DIY navy blue feature wall

Navy blue wall with window and white bookshelves, photo

Whenever people tell me they love painting, I’m suspicious. If you do the job right (protect the floor, clean and prep the walls, tape off moldings and edges, and start with primer), painting is anything but fun. And that doesn’t even count cleanup. But it’s worth the hassle because paint (or wallpaper) has the biggest influence on the mood and light of any room.

Pick the right paint colors, and your room will feel light, airy, and peaceful. Pick the wrong colors, and your room will feel like a cave or a carnival. That’s why I was afraid of doing a dark feature wall in my living room — but it turned out perfect! The navy wall is Sherwin-Williams Emerald paint in matte Naval (SW 6244). I couldn’t be more happy with the color and quality of the paint.

If you’re also feeling brave and want to try a dark accent wall, I highly recommend Naval or the Sherwin-Williams 2014 Color of the Year: Exclusive Plum (SW 6263). “This dusky, filtered violet is refined without being stuffy, elegant yet easy, and layered with romantic potential.” –Jackie Jordan, Sherwin-Williams director of color marketing.

Exclusive Plum, Sherwin-Williams 2014 Color of the Year, photo

While I detest the before and after of painting, Sherwin-Williams Emerald paint made the actual painting part fun. The paint went on quickly and smoothly. And it’s much better quality than the paint that was on my walls before, which was chalky and cracked. I can already tell it’s going to be more durable and washable. I love touching it, and I don’t have to worry about fingerprints.

I painted the other wall of my living room a cream color that I custom mixed to match the existing paint. The closest Sherwin-Williams approximation is Steamed Milk (SW 7554). I’m ecstatic to finally be rid of those mismatched teal walls!

I didn’t have my brother’s help this time, so I took his advice and used the painting tools he recommends. Good call, bro. I also got lots of patient assistance choosing colors and finishes from the fabulous Shane at Sherwin-Williams. If you happen to visit the Millbrae, Calif. store, tell Shane that Monica sent you.

I’ll show you the rest of my living room when I’m finished with it. Lots more work to do there. But first I have four more rooms to paint. Ugh.

This post is sponsored by Sherwin-Williams. I received free paint for my participation, but my review and opinions are my own.