How Much to Paint a Room: Your 2025 Cost Guide
When you decide to paint a room, you’re doing more than just changing a color—you’re investing in your home’s value and your daily happiness. While it’s easy to ask, "how much to paint a 15x15 room," understanding the answer is key to making a wise choice. A professional quote isn’t just a fee; it’s a comprehensive plan for a worry-free experience. It covers everything from protecting your furniture to repairing wall imperfections for a perfect finish. This guide will help you understand what a quality paint job truly entails, so you can see why investing in professional service is the best way to protect and beautify your home.
Key Takeaways
- Understand What Shapes Your Quote: The final cost is about more than just room size; it’s heavily influenced by wall condition, ceiling height, and detailed prep work, which is why labor typically makes up the largest part of the price.
- Create a Realistic Budget: Start by measuring your space to calculate paint needs, then get multiple detailed quotes to compare. Always set aside a 10-15% contingency fund to handle any unexpected repairs without stress.
- Invest in Quality to Save in the Long Run: Choosing a higher-quality paint can mean fewer coats and a more durable finish, while hiring a professional saves you time and guarantees a flawless result that a DIY project often can't match.
How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Room?
Thinking about a refresh for your living room or bedroom? One of the first questions that probably comes to mind is, "How much is this going to cost?" While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we can look at averages and the key factors that influence the price. This will give you a solid foundation for budgeting and help you understand what goes into a professional painting quote. Let's talk numbers so you can plan your project with confidence.
A Look at the Averages
Nationally, the typical cost to paint a single room falls somewhere between $400 and $1,600, with the average homeowner spending around $1,100. Think of this as a helpful starting point. Why the wide range? The final price tag depends on several things, like the size of your room, the condition of the walls, and the quality of paint you choose. A small powder room will naturally cost less than a large living room with vaulted ceilings. These national averages provide a great baseline, but your specific project details will determine the final cost.
Breaking It Down by Square Foot
Another way to estimate your cost is by looking at the price per square foot. Generally, you can expect to pay between $2 and $10 per square foot for interior painting. This price usually includes both labor and materials, giving you a more comprehensive view of the investment. For 2025, some per-square-foot estimates are projected to be between $4.74 and $8.92. If you know the approximate square footage of the walls you want to paint (length x height), you can get a rough idea of the budget you’ll need for your project.
Labor vs. Materials: Where Your Money Goes
It might surprise you to learn that labor makes up the biggest part of a professional painting bill—typically 60% to 90% of the total cost. This is because a quality paint job is about so much more than just applying color to a wall. A professional crew invests significant time in preparation, which is the true secret to a flawless, long-lasting finish. This includes carefully moving furniture, protecting your floors, cleaning the walls, scraping old paint, sanding surfaces smooth, and priming. This meticulous prep work is what separates a DIY job from a truly professional residential painting project.
How Location Affects Your Price
Where you live plays a big role in what you'll pay. The cost of living, local wages, and business insurance rates mean that interior painting costs can vary significantly by location. For example, painting a room in California might average around $1,570, while the same job in Texas could be closer to $1,010. For us here in the greater Los Angeles area, prices tend to be on the higher end of the national average. This is why getting a detailed, local quote is the only way to know for sure what your specific project will cost.
What Determines Your Final Painting Cost?
When you receive a professional painting quote, you’re looking at more than just the price of a few gallons of paint. A detailed estimate reflects a careful calculation of several key factors that influence the time, skill, and materials needed to deliver a beautiful, long-lasting finish. Understanding these components helps you see exactly where your money is going and why a quality paint job is a worthwhile investment in your home. It’s the difference between a quick cover-up and a durable, stunning transformation that you’ll love for years.
The final cost is a blend of labor and materials, tailored specifically to your space. A professional painter considers everything from the basic dimensions of the room to the intricate prep work required to make your walls perfect. They’ll assess the current state of your surfaces, help you choose the right type of paint for your lifestyle, and account for any detailed work around trim or windows. Even the season you choose to paint can play a part. By breaking down these elements, you can approach your project with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect from the process and the final bill. We believe in transparency, so let’s walk through what shapes the cost of your paint job.
Room Size and Ceiling Height
The most straightforward factor is the size of the room. A larger room requires more paint and more time to complete. For example, painting a small 10x10 foot room is a much quicker job than tackling a spacious 16x16 foot living area. But it’s not just about square footage on the floor; ceiling height is just as important. Taller ceilings increase the total wall area and often require specialized equipment like taller ladders or scaffolding to be painted safely and effectively. A professional painter will measure the total paintable surface area to accurately calculate the materials and labor for your specific residential painting project.
The Condition of Your Walls
The starting condition of your walls has a major impact on the prep work required, which is a critical step for a flawless finish. If your walls have cracks, dings, or holes from old picture hangers, they’ll need to be patched, sanded, and primed before any paint is applied. This necessary drywall repair will add to the project's timeline and cost. Addressing other issues like peeling paint or water stains also adds to the labor involved. A smooth, properly prepared surface ensures the new paint adheres correctly and looks uniform, which is why professionals dedicate so much attention to this stage. You can see the difference it makes in our project portfolio.
Your Choice of Paint and Finish
The paint itself is a key part of your budget, with prices typically ranging from $20 to $70 per gallon depending on the brand and quality. While it might be tempting to choose a cheaper option, higher-quality paints offer better coverage, durability, and washability, often saving you money in the long run. The finish you select—such as matte, eggshell, or semi-gloss—also affects the price. Furthermore, different areas of your home have different needs; a moisture-resistant paint is ideal for bathrooms, while a durable, easy-to-clean option is perfect for high-traffic hallways. A professional can guide you through the best painting services and materials for each room.
Complex Details: Trim, Doors, and More
Painting a simple, square room is one thing, but most rooms have architectural details that require precision and a steady hand. Elements like crown molding, baseboards, window frames, and doors all add to the complexity and time of a project. This detailed work is often priced per linear foot, and intricate designs will require more time and skill to get clean, crisp lines. If you have built-in bookshelves, wainscoting, or other custom features, expect those to be factored into the labor cost as well. This is especially true for specialized jobs like cabinet painting, where meticulous prep and application are essential for a factory-like finish.
Does the Time of Year Matter?
Believe it or not, the season you choose to paint can influence the cost. The busiest times for painters are typically in the spring and summer when homeowners are getting their properties ready for warm weather. Because of this high demand, you might find more competitive pricing and flexible scheduling during the slower fall and winter months. While Los Angeles has a milder climate than other parts of the country, this general trend can still apply. Planning your project during the off-season is a smart way to potentially save some money. It’s a great time to connect with a company that is also invested in the community, like through our Paint-It-Forward program.
Breaking Down Paint and Supply Costs
When you look at a painting estimate, you’ll see it’s more than just the cost of paint. The final price includes a variety of materials and supplies that are essential for a durable, beautiful finish. Understanding what goes into this part of the budget helps you see the true value of a professional job and ensures there are no surprises along the way. Let’s walk through the key material costs you can expect.
How Different Paints Affect the Price
The paint itself is a major line item, and the type you choose matters. A gallon of quality paint can range from $20 to $70, but the price reflects more than just color. For most rooms, latex paint is a great, fast-drying option. However, for spaces that see a lot of moisture or wear and tear—like kitchens, bathrooms, and trim—an oil-based or high-durability acrylic paint is a better investment. It’s easier to clean and stands up to humidity, ensuring your walls look fresh for years. A professional painter can help you select the right finish and formula for each room, balancing cost with the long-term performance you need for your residential painting project.
The Must-Have Tools and Materials
A flawless paint job depends on meticulous prep work, which requires the right supplies. Beyond the brushes and rollers, a professional project includes a full kit of materials designed to protect your home and prepare the walls. This includes things like painter’s tape for crisp lines, drop cloths and paper to shield your floors and furniture, and high-quality primers to ensure even color adhesion. Job supplies also cover the essentials for minor surface repair, like spackle and sandpaper, plus cleaning agents to make sure the walls are perfectly prepped. When you hire a team like ALLBRiGHT, all of these items are accounted for, so you get a perfect finish without multiple trips to the hardware store.
When You Need Special Equipment
Some rooms present unique challenges that require more than just standard tools. Think of a living room with a vaulted two-story ceiling or a staircase with hard-to-reach angles. Safely and effectively painting these areas often requires special equipment like scaffolding, extension ladders, or even aerial lifts. For a perfectly smooth finish on doors or cabinets, professionals use high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayers that a typical DIYer doesn’t own. This specialized equipment is crucial for both safety and achieving a high-end, professional result, especially for detailed work like cabinet painting. Using the right tools for the job is a key part of what separates a professional outcome from an amateur one.
Don't Forget These Hidden Costs
The initial estimate for painting a room assumes the walls are in relatively good shape. However, sometimes underlying issues need to be addressed before a single drop of paint is applied. Significant drywall repair from cracks or holes can add to the project's scope and cost. Other factors that can influence the price include complex architectural details that require more time and precision, or the need for specialized primers to cover dark paint colors or stains. A thorough and transparent painter will identify these potential costs during your initial walkthrough, ensuring your final quote is comprehensive. This upfront approach prevents unexpected expenses and guarantees the final result is something you’ll be proud to show off in your home’s portfolio.
Hiring a Pro vs. Doing It Yourself: A Cost Breakdown
Deciding between hiring a professional painter and tackling the project yourself often comes down to one thing: cost. But the true cost isn't just about the price tag. It’s a balance of money, time, and the quality of the final result. Let's break down what you’re really paying for with each option so you can make the best choice for your home and your sanity.
What's Included in a Professional Quote?
When you receive a quote from a professional painter, you're investing in a full-service experience, not just a can of paint. A professional quote typically covers everything from meticulous prep work—like patching holes and sanding surfaces—to the final cleanup. It includes the cost of high-quality materials, the team's labor, and their expertise in achieving flawless results. Generally, you can expect to pay between $2 to $6 per square foot for interior painting. This price reflects a worry-free process where every detail is managed for you, ensuring the job is done right the first time without you having to lift a finger.
The Real Cost of DIY Supplies
Going the DIY route might seem cheaper upfront, but the costs can add up quickly. You’ll need to budget around $200 to $300 just for supplies like brushes, rollers, painter's tape, drop cloths, and trays. Then there's the paint itself, which can run from $50 to $70 per gallon for good quality paint. Since one gallon typically covers about 400 square feet with a single coat, and most rooms need two coats for a rich, even finish, you can see how the expenses extend beyond a single can. A detailed cost calculator can help you map out these expenses before you start.
The Value of Your Time and Effort
Your time is valuable, and a DIY paint job requires a lot of it. Between clearing the room, prepping the walls, painting, and cleaning up, a single room can easily consume an entire weekend—or more. A professional crew, on the other hand, can often complete a standard-sized room in just one to two days. Think about what you could do with that reclaimed time. For many busy homeowners, the convenience of handing the project over to a trusted team is worth the investment, allowing them to enjoy their refreshed space without the stress and mess of doing it themselves.
The Difference in Quality and Guarantees
There’s a certain satisfaction in completing a project yourself, but achieving a professional-grade finish is tough. Pros have the steady hands and techniques to create crisp, clean lines and perfectly even coats. They also know which products work best for long-lasting results. More importantly, a reputable company like ALLBRiGHT stands behind its work, offering a guarantee that protects your investment. This peace of mind is something a DIY project simply can't offer. You can see the difference that expert touch makes in our online portfolio of completed projects.
How to Plan Your Painting Budget
Creating a budget for your painting project is the first step toward a smooth and stress-free transformation. It’s not just about figuring out a number; it’s about building a clear plan that prevents surprises and ensures you get the beautiful, lasting results you want. A well-thought-out budget empowers you to make confident decisions, whether you’re comparing paint swatches or professional quotes. It helps you understand exactly where your money is going, from the cost of high-quality paint to the value of expert labor.
Think of your budget as the roadmap for your project, guiding you from the initial color consultation to the final walkthrough. For homeowners who value quality and peace of mind, a detailed budget is non-negotiable. It’s the difference between a project that feels chaotic and one that feels managed, professional, and even enjoyable. By taking the time to plan, you can account for all the variables—the size of your room, the condition of your walls, and the specific materials needed to achieve a flawless finish. This foresight helps you avoid the common pitfalls of underestimating costs or overlooking crucial prep work. With a solid plan, you can see how every dollar contributes to a stunning final result, like those in our portfolio, and move forward with the confidence that you’re making a smart investment in your home.
Step 1: Measure Your Room Correctly
Before you can estimate costs, you need to know exactly what you’re working with. Getting accurate measurements is the foundation of a reliable budget. Start by measuring the length of each wall in the room and adding those numbers together to get the total perimeter. Next, measure the height of your walls, from the floor to the ceiling. To find your total wall square footage, simply multiply the perimeter by the height. This number is what you or your painting contractor will use to calculate everything from the amount of paint needed to the time required for the job. Don’t forget to measure doors and windows separately if you plan to paint the trim a different color.
Step 2: Calculate How Much Paint You Need
Once you have your square footage, you can figure out how much paint to buy. A good rule of thumb is that one gallon of paint covers about 350 to 400 square feet. To determine how many gallons you’ll need for a single coat, divide your total wall square footage by 400. Since a professional, even finish almost always requires two coats, you’ll want to multiply that number by two. For example, if your room is 400 square feet, you’ll need one gallon for the first coat and another for the second. Buying the right amount upfront prevents last-minute store runs and ensures your color is consistent across the entire project.
Step 3: Get Accurate, Detailed Quotes
When you’re ready to hire a professional, getting written quotes is essential. Don’t just settle for a single number scribbled on a business card. A trustworthy quote from a residential painting expert will be detailed and transparent, breaking down the costs for labor, materials, prep work, and cleanup. This level of detail allows you to compare different painters fairly and understand exactly what’s included in the price. It also serves as a record of the agreed-upon scope of work, protecting both you and the contractor. A professional company will always be happy to walk you through their estimate and answer any questions you have.
Budgeting Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common budgeting mistakes is overlooking the "hidden" costs of a painting project. It’s easy to focus on the price of paint, but other expenses can add up quickly. Many people forget to factor in essentials like high-quality primer, painter’s tape, drop cloths, and rollers. More importantly, they often underestimate the cost of necessary surface repairs, such as patching holes or fixing cracks in the drywall. A professional quote will account for this prep work, but if you’re creating a DIY budget, be sure to inspect your walls carefully and plan for these potential costs. Ignoring them can compromise the quality and longevity of your new paint job.
Why You Need a Contingency Fund
No matter how carefully you plan, home improvement projects can sometimes reveal unexpected issues. That’s why setting aside a contingency fund is always a smart move. This is a buffer—typically 10% to 15% of your total project cost—reserved for unforeseen expenses. For a painting project, this could cover anything from discovering hidden water damage behind a baseboard to realizing a textured wall needs more extensive prep work than you thought. Having this fund in place provides peace of mind, ensuring that surprises don’t derail your project or force you to cut corners. It allows you to address issues correctly with services like waterproofing and construction for a truly lasting result.
How to Save Money on Your Painting Project
Getting a beautiful, professional paint job doesn't have to break the bank. With a little planning, you can make smart decisions that add up to significant savings without ever compromising on the quality of the final result. It’s all about being strategic—from choosing the right time of year to working with your painting team to find cost-effective solutions. Think of it as a partnership. A great painter wants you to feel good about your investment, and that includes the price.
We believe in transparency and helping you get the most value for your home. These tips are designed to help you understand where your money goes and how you can be an informed, savvy homeowner throughout the process. Whether you’re hands-on or prefer to leave everything to the pros, there are ways to make your budget work harder for you. Let’s walk through a few practical steps you can take to save money on your next residential painting project.
Choose the Right Time to Paint
One of the easiest ways to save is by scheduling your project during the off-season. Painters are busiest in the spring and summer when everyone is inspired by the sunny weather to refresh their homes. Because demand is lower in the fall and winter, you’ll often find more flexible scheduling and better rates. By booking your project during these slower months, you not only get a great price but also the undivided attention of your painting crew. It’s a simple switch that can have a big impact on your overall cost.
Select Your Paint Wisely
It might seem counterintuitive, but spending a bit more on high-quality paint can actually save you money. Premium paints offer better coverage, which often means our team needs to apply fewer coats. This directly translates to lower labor costs—and less time spent on your project. Higher-quality paint is also more durable, so it will resist scuffs, stains, and fading for years to come. This means you won’t have to repaint as soon, making it a smarter long-term investment in your home.
Do Some of the Prep Work Yourself
If you don’t mind a little hands-on work, tackling some of the prep yourself is a fantastic way to lower labor costs. Simple tasks like moving furniture away from the walls, taking down photos and curtains, and removing outlet covers can save your painting team valuable time. If you’re comfortable doing so, you could even handle minor wall prep like filling small nail holes or light sanding. Just be sure to discuss this with your painter beforehand to ensure your efforts align with their professional process.
Partner with Your Painter for Savings
Don’t hesitate to talk to your painting contractor about your budget. Professional painters often have access to contractor discounts on paint and supplies that aren’t available to the general public. By having your painter purchase the materials, you could benefit from their discount, which can be as much as 20% to 40% off retail prices. This simple conversation can lead to hundreds of dollars in savings on materials alone. At ALLBRiGHT, we see ourselves as your partners and are always happy to find ways to deliver painting happiness.
Ask About Painter Discounts and Deals
Beyond off-season scheduling, it never hurts to simply ask if there are any current promotions or deals available. Sometimes, a painting company might have a gap in their schedule they’re looking to fill or may be running a special for a limited time. You might also find discounts for booking multiple rooms or combining services, like interior painting with cabinet refinishing. Being direct and asking the question is a straightforward way to ensure you’re getting the best possible value for your project.
What to Expect from a Professional Painter
Hiring a professional painter is about more than just getting color on your walls—it's about investing in a smooth, worry-free experience that leaves you with a beautiful, lasting result. When you partner with a true professional, you’re not just paying for labor; you’re paying for expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind. While hourly rates can vary depending on the job's complexity, a reputable company will provide a clear, comprehensive plan from the start, so you know exactly what you're getting.
The process should feel collaborative and transparent. Your painter should act as a guide, helping you understand every step from the initial prep work to the final walkthrough. They’ll protect your furniture, respect your home, and communicate clearly about their daily progress. This level of service is what separates a handyman with a paintbrush from a dedicated team of residential painting experts. A professional ensures the job is done right the first time, saving you from the headaches and hidden costs of a poorly executed project. They bring the right tools, use high-quality materials, and have the skill to handle tricky areas like high ceilings, intricate trim, and textured walls, delivering a crisp, clean finish that DIY projects often miss.
How to Read a Painting Estimate
A painting estimate should be a detailed roadmap, not just a number on a piece of paper. When you receive one, look past the final price and check for a clear breakdown of costs. It should specify the exact areas to be painted, the type and brand of paint to be used, the number of coats included, and a thorough description of the prep work involved—like patching holes, sanding, and priming. It’s always a good idea to get several estimates from different contractors to compare. A vague or confusing estimate is often a red flag, while a detailed one shows that the company is thorough and transparent.
Key Questions to Ask Your Painter
Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s important to feel confident in the team you’re hiring. Don’t be shy about asking questions to ensure they’re the right fit for your home and your standards. A professional will welcome your questions and provide clear answers. Always start by confirming they are licensed and insured. Then, ask about the crew who will be in your home, the projected timeline, and how they plan to protect your floors and furniture. Most importantly, make sure you get written quotes before making any commitments. This simple step ensures everyone is on the same page from day one.
What to Look for in a Contract
Once you’ve chosen your painter, the estimate will be formalized into a contract. This is the official agreement, so read it carefully. It should contain everything from the estimate but in greater detail. Look for a complete scope of work, a list of specific materials (including paint colors and finishes), a start and end date, and a clear payment schedule. The contract protects both you and the painter by setting clear expectations. It transforms the initial plan into a firm commitment, ensuring there are no surprises about the work to be done or the final cost.
Clarify Payment Terms and Schedules
Understanding how and when you’ll pay is crucial for budgeting your project. Painters may charge a flat rate for the entire job or bill by the day. While some charge between $330 to $605 per day, most professional companies prefer a flat-rate price so you know the total cost upfront. A typical payment schedule involves a deposit to secure your booking (usually 10% to 25%), possible progress payments for larger projects, and a final payment only after you’ve done a walkthrough and are completely satisfied with the work. A professional painter will always be upfront about these terms.
How to Handle Unexpected Costs
Even the most carefully planned painting project can have a few surprises. You might discover a hidden crack behind a bookshelf or realize the old, dark paint color is more stubborn than you thought. While a professional painter will do their best to anticipate these issues in your initial quote, it’s always smart to have a little wiggle room in your budget. Think of it as a small contingency fund for the unexpected. Being prepared for these potential costs helps ensure the project stays on track and on budget, without any last-minute stress. A transparent painter will always discuss these findings with you before adding to the cost, so you’re never in the dark.
The Cost of Wall Repairs
For a truly beautiful paint job, you need a smooth canvas. Paint doesn’t hide imperfections; it often highlights them. If your walls have dings from moving furniture, nail holes from old pictures, or stress cracks, they’ll need to be repaired before any painting begins. The cost for professional drywall repair can vary based on the extent of the damage, but it’s a crucial step for a flawless finish. At ALLBRiGHT, our comprehensive residential painting services always include meticulous prep work because we know that the final result is only as good as the surface underneath.
When You'll Need More Than One Coat
Are you dreaming of changing a dark accent wall to a light, airy neutral? Be prepared for extra coats of paint. Covering a dark or vibrant color with a lighter one often requires a primer plus two or more topcoats to achieve full, even coverage without the old shade peeking through. Each additional coat adds to both the material and labor costs of your project. While using high-quality paint can improve coverage, it’s wise to plan for this possibility, especially during a dramatic color transformation. A professional can advise you on the best approach to get the look you want efficiently.
Protecting Your Furniture and Floors
A professional paint job shouldn’t leave a mess behind. A significant part of the work happens before a can of paint is even opened. This includes carefully moving furniture, covering it and your floors with protective plastic and drop cloths, and taping off all trim, windows, and outlets. This meticulous preparation process is factored into the labor costs of a professional quote. It’s what separates a clean, sharp finish from a messy one, and it’s a non-negotiable part of our commitment to leaving your home looking better than we found it.
Planning for Final Touch-Ups
While labor makes up the bulk of a painting estimate, the cost of paint and materials is still a key factor. Generally, you can expect paint and supplies to account for about 10% to 15% of the total project cost. A professional painter will calculate the right amount of paint needed, but it’s always a great idea to have a small amount left over for future touch-ups. Life happens, and having the exact color on hand to fix a small scuff or scratch will keep your walls looking fresh for years. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in maintaining that beautiful, just-painted look you’ll see in our portfolio.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does labor cost so much more than the actual paint? It’s easy to think of a paint job as just the cost of the paint, but the real secret to a beautiful, lasting finish is in the preparation. Labor accounts for the majority of the cost because it covers the meticulous work that happens before a brush even touches the wall. This includes protecting your furniture and floors, cleaning the walls, patching any holes or cracks, sanding surfaces smooth, and applying primer. This detailed prep work is what ensures the paint goes on flawlessly and stands the test of time.
Can I save money by buying the paint myself? While it might seem like a good way to cut costs, you can often get a better value by letting your painter handle the materials. Professional painting companies typically have long-standing relationships with suppliers and receive contractor discounts that aren't available to the public. They can pass these savings on to you. Plus, they know exactly which products and finishes will perform best for your specific space, ensuring you get a durable result without the guesswork.
How long does it actually take for a professional to paint one room? The timeline can vary depending on the room's size and the amount of prep work needed, but a professional crew is incredibly efficient. For a standard-sized room, you can generally expect the project to be completed in just one to two days. This includes all the prep, painting, and cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your newly refreshed space much faster than if you were to tackle it over a weekend yourself.
Is it really worth paying more for a premium paint? Absolutely. While the upfront cost is higher, premium paint saves you money in the long run. Higher-quality paints provide better coverage, which often means fewer coats are needed to get a rich, even color. This can reduce the amount of labor required for the job. These paints are also far more durable, standing up better to scuffs and cleaning, which means you won’t have to repaint nearly as soon.
What’s the difference between a painting estimate and a contract? Think of an estimate as the detailed proposal for your project. It should break down the scope of work, the materials to be used, and the costs for labor and supplies. A contract is the formal, legally binding agreement that you sign once you’ve decided to move forward. It solidifies all the details from the estimate—like the payment schedule and project timeline—into a firm commitment, protecting both you and the painter by ensuring everyone is on the same page.