That 1 Painter is the fastest-growing painting company in the world. Painting your house can be complicated, but with our expertise, we make the process easy and stress-free for homeowners. With locations across the nation, we have helped tens of thousands of homeowners make the best choices for their homes without sacrificing quality, and we are here to show you how.
You find the perfect paint color.
It looks just right under the store lights.
You bring it home, roll it onto your walls… and something feels off.
Why does it suddenly look cooler, warmer, or just plain wrong?
It’s not your imagination.
Paint reacts to its surroundings, especially light. The same shade can look completely different from one room to another.
Here’s why it happens, and how to avoid getting surprised after the paint dries.
Natural vs. Artificial Light
• Sunlight tends to make colors feel brighter and cooler
• Warm indoor bulbs can pull out yellow, peach, or beige tones
• A clean white in daylight might feel creamy or off-white under warm bulbs
Time of Day
• Morning light is soft and golden
• Midday light is clear and bright
• Evening light is dimmer and often warmer
• These shifts can change how a color reads hour by hour
Lightbulbs Make a Big Difference
• Warm white bulbs create a soft, cozy glow
• Cool or daylight bulbs can give your paint a sharp, bluish edge
• The type of bulb you use may bring out unexpected undertones
Your Surroundings Matter Too
• Dark floors, bright rugs, and furniture all reflect color
• A neutral gray might look blue next to one sofa and green next to another
• The items around your paint can shift how your eye interprets the color
• Sample a few colors on more than one wall
• Check the swatches in the morning, afternoon, and evening
• Place samples next to furniture, floors, and trim
• Live with them for a couple of days before deciding
Quick tip: Peel-and-stick samples are a low-effort way to test colors in real time, no rollers, no mess, just real paint on your actual walls.
Choosing the right paint can be weirdly high-stakes.
But you don’t have to figure it out alone.
At That 1 Painter, we offer free color consultations all across the country.
We’ll walk through your lighting, your furniture, and your goals to help you pick something that actually works, and looks good in your space.
So, back to the question:
Can paint change color with light?
Yes. It absolutely can.
But with a little testing and the right help, you can make sure it always changes in your favor.