The Big Three Paint Finishes

Matt, silk, and eggshell are the three most popular paint finishes for interior walls in UK homes. Each has distinct characteristics that make it better suited to certain rooms and situations.

Matt Finish — The All-Rounder

Matt finish has zero sheen, absorbing light rather than reflecting it. This creates a flat, smooth appearance that’s elegant and sophisticated.

Sheen level: 0-5%

Ideal for: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, and any room where you want a calm, sophisticated atmosphere. Matt is especially good for older properties where walls may have minor imperfections — the flat finish disguises them well.

Silk Finish — The Reflector

Silk has a noticeable sheen that reflects light around the room. It creates a brighter, more vibrant feel and is easier to clean than matt.

Sheen level: 20-40%

Ideal for: Hallways, landings, children’s bedrooms, and rooms that don’t get much natural light. The reflective quality helps brighten darker spaces.

Eggshell Finish — The Compromise

Eggshell sits neatly between matt and silk, offering a very subtle sheen with excellent durability. It’s our most recommended finish for practical rooms.

Sheen level: 10-15%

Ideal for: Kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and any room that needs regular cleaning. The slight sheen makes it easy to wipe down without looking too shiny.

Quick Comparison

Property	Matt	Silk	Eggshell
Sheen	None	High	Low
Durability	Good	Very Good	Excellent
Wipeable	Limited	Yes	Yes
Hides Imperfections	Excellent	Poor	Good
Price	Standard	+5%	+8%

Our Advice

For most UK homes, we recommend a combination: matt in bedrooms and living areas for that smooth, classic look, and eggshell in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways for durability. We’re always happy to advise during your free site visit.

Matt vs Silk vs Eggshell: Which Paint Finish for Your Room?