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People will tell you not to use high gloss paint but do not explain why. It reflects light and will allow every imperfection in the wall to show.
Flat paint is cheap but hard to clean. It tends to scrub off the wall.
Most of us will choose a paint with an eggshell finish, which has no sheen, or a satin finish, which has a little bit of gloss. Both are easier to clean than a flat finish and more durable overall, with the eggshell a bit more.
My paint is an eggshell and cleans easily with a Magic Eraser.
The major virtue of high gloss paint is that it is extremely durable. It has commonly been used in bathrooms and kitchens where there is a lot of water vapor. Modern wall paints do quite well in those areas in a satin finish.
If you like the modern, high tech look, do it with the furniture and accessories. Metal and glass will bring in the sparkle you are looking for.
In general, think of the walls as a backdrop, rather than something to emphasize. If there is a wall you do want to highlight, do it with color.
On woodwork, a semigloss, which is a bit shinier than a satin, may be used.
Use flat latex washable paint. It looks exactly like regular flat paint but it washes like glossy or semi-gloss paint. I painted my entire place with it (except the bathroom in semi-gloss) and it looks great and is easy to clean with a wet rag. It cost around $45/gallon.
My brother is currently doing a very modern office space and he used high gloss on all of the trim and it looks so cool next to the glossy concrete floors. I don't recall what he used on the walls...but they look almost silver.
Thank you for all the advices. I'll probably go with a latex paint. This is indeed a good choice.
As for the finishes available, i went today to Homedepot to check it out by myself but was very disappointed. There was no example at all, just samples of colors...
I'll try a paint store near my place, they probably have a set up for this kind of thing.
Glossy trims ? Might be a good idea indeed, i'll look into it
I've seen a lot of different wall "treatments" in FL homes/condos- Paneling, venetian plaster, suede-look, and paint. But I don't recall any being a gloss finish. High gloss on trim of course, but not walls.
One of my very favorite publications- Florida Design- I use quite a bit for inspiration, along with Yachting Magazine.
Here's some shots from F/D magazine- florida design magazine - Google Search
The only time I think I would consider gloss on the walls would be an ultra modern, minimalist design. Where the emphasis is clearly not the furnishing or accessories. Otherwise, walls are nothing more than a complimentary backdrop to the overall feel of a room, which is made by thoughtful planning of flow, lighting, furnishings, and accessories.
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