5 Underrated Paint Colors Designers Always Use in Their Projects (and You Should Too)

Decorating a home involves numerous decisions, from furniture to decor, with paint color being a foundational choice influencing many others. While bold, trendy colors might initially appeal, they can quickly lead to repainting as styles evolve. Therefore, considering timeless paint options can prevent the need for frequent updates. Timeless paint colors are typically neutral, muted, and highly versatile, effortlessly integrating with diverse styles and materials to create a serene and balanced atmosphere. In contrast, trendy colors often appear saturated or bold, are closely linked to specific design movements, and can become dated or overwhelming over time. Designers recommend several enduring paint colors. Blue-grey, a combination of two classic shades, offers a timeless appeal that can complement various design aesthetics. This versatile hue can be enhanced with textural applications like limewash or Roman clay, providing a neutral yet expressive backdrop that avoids the starkness of plain white walls. Terracotta is another timeless choice, celebrated for its natural warmth and sun-soaked quality, which adds depth and character to any room. It is particularly suitable for those who enjoy experimenting with different palettes, such as multi-colored rugs, mismatched pillows, and abstract art, as it ages gracefully and always feels inviting. Sage green also stands out as a timeless option. Despite some hesitation towards green shades, sage green introduces a sense of life and serenity, working well with many colors and patterns. Its calm, organic tones bridge the gap between classic and contemporary styles, offering balance without dominating the space. Cream, along with other muted browns and tans, provides a modern yet classic foundation for any room. These neutral colors can be further customized through different finishes or textural limewash applications, adding an organic beauty to wallscapes. Brittny Button, an interior and furniture designer, emphasizes the appeal of mixing paint with limewash and plaster to create deeper, more organic wall textures. Finally, timeless colors are not limited to neutrals; bold shades can also achieve lasting appeal. Vermilion red, for instance, can create a striking “jewel box moment” in smaller spaces, immediately drawing attention. To prevent this vibrant color from becoming overwhelming, particularly in smaller rooms, designers suggest using a high-gloss finish to reflect light, rather than absorb it, thereby maintaining a sense of openness and sophistication. These designer-approved colors offer reliable choices for homeowners seeking to create interiors that will remain elegant and relevant for years to come. #TimelessPaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #NeutralColors #BlueGrey #Terracotta #SageGreen #CreamPaint #VermilionRed

The article highlights seven underrated paint colors that can transform home interiors, according to color experts and interior designers. It challenges the common focus on trendy hues by reintroducing versatile shades that often go overlooked. The first recommendation is a "not-quite-taupe," with Kate Aslangul of Oakley Moore Interior Design suggesting Farrow & Ball's Dimity. This warm neutral, with its soft pink undertone, offers elegance and subtlety, changing color throughout the day. It is ideal for hallways, sitting rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms, and pairs well with complementary whites, allowing texture and art to provide additional color. Next, James Flett of Sims Hilditch advocates for bold reds, despite their often-overlooked status. He emphasizes red's adaptability for creating striking accents or dramatic backdrops in muted spaces, particularly in smaller areas. Edward Bulmer’s Pompadour, a deep rusty red, is cited as a successful choice for powder room ceilings and woodwork, adding depth and drama. Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands, suggests incorporating gold for its versatility and ability to bring depth and a sense of 'quiet luxury.' He notes that gold hues, such as Mylands' FTT-001 and FTT-002, can be grounding or radiant. Myland recommends starting with architectural detailing before applying gold to larger areas, such as color-drenching an entire room, especially in spaces like bedrooms or dining rooms where atmosphere is key. Emma Bestley, creative director and co-founder of YesColours, proposes Fresh Lilac as an uplifting and tranquil option. She describes it as reminiscent of amethyst stones and springtime hyacinths, and associates it with tranquility. Fresh Lilac pairs effectively with Friendly Peach for warmth or with Electric Mint Green for a lively and refreshing ambiance. For a bolder, cool-toned pastel combination, Fresh Yellow is recommended. Benji Lewis, an interior designer, champions warm whites, arguing against their perception as a mere fallback. He suggests choosing warm whites with ivory undertones, such as Farrow & Ball's Pointing, for a soft, luxurious feel. Warm whites serve as excellent backdrops for single accents (like blue or raspberry) or can be combined with other soft neutrals like latte, tan, and mocha. Lewis recounts an instance where a crisp contemporary white paint in a period home, layered with antique furniture and varying shades of red, blue, and white textiles, created an exciting and powerful aesthetic. Tash Bradley, director of interior design and color psychologist at Lick, advocates for brown, specifically Lick's Brown 02. She describes it as a rich, versatile, and grounding shade with warm red undertones that creates a feeling of warmth and security, akin to a "hug-like" embrace. Bradley suggests pairing Brown 02 with Lick’s Purple 03 in a bedroom to combine grounding qualities with a touch of luxury, and advises incorporating textures like linen, wool, and leather to enhance its tactile appeal. Finally, Patrick O'Donnell, Farrow & Ball brand ambassador, recommends yellow. While acknowledging its past absence from popular decorating trends, he notes its resurgence. O'Donnell advises using yellow judiciously, as its energizing nature makes it suitable for kitchens and living rooms but less so for bedrooms. He highlights Farrow & Ball's archived Gervase Yellow as a subtle, pale-to-mid yellow that provides discreet energy while maintaining elegance. This shade pairs well with off-white trim and ceiling colors or with bolder options like Breakfast Room Green or Arsenic for a 1930s country house aesthetic. It is also an excellent choice for bathrooms, adding character to white sanitaryware when combined with fresh whites or blues like Berrington Blue. #UnderratedPaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintTrends #ColorExpertTips #WarmNeutrals #BoldHues #HomeRenovation

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 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

The article explores the preferred color palettes of interior designers, offering insights into hues that are consistently incorporated into various decorating projects. It highlights five prominent colors: yellow, warm neutrals, blue, white, and green, detailing why each is a favored choice among professionals. Yellow is presented as a versatile and inviting color, with Charlotte-based interior designer Alexis Warren noting its ability to layer effectively with other shades and add brightness. Despite perceptions of it being a bold choice, yellow is experiencing a resurgence in modern homes, with examples such as sandy yellow kitchen cabinets demonstrating its charming and warming effects. Warm neutrals, including soft taupes, greiges, and off-whites with warm undertones, are emphasized for their timeless appeal and versatility. Melissa Read, creative director at Studio Burntwood, explains that these shades provide a calm and inviting backdrop, making them suitable for various interior design styles and allowing for easy updates to furniture and accessories without needing to repaint. An illustration features Farrow & Ball's Scallop in a light dining room, showcasing its undisturbed yet inviting quality. Blue is celebrated for its calming and peaceful qualities, often associated with natural serene environments like lakes or beaches. Denver-based designer Nadia Watts frequently pairs blue with green to evoke a sense of growth and renewal, aiming for peaceful, nature-connected, and cozy spaces. Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors also favors soft blue hues for their ability to enhance natural light and bring happiness. White remains a classic choice, lauded for its freshness, timelessness, and calming effect. Sarah Latham of Latham Interiors and Meg Lonergan frequently use white or ivory, especially Benjamin Moore’s Soft Chamois, for its warm undertones that create an inviting atmosphere. Amy Peltier also recommends Benjamin Moore's Chantilly Lace for a crisp, clean, and modern feel, suitable for creating a timeless backdrop. Green is consistently integrated into projects by designers like Alexandra Kaehler and Allison Garrison. Kaehler appreciates its ability to bring the outdoors in, noting its warmth and versatility, whether used as a soft sage or a bold emerald. Garrison highlights green's soothing and grounding effects, often incorporating it through custom cabinetry, rugs, or simply through the addition of plants to achieve a natural and calming ambiance. The article concludes by reinforcing that while neutrals are timeless, the thoughtful integration of vibrant colors like yellow and green can also achieve enduring style. #InteriorDesign #ColorPalettes #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #YellowInteriors #NeutralColors #BlueSpaces #WhiteDesign #GreenDecor

In a world saturated with fleeting color trends, discerning homeowners and interior designers often seek enduring palettes that transcend seasonal fads. This article delves into five classic colors that consistently find favor among design professionals when navigating the pressures of ever-changing trends. The overarching philosophy behind these choices is to create spaces that feel timeless, balanced, and deeply connected to their environment and inhabitants. The discussion begins by emphasizing the importance of focusing on the desired 'feel' of a space rather than merely its 'look.' Andrew Griffiths of A New Day Design highlights how a home's context and its residents' personalities should guide color selection, drawing inspiration from natural surroundings. This approach ensures that chosen colors contribute to a cohesive and emotionally resonant interior, regardless of current trends. Sage green emerges as a top contender, revered for its sophisticated yet earthy qualities. Its strong connection to the natural world makes it a perennially popular choice for creating serene and inviting atmospheres. Interior designer Kathy Kuo praises sage green's versatility, noting its suitability across diverse design styles from French country to modern farmhouse. Benjamin Moore's October Mist is specifically mentioned by Sara Malek Barney of BANDD/DESIGN as a go-to sage green that seamlessly integrates into various aesthetics, consistently delivering a polished look. Off-whites, particularly those with warm undertones, are presented as another enduring classic. While neutrals might seem an obvious choice, their effectiveness in creating light, airy, and subtly cozy schemes is often underestimated. Jessica Dorling of Dorling Design Studio champions Sherwin-Williams' Greek Villa for its balanced warmth, providing a timeless and versatile foundation that offers a sense of calm and stability. Alexis Warren similarly advocates for Benjamin Moore's White Dove, a warm cream paint that acts as an ideal backdrop for fabrics while brightening a space. David Ries of Ries Hayes suggests Benjamin Moore's Fog Mist, describing it as a 'Goldilocks' color that is exceptionally versatile and well-suited for situations where trend fatigue is prevalent due to its warm, cool, luminous, and neutral qualities. Earthy tones, encompassing blue-grays, greige, and taupe, are also highlighted for their lasting appeal. Jaclyn Isaac of Doni Douglas Design argues for treating blues as neutrals, drawing parallels to natural elements like Carrara marble, the ocean, and the sky. She specifically points to Benjamin Moore's Cobblestone Path as a grounded and livable blue-gray. For warmer earthy tones, Vyanca Soto of Market Studio Interiors favors Portola Paints' Piano Room, a rich and deep hue that brings timeless elegance, warmth, and sophistication. Navy blue offers a classic dark alternative to plain neutrals, providing a rich and sophisticated ambiance. Nadia Watts frequently returns to Benjamin Moore's Hale Navy, noting its bold, classic, and timeless nature. She considers it a versatile neutral that pairs well with almost anything, creating a refined look without being overtly trendy. This deep blue hue is especially effective in creating cozy and sophisticated spaces. Finally, charcoal, particularly in almost-black shades, is presented as another classic dark paint color. Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail Interiors pairs an almost-black charcoal with white for a crisp, timeless, and moody allure, recommending Benjamin Moore's Jet Black. Hannah Goldberg of Hannah Charlotte Interiors similarly utilizes Portola Paints' Lone Cypress, an incredibly dark blue-green that functions as an off-black in certain lighting, enveloping rooms with richness and depth, suitable for walls, ceilings, and millwork. These timeless colors, often drawing inspiration from the natural world, provide a solid foundation for home design that transcends ephemeral trends, offering lasting beauty and comfort. Each color choice contributes to a sense of stability and enduring style, allowing designers and homeowners to create spaces that feel both current and classic. The consistent preference for these hues underscores their inherent ability to foster harmonious and inviting interiors that resist obsolescence in the face of changing design currents. #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #TimelessColors #HomeDecor #PaintColors #SageGreen #OffWhites #NavyBlue #Charcoal #EarthyTones

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

Vibrant color palettes are increasingly central to contemporary interior design, with designers embracing bolder choices and discarding traditional rules to infuse homes with ebullience. The deliberate use of color can personalize spaces and reflect individual design sensibilities, making a room feel unique and luxurious. However, successful integration of vibrant hues requires careful consideration to maintain livability and harmony within a space. One approach involves the combination of yellow and pink. This pairing is considered an accessible entry point into vibrant palettes due to its inherent ease of integration. When executed with softer pink tones and primrose rather than intense yellows, the combination creates a comfortable aesthetic. The strategy often involves saturating a room with consistent color levels, allowing patterns and various shades to blend seamlessly rather than clashing. Another method employs green, blue, and red, as seen in an entryway designed to transform a transient space into an engaging area. The key to this palette's success lies in ensuring all chosen colors share similar undertones. This commonality prevents the palette from becoming overwhelming, creating a sophisticated and harmonious environment. For instance, pairing cool blues and greens with a red that also possesses cool undertones results in an evocative and balanced scheme. Red and blue can form a vibrant palette, particularly when red is used in a high-gloss finish. The reflective quality of glossy paint helps to bounce light around the room, preventing the deep red from feeling too heavy or light-absorbing, which might occur with a matte finish. The introduction of a contrasting, softer color, such as a cornflower blue in fabric choices, can effectively break up the intensity of the red, providing soothing notes that temper the overall potency of the color scheme. This technique allows for a powerful color statement while maintaining a sense of calm. The inclusion of black in vibrant color schemes might appear counter-intuitive, but it serves as an excellent foundational base for layering more striking hues. Black has the ability to elevate the perceived value and sophistication of other colors. When hot pink, for example, is set against a dark background, it acquires a more luxurious and considered appearance. The stark contrast provided by a black element, such as a painted brick fireplace, allows vibrant shades like pink to truly stand out and make an impact. Finally, a comprehensive palette incorporating yellow, blue, pink, and green can achieve vibrancy without being overpowering. This is often accomplished by using a neutral base, such as gray on the walls, to anchor the bolder colors. Even with saturated pops of pure color, the strategic inclusion of a shade like hot pink can soften the overall effect. Hot pink, while maintaining vibrancy and energy, helps to modulate the primary colors, resulting in a lively yet balanced palette that avoids visual fatigue. #VibrantColorPalettes #InteriorDesignTrends #ColorTheory #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #ContemporaryDesign #ColorSchemes #ModernInteriors #ResidentialDesign

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

Interior designer Kate Marker, with two decades of experience, is celebrated for her distinctive blend of modern and traditional styles in home design. She notes that selecting paint colors often causes significant anxiety for homeowners, despite being the most adaptable and affordable element of any design project. Marker addresses this common concern in her new book, "The Love of Home: Interiors for Beauty, Balance, and Belonging," dedicating an entire chapter to the subject. She reassures readers that paint is the easiest and least costly aspect to change, encouraging experimentation with sample swatches to achieve desired moods and aesthetics within a space. To simplify the color selection process, Marker shares her twelve go-to paint colors, categorizing them into whites and lights, and then moody blues and darker hues. For whites and lights, she emphasizes their ability to create airy, open environments that serve as ideal canvases for layering textures and accent colors. She highlights the challenge of finding white and light shades that remain true across various lighting conditions, free from undesirable undertones. Her recommendations in this category include Benjamin Moore’s Oxford White, a crisp, true white ideal for modern aesthetics and exteriors; Simply White, a balanced and bright white perfect for trim and walls; White Dove, a creamier, warmer option for naturally well-lit spaces; and Swiss Coffee, which introduces subtle gray and cream tones for a vintage feel. She also suggests Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray, a delicate blend of soft gray and warm white, often used at 75% strength for an even lighter taupe, and Sherwin-Williams’ City Loft, a welcoming pale taupe-gray highly recommended for kitchen cabinetry. Transitioning to darker hues, Marker expresses her preference for deep grays, rich navies, inky blues, and various greens. She believes dark colors effectively anchor and define a space, imparting a sense of enclosure and comfort. She also points out the versatility of dark paints, noting how their appearance can be dramatically altered by hardware, lighting, natural light exposure, and art pairings. Her selections for darker shades include Benjamin Moore’s Wrought Iron, a classic dark gray with a green-blue hint, making a striking backdrop for metallic hardware; Kendall Charcoal, a sophisticated charcoal with a touch of brown; Farrow & Ball’s Manor House Gray, which offers beautiful gray-green nuances and blends well with both bold and subtle palettes; Studio Green, an earthy and refined green suited for contemplative rooms; and Down Pipe, a mysterious Farrow & Ball gray that shifts in appearance across different settings, making it one of her most inquired-about colors. Lastly, she recommends Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy, a classic, true navy that is so versatile it can be considered a neutral, pairing effectively with almost any color scheme. #KateMarker #PaintColors #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorSelection #BenjaminMoore #FarrowAndBall #NeutralColors #DarkColors

The selection of interior colors is a critical element in home design, capable of significantly impacting the longevity and aesthetic appeal of a space. While certain color palettes may gain widespread popularity, they can also quickly become outdated, leading to interiors that feel dated or uninspired. This discussion delves into several colors that designers are increasingly moving away from, offering contemporary alternatives that align with current preferences for warmth, comfort, and sophisticated versatility. Gray, once a ubiquitous neutral, is now largely considered an outdated choice. Its cool undertones can evoke feelings of self-doubt and instability, making spaces feel impersonal and even depressive. The current trend strongly favors warmer neutrals, particularly beige, which offers a soft, timeless appeal. Beige brightens rooms while exuding a sense of flawlessness and offers greater flexibility for integrating colorful art, accent furnishings, and antique pieces. Designers suggest that if gray must be used, warmer, more complex shades should be chosen to add depth and dimension, but beige remains the preferred option for its comforting and versatile qualities. Pure white, despite its potential for purity and simplicity, is another color that is losing favor as a dominant scheme. When used extensively, white can create clinical, cold, and impersonal environments. Color psychologists note that while white can reduce visual clutter, it may also lead to a sense of emotional shutdown. As an alternative, mood-boosting yellows are recommended. Yellow shades introduce a touch of nostalgia and warmth, reminiscent of sun-drenched days, and can uplift the mood of a room. It functions effectively as both an accent color and a primary hue, pairing beautifully with monochrome elements for a modern look or with soft greens for a natural, calming effect. Deep purple, historically associated with royalty, is now viewed as overbearing and gloomy if not implemented meticulously. Its intensity can be imposing, especially in poorly lit or smaller spaces. A more contemporary and versatile alternative is lilac, a softer, less dominating shade. Lilac provides a soothing and gentle atmosphere, drawing inspiration from natural elements like wisteria and heather. This subtle shift allows for more diverse color combinations and contributes to serene interior designs. Harsh red is another color that designers are advising against for primary use in interiors. Red is often linked to stress responses, such as increased heart rate and heightened senses, and is frequently used in warning signals due to its intense and stimulating nature. While acknowledging red's potential to make a house appear expensive, the preference is shifting towards paler, more natural variations. Shades like Sherwin Williams’ Redend Point, a subtle, earthy red akin to clay, are favored for their contemporary warmth and ability to harmonize with natural environments. These gentler reds work with, rather than against, the natural surroundings, offering sophistication without the intensity of traditional reds. Finally, overbearing orange is being phased out due to its overstimulating qualities. Like red, orange can be too energetic for restful areas like bedrooms, potentially disrupting sleep and encouraging an overactive imagination. Instead of bold oranges, decorating with pink is suggested as a warmer and more inviting option. Rosy shades provide a versatile backdrop for bolder colors and can infuse a space with warmth and comfort. Pinks with orange or ochre undertones can be paired with bright reds or white for harmonious yet uplifting schemes, or with azure blue, navy, and Indian green for a balanced effect. Ultimately, the choice of room color should prioritize creating a joyous and revitalizing environment. Color is a cost-effective and vital element in home design, deserving careful consideration to ensure that the chosen palette contributes positively to the overall feel and longevity of the interior. #InteriorDesignTrends #ColorPsychology #HomeDecorIdeas #PaintColors #NeutralPalettes #WarmColors #MoodBoostingColors #OutdatedColors

This article explores insights from five leading designers on selecting kitchen colors, focusing on their custom-designed Silestone quartz surfaces and recommended Benjamin Moore paint pairings. The designers, part of Silestone's 25th-anniversary Influencer Series, offer guidance on contemporary kitchen color trends and practical tips for homeowners. Kerrie Kelly's "Albedo" surface, inspired by the moon's reflectivity, features a nuanced pattern and coloration. She identifies navy blue as a key trend for 2015 due to its versatility with various metals, grays, and wood tones, suggesting Benjamin Moore's Deep Royal for a lacquered look, Gray Owl for a timeless backdrop, and Silver Satin for warm white trim. Kelly emphasizes checking undertones by observing paint samples in different lighting conditions and pairing them with primary colors to understand their true effect. Courtney Cachet's "Lusso" draws inspiration from her global travels, particularly the natural beauty and elegant styles found in the South of France, Italy, and Miami. Her design incorporates a hint of gold into a timeless marble aesthetic. Cachet highlights white as a dominant kitchen color trend, along with metallic accents like brass, gold, and copper for hardware, plumbing, and lighting. She also notes the continued popularity of dark woods and neutral gray shades. Her top tip for color selection is to always evaluate colors in the intended space, as lighting and room functionality can drastically alter perception. She recommends Benjamin Moore's Blue Danube for a high-gloss finish, Light Quartz for an eggshell finish, and Decorators White for moldings and wood trims. Julia Buckingham's "Copper Mist" blends urban sophistication with the elemental mysticism of the Southwest, specifically the mineral-rich shades of the Camelback Mountains. She foresees copper and gold metallics becoming prominent in faucets, sinks, cabinet pulls, and knobs, creating a sophisticated yet earthy aesthetic. Buckingham advises establishing a color scheme early using tools like Benjamin Moore’s apps and testing chosen colors on larger wall areas, ensuring they harmonize with trim colors. Her recommended paint colors are Stone Harbor, Silver Fox, Sterling Silver, and Ashley Gray, all in an eggshell finish. Mark Williams's "Nimbus" aims to replicate the casual elegance of veined white and gray marbles like Carerra, Statuary, and Venantino, but in a more durable quartz surface. He points to painted cabinetry in whites, grays, and taupes as a major trend, alongside more saturated tones such as jadite, coral, navy, and persimmon for added individuality. Williams's advice is to use color intentionally, employing strong colors to define focal points and complementing them with supportive neutrals. He suggests Benjamin Moore's Silver Fox, Cement Grey, and American White, all in an Aura Eggshell finish. Kim Lewis's "Olivia" is inspired by nature, offering a new neutral olive green/caper tone that is versatile with various color palettes and metal finishes. She observes a growing openness to cabinet colors beyond traditional white, with soft, pale palettes and deeper jewel tones creating eclectic mixes. Brass remains a popular choice for metal finishes. Lewis stresses the importance of evaluating paint colors under natural light at different times of the day to ensure an accurate representation. She recommends Benjamin Moore's Universal Black for a bold look, Soft Sand for a romantic space, and Smoke for a mid-century inspired aesthetic, all in an Aura Eggshell or Natura Eggshell finish. The article provides comprehensive guidance on kitchen color selection, emphasizing the importance of understanding underlying inspirations, current trends, and practical application tips from these five design experts, sponsored by Silestone by Cosentino and Benjamin Moore. #KitchenDesign #ColorTrends #InteriorDesign #Silestone #BenjaminMoore #DesignTips #QuartzSurfaces #PaintColors #HomeDecor #DesignerInsights

Green paint colors are often regarded as relatively neutral, possessing a balanced warmth and coolness that makes them highly versatile for various spaces, regardless of lighting conditions. Interior designers were consulted to identify their top five classic green paint shades and gain insights into their optimal use and pairing strategies. The first recommended shade is Farrow & Ball's Card Room Green. This mid-toned green features grayish undertones, providing a moody yet warm and deep hue. Its versatility allows it to complement both lighter and darker colors effectively. Historically named after Victorian-era study rooms, it adapts well to different lighting, revealing subtle shifts throughout the day. This makes it an ideal choice for spaces like mudrooms, where it can harmonize with vintage elements. Next is deVOL's Bakehouse Green, a deep, utilitarian green with an old-school charm, particularly suited for kitchens. It imparts a sense of timelessness, making furniture feel sophisticated and resistant to fleeting trends. This shade is available in both furniture paint with a satin sheen and flat matt emulsion, both offering a rich depth of color. It pairs elegantly with aged brass accents, enhancing its classic appeal. For those seeking a bolder statement, Sherwin-Williams' High Strung is an acid green that introduces an element of surprise and freshness. Its intensity evokes nature, making it a contemporary choice for living rooms or study areas. To balance its vividness, designers suggest pairing it with dark colors like black for a modern aesthetic, or with white for a fresh, invigorating contrast. Sherwin-Williams' Rosemary is described as a soothing, organic green with dark grey undertones. It creates a cozy and saturated ambiance, especially when applied to paneled walls with a semi-gloss finish, allowing it to shimmer with changing light. This color beautifully complements antique pieces and crisp white woodwork, and can be enlivened with coral accents. Its natural and calming qualities make it a strong candidate for bedrooms or any space designed for relaxation. Finally, Little Greene's Sage & Onions is a bright, lively green that is particularly effective in rooms intended for entertaining or high activity, such as kitchens, dining rooms, and living rooms. This shade naturally lifts the mood and reflects the energy of the space. It also works well in bedrooms, contributing to a serene and calming atmosphere, and is especially fitting for rooms overlooking gardens, bringing the outdoors in. Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene, highlights olive and deep greens for their tranquil effects, while praising Sage & Onions for its mood-lifting properties, especially when combined with crisp white for a fresh look. Overall, green is presented as a highly adaptable and classic color suitable for any room in the house. Its inherent cheerful, positive, and calming attributes, coupled with its connection to nature, make it a favorable choice for interior design. Designers suggest pairing it with colors like coral and pink for a modern yet cozy feel, or with black, navy, or white for a minimalist aesthetic. #InteriorDesign #GreenPaint #ColorTrends #HomeDecor #PaintColors #InteriorDecorating #DesignerTips

This article explores popular paint color choices favored by local interior designers, offering guidance for refreshing home interiors. It highlights that selecting a paint color can be challenging due to the vast number of available options, even within a single hue or brand. The article aims to simplify this process by presenting expert-approved shades for various home environments, ranging from calming neutrals to bold statement colors. Jennifer Verruto, founder and designer-in-chief of Blythe Interiors, recommends Sherwin-Williams's "Really Teal" for small spaces, describing it as bright, fresh, and cheerful, perfect for creating an intentional and vivid pop in areas like a reading nook. Verruto also expresses her affinity for Sherwin-Williams's "Naval," a timeless, bold color that adds richness and depth. She advises that despite its dark tone, "Naval" can make a room feel cozy rather than small, provided there is ample natural light and large furnishings to balance the color, as demonstrated in her son's nursery. Danielle Perkins, principal designer and owner of Danielle Interior Design & Decor, often uses Sherwin-Williams's "Westhighland White" for clients seeking white walls. She notes that this warm white is ideal for rooms with abundant natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere. However, she cautions that in rooms with limited light, it might exhibit a yellowish tint. Perkins has applied this color throughout open-plan spaces, including ceilings, to allow architectural features like woodwork to stand out. For windowless rooms, Perkins consistently opts for Sherwin-Williams's "Alabaster," a cooler shade. She pairs it with warmer lighting to prevent the space from appearing stark, emphasizing its reliability in such settings. Treci Smith, an interior stylist from Treci Smith Designs, suggests Glidden's "Midnight Hour" as a versatile charcoal neutral. She has utilized this dark gray extensively, painting fences, her studio, and various rooms within her home. Smith characterizes "Midnight Hour" as sophisticated and moody, suitable for both small, dramatic spaces, like a kids' bathroom, and larger rooms with ample natural light, such as an all-white kitchen where she used it on lower cabinets. Hope Clark, founder and principal designer of Olive + Oak Interiors, considers Benjamin Moore's "Silver Satin" the ideal gray. She describes it as a balanced shade—neither too light nor too dark, and neither too cool nor too warm—making it perfect for creating a subtle contrast against white trim. Clark also highlights Farrow & Ball's "Card Room Green" as a popular choice, reflecting a trend toward soothing colors inspired by natural elements. She used a lightened version of this soft green (25 percent brighter) on the woodwork in her son's nursery to evoke a sense of calm. Oscar Bravo of Oscar Bravo Home recommends Behr's "Rustic Taupe," a warm taupe that appears almost gray. He notes its effectiveness in rooms lacking natural light, explaining that a saturated hue like this can make a space feel cozy and elegant, contrary to the misconception that bright colors are always best for dark rooms. Bravo applied "Rustic Taupe" to textured wallpaper in his guest room to achieve this effect. The article concludes by encouraging readers to consider these designer-approved shades for their home renovation projects. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #DesignTips #SherwinWilliams #BenjaminMoore #Glidden #Behr