Tired of Touch-Ups? These 9 Paint Colors Are Forgiving and Designer-Approved

The selection of paint colors for interior spaces often leans towards safe and conventional choices, yet a growing trend among designers highlights the transformative power of 'good weird' hues. These unconventional colors are capable of injecting vitality, surprise, and playfulness into a room, and can even alter the perception of its dimensions. Ryan Brooke Thomas, founder of Kalos Eidos, defines 'weirdness' in this context not as quirky or loud, but as mysterious and unique, qualities conveyed through nuanced tones and their interaction with broader material palettes. Designers share their experiences with several such 'weird' paint colors. Kristina Khersonsky of Studio Keeta, for instance, chose "The Natural Habitat" by Backdrop, a pale avocado green, for a kitchen. This choice harmoniously blended with existing cobalt blue backsplash tiles and dark walnut butcher block countertops, while still standing out playfully without being overpowering. Margaret Cashman of Cashman Interiors utilized "Copper Clay" by Benjamin Moore for a ceiling, demonstrating how an orange hue, often polarizing, can introduce warmth without detracting from high-rise views. Applying it to the ceiling, paired with clean white walls, created an unexpected visual twist, allowing the vibrant orange to become a focal point. Hema Persad of Sagrada Studio embraced "Little Black Dress" by Behr Paint for her entire dining room, including the ceilings. While black is often avoided for fear of making a space seem small and dark, Persad found it created a cozy ambiance and a limitless feel, making the ceiling appear taller by obscuring its boundaries. Nicole Lanteri of Nicole Lanteri Design used "New Lime" by Benjamin Moore in her Washington, DC, kitchen and living room. Starting with black-and-white terrazzo tile floors, she introduced a vibrant lemon-lime neon for lower cabinets, creating a fresh juxtaposition. Later, she extended this color to the living room fireplace, proving its ability to add a sharp, fun contrast against moodier tones and consistently deliver delight. Emma Beryl of Emma Beryl Interiors opted for "Negroni" by Backdrop, a bright red, in a powder room. This bold choice, paired with a dark tropical wallpaper, created a fun and moody atmosphere, demonstrating the freedom to experiment with color in smaller, less frequently used spaces. Kristine Renee and Deborah Costa of Design Alchemy praised "Bamboozle" by Farrow & Ball, a punchy red that commands attention. They used it on windows, doors, and a built-in bar, finding its name perfectly captured its vibrant and attention-grabbing effect. Ryan Brooke Thomas, from Kalos Eidos, selected "Refined Green" by Dunn-Edwards for a kitchen. This unusual ocean-blue-green tone, when placed alongside black elements, offered a pop of color while maintaining visual anchor and adding depth. Leah Ring of Another Human chose "14 Carrots" by Benjamin Moore for a dining room, fulfilling a client's desire for a bold and vibrant space. She balanced the bright orange walls with elegant cornflower blue curtains, creating a cohesive yet lively palette. Lastly, Sarah Stacey of Sarah Stacey Interior Design incorporated "Auric" by Sherwin-Williams on the ceiling of a west-facing sitting room in a Texas hotel. This golden hue complemented a red marbled wallpaper, washing the room in rich tones and evoking a permanent 'golden hour' feel, despite initial comparisons to mustard. These examples illustrate that bold and unconventional paint choices can significantly enhance interior spaces, creating unique atmospheres and challenging traditional design norms. #Decorating #HomeDecorIdeas #DIYHomeDecor #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #UnconventionalColors #DesignTrends #LivingRoom #KitchenDesign

The article explores the challenges of selecting neutral paint colors from the vast array of available shades, including whites, beiges, greiges, and creams. To simplify this decision-making process for readers, it compiles recommendations from interior designers regarding their preferred neutral paint shades. The designers' insights highlight how certain neutral paints are consistently chosen for their versatility and ability to adapt to various lighting conditions and design aesthetics. Benjamin Moore's 'Chantilly Lace' is highlighted as a top choice. Designer Lee Broom selected this shade for a neutral living room to create a clean backdrop that emphasizes furniture and textures, primarily in ivory and beige. He notes that the paint appears warmer in the evening due to strategic lighting. Nureed Saeed of Nu Interiors also advocates for 'Chantilly Lace' for its bright yet warm qualities, using it across walls, trim, and ceilings for a cohesive feel in both her New Jersey and California homes. Backdrop's 'Morning Ritual' is presented by interior designer Alana Marie as an adaptable shade for bedrooms. Its warm, light gray-beige tones can subtly shift towards taupe or lavender, depending on the room's light. Marie suggests pairing it with cooler tones like taupe and blue, and incorporating antiques to introduce warmth and character. Sherwin Williams' 'Alabaster' is another designer-approved off-white paint known for its coziness. Shannon Mann of Mann Designs Studios chose this color for its ability to be both crisp and warm under different lighting. Its subtle creamy undertones make it suitable for darker days, enhancing a cocooning effect. The color complements light caramel tones in French oak floors and provides a sophisticated neutral backdrop for art. Benjamin Moore's 'Pale Oak' is recommended by Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors for its balanced warm and cool undertones, making it an ideal backdrop for furniture, decor, and architectural features. An example given is its use in a bathroom, where it balances bright white marble countertops and mirrors with warmer wood cabinet tones. Farrow & Ball's 'Shaded White' is suggested for those seeking a warmer, sandy off-white with yellow undertones, particularly suitable for fall and winter. Designer Christine Lemieux considers it a favorite for its warming qualities. Benjamin Moore's 'White Dove' is a frequent choice for interior designer Bethany Adams, who uses it for white trim or neutral white walls in almost every project. She praises its balanced hue, being neither too yellow, gray, nor stark. Sarah Brady of Salt Design Company also endorses 'White Dove' for its soft, warm undertones, describing it as light yet deep, lending a sophisticated and timeless feel that pairs well with natural stone, wood, and modern finishes. Benjamin Moore's 'Titanium' is another versatile option, favored by Bethany Adams for its chameleon-like quality, appearing gray, green, or blue depending on adjacent colors and light conditions. It performs well in various settings, from dimly lit basements to brightly lit sunrooms. For a gray-toned neutral, Lauren Sullivan of Well x Design recommends Sherwin Williams' 'Drift of Mist', particularly for its warm and inviting off-white with a hint of gray. She uses it to balance intense warm evening sun in her home, often in a custom-tinted limewash plaster. Finally, Benjamin Moore's 'Horizon' is suggested by Matthew Rauch of Rauch Architecture. This warm, milky blue-green gray is noted for its subtle green tinge in certain lights, reflecting light effectively without clashing with other design elements. It creates a calming gray that changes throughout the day, offering a golden glow in the mornings and a soft backdrop in the evenings, making any room feel cozier. Rauch also suggests color drenching, painting ceilings the same color as walls, to create a subtle, muted scheme and make the ceiling feel less imposing. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of considering factors like room size, sunlight, and intended purpose when choosing neutral paint colors. #InteriorDesign #NeutralPaintColors #HomeDecor #PaintShades #DesignTips #ColorSchemes #BenjaminMoore #SherwinWilliams #FarrowAndBall

Color is a powerful tool in interior design, capable of transforming a space into a harmonious and stylish haven. While color trends fluctuate, certain shades remain timeless due to their inherent versatility and ability to elevate any room. This exploration delves into seven such paint colors, endorsed by design experts for their enduring appeal and ease of use. Dark gray, often perceived as a dramatic choice, has become a classic statement color. Its deep tone contrasts beautifully with white and complements blonde wood flooring, introducing a gentle warmth. Farrow & Ball's 'Down Pipe' is highlighted as a particularly versatile dark gray, pairing well with muted pinks, ochre yellows, and neutrals with green undertones. It seamlessly integrates into both modern and traditional settings, offering a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic, especially when combined with 'Bone' on woodwork and 'Slipper Satin' on ceilings, and accented with warm elements like tobacco and caramel shades or burnished brass sconces. Lavender, an often-underused shade, offers surprising versatility. It brightens dark areas and harmonizes effectively with various other colors. Mylands' CEO, Dominic Myland, notes its calming and relaxing qualities, making it ideal for creating serene living spaces. Lavender's pastel nature allows it to function as a contemporary neutral, expanding the traditional definition of neutrals beyond creams and taupes to include subtle, barely-there color tones. Stone represents a reliably warming neutral, capable of instantly making a cool, north-facing room feel cozier and adding a grounding element. Annie Sloan CBE emphasizes that neutrals, by their nature, are easy to work with. Her 'Canvas' shade, a warm neutral beige-white, provides an excellent backdrop for additional color accents, as demonstrated in a charming bathroom setting where it pairs with an olive-painted tub. When stark white feels too clinical, off-white, cream, or a subtle gray offers a softer alternative. Jenny Weiss of Hill House Interiors advises against bright white for ceilings and architraves to maintain a harmonious palette. She recommends Little Greene's 'Slaked Lime' collection for its range of neutral tones, suggesting a blend of its lightest shade for ceilings, the second tone for architraves and skirting, and richer tones for walls to achieve a seamless and sophisticated color scheme. Sky blue brings an uplifting and cheerful ambiance, particularly effective in kitchens where it reflects light beautifully. Christina Bull of Sims Hilditch advocates for a soft neutral base palette, with sky blue being a strong contender due to its ability to create an 'all-round' option. Inspired by natural surroundings, sky blue can be paired with greens, blush pinks, and burnt oranges to evoke a sense of the British countryside, with Benjamin Moore's 'Serenata AF-535' offering a comparable elegant shade. White maintains its status as a versatile and easy-to-use paint color due to its numerous benefits. It allows other colors and design elements to shine, acting as a perfect backdrop. Elle Cantrell of Elle Du Monde suggests using the same white for both walls and trim to let paneling recede, focusing attention on furnishings and textures. Her choice, Sherwin Williams' 'Zurich White SW 7626', is a bright white with a subtle violet undertone. Green, a naturally easy-going color, is universally adaptable across various rooms, from hallways to bedrooms. Ruth Mottershead of Little Greene highlights green's balance of warm and cool tones, making it suitable for different lighting conditions. It pairs effectively with earthy tones, creams, stones, and even richer colors like browns and blacks. The choice of green shade depends on the desired atmosphere, with vivid greens for energetic spaces and earthy shades like 'Sage Green' for serene environments. #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #ColorVersatility #HomeDecoration #DesignerTips #NeutralPalettes #ColorTrends

This article discusses the top nine interior paint colors, emphasizing a shift towards natural and warmer tones as influenced by interior designers and color experts. The COVID-19 pandemic has notably shaped preferences, with a growing desire for comforting, softened palettes over stark whites. Earthy Terra-Cotta is highlighted as a returning trend, bringing deep browns and soft earthy tones back into popularity. Jen Guerin, a color and interior designer, notes that this palette offers a "huge hug" to interiors, moving away from all-white schemes. Dunn Edwards' "Arts and Crafts" is cited as an example, described as a rich terra color that blends a '70s throwback with modern softness. For a blush-infused glow, Backdrop's "36 Hours in Marrakesh" is recommended. Despite the trend towards warmer colors, cool tones like Periwinkle continue to emerge, particularly following Pantone's "Veri Peri" color of the year. Guerin points out that periwinkle and similar '70s-inspired hues complement modern earth tones. Benjamin Moore's "Stratford Blue" and "Fair Isle Blue" are suggested as suitable periwinkle options. Lemon Yellow is also making a comeback. Guerin advises using yellow in less permanent areas like front doors, bath vanities, or furniture for color-shy individuals. For those feeling bolder, guest rooms, mudrooms, or entryways are suggested as spaces to experiment with vibrant colors, with Farrow & Ball's "Citron" being a favored choice. Mellow olive greens are presented as a popular alternative to the traditional "greige." Geoff Sharp, president of Sharper Impressions Painting, recommends PPG Paints' "Olive Sprig" for its modern appeal in home offices or living rooms, offering more depth than previous neutral trends. Benjamin Moore's "Aegean Olive" is mentioned for a deeper green option. Black is identified as a power color for 2022, capable of making furniture, cabinetry, ceilings, or accent walls stand out. Sharp suggests PPG Paints' "Onyx" for its stone-colored undertone, noting its popularity for kitchen cabinetry. Anna Franklin, an interior designer, prefers Benjamin Moore's "Black Panther" for its bold yet soft quality, often paired with white or cream walls and gold hardware. The article notes a decline in super-stark whites in favor of Cream, particularly whites with warmer undertones. Interior designer Jil Sonia recommends Sherwin-Williams' "Alabaster" for its versatility with various flooring and its comforting feel. Benjamin Moore's "White Dove" is also suggested for those seeking a warmer alternative to "Simply White," aligning with the growing "quiet luxury" trend. Bolder and darker greens remain fashionable, but a transition towards more natural and earthy blues and greens is observed. Sue Wadden, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams, highlights "Evergreen Fog" and "Rainwashed" as examples of these evolving green hues, which are increasingly being treated as neutrals. The article cautions against using too many shallow neutrals, which can be a common paint color mistake. Finally, Bold Red, specifically Benjamin Moore's "Wild Flower," is offered as a vibrant contrast to the mellow earth tones. Inspired by gardens, this red features pink and orange undertones and pairs well with subdued creams, gray-blues, or navy colors, providing a dynamic yet complementary element to interior schemes. The article emphasizes that homeowners are moving away from cool-toned grays and whites, embracing more vibrant and comforting hues that reflect a desire for nature-inspired and personalized living spaces. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #EarthyTones #ColorTrends #InteriorStyling #HomeImprovement #DecoratingTips #PaintSelection

Corey Damen Jenkins, an ELLE Décor A-List designer known for his layered interiors that blend vivid colors and patterns, emphasizes that successfully mixing colors is a complex endeavor, akin to cooking a meal. Jenkins recently curated a vibrant palette for Benjamin Moore, featuring rich emerald, soft pale pink, spicy raspberry, deep noir, warm white, and electric aquamarine. His primary advice for homeowners considering bold paint colors is to select paint colors last in the design process. He argues that there are extensive choices in paint colors, unlike rugs, furnishings, or fabrics for sofas and window treatments. Therefore, it is more effective to invest in significant anchor pieces first and then choose a paint shade that harmonizes with existing elements. When developing a color scheme, Jenkins recommends identifying a "tie that binds"—a wallcovering, rug, or patterned fabric that encapsulates the various colors intended for the space. Once this central element is established, other hues and finishes can be chosen to complement it. He also suggests looking to one's wardrobe for color inspiration, noting that people are often comfortable with colors they wear and may be more open to incorporating similar shades into their homes. For those hesitant about bold paint, accents and accessories offer a subtle way to introduce vibrant colors. Nature serves as another valuable source of inspiration for color combinations. Jenkins points to natural pairings found in flowers or bird's wings as evidence that seemingly disparate colors can coexist harmoniously. To ensure a colorful room remains timeless, Jenkins advises studying historical color palettes from ancient civilizations, as certain colors, such as jewel tones, consistently appear throughout history, suggesting a cyclical nature of fashion and design that avoids a completely neutral aesthetic. Understanding how natural light interacts with a room is crucial. Jenkins suggests embracing the room's inherent lighting conditions: dark rooms can be made "sexy and smoldering" with rich, deep colors, while well-lit rooms can be amplified with vibrant, joyful hues. He cautions against using bright colors to overcompensate for a lack of natural light, as this can create an overwhelming effect. For accent walls, Jenkins stresses the importance of making a deliberate statement rather than simply adding color for color's sake. An accent wall should draw attention to a specific feature, such as a bed in a bedroom. He also recommends framing accent walls with molding to create a more custom and sophisticated look, resembling a mural. Finally, if a homeowner is determined to start with a specific bold paint color, Jenkins advises full commitment. This can involve either matching all furnishings and accessories to the chosen color, creating a monochromatic effect, or using contrasting colors to achieve a color-blocked design. In either approach, a decisive commitment to the chosen palette is essential for a cohesive and impactful result. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #ColorPsychology #DesignTips #BenjaminMoore #CoreyDamenJenkins #ColorPalette

This article highlights 19 popular paint colors favored by Dallas-based interior designers, categorized into blues, greens, whites, and new neutrals. The selections offer a diverse palette for various home decor styles, ranging from vibrant accents to subtle backdrops, and include suggestions on how to effectively use each shade within a living space. The blue paint selections offer a spectrum from light and airy to deep and saturated. "Breath of Fresh Air" by Benjamin Moore, a pale blue, is recommended for ceilings, especially in sunrooms or porches, and is often blended with white for a softer effect. "2030-B" by Fine Paints of Europe, a baby blue lacquer, is praised for its flawless shine and elegant drama. "Uncertain Gray" by Sherwin-Williams is presented as a versatile middle ground between gray and blue, suitable for entire rooms or accents, and pairs well with brass, whites, or unexpected colors like coral. "Commodore" by Sherwin-Williams, a rich, nearly violet blue, is described as a conversation starter that pops when combined with whites and neutrals. Finally, "Silver Mink" by Benjamin Moore is a reliable blend of blue and gray/silver, ideal for painting an entire room, including walls, trim, and casings, without being overwhelming. For green hues, the article showcases choices that range from bright and playful to deep and sophisticated. "Grassy Fields" by Benjamin Moore is a saturated, bright green suggested as a perfect accent, particularly for lacquering the back of bookshelves. "Hardware" by Sherwin-Williams is a muted green with gray undertones, offering a sophisticated yet playful vibe, often used in powder baths for an unexpected focal point. "Black Forest Green" by Benjamin Moore is a deep forest green that can appear almost black and is recommended for outdoor use like planters and fences, though it can also be dramatic indoors. "Key Largo Green" by Benjamin Moore, a deep blue-green, is highlighted for creating drama in indoor spaces like home bars or for a tone-on-tone room aesthetic. "Turquoise Mist" by Benjamin Moore, a green-blue, is noted for its celestial and airy quality, suitable for bedrooms and can be paired with greens, soft pinks, or raspberry tones. "Aganthus Green" by Benjamin Moore provides just enough color without being overly trendy, making it suitable for cabinetry, millwork, and bathroom vanities, and pairs well with browns, soft pinks, and antique oil paintings. In the realm of white paints, "White Dove" by Benjamin Moore is a highly versatile option, used widely in any finish as a true white that isn't too stark. "Chantilly Lace" by Benjamin Moore, described as evocative of fresh cotton, is ideal for contemporary spaces and as a backdrop for art, making every room feel like a gallery. "High Reflective White" by Sherwin-Williams is a flexible pure white that pairs well with the entire color wheel without altering accent colors, making it perfect for baseboards, trim, and ceilings. For those seeking alternatives to stark white, the article provides a selection of new neutral paint colors. "Navajo White" by Benjamin Moore is a buttery white that offers warmth, suitable for softer furnishings and antiques when a bright white is too harsh. "Alaskan Skies" by Benjamin Moore provides a lightness of white with the depth of taupe, described as beautiful and soothing. "Briarwood" by Benjamin Moore, a warm and moody neutral, fits both traditional and contemporary settings, recommended for libraries, master bedrooms, and dining rooms seeking glamour. "Dimity" by Farrow & Ball, a pale and subdued taupe, is praised as a chameleon color that subtly changes from room to room, offering a calming effect at night and vibrancy in daylight. Finally, "Dusty Trail" by Benjamin Moore, a peachy beige, serves as a contemporary neutral with vintage undertones, often used in a high-gloss lacquer in unexpected places, such as a ceiling, to create a glow. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #DallasDesigners #ColorPalette #DesignTips #BenjaminMoore #SherwinWilliams #FarrowAndBall

The article explores how to use paint to infuse personality and depth into a home by showcasing six expert-approved color combinations. Paint is presented as an accessible and affordable method for transforming living spaces, moving beyond the traditional single-color-per-room approach to create layered, curated, and chic interiors. The focus is on how specific color pairings can establish unique moods and energies, striking a balance between sophistication and surprise. Six interior designers share their preferred paint duos and explain the intentionality behind their choices. Beth Diana Smith highlights the pairing of olive green and classic tan, using Benjamin Moore’s Rosepine and Seasalt to bring richness, depth, warmth, and natural grounding, creating a sophisticated yet homey atmosphere. Justina Blakeney, known for her vibrant use of color, advocates for shades in the red-orange-coral spectrum. She recommends Benjamin Moore’s Golden Gate and Fiery Opal, which together radiate warmth, joy, and the impression of perpetual golden hour, blending seamlessly due to their similar hues. Kathryn Murphy suggests looking to complementary colors on the color wheel for effective pairings. She particularly favors deep burgundy tones accented with gold. An example provided is a living room with a rich burgundy ceiling paired with gold wallpaper, achieving a warm, luxurious, and inviting ambiance suitable for cooler seasons. Kelsey Grose expresses her current obsession with steely blues and warm, umber-toned reds. She illustrates this with a half-bath featuring an umber-painted window and door frame alongside muted blue/green wallpaper, recommending Benjamin Moore’s Dark Nut Brown for its depth, neutrality, and evocative color. Amanda Jacobs gravitates towards bold plum set against soft, light green. In one project, she used a deep plum in a hallway to create a striking contrast with a sage kitchen, resulting in a vibrant yet grounded, warm, and natural feel reminiscent of autumn leaves. Lastly, Alexandra Azat discusses monochromatic color-blocking by combining colors that share a similar base hue but differ in tone, depth, and temperature. For a vintage-inspired children's room, she paired Farrow and Ball’s Churlish Green and Yeabridge Green, creating a harmonious yet contrasting effect that is both playful and elegant. These designer insights underscore the transformative power of color combinations in interior design, providing practical guidance for homeowners seeking to personalize their spaces with thoughtful and impactful paint choices. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #ColorCombinations #FallTrends #DesignerTips #DecoratingIdeas #HomeImprovement

COAT, a luxury paint brand, has introduced 19 new paint shades designed to harmonize with the UK's cool-toned, diffused natural light. This collection aims to simplify the decision-making process for homeowners looking for paint colors that offer both longevity and versatility, moving beyond fleeting trends to provide timeless tones that enhance various living spaces. The new range also reintroduces 11 bestselling shades, all centered around muted classic hues intended to work seamlessly with the unique lighting conditions prevalent in UK homes. Rob Abrahams, co-founder of COAT Paints, emphasizes the brand's philosophy of creating colors that remain appealing for years, rather than succumbing to temporary trends. The focus is on tones that elevate spaces and integrate well with natural light and existing UK architectural styles. This approach caters to a broad range of interior design preferences, from dopamine decor to maximalism, as the less saturated shades are formulated to perform effectively across different home aesthetics. Among the new offerings are deeper warm tones such as 'Arctic Roll' and 'Piglet,' alongside contrasting options like 'Brasserie Brown' and 'Rocky.' Each shade is meticulously developed to transcend current trends, providing an effortless yet sophisticated enhancement to any room. Abrahams explains that highly saturated colors can often feel overwhelming and their appeal can diminish quickly. Therefore, COAT champions earthy, muted shades that feel natural and grounded. These warm tones are subtly balanced with a hint of black, ensuring their harmonious interaction with the UK's blue-grey light. This careful formulation allows the colors to shift subtly throughout the day, providing a dynamic yet refined appearance. While bolder colors like Dulux's 'True Joy' are gaining traction in 2025, COAT's collection underscores the enduring popularity of subtle earth tones within contemporary interior design trends. The collection is anchored by three new color families: Plaster, Yellow, and Sand. These families feature intentionally desaturated hues, offering a soft alternative to what COAT refers to as 'traditionally overpowering colors.' For those seeking a tranquil and serene atmosphere rather than a bold statement, these made-to-order paints are available exclusively through the COAT website. Consistent with COAT's existing product lines, this new range is offered in various high-performance finishes, including Flat Matt and Claypaint, allowing customers to achieve their desired look and vision for their home interiors. #PaintColors #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #NaturalLight #COATPaints #MutedTones #TimelessDesign #UKHomes

Blue-green paint colors are a versatile and timeless choice in interior design, offering a unique blend of statement-making appeal and soothing tranquility. These hues are suitable for a variety of settings, from bright beach houses to sophisticated urban apartments, and their appearance subtly shifts with changing light conditions, always maintaining an inherent elegance. This selection highlights ten designer-approved blue-green paint colors, detailing their characteristics and recommended uses, gathered from a network of designers and color experts. First, Jack Pine by Benjamin Moore is described as a gentle green with a subtle blue undertone, celebrated for its calm and timeless quality. It is frequently used in living rooms and bedrooms for clients desiring color without excessive boldness, complementing both classic and modern styles, and pairing well with wood furniture or warm lighting. Sea Salt by Sherwin-Williams is a softer, greener option favored for its suitability in traditional homes and its ability to create a coastal aesthetic. Its gentle quality makes it a popular choice for those seeking a tranquil atmosphere. Wellfleet by Portola Paints is a deep-hued limewash paint that offers subtle shifts in color throughout the day, creating a calming and moody ambiance, particularly effective in dining rooms. Twilight by Benjamin Moore is a jewel-toned shade that balances calming blue with invigorating green, resulting in a rich and sophisticated feel. This dynamic color beautifully transitions between blue and green depending on the light, making it suitable for spaces like a child's bedroom that needs to adapt over time. Sage Wisdom by Benjamin Moore is recognized for its beautifully complex nature, providing both uplifting and soothing qualities. This color is suggested for focal walls in home offices or living rooms to create a creative yet grounded mood. Studio Blue Green by Sherwin-Williams is recommended for bold, moody spaces. Its moderate saturation allows it to be extended to the ceiling, fostering an environment that is both playful and soothing. Boca Raton Blue by Benjamin Moore imparts a soft, grounded feel, making it ideal for relaxation areas. This color is noted as a personal favorite by interior designers for its ability to create a serene environment. Oval Room Blue by Farrow & Ball is a historic yet modern tone, perfect for formal dining rooms, paneled libraries, or bedrooms. It pairs elegantly with antique brass and deep walnut, adding a sense of heritage and contemporary style. Castle Walls by Benjamin Moore is a blue-green with gray undertones, offering a sophisticated and calming look. It is particularly effective on bedroom walls due to its balanced color saturation. Finally, Palladian Blue by Benjamin Moore is cherished for its resemblance to the iconic Tiffany Blue. This refined shade is a favorite among designers for its ability to create a fresh and elegant palette. Each of these colors offers distinct attributes, enabling designers to achieve specific moods and styles within diverse interiors. #BlueGreenPaintColors #InteriorDesign #BenjaminMoore #SherwinWilliams #PortolaPaints #FarrowAndBall #HomeDecor #ColorTrends #PaintSelection

The article explores the resurgence of purple hues in interior design, highlighting its versatility and impact on home aesthetics. Experts in color and interior design predict a wide array of purple shades, including lilac, pastel lavenders, plums, and aubergines, will be prominent in homes in 2026, particularly for paint applications. Despite historical misconceptions about purple being challenging to incorporate into home decor due to its perceived loudness or difficulty in pairing with other colors, designers affirm its endless possibilities. Jennifer Worts, a Toronto-based designer, emphasizes purple's unique duality, blending the calming effects of blue with the energetic qualities of red. This allows purple to evoke tranquility in lighter shades and luxury and sophistication in deeper tones, making it a color that exudes confidence and creativity while adding an elegant soul to any room. Selecting the appropriate shade of any color for home interiors can be a daunting task, and purple is no exception. To assist homeowners, the article compiles recommendations from leading interior designers on their preferred purple paint colors and offers guidance on how to integrate these shades into various projects. Jennifer Worts endorses Farrow & Ball's Paean Black, describing it as a luxurious, dark, and rich alternative to traditional black. She notes its hidden black-purple undertone, which reveals itself under certain lighting, adding a mysterious and sophisticated depth. Worts suggests applying it in an Estate Emulsion for a soft suede effect or in a Full Gloss finish for an opulent and edgy look. Kevin Kaminski and Alexis Pew of Kaminski + Pew advise choosing purple shades that lean towards muted brown or red, or lighter tones that resemble pale gray, to avoid a polarizing effect. They recommend Sherwin-Williams' Borscht, a deep red-burgundy with subtle purple undertones, which they recently used in a laundry room for its mysterious quality. Lidia Valdivia of Moonstone Design & Build champions Sherwin-Williams' River Rouge, a mauve-purple that adds instant depth and beautifully contrasts with brass fixtures. Victoria Armour of Stil James suggests Benjamin Moore's Batik, a balanced shade with enough taupe and gray to maintain sophistication, yet a soft mauve undertone for warmth and interest. She describes it as a chameleon color, suitable for both playful children's rooms and elegant kitchens. Liz Caan of Liz Caan & Co. favors Benjamin Moore's Spring Iris, a soft, sweet lavender that pairs well with greens and coral pinks, noted for its classic and fresh feel without being overwhelming. Gray Walker of Gray Walker Interiors recommends Benjamin Moore's Lavender Mist or Misty Lilac for light, gray-tinged lavenders, and Black Raspberry or Mystical Grape for bolder expressions. She advises testing paint colors on walls under various lighting conditions before finalizing a choice. Erin Gates of Erin Gates Design and Leslie Banker of Leslie Banker Interiors both praise Farrow & Ball's Brinjal, a dark, plummy hue ideal for studies or smaller rooms with intricate millwork, particularly when applied in mixed sheens for dramatic effect. Banker highlights its redder undertone, making it warm and inviting, especially for a library setting. Amy Sklar of Amy Sklar Design suggests Benjamin Moore's Abalone and White Heaven for pale lavender and mauve interiors. Abalone offers a light gray with a hint of mauve, while White Heaven features cooler lilac undertones. Both colors complement natural woods and creamy whites, creating sophisticated bedroom and dining room environments. Linda Hayslett of LH.Design recommends Webster Avenue by Magnolia Home, a calming and sophisticated purple that provides a comforting, cocoon-like feel when applied in a flat or low-sheen finish. Jeff Andrews of Jeff Andrews Design and Anne Hepfer endorse Farrow & Ball's Pelt, a moody, rich eggplant purple that adds drama and allows other decor elements to stand out, especially in bright, sunny rooms or smaller, cozy spaces. Wendy Labrum of Wendy Labrum Interiors points to Benjamin Moore's Kasbah as an ideal purple, rich in gray and brown undertones, giving it an organic, earthy feel. This shade pairs well with veined marbles, rich woods, and plush textures, making it suitable for dramatic primary bathrooms or cozy living rooms. Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors favors Benjamin Moore's Dark Purple for its rich, mysterious quality, perfect for adding glamour and drama, especially when paired with brass finishes and luxurious fabrics. Bradley Odom of Bradley Odom Interiors appreciates Benjamin Moore's Dark Walnut for its deep, saturated, and complex purple tones, creating a surprising and delightful effect in spaces like a closed pantry. Jennifer Hunter of Jennifer Hunter Design suggests Clare Paint's Prince, a rich deep purple that, when combined with aged brass hardware, is perfect for millwork in pantries or mudrooms, creating instant drama. Cathy Purple Cherry of Purple Cherry Architects, who grew up with a purple front door, advocates for bold purple selections, recommending Benjamin Moore's Mauve Bauhaus for playful bathrooms, laundry rooms, bedrooms, or even ceilings to add whimsy. Finally, Meredith Ellis of Meredith Ellis Design highlights Farrow & Ball's Peignoir, a subtle gray-lavender that is romantic and soft, providing an excellent backdrop for strong colors and enhancing architectural details or softening antiques. #PurplePaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorTrends2026 #DesignerRecommendations #PaintSelection #FarrowAndBall #BenjaminMoore #SherwinWilliams #MagnoliaHome #ClarePaint

This blog post explores how to refresh existing furniture with a new coat of paint, drawing on insights from various top interior designers. Instead of purchasing new items, the article suggests that a strategic application of paint can transform the look of furniture and, by extension, a room. It presents a curated list of paint colors and finishes recommended by experts, along with their rationales for each choice. The recommendations begin with Dorothy Draper & Co. president/owner Carleton Varney, who suggests painting a large armoire white with yellow trim, using Benjamin Moore's Super White and Little Angel, to create a fresh backdrop for blue-and-white porcelain. Bruce Bierman, an NYC-based interior designer, advocates for a high-gloss, soft, muted lavender with a hint of blue, specifically Autumn Crocus, for a reproduction Louis XVI chair, paired with a matching shiny fabric for a modern aesthetic. Carey Maloney, founder of M. Group, describes revitalizing a Georgian Revival lawyer's desk with a pale gray-green, DKC-10, in an oil-base stain finish, noting its calming effect and how it catches light. Ruthie Sommers, a Los Angeles-based designer, recounts transforming a fretwork-backed chair with a vibrant pomegranate red, Relay Red, after finding it dreary in its original brown. Brian McCarthy, a NYC-based designer, details a cottagey finish for a plain pine chest of drawers using milk paint, starting with a Swedish blue-gray base, Slate and Oyster White, and lightly brushing over it with white, then distressing it with steel wool. William Diamond, known for bold colors, recommends Essex Green for painting wicker furniture, describing it as rich, dark, and instantly elegant. Kim Alexandriuk, a Santa Monica-based interior designer, suggests painting a bed in a guest room with a Ming yellow, Babouche, which incorporates lemon and mustard tones for added dimension. Thomas Burak, an interior and special events designer, advises painting dated metal chandeliers in a high-gloss lipstick red, Heritage Red, and pairing them with cream-colored shades for a glamorous touch. Mario Buatta, the "Prince of Chintz," favors stripping and painting old dining chairs or new ones in a pale yellow, Windham Cream, likening it to the inside of a banana for an airy feel. Molly Luetkemeyer, founder of M. Design Interiors, proposes using a deep, muted teal, After the Storm, for inexpensive, carved mirrors to achieve a sophisticated, mysterious look. Katie Ridder recommends painting the wood base of a framed sofa with a fresh Chinese red, Blazer, as a small detail that makes a significant impact. Finally, Robert Willson, co-founder of Downtown, shares a technique for a vintage dresser, using Swiss Coffee for the handles and box and Winter White for the drawers, topped with multiple coats of semigloss clear coat to control the sheen. These diverse suggestions highlight how color and finish can dramatically alter the perception and style of furniture. #FurniturePaint #InteriorDesign #ColorInspiration #HomeDecor #DIYFurniture #DesignerTips #PaintColors #FurnitureRefresh

Changing the wall color in a room offers a significant impact at a relatively low cost, especially for those undertaking DIY projects. However, the process of selecting the ideal shade can be challenging. Fortunately, numerous paint color applications are available to simplify this decision-making process, enabling users to virtually test shades and even order paint online. These apps provide a practical "test run" before committing to a particular color or combination. One such application, Glidden's "Procrastipainted," features a "designer tip" upon opening and offers options to browse colors, seek inspiration, color match, or complete an interactive quiz. This quiz assists in selecting a palette and provides the convenience of receiving free paint swatches to evaluate colors in a specific space and lighting conditions. Additionally, the app includes palettes inspired by diverse design styles, from mid-century modern to bohemian and glam. A desktop version, Glidden’s Room Visualizer, is also available. Behr’s "ColorSmart" app highlights "designer-coordinated color combinations" and allows users to preview these in various room settings and on exteriors. Users can color match from an uploaded photograph or scan the barcode of a Behr paint swatch for trial. The app facilitates sharing color projects on social media and helps locate the nearest Home Depot store for purchases. "Paint My Place" is an independent application that supports a variety of paint, roof, and fence colors from numerous brands. It allows users to upload photos of their projects and virtually apply different colors. A paid version offers access to over 50,000 paint choices from 32 brands, including prominent names like Benjamin Moore, Valspar, PPG, and Sherwin Williams. The app includes tools for precise virtual painting and options to share color selections. The Home Depot’s "Project Color" app is highly rated and user-friendly, enabling users to visualize colors for interior or exterior projects. It suggests shades based on desired moods and offers a color-matching feature using photos from a camera roll. Users can save favorites, share them, and order directly through the app or find nearby stores. Benjamin Moore's "Color Portfolio" app permits users to upload room photos or utilize a video visualizer for real-time color previews. A virtual fan deck allows browsing of Benjamin Moore’s color collection. For enhanced accuracy, the app can sync with separately purchased Datacolor ColorReader devices, which measure colors from surfaces and identify the three closest paint matches. "Paint Tester" is a straightforward app that lets users upload a photo, apply colors with a virtual paint bucket, and use a color picker to try different shades or accent walls. A tape tool helps prevent color bleeding. Once satisfied, users can purchase Glidden brand paints and tools through a direct link to Walmart. Sherwin-Williams’ "ColorSnap Visualizer," available on both desktop and mobile, includes a "Color ID" feature that links personality traits to color palettes. Users can choose colors from this feature or the company's extensive library, create palettes, and color match shades from external photos. Lowe’s Paint Visualizer, a desktop app, provides paint color options from Valspar and HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams, featuring expert picks and curated color collections. PPG’s Paint Color Visualizer, also desktop-based, enables users to test shades by uploading room photos or selecting from a catalog of pre-designed rooms, with options to save and share palettes. Finally, the "Olympic Wood Stain Visualizer" (desktop) assists in selecting stain colors for outdoor wood projects like siding, fences, decks, and furniture, offering a range of modern to vintage finishes. These applications collectively enhance the home painting experience by providing virtual tools for color selection and project planning. #PaintColorApps #DIYHomeProjects #InteriorDesign #ExteriorPainting #ColorMatching #VirtualVisualizer #HomeImprovement #PaintSelection #MobileApps

Sage green is a highly versatile and popular color in home design, frequently appearing in design magazines and social media platforms like Instagram. Its appeal stems from its intrinsic connection to nature and its calming properties, echoing the sage plant's historical use for medicinal purposes across various cultures. Despite its tranquil reputation, sage green offers significant decorative impact. A sage green with blue undertones can transform a quiet study into a vibrant social space, while a more intense shade can serve as a striking trim, enhancing an elaborate wallpaper in a dining room. The color can revitalize a traditional all-white kitchen when applied to cabinets, and its earthy, neutral characteristics make it an excellent partner for a wide array of other colors, including rich browns and brilliant blues. This article provides a curated list of eleven top-rated sage green paint colors, favored by interior designers, along with practical decorating and color-pairing advice to seamlessly integrate this silvery-green hue into any home. The selections include "Sea Green" by Old Fashioned Milk Paint Co., used in a Mississippi hunting lodge's guest bedroom, offering a rustic yet chic ambiance when paired with plaid duvets and low post beds. "Castle Grey" by Farrow & Ball is highlighted for its ability to invigorate a kitchen, extending its softer application to entry halls and exterior trims in a 1920s Los Angeles home. "Prescott Green" by Benjamin Moore, a powdery sage, creates a fairy-tale retreat in a bed cabana, complemented by a lilac wallcovering. "Windmill Lane" by Little Greene adds warmth to beadboard walls in a Nantucket cottage study, accentuating watercolors and vintage furniture. "Mizzle" by Farrow & Ball is recommended for exterior use, particularly on louvered bar doors, where its hushed tone contrasts with darker glazed tiles, fostering a gathering hub. "Green Blue" by Farrow & Ball introduces blue undertones, allowing the color to appear more complex and shift in tone throughout the day, as seen in a Birmingham cottage study. "Calke Green" by Farrow & Ball, a rich sage trim, enhances the verdant wallcovering of a Charlotte bathroom, creating a garden-like escape. "Green Ground" by Farrow & Ball, a paler variation, provides a sophisticated alternative to white in an English dining room, balancing vibrant red hues. "French Gray" by Farrow & Ball, a nuanced blend of sage, brown, and gray, evokes a quiet elegance in an 18th-century ferryman’s cottage, complementing its woodland surroundings. "Norway Spruce" by Benjamin Moore demonstrates how sage green can transform a room into a serene retreat, even when applied monochromatically to rice paper appliqué for added texture. Finally, "Lichen" by Farrow & Ball proves sage green's suitability for exteriors, where its pairing with old cobblestone trim creates a charming setting for a Yorkshire cottage. #SageGreen #PaintColors #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #DecoratingTips #FarrowAndBall #BenjaminMoore #LittleGreene

The article explores the concept of timeless paint colors, highlighting how they serve as foundational elements in interior design, providing elegance without demanding excessive attention. Interior designers frequently recommend classic choices that transcend fleeting trends. These colors are chosen for their versatility and ability to complement various design elements across different architectural styles, from Georgian townhouses to modern penthouses. Melissa Read, creative director at Studio Burntwood, emphasizes that timeless colors create a stable backdrop, allowing other design features to shine. She specifically points to Farrow & Ball’s Elephant’s Breath as a prime example. This soft greige tone is noted for its adaptability, subtly changing with light conditions, and is often paired with accents like antique brass or dark marble to enhance its natural warmth and refinement. Benjamin Moore's Seapearl is another favored timeless paint, described by Illinois-based interior designer Andrea Goldman as a white with modern gray undertones. Its soothing and quiet quality makes it suitable for both walls and trim, ensuring it maintains its appeal over time. Similarly, Benjamin Moore’s Alabaster is highly regarded by interior designer Glenna Stone for its fresh, neutral white appearance with a subtle pink undertone. This color introduces light and airiness into any room and is celebrated for its ability to blend seamlessly with various palettes, from bold to muted, making it ideal for diverse spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. Miranda Cullen of Inside Stories also advocates for classic neutrals, citing Sherwin-Williams' Greek Villa as a bright, warm white and Accessible Beige for a richer taupe. Both are recognized for their versatility, suiting any design style while retaining a timeless quality. While neutrals dominate the discussion of timeless paints, the article also notes that bolder hues can be equally enduring. Emily Tucker, an interior designer, suggests Benjamin Moore’s Million Dollar Red, comparing it to a classic red lipstick for its chic and energetic presence when used thoughtfully. For those seeking a timeless blue, Denver-based interior designer Nadia Watts recommends Benjamin Moore's Hale Navy. She praises its ability to complement various colors, including hot pink, purple, red, and yellow, making it a versatile backdrop for both modern and colorful art. Farrow & Ball’s Dead Salmon is highlighted as a sophisticated, moody plaster pink that brings a calming and serene feeling to a room, offering a more interesting alternative to lighter neutrals while still maintaining refinement. Another Farrow & Ball shade, Dimity, a light taupe, is favored by Cindy McKay for its warm and cozy feel, especially in spaces with red tones. Benjamin Moore's Linen White is chosen by Suzanne Tucker for its perfect balance between classic elegance and understated chic, being neither too cool nor too warm. Its subtle cream undertone ensures richness and adaptability to contemporary or traditional settings. Lastly, Benjamin Moore's White Dove is a popular choice among designers like Beth Webb for its universal compatibility with millwork, cabinetry, and walls, seamlessly integrating with almost any color scheme. The article concludes by advising readers to sample these timeless paint colors to observe how they appear under different lighting conditions throughout the day before making a final decision. This practical recommendation ensures that the chosen color will meet expectations and maintain its desired aesthetic appeal in the home. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #TimelessDesign #HomeDecor #NeutralPalette #FarrowAndBall #BenjaminMoore #SherwinWilliams #ColorTrends

Choosing the right paint colors can significantly impact the ambiance of a room and even how individuals perceive themselves within that space. While personal preference in color choice is paramount, some paint colors are considered universally flattering, creating a welcoming and harmonious environment by complementing a variety of skin tones. This concept, often overlooked, suggests that certain shades can cast a more favorable glow on complexions, similar to how clothing colors can flatter an individual. The general consensus among designers and color experts is that slightly warm-toned colors tend to be more flattering. This doesn't mean one should avoid personal favorite colors, but for spaces like bathrooms, dressing rooms, or dining rooms where people prepare themselves or socialize, opting for a flattering paint color can enhance the overall appeal. Flattering colors provide a subtle contrast without being overwhelming, aiming for versatility that complements a wide spectrum of skin tones rather than attempting to match any specific complexion. Such colors are typically soft, natural-toned, and less saturated. The natural and artificial lighting in a space plays a crucial role in how a color appears, emphasizing the importance of testing paint samples in the actual environment at different times of the day. The emotional connection to a color is also a significant factor. If a 'flattering' paint color doesn't resonate with one's personal style or evoke positive feelings, it may detract from the overall comfort and appeal of the home. The primary goal is to create a space that brings joy and makes inhabitants feel good, as this positive feeling is perceived by guests and ultimately contributes to a flattering atmosphere, regardless of skin tone. Experts highlight three main color families for their flattering qualities: soft pinks, warm-toned neutrals, and light blues and greens. Soft pinks, especially earthy and dusky rose tones, are celebrated for their ability to cast warmth throughout a room without being overly saccharine. Shades like Farrow & Ball's Dimity, Pink Ground, and Setting Plaster are recommended for their barely-there pinkness and delicate atmosphere, particularly in bathrooms where they can make complexions look more radiant. It's advised to choose pinks without strong blue undertones. Warm-toned neutrals, encompassing off-whites, beiges, and taupes, serve as excellent backdrops due to their inherent warmth and versatility. These colors are considered safe options that provide a clean canvas without overpowering skin tones. Taupe is specifically noted for its sophisticated blend of brown and gray, making it a timeless and complementary choice. Greige, a mix of gray and beige, also offers a subtle yet flattering backdrop that enhances furnishings and various skin tones. Benjamin Moore's Sail Cloth is cited as an example of a soft, neutral color that complements diverse complexions. Finally, muted versions of nature-inspired colors, such as powder blue and sage green, are also deemed flattering. These colors possess a natural connection to the human experience, contributing to a calming and serene environment. Light blue, like Farrow & Ball's Borrowed Light, can be both neutral and refreshing, while sage green offers a soothing and earthy feel. Both colors are versatile enough to suit various styles and skin tones. Ultimately, while individual lighting conditions and personal preferences dictate the final choice, these color families provide a reliable starting point for creating a soft, gentle, and flattering color scheme that enhances the warmth and appeal of any room. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #FlatteringShades #ColorPsychology #SoftPinks #WarmNeutrals #LightBluesAndGreens #DesignTips