Commercial decorating is often viewed as one of the final cosmetic stages of a refurbishment. In reality, the colours, materials, finishes and application methods used throughout a property can have a significant impact on how the space looks, feels and functions.
From creating a welcoming first impression to supporting the practical demands of a busy workplace, every decision should reflect how the property will be used and who will be using it.
At APH, we recognise the extensive work required to convert a standard property into a tailored environment that optimises workflow and enhances the consumer experience. For nearly 15 years, we’ve worked alongside main contractors, interior designers, property managers and commercial clients. Our team combines technical decorating knowledge with a flexible approach to project delivery.
The Purpose of the Space
It’s important to understand what your space needs to accomplish. All spaces aim to achieve different feelings or settings. An office can be for concentration, a restaurant or pub can be for atmosphere, and retail can be for drawing focus to certain areas for their customers.
There is no single approach to commercial decorating. Every specification should be shaped around the property, its users and its long-term purpose.
Working With Light
Lighting can completely change the way a decorated surface appears. A colour that looks warm and inviting in natural daylight may feel cooler or darker under artificial lighting, while gloss and sheen levels can affect how light is reflected around the room.
When planning a commercial decorating project, we consider:
- How much natural light enters the room.
- The type and temperature of artificial lighting.
- Which areas need to feel brighter, warmer or more intimate.
- How shadows, reflective surfaces and darker corners affect the final result.
Where natural light is limited, carefully selected lighter tones and finishes can help the space feel more open. However, this does not always mean choosing white. Warmer neutrals, subtle colour variations and considered contrast can create depth without making the room feel enclosed. We understand how lighting conditions will influence chosen paint colours and finishes.
Choosing the Right Colour Scheme
Colour does more than create an attractive backdrop. It can help define different areas, reinforce a company’s identity and influence the overall atmosphere of a commercial property.
- Offices: Balanced neutrals can create a professional foundation, while brand colours or stronger accent tones can add personality to meeting rooms, collaborative areas and reception spaces.
- Hospitality: Richer colours, feature walls and contrasting finishes can help establish atmosphere, create focal points and guide visitors through the space. The palette should support the brand and the type of customer experience being created.
- Industrial and Warehouse spaces: The focus may be more practical, with colours used to differentiate working areas, improve visibility and create a cleaner, more professional environment.
Reflecting the Brand
A commercial property is a physical expression of the organisation behind it. The decorating should therefore feel consistent with the company’s wider identity.
Brand colours do not necessarily need to cover every wall. They can be introduced through feature areas, reception spaces, meeting rooms or carefully placed details. In some properties, a more understated interpretation of the brand will create a stronger and more professional result.
With nearly 15 years of experience and a skilled team of commercial decorators, APH understands the technical and practical demands involved in delivering high-quality commercial projects.
Planning a commercial decorating project? We’d love to discuss your vision.