Don’t Fear the Dark Dark colors tend to soak up natural light, but a shiny glaze counteracts that vacuum effect. “Dark colors in a flat finish can feel overwhelming,” interior designer Annie Lowengart says. “When you use high-gloss, even charcoal feels vibrant.” She proves her point in this energetic living room, above, and butler’s pantry, right, where deep, saturated tones have a high shine.
It’s a Winner in Tight Quarters High-gloss paint creates a mirror effect, bouncing light around. “The reflective properties make a small space come to life,” interior designer Kelly Keiser says. Cover low ceilings or tight spaces with a shiny topcoat to give the illusion of boosted square footage.
Prep Makes Perfect High-gloss paint doesn’t hide imperfections—it amplifies them. Before painting, use a bright light to illuminate…