Choosing exterior paint for your commercial building

Picking a paint color for your commercial building can seem overwhelming, because you want to make a good impression on your customers and look professional.

We’ve all seen buildings that look so generic you don’t even notice them. But, we’ve also seen buildings that stand out and look awkward to the surrounding area.

So, how do you find the balance? Before you pick a color, ask these questions.

Who is your customer?

Your building should be inviting to the customers you want to attract. It’s important to know who your customers are before you invest in painting your building.

For example, if your business is architectural design, you might be looking to attract clients who embrace contrast and shape. You might highlight architectural features of the building by offsetting the surrounding color.

However, if your business is a law firm, you may want to go with a more traditional look. Your clients probably have certain expectations of what a law office looks like, and your goal will be to create an environment to meet those expectations.

Is your building historic?

If your building is historic or in a designated special district within a city, you may be restricted to certain colors or paints. In many of these districts, you must submit your color selections to a governing committee for approval.

What is the color palette of surrounding buildings?

Though you certainly want your business to get noticed, it’s important to consider the surrounding area. If all the brick buildings near your building are painted white, you may want to consider a complementary base color with pops of other color on the door and signage.

Also, consider colors that complement the surrounding landscaping.

What does a color mean?

Certain colors convey certain emotions. For example, shades of green are viewed as calming and evoke a sense of nature.

You need to consider the message you’re sending by the paint color you select. For more information on understanding people’s perception of color, click here.

Whatever color you choose, be sure to consult with a professional painter prior to purchasing the paint. They will be able to give you tips on which shades and application techniques will work best for your building.