HOW TO GET THE LOOK

Lacquer

There’s a reason lacquer makes decorators swoon: “It’s a much smoother, more full-bodied finish than regular paint,” says Chango NYC’s Agustin Hurtado, the decorative painter that Miles Redd and David Kaihoi keep on speed dial. But true lacquer is not for the faint of heart— or DIY dabblers. While flat finishes hide imperfections, shiny surfaces magnify them, which means that skim coating, sanding, and days of prep work are required to get walls in pristine condition. The application itself requires multiple coats—five or more—with wet sanding, surface cleaning, and ample drying time in between. (Expect three weeks total.) Throw in the need for air scrubbers (to ensure dust particles and lint don’t mar a perfect surface), paint sprayers, respirators, and…well, you get the picture. 

Paint 

As a (slightly) less labor-intensive alternative, consider a high-sheen paint—either an oil-based enamel (Hurtado suggests Fine Paints of Europe’s Hollandlac) or a more environmentally-friendly, water-based version (like Little Greene’s Intelligent Gloss paint, which is washable and quick-drying). You’ll still have to invest in plenty of prep, though: “You need at least four coats of a good primer, and everything should already be smooth and well-sanded before you apply any paint,” says Hurtado. 

Wallcovering

Looking for instant gratification? Fake the lacquer look with a wallcovering like Schumacher’s Ace Faux Lacquer Performance Vinyl, which is easy to install and provides plenty of high-style sheen. Plus, it’s a good choice for walls that aren’t in pristine shape as it can help cover up imperfections.