As simple as this may sound, I find that most of the time when we are looking at paint chips we are viewing them horizontally as if we were going to paint a floor. One of the first things I advise a client to do is to hold the paint chip directly in front of them at arm’s length. This gives a more accurate read on the paint color. Colors will generally appear lighter when view horizontally, this is due to the angle at which the light is bouncing off of them. Try holding the same color horizontally and then move it to a vertical position-you will see exactly what I’m talking about. This is even more important when viewing the large Ultimate Paint Chips that we offer in all of our proprietary colors.

Just like Ziggy, my “purr-fect” cat of 14 years, the paint business is showing signs of life after quite a hit this past winter. Ziggy recently underwent a brief hospital stay for weak kidney function and loss of appetite. It is always shocking to see a beloved pet suddenly become ill, and for many of us that has been the experience of our businesses this past winter and early spring. It is no secret that there is a big shakedown in the economy occuring and the paint/home decorating industry has not been immune from it.

I am happy to report that Ziggy has made a rebound and seems to be quite content for the moment in his advancing years. Likewise there are real signs of increased traffic in paint stores all across North America. We at G&R Paint have been hopping in the last few weeks at a pace that is reminicent of the good ole’ days.

Paint, and the color that is delivered by it, remain one of the greatest home improvement values available to consumers from all economic strata. Nothing gives you more bang for the buck than a fresh coat of paint, and nothing has the power to completely change the vibe in any given room the way color does. Whether you are looking for serenity in times of turmoil (PPC-W4 Serenity), or are ready to shock yourself back to life with a vibrant orange (PPC-O3 Persimmon), you will be amazed at how quickly and easily you can change your life with a new color.

My relationship with Ziggy predates my years in the retail paint industry, and just like his badge of honors says, he and the paint industry have survived damn near everything. This economic downturn is no exception. Viva la colour!

Janet, Sarah, and Julie of Remodelista fame, hosted the hottest party in San Francisco last night coinciding with the AIA Convention in town this week. I was honored to be a co-sponsor of the event. We had fun transforming an empty shell of a commercial space into a festive carnitas flavored hangout. The offices of Matarozzi/Pelsinger Builders are housed in this uniquely green building designed by Aidlin Darling. I especially love the four parking spaces in the rear alley designated for ALT Fuel Parking (alternative fuel vehicles only). This parking lot features small concrete squares that will eventually be taken over by the grass planted between them. Architects both local and from around the country got a chance to mingle with each other and learn more about what a great resource www.remodelista.com is for anyone the least bit design curious. Once you start checking out this site you won’t be able to stop. I am always amazed at the far ends of the earth they are willing to travel in order to uncover beautiful and simple designs. Thanks again ladies for the opportunity to partner with you and share in your vision.