How to choose the right wall finish for your Middle Tennessee home

Wall texture might seem like a small detail… but it can completely change the way a room looks, feels, and even how easy it is to maintain. In Middle Tennessee, both smooth and textured wall finishes are popular — but they serve very different purposes.

If you’re planning a renovation or a repainting project, here’s the complete guide to deciding which wall style is right for your home.

Smooth Walls: Clean, Modern, and Timeless

Smooth walls are becoming the preferred choice for homeowners who want a sleek, updated look. They work especially well in newer builds, remodels, and contemporary homes across Rutherford County.

Advantages of Smooth Walls

• Modern, high-end appearance
Smooth walls instantly create a polished, “finished” look that appeals to today’s buyers.

• Easier to clean
Dirt, dust, and grease wipe off more easily than on textured surfaces.

• Perfect for bold or dark paint colors
Smooth surfaces show depth and richness without distortion.

• Great for accent walls & feature paint
If you’re planning a dramatic color, geometric pattern, or wall mural, smooth walls are ideal.

• Better resale appeal
Most buyers prefer smooth walls because they blend with any design style.

Potential Drawbacks

• More prep work
If your walls currently have rough texture, smoothing them requires skim-coating — a labor-intensive process best left to pros.

• Shows imperfections
Smooth walls reveal dents, seams, patches, and nail pops more easily. Proper prep is essential for a flawless finish.

Textured Walls: Warm, Forgiving, and Classic

Texture isn’t outdated — it’s simply a different aesthetic. Many homes in Tennessee still use textures like orange peel or knockdown for both practical and stylistic reasons.

Advantages of Textured Walls

• Hides imperfections well
Texture masks drywall seams, dings, patches, and uneven repairs.

• Adds warmth & character
Textured walls can make a home feel cozy, especially traditional or older homes.

• More budget-friendly
It’s often cheaper to add texture than to fully smooth out problem walls.

• Great for high-traffic areas
Hallways, stairwells, and kids’ rooms benefit from texture because they disguise wear over time.

Potential Drawbacks

• Harder to repaint evenly
Thick textures require more paint — sometimes double — and specialty rollers.

• Not ideal for modern design styles
If you prefer clean lines, minimalism, or open-concept modern homes, texture may feel busy or dated.

• More difficult to clean
Dust and grime settle into grooves and can be harder to remove.

Which Style Works Best for Tennessee Homes?

Choose smooth walls if you want:

• A modern, magazine-ready look

• A high-end finish

• Easier cleaning

• The ability to use bold paint colors

• Better resale value

Choose textured walls if you want:

• A forgiving surface that hides flaws

• A cozy, traditional appearance

• A cost-effective update

• Durability in busy household areas

Hybrid Approach: The Best of Both Worlds

Many Murfreesboro homeowners use a combination:

• Smooth walls in main areas, offices, dining rooms, and primary bedrooms

• Textured walls in basements, hallways, bonus rooms, and older parts of the home

This approach provides style where it matters and practicality where needed.

Which Option Is Right for You? We Can Help.

Whether you’re dreaming of sleek, smooth walls or want to refresh textured areas of your home, Michael’s Painting offers expert drywall finishing, skim-coating, and professional texture application.

We help homeowners throughout Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, and all of Rutherford County choose the wall finish that fits their home, style, and budget.

📞 Call (615) 542-1891