New Year glow up?

Fed up of wall-to-wall magnolia in your army pad?

Thanks to a recent change in policy, those living in service families accommodation now have a new palette to pick from – and best of all, you won’t have to repaint it when you move out.

In a move aimed at giving occupants more freedom to personalise their homes, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation has introduced a range of neutral shades including light greens and grey.

Previously, personnel were permitted to decorate their quarter in any colour as long as they returned it to magnolia or white upon posting. But they can now leave walls in approved tones.

Work must be carried out to a high standard, however, or you could find yourself with extra charges when marching out.

These tips from defencehomes.mod.gov.uk will help you get the best results. Visit the website to download the full palette.

Before you start clean surfaces, fill and sand holes and cover fittings, floors and furniture.

Vinyl matt is ideal for walls and ceilings, while vinyl silk is better for high moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Cut-in edges first with a brush, then use a roller for the main area.

Keep a wet edge to avoid streaks and apply two thin coats, allowing full drying between them.

Keep leftover paint for future touch-ups and label the tins.