When we think about accessibility and inclusive design, features such as ramps, lighting, and clear circulation paths often come to mind first. Yet one of the most powerful — and often overlooked — tools for creating inclusive environments is paint.
Beyond aesthetics, paint choices influence how people navigate spaces, perceive boundaries, experience comfort, and maintain their well-being. Colour, contrast, finish, and material selection all play a role in shaping environments that are safer, clearer, and more supportive for people with diverse abilities and needs.
Paint as a Functional Element of Inclusive Design
Inclusive design is grounded in the idea that environments should be usable, understandable, and welcoming for as many people as possible. Small design decisions can either remove barriers or unintentionally create them.
Paint is one of the most accessible ways to support inclusive outcomes because it:
- Requires no structural change;
- Can be adapted across new builds and existing spaces;
- Has immediate impact on perception, comfort, and usability;
When applied thoughtfully, paint becomes a functional design element rather than a purely decorative one.
Colour Contrast and Visibility for Low Vision
Colour contrast is essential for supporting people with low vision, reduced depth perception, or age-related visual changes. Clear contrast between surfaces helps define space and reduce uncertainty.
Effective applications include:
- Contrasting walls and door frames to improve visibility of entry points;
- Differentiating floors from walls to clarify boundaries;
- Highlighting edges, steps, and transitions.
These choices can make everyday navigation safer and more intuitive, particularly in shared or unfamiliar environments.
Supporting Wayfinding and Spatial Understanding
Colour can also assist with wayfinding — helping people orient themselves and move through a space with greater independence.
In workplaces and multi-use buildings, this may include:
- Colour-coding different zones or floors;
- Using consistent colour cues for amenities such as bathrooms or exits;
- Reducing visual complexity by limiting unnecessary variation.
Clear visual cues support not only people with vision impairment, but also those with cognitive or neurological differences who benefit from predictable, legible environments.
Reducing Glare, Visual Fatigue, and Sensory Overload
Paint finish is just as important as colour choice. Highly reflective surfaces can introduce glare, visual noise, and discomfort — particularly for people who are neurodivergent or sensitive to sensory stimulation.
Inclusive environments often benefit from:
- Matte or low-sheen finishes to reduce reflection;
- Softer colour palettes that support focus and calm;
- Consistent finishes that minimise visual disruption.
These considerations contribute to comfort, concentration, and overall well-being in both homes and workplaces.
Health, Air Quality, and Material Sensitivity
Paint selection also has implications for physical health. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and strong odours can affect indoor air quality and may trigger symptoms for people with asthma, allergies, or chemical sensitivities.
Low-VOC and non-toxic paint systems are increasingly important in:
- Homes;
- Schools and early learning environments;
- Healthcare and aged care settings;
- Offices and shared workplaces.
Prioritising healthier materials supports inclusive environments where more people can participate comfortably.
Age-Friendly Design and Safety Through Colour
As people age, changes in vision, balance, and mobility can increase the risk of falls and disorientation. Thoughtful use of colour can support safer, more age-friendly spaces.
Examples include:
- Contrasting handrails and grab points;
- Clearly defining steps and level changes;
- Avoiding overly dark or glossy surfaces that obscure depth.
These measures support independence and confidence while reducing avoidable hazards.
Applying Inclusive Design Intent in Practice
Inclusive design outcomes rely on collaboration between designers, builders, and trades who understand the purpose behind design decisions. Translating inclusive intent into real-world environments requires attention to detail and consistency during implementation.
Experienced painting professionals who work across residential and commercial environments — such as Absolute Property Services — can support inclusive outcomes by applying colour, contrast, and finishes in line with accessibility-focused design goals.
Small Choices, Meaningful Impact
Paint may seem like a minor detail, but its impact on accessibility and well-being is significant. Thoughtful colour and finish choices can reduce barriers, enhance safety, and create environments that feel clearer, calmer, and more welcoming.
By viewing paint as a functional design tool, we can continue to shape homes and workplaces that support dignity, independence, and inclusion for everyone.
Author Bio
This article was contributed by Absolute Property Services, a Canberra-based residential and commercial painting company with experience delivering durable, thoughtful finishes across a wide range of built environments. Their work supports long-term usability, safety, and well-being in homes and workplaces.
