Getting Your Home Holiday-Ready – A Dublin Painter’s Take
The holidays always sneak up faster than we expect. One moment it’s early autumn, and the next thing you know, the Christmas lights are up in town and your guests are confirming plans.
And if you’re anything like most Dublin homeowners, that’s usually when you start noticing – the walls look a bit tired, the colours feel dull, and the house could use a proper refresh.
I see it all the time. A quick repaint before the holidays can completely change the feel of a home — not just for your guests, but for yourself. There’s something about walking into a freshly painted space that makes everything feel lighter, warmer, and calmer.
Why it makes sense to paint before the holidays
This time of year is ideal for interior work. The weather outside isn’t great for exteriors, but it’s perfect for getting things done indoors.
Once December hits, most tradesmen (myself included) are booked solid. So if you want your living room looking crisp for Christmas dinner, the earlier you start, the better.
Besides, a freshly painted home sets the tone for the holidays. Clean walls, warm colours, and a bit of texture in the right places — they make the house feel like new again.
Start with the prep – it’s what makes or breaks the job
Before you even think about colours, it’s worth taking a slow walk through your home. Look at the details — the small cracks along ceilings, scuff marks near the doors, or those old nail holes that have been ignored for years.
Good prep is everything. I never start a job without cleaning and sanding the surfaces properly, filling imperfections, and making sure the base is sound. It’s the kind of detail that doesn’t show — but you feel it in the end result.
If you’re doing it yourself, take your time with this step. Dust, moisture, or loose plaster will ruin even the best paint.
And if you’re hiring a painter, make sure they’re the kind that doesn’t rush the prep — it’s the difference between a quick cover-up and a lasting finish.
Choosing colours that feel like home
When it comes to colours, it’s less about what’s “in trend” and more about how you want your home to feel.
Some people go bold with deep greens or navy blues, others prefer calm neutrals that keep the light flowing. Around Christmas, warm tones like creamy whites, olive, or soft beige always add comfort without feeling too seasonal.
A good trick I often use: pair a strong colour on feature walls with softer, neutral tones around it. It keeps the space balanced and timeless.
If you’re not sure what to pick, grab a few tester pots — or ask your painter to show samples on the actual wall. Colours change completely depending on light, especially here in Dublin with our grey skies.
Where to start
If time or budget is tight, focus on key spaces.
The living room is always top of the list — that’s where the tree goes, where everyone gathers.
The hallway comes next, because it’s the first impression your guests get. Even a quick repaint in a clean satin finish can make it feel brand new.
If you have time, kitchen walls and trims are worth doing too — especially if they’ve had a year’s worth of cooking marks and steam.
And if the weather stays mild enough, sometimes I even sneak in a quick touch-up outside — just to keep the front looking sharp before winter sets in.
Finishing touches that bring everything together
Paint changes a room, but it’s the small things that make it feel complete.
Swap out old cushions for something textured, add a bit of greenery or warm lighting, and keep things simple.
You don’t need to go overboard — a few good details go further than cluttering the space.
I always say: let the paint do the talking. When the walls are clean and fresh, you don’t need much else.
A few practical reminders
If you’re hosting and there’s a chance of spills or stains, go for washable paints like Dulux Easycare or Fleetwood Prestige Washable Matt.
In high-traffic areas — hallways, kitchens, kids’ rooms — these paints are worth their weight in gold. A quick wipe and the walls look new again.
And plan your timing well: ideally, have all painting done two weeks before your first holiday event. It gives the paint time to cure, the smell to fade, and you space to decorate without rushing.
Painting isn’t just about colour — it’s about atmosphere.
The right tones, clean edges, and a careful hand can make a home feel completely different. Around the holidays, that feeling matters even more — warmth, calm, and a bit of pride when people walk in and say, “The place looks amazing.”
So, whether you’re rolling up your sleeves yourself or calling in someone like me — take the time to do it right.
It’s the small details that make a house feel like home.
Request a quote
Pop your details in below – we’ll reach out shortly to go over the cost and help you plan your next step.
Providing a Professional Painting services in Dublin and Surrounding Counties
Providing a Professional Painting services in Dublin and Surrounding Counties
© Catansus Painters 2024. All Rights Reserved.