As the holiday season approaches, many South Shore homeowners are doing more than unpacking decorations—they’re reaching for color swatches.

With gatherings, visiting relatives, and the symbolic “fresh start” of a new year on the horizon, interior painting projects are in high demand across the region. Local pros say it’s a smart and timely investment, especially for kitchens, living rooms, and guest bedrooms.

“People are spending more time at home during the holidays,” said Mack Pease, owner of Alton Barnes, LLC – Interior Painting. “A freshly painted space feels cleaner, more welcoming, and honestly—it helps homeowners feel more prepared and proud when guests arrive.”

While spring is traditionally seen as a peak time for renovations, interior painting offers unique benefits at the end of the year. Cooler temperatures can actually help paint cure better indoors, and with fewer exterior jobs happening, professional painters often have more scheduling flexibility.

“The biggest challenge,” Pease noted, “is fitting your project in before Thanksgiving or Christmas. But we’re making it happen—especially for folks planning family dinners or hosting overnight guests.”

One recent client in Hanover reached out in early November, hoping to refresh her kitchen and guest bedroom before a large family reunion. “She was nervous we wouldn’t have time,” Pease said. “But we squeezed it in between other jobs, and she was thrilled. It completely transformed the space.”

Experts also point out that home updates like painting can help with mental clarity and goal-setting. According to a 2023 study by Zillow, homeowners who update their interior before the New Year report feeling more optimistic and organized going into January.

Pease and his team recommend booking painting projects at least 2–3 weeks in advance to ensure availability. “We’re helping people get their homes ready not just for guests—but for a new chapter,” he said.

From soft greys in living rooms to warm whites in kitchens, color choices this season are leaning toward cozy, modern, and calm.

Thinking about a pre-holiday paint refresh?