It’s common knowledge that nothing transforms a room quite like a fresh coat, but these creative paint ideas up the creativity quotient. From color blocking to paint that pops, these designs are bold, unexpected, and delightfully inspiring. Here are a few of our favorite ways to make an impact with the power of paint. 

Create a rainbow wall 

Photo: @blankslatereno

Design duo (and new parents) Chayce and Hannah Wilson didn’t settle on just one of our paints for their new baby’s room. Instead, they opted to create a unique rainbow wall with colorful shiplap that still feels warm and modern. Painted in No Filter, Dirty Martini, Meet Cute, Pink Sky, Good as Gold, and Dirty Chai, the light warm tones in succession create a calming effect–perfect for a nursery!

Brighten up a basic dresser

Photo: @meganzietz

Let’s face it–furniture isn’t always exciting. But this Ikea Rast dresser can’t help but catch your eye. Painted in Matcha Latte, the piece is fun and funky. It’s a perfect way to brighten up a bedroom. Want more? Learn how to paint furniture in four easy steps.

Paint your trim black

Photo: @samcramdesign

For a feel that’s traditional but far from conventional, try painting a room’s trim black (or Blackest). Especially on light-toned walls, the black border emphasizes your ceilings and serves as a great way to create depth in a dining room.  

Give your laundry room a lift 

Photo: @robyn

A coat of Pink Sky over some built-in cabinets completely transformed this laundry room. Who says chores can’t be made fun with a few creative paint ideas? 

Color block a wall and/or window

Photo: @elleehome

Color blocking is one way to create a unique and colorful moment, anywhere from the living room to the bathroom. In this kid’s room, the Pop-painted wall brings attention to natural light flowing from the window and brightens up the bed. 

Add a soothing color on the ceiling

Photo: @stylemeetsstrategy

In a room filled with bold pattern and texture–a soothing color on the ceiling helps the space feel centered. In this beautifully layered home office, minty-toned Headspace adds just the right amount of calm to collect your thoughts. 

Greet guests with a colorful door

Photo: @TrashleyMartin

Who says doors have to be boring? Not us. And not designer Ashley Martin, who transformed this living room entrance with a light, peachy Rosé Season. The paint also draws attention to similar tones through the rest of the house, pulling the whole palette together. 

Frame a focal point with a painted arch

Photo: @ourlocaladventure

Arched recesses in walls always add character to a space. But if you’re not lucky enough to own any arched built-ins, don’t fret. DIYers Dylan and Caitlin painted their bedroom in Fresh Kicks and created this beautiful No Filter-painted archway that adds even more coziness to their bedroom. For more inspo, see our roundup of painted arches.

Step it up with a high-contrast staircase

Photo: @tellefesen

An incredibly chic contrast to the white walls and staircase of DIYer Alexis Tellefsen’s home, the Blackish painted treads and railing lend a striking but still-classic feel to an often overlooked part of the home. 

​​Paint a dramatic kitchen island

Photo: @dee.diary

A few coats of Blackest transformed this kitchen island from practically unnoticeable to a total showstopper. The dark island creates more dimension in the room and highlights the darker tones used in the wallpaper. Painting your kitchen island is also a great way to separate spaces in an open concept home.