Totally agree with this. A few things I've noticed from experimenting with similar combos:- Matte finishes can absorb too much ambient light, making spaces feel smaller or heavier.
I've noticed the same thing about matte finishes—they look great in photos but can feel kinda gloomy IRL. I ended up adding a few shiny ceramic pots and mirrors... made a surprising difference without breaking the bank.
Good call on the mirrors—simple but effective. I've found that mixing textures helps too, like pairing matte walls with glossy trim or fixtures. Adds depth without feeling cluttered or heavy.
Mirrors definitely help. I remember repainting my living room a few years back—went with a matte sage green on the walls and glossy white trim. At first, I wasn't convinced (thought it might look too stark), but the contrast grew on me big-time. You're right about textures; they subtly play off each other and keep things interesting without overwhelming the space. Good thinking on that one.
"went with a matte sage green on the walls and glossy white trim. At first, I wasn't convinced (thought it might look too stark), but the contrast grew on me big-time."
I get what you mean about contrasts growing on you... but personally, I've found that softer transitions between shades can feel more calming long-term. For instance, pairing sage green with a muted cream or beige trim instead of bright white can create a warmer, more organic feel. Glossy white definitely pops, but sometimes subtlety has its own charm, especially if you're aiming for a relaxed vibe.
I totally see your point about subtlety, but don't you think sometimes a sharper contrast can actually highlight the softer shade even more? Like, I've noticed that pairing muted colors with crisp whites can make the muted tones feel richer somehow... maybe it's just me though.
