Designers Share Their Boldest Paint Risks That Paid Off

From color-drenched dining rooms to bold green offices, six designers reveal the paint risks that completely transformed their spaces.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Six interior designers reflect on the boldest paint risks they've ever taken, from painting shelves bright red to covering an entire bathroom in black. Despite initial hesitation, the designers say the risks ultimately paid off, resulting in stunning, cohesive spaces that give the rooms identity and emotional presence.

Why it matters

Interior designers often have to convince clients to take bold paint risks, as many people default to more neutral colors, especially in workspaces. These designers' stories show how taking a chance on unexpected paint colors can dramatically transform a space and create a unique, memorable design.

The details

The designers share details on their bold paint choices, like Madelaine Mayer's decision to paint shelves in a client's dressing room a bright red, which she says provided just enough punctuation without overwhelming the space. Shaolin Low describes the challenge of using limewash, a technique that requires careful application to achieve the desired cloudy finish. Samantha Voges opted for a moody black vanity in a bathroom, while Kelsey McGregor selected a yellow-green brown for kitchen cabinets that ended up complementing the other finishes perfectly. Julie Williams used a dark green to color-drench a home office, and Parul Ghei covered an entire dining room in a rich, moody hue, creating a cohesive and impactful design.

  • The designers' bold paint projects were completed in 2026.

The players

Madelaine Mayer

Founder of interior design firm AD:ROIT.

Shaolin Low

Founder of interior design firm Studio Shaolin.

Samantha Voges

Interior designer.

Kelsey McGregor

Founder of Kelsey Leigh Design Co.

Julie Williams

Interior designer.

Parul Ghei

Founder of interior design firm Studio Jai.

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What they’re saying

“The result was either going to be spectacularly bold or a childish eyesore—thankfully, it was the former, and the client was thrilled.”

— Madelaine Mayer, Founder, AD:ROIT

“Limewash is definitely always a paint risk since applying it is up to the painter who's doing it. How they apply, the strokes they make, how they mix in the layers—it all makes a huge difference in the overall finish.”

— Shaolin Low, Founder, Studio Shaolin

“It turned out so moody, and I think it strikes the right balance between bold and sophisticated.”

— Samantha Voges, Interior Designer

“It felt so risky, but once it was on the cabinets, paired with the backsplash, quartzite countertops, and warm wood stain on the oak island, it all began to sing.”

— Kelsey McGregor, Founder, Kelsey Leigh Design Co.

“He was shocked by the transformation from a bland, builder-grade white box into a rich, warm workspace.”

— Julie Williams, Interior Designer

What’s next

The designers plan to continue experimenting with bold paint choices in their future projects, inspiring clients to take risks and create unique, memorable spaces.

The takeaway

These designers' stories show how taking a chance on unexpected paint colors can dramatically transform a space, creating cohesive and impactful designs that give a room identity and emotional presence. Their success with bold paint risks encourages other designers and homeowners to be more adventurous with their color choices.