Do you want to be part of the next wave of home painting projects?
(StatePoint)The next painting project may not be another four walls. From colorful trim to bold built-ins and overlooked spaces, homeowners are finding more ways to use paint to personalize their homes.
The 2027 FrogTape Paint Project Index examines what homeowners have already painted and what they plan to tackle in the next 12 months.
The research shows that traditional projects have staying power. More than half of homeowners (57%) have already created a traditional accent wall, and 49% have painted a ceiling. Looking ahead: Colorful or contrasting trim and doors top the project list at 54%, followed by small spaces (42%), single-wall accent walls (40%) and cabinets or built-ins (37%).
Trim Takes Center Stage
Trim is the only paint project where planned interest (54%) exceeds past adoption (45%), reflecting the appeal of a small change with a high impact. Among homeowners who have painted architectural details, 31% say it refreshes a room’s energy without the time or expense of painting all four walls, and 22% say it revives worn, dated trim or plain doors without replacing them.
DIYers are doing their homework, too: 36% say trim and architectural details are the project they’ve researched most.
Small Spaces, Big Statement
Some of the boldest ambitions are in the smallest rooms. Nearly half (42%) plan to transform a small or often-overlooked space, such as a powder room or laundry room, with bold paint in the next year.
Among those interested, 60% say bold paint turns a purely functional room into a high-impact design feature, and 55% say color makes everyday tasks like laundry or meal prep more enjoyable. Only 4% of those considering these spaces prefer to keep them neutral.
The Accent Wall Evolves
Focal points are the most established trend in the Index, yet the data suggests the classic statement wall is no longer the only space people are putting color. Nearly half (49%) have already painted a ceiling, and 27% plan to paint a ceiling in a bold, contrasting or unexpected color in the next 12 months.
Among those embracing non-white ceilings, half have gone bold with color or pattern, and 58% say the motivation behind the look was adding character and a personalized touch to an otherwise plain room.
Cabinets and Built-Ins Get a Color Refresh
Paint is also giving homeowners a way to change the look of a kitchen or built-in storage without taking on a full renovation.
Nearly half (45%) have already painted cabinets, built-ins or shelving, and 37% plan to, with 43% saying their mindset is personalizing their space and trying creative ideas, and 25% wanting to save money compared with hiring a contractor.
