Why Choose Low-Shine, Matte or Flat Paint?
When planning a painting project, many people focus on colour, but finish—how shiny or dull the surface looks—has just as much impact on the final result. While glossy finishes have their place, there's a growing trend towards low-shine, matte, and flat paints in modern Australian homes and businesses. These soft-finish paints offer a subtle elegance that works beautifully across walls, ceilings, and more. In this guide, we’ll explore what they are, where they’re best used, and the key benefits they offer.
What Are Low-Shine, Matte & Flat Paints?
These terms are often used interchangeably but refer to finishes with minimal to no shine:
✦ Flat paint has no sheen at all. It gives a chalky, velvety look and absorbs light.
✦ Matte paint is similar but slightly more durable than flat, with just a hint of sheen.
✦ Low-sheen or low-shine paints have a subtle glow and are a bit more washable than matte or flat options.
These finishes are perfect for creating a calm, modern, and sophisticated look, especially in areas where you don’t want reflections bouncing off the walls.
✦ Flat paint has no sheen at all. It gives a chalky, velvety look and absorbs light.
✦ Matte paint is similar but slightly more durable than flat, with just a hint of sheen.
✦ Low-sheen or low-shine paints have a subtle glow and are a bit more washable than matte or flat options.
These finishes are perfect for creating a calm, modern, and sophisticated look, especially in areas where you don’t want reflections bouncing off the walls.
Where to Use Them
Flat, matte, and low-sheen paints are ideal for:
- Ceilings – Flat paint hides imperfections and avoids glare from lights.
- Living rooms and bedrooms – Matte finishes create a warm, restful atmosphere.
- Heritage homes – These finishes suit traditional architecture and vintage design schemes.
- Feature walls – They allow rich colour to speak for itself without the distraction of shine.
Benefits of Low-Shine, Matte & Flat Paints
☑ Hides Surface Imperfection's
These finishes absorb rather than reflect light, making them excellent at hiding minor dents, cracks, or uneven textures in walls and ceilings.
☑ Creates a Soft, Contemporary Look
Low-sheen paints offer a refined and elegant aesthetic that works beautifully in both minimalist and classic interiors.
☑ Ideal for Large Surfaces
On large walls, shiny finishes can look patchy or reflect too much light. Matte paint creates a smooth, consistent finish that feels grounded and clean.
☑ Low-Glare Finish
Perfect for rooms with lots of natural light or artificial lighting—no shiny spots or harsh reflections.
These finishes absorb rather than reflect light, making them excellent at hiding minor dents, cracks, or uneven textures in walls and ceilings.
☑ Creates a Soft, Contemporary Look
Low-sheen paints offer a refined and elegant aesthetic that works beautifully in both minimalist and classic interiors.
☑ Ideal for Large Surfaces
On large walls, shiny finishes can look patchy or reflect too much light. Matte paint creates a smooth, consistent finish that feels grounded and clean.
☑ Low-Glare Finish
Perfect for rooms with lots of natural light or artificial lighting—no shiny spots or harsh reflections.
Final Thoughts on Low-Shine, Matte & Flat Paints
Choosing low-shine, matte, or flat paint is about more than just looks—it’s about creating the right feel in a room. Whether you want a cosy, inviting bedroom or a stylish, glare-free lounge, these finishes bring quiet sophistication and practical benefits. Just be sure to check the washability rating for high-traffic areas or talk to your paint supplier about durable matte formulations now available on the market.
Remember: the perfect paint job isn’t just about colour—it’s about finish, too.
Remember: the perfect paint job isn’t just about colour—it’s about finish, too.
Talk to real painters, not salespeople—book a free site visit and colour consultation.