Make it matte.

Matte paint (also known as dead flat paint) has no sheen and gives a chalky, contemporary finish.
Pro: It disguises small imperfections in walls.
Con: Stains won't wash off easily.

Go for a slight sheen.

Eggshell paint has a beautiful egglike sheen.
Pro: It reflects more light into the room than a matte finish.
Con: It's more practical than matte paint but can only be washed very lightly.

Pick practical satin.

Satin paint is slightly shinier than eggshell and more practical.
Pro: It can be scrubbed lightly and is great for bathrooms.
Con: Walls can sometimes look more like they belong in a store than in a home.

Select a subtle shine.

Semigloss offers shine without glitz. Use it on doors, windows and trims.
Pro: It's easy to wash.
Con: The finish is too shiny to use on walls.

Give woodwork a glossy shine.

This very shiny finish for doors, windows and trim looks like enamel.
Pro: It's very easy to wash.
Con: The high-gloss shine shows imperfections.