Is Faux Finishing Still in Style?
Yes—and it’s evolving. The dated faux finishes of the 1990s have been replaced by modern, elegant textures that interior designers now use in high-end homes. In fact, faux finishes are increasingly used in luxury real estate to add drama, depth, and personalization.
Modern faux trends include:
- Soft metallics in powder rooms
- Suede and linen textures in home offices
- Venetian plaster in dining rooms
- Aged patina walls in rustic or farmhouse spaces
In
Elizabeth City, where many homes feature classic details or historic elements, faux finishing can enhance your home’s charm without sacrificing modern style.
Which One Is Better for Your Elizabeth City Home?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but here’s how to think through the decision:
1. What’s the Room’s Purpose?
If it’s a high-traffic area or kid-friendly zone, traditional paint may be the better choice for its ease of maintenance. If it’s a formal space (dining room, guest bath, foyer), faux finishing offers unmatched elegance.
2. How Long Will You Stay in the Home?
If you're planning to sell soon, traditional paint with neutral colors will appeal to a broader audience. If you’re customizing your forever home, a faux finish might be worth the investment.
3. What’s Your Budget?
Traditional painting is typically more affordable. Faux finishing involves more labor, artistic skill, and materials, so expect a higher price point—but a higher-end finish as well.
4. Do You Want a Custom Look?
Faux finishes are perfect for homeowners who want something unique, handcrafted, and designed to match their specific vision.
Local Examples of Faux Finishing Projects in Elizabeth City
At Wayne White Painting, we’ve completed faux finishing jobs for homeowners across Elizabeth City, Camden, South Mills, and Hertford. Recent projects include:
- Venetian plaster in a restored Victorian home near the downtown waterfront
- Metallic brushwork for a modern powder room in a Weeksville new build
- Rag rolling over a fireplace surround in a Camden craftsman
- Faux wood beams painted on a vaulted ceiling in South Mills
- Color washing in a sunroom to create a coastal, weathered effect
Each finish was tailored to the homeowner’s vision, architecture, and lifestyle.
Maintenance and Longevity
Traditional Paint:
- Easy to clean, especially satin or semi-gloss
- Touch-ups are simple
- Repaint every 5–7 years depending on use
Faux Finishing:
- Durable and resistant to fading when sealed properly
- Harder to touch up without redoing the full area
- Can last 10+ years with minimal maintenance
Can I DIY Faux Finishing?
Faux finishing is considered a high-skill technique, and while many DIY tutorials exist, results often fall short without the proper tools, materials, and training.
Common DIY mistakes:
- Uneven textures
- Drip lines and brush marks
- Poor glaze consistency
- Failing to match the style of the home
We strongly recommend hiring a professional—especially for statement areas like entryways, dining rooms, or ceilings.
FAQs – Faux Finishing and Traditional Painting
Q: What’s the cost difference between faux finishing and traditional paint?
Faux finishing can cost
2–4 times more per square foot than traditional painting due to the labor and artistic skill involved.
Q: Will faux finishes go out of style?
Today’s faux finishes are subtle, elegant, and timeless. Avoid overly bold or gimmicky patterns to keep it classic.
Q: Can you paint over faux finishes later?
Yes. With proper prep (light sanding, primer), faux finishes can be painted over when tastes change.
Q: How do I clean faux-finished walls?
Use a soft cloth or sponge with water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Q: Can you match a finish I found online or in a magazine?
Absolutely. We regularly replicate Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, and Instagram inspiration.
Q: Do faux finishes work in small rooms?
Yes—especially powder rooms, which are perfect for creative, dramatic finishes.
Q: Can you combine both faux and traditional paint in one home?
Definitely. Many clients use faux in one or two feature areas and traditional paint in the rest of the home.
Q: Do you seal faux finishes?
We apply a
clear glaze or topcoat to protect finishes and enhance their longevity.
Interior Painting and Faux Finishing – Bundle Your Services
Many homeowners choose to update their home with a combination of interior painting and faux finishing. This allows for cost savings and visual balance.
We often recommend:
- Faux accent wall in the dining room + traditional paint in the kitchen
- Venetian plaster in the powder room + classic eggshell in bedrooms
- Wood grain doors with smooth painted trim
Why Choose Wayne White Painting?
With over
20 years serving the Elizabeth City area, Wayne White Painting is trusted for both standard and specialty finishes. Clients choose us because:
- We’re
locally owned and operated
- All faux work is done by
trained, artistic professionals
- We help homeowners
design finishes that suit their home’s style
- We’re clean, respectful, and stay on schedule
- We offer
free estimates and design consultations
From start to finish, we make the process easy—and the results stunning.
Request a Free Faux Finishing or Interior Painting Quote
If you’re ready to elevate your space, talk to the professionals at Wayne White Painting. We’ll help you choose the best finish for your home and bring your vision to life with care and craftsmanship.
Wayne White Painting
Phone: (252) 334-7109
Email: painterman1768@gmail.com
Proudly serving
Elizabeth City, Camden, South Mills, Hertford, and surrounding areas.
