Do different rooms require different sheen levels?
In general, many people prefer flats and eggshell finishes in living rooms, bedrooms and foyers. Pearl and semi-gloss finishes, and occasionally high gloss, tends to be used to kitchens and bathrooms. However, with the variety and performance of the different finishes these days, it’s possible to defy the conventional wisdom and use one finish throughout a residence. For instance, one of Benjamin Moore’s newest products is called Regal Matte. It is just as washable and scrubbable as eggshell, but it has no shine. Then there is pearl finish, which is also washable and scrubbable, but more lustrous than eggshell. Flat, eggshell, semi-gloss, satin and high gloss refer to the sheen or gloss level of the paint. It does make a difference which one you use. The sheen or gloss level simply means the degree of light reflectance of the paint. Here is a brief summary of sheen levels: Flat: A soft, non-reflective finish which helps hide minor surface imperfections. Flat is a traditional finish for
