The Paint Finish That's On Its Way Out In 2024, According To Pinterest

From eggshell to matte and semi-gloss, there are heaps of paint finishes to suit every decor preference and home. However, the finish that Pinterest isn't a fan of in 2024 is a textureless one. Though smooth painted walls have been around for centuries, these days they're being pushed aside in favor of walls with something extra about them like limewash or even a mural. While there's nothing wrong with eggshell walls, if you want to try something new, now is the time to do so.

If you haven't heard of limewash, it's a paint style that is created from a mix of limestone (hence the name) and water. Its finish is textured and more rustic than typical paint due to a lack of smoothness or gloss. On the other hand, murals (i.e. pictures painted directly onto your wall or ceiling) are a way to get creative and show off your personality. If you want to try out new paint trends in your home but can't decide on what to choose, we've got all the info you need on both limewash and murals.

Limewashing (pictured above) is one of the easiest ways to add texture to your walls, as it's able to be bought as a regular tin of paint rather than requiring any extra steps. However, you can DIY a limewash effect using plaster of paris if you love home design. The base recipe is to mix half a gallon of your preferred paint with 1 cup of water and 3 cups of plaster of paris until the paint achieves a batter-like consistency. Then, apply in swirls to achieve the clouded effect.

If you prefer to buy, brands like Portola Paints offer heaps of shades with the textured finish. Limewash can be used in any room, but keep in mind that it will lend the space a dreamy and relaxed vibe due to its cloudy look. Because of this, we recommend reserving it for a bedroom or a living room, both areas that can act as a calm oasis to kick back in after a long day. When paired with linen and neutrals, limewash walls will also help to create a rustic decor style.

If you really want to branch out and try something different, tap into one of the other big trends for 2024: murals. The idea of a mural is that it depicts a certain image. You can use it to express your personality or to emphasize the vibe of a room. Think zig-zags, flowers, or generally anything that isn't flat color on a wall. Textured art is also a major trend that we'll be seeing a lot more of in 2024. This style can be incorporated into your mural with interesting 3D-esque painted shapes.

If you're the creative type, you can paint your own wall mural. Or you can buy pre-made murals online if you're not confident in your art skills. If you live in a rented accommodation, we don't advise directly painting the wall. Instead, create something similar to a mural with artwork or make a photo wall. You can then use alternatives to nails, such as adhesive strips, to hang the artwork so your deposit isn't in jeopardy. Whichever you choose, both murals and limewash are great ways to switch up the look of a room and stay on trend in the world of home design.