These 7 traditional spaces all have something unexpected in common – it's an easy paint trick that gives them an elevated edge

A trio of images: A white kitchen with a gray gloss ceiling, an entryway with arched architraves and a high sheen blue ceiling, and a basement space with orange accents and a white gloss ceiling.

Any good designer knows that traditional spaces don't have to be stiff or stuffy. When done right, they are timeless, elegant, and sophisticated. That being said, some of us want a subtle contemporary edge to breathe new life into an otherwise traditional space, and sometimes, a lick of paint is all you need.

We're not talking about any specific paint shade or brush technique, however. Instead, we're talking about high-sheen paint finishes. We're noticing a trend for a high-gloss look on the ceiling (and walls, too) and it's a simple and inexpensive paint idea that adds a cool, slightly unexpected edge to any room.