Eggshell vs Matt Paint Finish — Which Is Right for Your Hampstead Home?

Matt vs eggshell is one of the most common decorating decisions in Hampstead NW3 homes. Both finishes have their strengths — the key is knowing which suits each room and substrate.

Matt (Flat) Finish

Matt paint absorbs light rather than reflecting it, giving walls a velvety, sophisticated depth. It hides minor surface imperfections exceptionally well — important in NW3's older properties where walls may not be perfectly flat. The downside: it marks relatively easily and is harder to wipe clean.

Best for: Principal bedrooms, formal reception rooms, high-ceilinged living rooms in period Hampstead properties.

Eggshell Finish

Eggshell has a very subtle sheen — similar to the surface of an eggshell — which gives walls slightly more luminosity and makes them easier to clean. Importantly, eggshell is more durable than matt and better suited to walls that see regular contact.

Best for: Hallways, children's rooms, kitchens, family living rooms in Hampstead NW3 homes.

What Our Decorators Use

Our painters and decorators in NW3 most often specify Farrow & Ball Estate Emulsion (matt) for period reception rooms and Farrow & Ball Modern Emulsion (wipeable, slight sheen) for family rooms and hallways. Little Greene Absolute Matt and Intelligent Matt are excellent alternatives.