with Atlanta painting contractors, who said many people are avoiding bold paint colors and choosing neutral colors and earth tones like grays, greens and browns. These colors are said to have a calming effect, and they complement the natural landscapes around the home.

Photo courtesy of April Painting in Lawrenceville, Ga.

Atlanta homeowners are leaning more towards gray colors, according to Pam Gilreath, color consultant for April Painting in Lawrenceville, Ga. “It might be a gray-green or grayish-brown rather than the warmer colors. It’s what a lot of the clients like right now.”

Karen Ozer, owner of Sold by Staging in Cumming, Ga., says neutral colors are a wise choice, especially if you plan to sell your home. “The main reason you want to do it is because you’re marketing your home to a broad group of potential clients – it’s the safest bet.”

However, you can still make a splash and let your personality shine by adding a pop of color. Many homeowners are choosing to paint their front doors in bold colors, with red the most popular choice. The front door is the main entry point for most homes, and a bold color will grab the attention of anyone out on the street.

Kevin Laird, president of KDL Painting in McDonough, Ga., says his customers want their doors painted in bold colors that stand out from the rest of the home. “This is a good way to express yourself with color, and it also adds a welcoming feeling to the front of the home,” he says. “The most popular color choices for this area are the reds and greens.”

If you plan to paint the exterior of your home this summer, there are a few things you should consider when selecting paint colors. First, choose colors that complement the home’s natural surroundings. And make sure you factor in the parts of your home that won’t change like the color of the roof, stone and brick work. You may also need to seek the approval of your homeowners association because some have very strict guidelines for exterior paint colors.

Get more curb appeal tips for your home.