SMART WOODWORK

For interior woodwork, gloss for a shine and eggshell for a soft sheen are the classic choices. Gloss promises a mirror finish, while eggshell or satin is more subtle

Exterior primer/undercoat is a must to protect bare wood or metal before a top coat of eggshell or gloss is applied

Adjustable exterior eggshell and gloss paints shrug off water and resist flaking. Use on window frames, doors, metal railings, gates and guttering

Multi-surface water-based paint can be used on walls, woodwork and radiators, giving the room a seamless look

1 Contrast colour Two cheerful shades on panelled walls sing out against a contrast skirting. Panelling in Little Greene’s hardwearing eggshell, £59 for 2.5L, can cope with any scuffs. Upper wall in Brighton 203; lower wall in Pale Lime 70; skirting in Marigold 209 2 All yellow Preparation is paramount for flawless results on an exterior door. Make sure the surface is sound, applying primer or undercoat if needed; complete with two coats of 10-year exterior gloss in Hot Mustard, £17.99 for 750ml, Sandtex, for a mirror-shine finish 3 Chic grey Instead of the usual white woodwork, paint a door in cool grey to contrast with the rich warm tone on the wall. Door in Purbeck Stone No 275 estate eggshell, £60 for 2.5L; main wall painted in Radicchio 96; wall through doorway in Mole’s Breath No 276 estate emulsion, £43.50 for 2.5L; all Farrow & Ball