Choose a wall colour beyond the swatch.

A shade that looks elegant on a colour card can feel dull or overpowering on a whole wall. Scale, daylight and neighbouring materials all change it.

Look at the room first

Study orientation, floor, furniture and the amount of daylight. The wall is never seen alone; surrounding colours and reflections affect the result.

Make the sample large enough

Paint two or three generous test areas or use movable boards. See them in morning light, afternoon light and artificial light. A phone photograph is not a reliable colour reference.

Decide what feeling it should support

A dark shade can add depth to a bright room; a quiet neutral can frame rich materials. The right choice depends on your home, not on a universal luxury palette.

Compare it with the key furniture

Put the sample next to the flooring and main pieces. If it only works when you hide them, try a different undertone before changing the entire room.