Best Mold- and Mildew-Resistant Paints for 2025

This article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting the best deck paints and stains for 2025, emphasizing the crucial differences between the two types of protective coatings. Deck paints are characterized by their opacity and wide range of color options, offering a solid finish. However, they are more susceptible to chipping and peeling, necessitating regular sanding and repainting. In contrast, deck stains penetrate the wood, providing protection against water and UV damage while enhancing the wood's natural texture and grain. Stains are available in various transparency levels, including solid, semi-transparent, transparent, and clear, with sheerer options requiring more frequent re-application. The recommendations are based on an evaluation of application properties, durability, and cost, drawing insights from both professional users and DIY enthusiasts. The article highlights several top products across different categories. For water-based deck paints, Behr Premium Porch & Patio Floor Paint is recommended for its versatility on various surfaces and fast drying time. DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is presented as the best water-based stain, known for its eco-friendliness, durable matte finish, and protection against moisture, mildew, and UV rays, requiring minimal maintenance. In the oil-based category, Rust-Oleum Marine Coatings Topside Paint is suggested for its exceptional hardness and flexibility, originally designed for marine use, making it ideal for decks exposed to harsh weather. Cabot Australian Timber Oil Stain is featured as the top oil-based stain, celebrated for its deep penetration, lasting durability, and rich, natural color provided by earth-ground pigments. For enhanced safety, RTG Deck, Porch, & Patio Anti-Slip Paint is recommended due to its traction additive, offering a non-slip finish suitable for high-traffic areas. Thompson's WaterSeal Waterproofing Stain is highlighted for its comprehensive protection against water damage, fading, mildew, and UV rays, applicable to damp or dry wood. The Olympic Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer is praised for its one-step application, saving time and offering enhanced waterproofing and UV protection regardless of weather conditions. Ready Seal Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer is recommended for new wood, noted for its ease of application without a primer and deep penetration to preserve and protect against elements. Finally, Behr Premium Advanced Deckover, a resin coating, is presented as an excellent option for rejuvenating weathered wood and concrete, providing a durable, waterproof, and barefoot-friendly veneer. The article also includes key considerations when purchasing deck paints and stains, such as durability, color, and the type of wood. It advises matching the coating choice to the deck's current condition and emphasizes the importance of UV protection and mold/mildew resistance. The guide concludes with a FAQ section addressing common concerns like whether to paint or stain an old deck, the necessity of priming before staining, and painting over existing deck paint, offering practical advice for common DIY scenarios. #DeckMaintenance #DeckPaint #DeckStain #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects #OutdoorLiving #WoodProtection #HomeRenovation #PaintAndStainGuide

This comprehensive guide to furniture paint explores the various types available and their optimal applications, aiding in successful furniture restoration and upcycling projects. The article highlights key differences between furniture and wall paints, emphasizing the need for specialized furniture paints due to their higher binder content, which provides durability against frequent use and temperature changes. Furniture paints are also typically self-leveling, ensuring a smooth finish. The guide categorizes paints by type, including chalk, milk, mineral, water-based alkyd, and latex paints, detailing their characteristics and best uses. Fusion Mineral Paint is identified as the top choice overall. This acrylic paint is non-toxic, low-VOC, and available in 50 colors, making it easy to work with, especially on wood. It features a built-in topcoat for protection against UV, water, and stains, with an option for an additional topcoat in high-traffic areas. Fusion Mineral Paint offers approximately 75 square feet of coverage per pint, dries in about 2 hours, but requires a 21-day cure time for full hardness. General Finishes Milk Paint is recommended as the best milk paint. Despite its name, it is a water-based acrylic paint, not containing casein or milk protein, yet still delivering a desirable antique, low-luster finish. It is low-VOC and made from over 50% renewable resources. A topcoat is not always necessary for low-wear pieces but is advised for high-traffic items to enhance scratch resistance, moisture protection, and longevity. The paint comes in 12 colors, with a tintable white base also available. For maximum durability, Benjamin Moore Advance Waterborne Interior Alkyd is presented as the top choice. This water-based paint uses an alkyd resin to achieve the toughness of oil-based paints without their drawbacks, such as yellowing, high VOCs, or difficult cleanup. It forms a hard, durable shell that is easy to clean, making it ideal for high-wear furniture like cabinets and kitchen chairs. It offers up to 3,500 color choices and excellent coverage. However, it has long cure times and might yellow slightly over time, though less than traditional oil paints. Valspar Cabinet and Furniture Oil-Enriched Enamel Paint is noted as another strong contender, sharing many benefits with Benjamin Moore Advance. It is a reliable water-based paint with oil-like qualities, including easy cleanup and durability. It can be applied to most surfaces with minimal prep and is available in about 2,000 tintable colors and various finishes. Users have reported longer cure times, potentially exceeding a month in humid conditions. The article advises against using Behr Marquee One-Coat Enamel for furniture, despite its popularity as a wall paint. Although it offers ease of application, a wide color palette, and multiple finishes, its latex formulation lacks the durability needed for high-touch furniture, making it prone to chipping, flaking, and stickiness. The guide also provides essential advice on matching paint types to various surface materials. For wood, most paints work well, but a light sanding can improve binding. Laminate and MDF surfaces require a primer, such as Zinsser Shellac Primer, to ensure paint adhesion and prevent blotchiness. Metal furniture demands a different approach, including sanding off rust and using a degreaser, with specialized primers and Rust-Oleum paints recommended for optimal results. #FurniturePaint #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects #InteriorDesign #PaintTypes #FurnitureRestoration #PaintApplication #LowVOC #HomeRenovation

Selecting the appropriate paint for kitchen cabinets is a pivotal decision, as cabinets significantly influence a home's aesthetic and functional tone. A fresh coat of paint can revitalize the appearance of cabinets, masking age or damage, and offers a more cost-effective alternative to complete replacement. The choice of paint extends beyond mere color, impacting the visual effect and providing a protective layer against common kitchen elements like grease and stains. This guide provides comprehensive information on various paint types, finishes, and essential preparation steps to ensure a durable and visually appealing outcome. The top recommendation for cabinet paint is Benjamin Moore Advance Waterborne Interior Alkyd, recognized for its durability, rich color, and ease of application. This hybrid paint combines the robust qualities of oil-based paints with the convenience of water-based options, including easy cleanup and low volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It is lauded for its self-leveling properties, which minimize brush strokes and drips, making it user-friendly for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Proper surface preparation, involving thorough cleaning, degreasing, sanding, and priming, is crucial for optimal adhesion and longevity. The paint requires a longer drying time between coats but is tintable to a vast array of colors and available in satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss finishes. Another highly-rated option is Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel, known for achieving a factory-fresh appearance. This water-based alkyd paint shares many benefits with Benjamin Moore Advance, offering a durable, self-leveling finish and extensive color options. However, it demands a more refined application technique to avoid brush strokes and drips, which might pose a challenge for inexperienced DIYers. While being a premium-priced product, its quality justifies the cost for many. Like other alkyd paints, it necessitates thorough surface preparation, including degreasing, sanding, and priming, but it is self-sealing, eliminating the need for a topcoat. For those on a tighter budget, Behr Urethane Alkyd Semi-Gloss Enamel provides a viable alternative. This water-based alkyd paint offers similar benefits in terms of durability and low VOCs, along with easy water cleanup. However, users report that it is more prone to drips and sags if not applied carefully, emphasizing the importance of multiple thin coats and meticulous application. Despite some user criticisms, many have achieved satisfactory results with careful preparation and patience. Chalk paint, exemplified by Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, offers a unique aesthetic, particularly for the shabby chic style. Its primary advantages include minimal preparation (often no sanding or priming required) and its versatility in creating layered or distressed effects. However, chalk paint is not inherently durable and requires a wax sealant or topcoat, especially for high-traffic areas like kitchen cabinets. While there are many chalk paint brands, Annie Sloan remains a favorite for its distinct velvety finish, albeit at a premium price. Milk paint, such as General Finishes Milk Paint, caters to a rustic or farmhouse aesthetic with its ultra-matte finish. Though often formulated without traditional milk proteins, it is known for its durability compared to chalk paint. A topcoat is recommended for cabinet applications to enhance protection. Similar to other paints, proper surface preparation—cleaning, sanding, and priming—is essential for the best results, although it can be skipped at the risk of future issues. General Finishes offers a selection of pre-mixed colors and a tintable base. Beyond paint type, the choice of finish plays a significant role. Matte finishes offer a velvety, non-reflective look but are less resistant to stains and require a protective sealant. Satin finishes provide a soft glow, hiding imperfections and offering moderate protection. Semi-gloss is a popular and practical choice for cabinets due to its balance of durability, ease of cleaning, and ability to withstand heavy use. Gloss finishes deliver a sophisticated, modern look but highlight every imperfection and fingerprint, demanding high maintenance despite being easy to clean and stain-resistant. Regardless of the paint type or finish, thorough surface preparation is paramount. This includes meticulous cleaning and degreasing to remove dust, grime, and grease, as paint adheres poorly to contaminated surfaces. Sanding is essential to create a slightly rough surface for better paint adhesion, typically progressing from coarser to finer grits. Finally, repairing any gaps, cracks, or dents with wood filler before painting ensures a smooth and flawless finish. Priming, while sometimes optional for certain paints, is generally recommended as it provides a stable foundation, blocks stains, and improves paint adhesion and longevity. Water-based primers are now widely available and effective alternatives to traditional oil-based options. #CabinetPaint #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects #KitchenRenovation #InteriorDesign #PaintTypes #SurfacePreparation #BenjaminMoore #SherwinWilliams

Interior design trends, particularly paint colors, are often cyclical, yet some styles transcend fleeting fads to become enduring choices. While 2025 is expected to see a resurgence of bright and playful paint colors, a significant and persistent trend is the continued popularity of dark, earthy tones. This palette, encompassing deep oranges, blues, browns, and greens, is celebrated for its ability to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a timeless selection for design enthusiasts. The appeal of these colors lies in their dual characteristics: they are both dark and deeply rooted in natural hues, often featuring subtle brown undertones. While vibrant earthy shades are appreciated, it is the rich, moody, and snug sensation offered by darker tones that resonates strongly with design experts. To enhance the homey feel, opting for warm color temperatures within this dark, earthy spectrum, such as chocolate brown or burnt orange, is recommended. Deep blues and greens also remain popular, providing a vibrant yet grounded pop of color that integrates well with neutral schemes. Incorporating these deep earthy paint colors into a home can seem daunting, but there are various effective strategies. One straightforward approach is to paint the walls in a favorite dark, earthy hue, which instantly imparts a sophisticated and cozy ambiance. This effect can be intensified through 'color drenching,' a technique where the ceiling, trim, and built-ins are painted in the same shade as the walls, creating a cocoon-like sensation ideal for relaxing spaces like bedrooms or living rooms. Dark shades inherently carry a sophisticated vibe, making them excellent companions for natural stone materials such as granite, marble, and slate. This compatibility allows these paint trends to be successfully implemented in functional areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. For those hesitant to commit to an entire room in a bold color like hunter green or navy blue, an accent wall offers a less imposing alternative. An accent wall painted in a dark, earthy tone can become a striking focal point, elevating the room's overall aesthetic. creative applications include using a single burnt orange shade, combining different dark hues, or developing engaging patterns like stripes. To prevent the design from becoming excessively dark, balancing the space with lighter furniture and decor is crucial. Incorporating organic materials such as bamboo, cotton, linen, terracotta, and stone not only complements the natural essence of the trending palette but also adds texture and depth to the room. Furthermore, hardware and metallic elements can significantly contribute to a luxurious yet comforting look when paired with these deep shades. Even a simple detail like painting window trim, doors, and baseboards in a light color can introduce contrast and visual interest, brightening the area without diminishing the inherent coziness of the dark hues. #InteriorPaintTrends #EarthyColors #HomeDecor #CozyAtmosphere #ColorDrenching #AccentWall #DesignTips #InteriorDesign #PaintColors2025

The article presents a comprehensive guide to the best cabinet paints of 2025, based on expert testing by the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab. It highlights how a fresh coat of paint can economically refresh a kitchen without a full remodel, offering a variety of high-quality paint options across different budgets and formulations. Each recommendation includes a detailed overview of its pros and cons. Benjamin Moore Advance is rated as the best overall cabinet paint, noted for its smooth application, extreme durability, and easy water cleanup, despite being pricey and less readily available. It's a hybrid alkyd enamel designed for high-touch surfaces, curing to a furniture-grade finish and qualifying as a low-VOC formula. The BEHR Urethane Alkyd Semi-Gloss Enamel is identified as the best value option, offering a durable finish with excellent flow and leveling to prevent brush marks, and is easy to clean with water. While affordable, it may require ordering ahead due to its specialized nature. HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams Infinity is recommended as the best latex cabinet paint, praised for its excellent coverage, especially over dark surfaces, and superb stain resistance. It features a self-priming capability, which can save time and money, though a second coat is still advised for high-traffic areas. The BEHR Marquee Advanced Stain-Blocking Paint & Primer is highlighted as the best all-purpose paint, suitable for various interior projects due to its durable, even finish, fast drying time, and one-coat coverage with built-in primer. It also offers a wide range of colors and high stain resistance. For durability on a budget, BEHR Premium Plus is recommended, providing above-average coverage and resistance to scrubbing, along with low odor and emissions. Valspar Reserve, Lowe's house brand, is noted for its excellent coverage, stain resistance, and fade resistance, particularly useful for kitchens with significant sunlight exposure, and includes an online paint calculator for project planning. Glidden High Endurance Plus is presented as a solid budget-friendly option, offering high hiding and coverage, especially with a separate primer, though its VOC count can vary with color tints. David Kaufman Color DKC stands out as the best luxury cabinet paint, favored by designers for its curated color palettes, durable finish, and scrub/stain resistance, despite its high cost. Lastly, Clare Interior Paint is recognized as the best boutique brand, offering curated color palettes delivered directly to consumers, excellent coverage, a durable finish, and Greenguard Gold certification, although it comes with premium pricing. The article also provides detailed insights into the testing methodology, including assessments of application ease, finish, texture, opacity, fade resistance, durability through abrasion, and stain resistance, ensuring comprehensive evaluation of each product. The guide concludes with practical advice on preparing cabinets for painting, emphasizing the importance of cleaning with a degreaser, light sanding, and removing dust and debris for a successful paint job. It also advises on choosing a semi-gloss finish for kitchen cabinets due to its durability, stain resistance, and ease of cleaning. The authors, Timothy Dahl and Dan DiClerico, along with Nikolas Greenwald, contribute their extensive experience in home improvement, product testing, and chemical analysis to provide reliable recommendations. #CabinetPaint #KitchenRemodel #HomeImprovement #PaintTesting #DIYProjects #LowVOCPaint #GreenguardCertified #InteriorDesign

The year 2025 marks a notable shift in exterior paint color trends, moving away from cooler grays and stark contrasts towards warmer, more natural tones. Homeowners are increasingly favoring soft, earthy neutrals such as warm whites, various beiges, and sand tones, along with muted blues and greens. Darker shades like deep browns and grays are replacing the once-popular black, aiming for a more grounded aesthetic that seamlessly integrates homes with their natural surroundings. This trend is driven by a desire for harmony between residential structures and the environment. Two color experts, Amy Woolf from Amy Woolf Architectural Color and Design, and Lisa Jenkins of Lisa Jenkins Color, provide insights into these emerging trends. They highlight specific colors and their applications. For instance, 'Rosemary' by Sherwin Williams, a medium to dark green with subtle gray undertones, exemplifies the nature-inspired palette. Woolf notes its warmth and muted quality, making it suitable for various architectural styles, including cottage, Victorian, Foursquare, and Craftsman homes, and it complements brick beautifully. It also pairs effectively with warm neutrals and wood tones. Another green, 'Vine Leaf' by Behr, is described as brighter but still aligned with the earthy theme of 2025. This vibrant yet fresh color allows homeowners to make a statement without deviating from grounded tones. It works well with warm grays, whites, or wood accents, serving as either a main exterior color or an accent on shutters and doors. The move towards warm neutrals is also evident in choices like 'Swiss Coffee' by Benjamin Moore, a creamy off-white that Jenkins frequently recommends. When paired with 'Edgecomb Gray' by Benjamin Moore for shutters, it creates a classic and appealing combination. For those seeking bolder statements while maintaining a natural feel, 'Oxide' by Behr offers a deep, reddish-brown with warm undertones. This versatile color can be used as a front door or shutter accent, or as a primary field paint, blending well with warm neutrals, wood, and stone, and suiting both modern and contemporary designs. Sage gray/greens are prominent, with 'Anonymous' by Sherwin Williams standing out. Despite being a gray, its green undertones give it a sage-like appearance, making it compatible with warm whites and beige. This color is ideal for achieving a relaxed, natural look across various architectural styles, from coastal to colonial. Deep, moody gray-greens, such as 'Flint' by Benjamin Moore, are also in high demand. Jenkins describes 'Flint' as a 'charcoal blue'—a mix of blue-green and gray with a strong blue presence. It provides a bold, modern look, adding depth and visual interest, and is perfect for shutters on white houses or paired with black trim. Dark brown exteriors are gaining popularity, exemplified by 'Whitall Brown' by Benjamin Moore. This deep, dark brown with red undertones aligns with the trend for dark, earthy colors, offering an alternative to dark blue or black. Its versatility makes it suitable for diverse regions and architectural styles, including Garrison, Four-Square, and Craftsman homes. Deep blues, like 'Needlepoint Navy' by Sherwin Williams, continue to be popular choices for 2025. Warmer than black, this color adds depth to coastal, traditional, and modern homes, adaptable as an accent or a dominant color, complementing both modern and classic designs. Finally, 'Revere Pewter' by Benjamin Moore, a soft, warm gray with subtle green and beige undertones, is highlighted as a versatile and transitional neutral. It complements stone, brick, or wood elements and pairs well with crisp whites or charcoal accents. 'Tyler Gray' by Benjamin Moore, a warm, sophisticated mid-tone neutral, is praised for its timeless quality and flexibility, especially when used with fixed materials like brick or stone veneer, preventing color clashes and ensuring long-lasting appeal. #ExteriorPaint #HomeDecorTrends #ColorTrends2025 #NaturalTones #EarthynNeutralColors #SherwinWilliams #BehrPaint #BenjaminMoore

Selecting the appropriate paint for a bathroom requires prioritizing moisture resistance due to the inherent humidity and potential for water splashes in such environments. Unlike standard paints, bathroom-specific formulations are engineered with properties to withstand damp conditions, prevent mold growth, and often feature wipeable surfaces to manage inevitable marks and splatters. This article provides a comprehensive guide to six top-rated bathroom paints, detailing their key features, benefits, and considerations for various bathroom challenges. The Dulux Bathroom+ Emulsion Paint is highlighted as an excellent all-rounder, offering steam and moisture resistance, coupled with a MouldTec formulation that provides up to five years of mold protection. Its soft sheen finish repels steam effectively, making it a durable choice for high-use bathrooms. For areas previously affected by leaks or persistent dampness, Polycell One Coat Damp Seal is recommended. This specialist paint seals damp patches to prevent them from showing through subsequent topcoats. Its quick application, requiring only one coat, and rapid drying time make it an efficient solution for preparing compromised surfaces. Bathrooms with poor ventilation, which are prone to consistent mold growth from condensation, can benefit significantly from Ronseal Anti Mould Paint. This paint offers up to six years of mold protection and dries quickly within two hours, providing a wipeable surface. While only available in white, its specialized anti-mold properties address a common problem in poorly ventilated spaces. For those seeking a quick-drying and robust topcoat, Johnstone's Brilliant White Kitchen & Bathroom Emulsion is presented as a strong contender. It delivers durable protection against condensation, stains, and grease, featuring a mid-sheen finish that repels moisture. The paint is also low-odor and dries within four hours, though users should be mindful of its strong adherence, which can make cleaning brushes and spillages challenging if not addressed promptly. For a cosmetic refresh without undertaking a full renovation, Ronseal High Gloss Tile Paint offers an effective solution for existing tiles. Available in a range of colors, this paint transforms patterned or strongly colored tiles with a waterproof and mold-resistant high gloss finish. Lastly, the GoodHome bathroom paint is identified as a budget-friendly option, providing essential bathroom paint properties—washability, stain resistance, and mold resistance—at a competitive price. Its soft sheen finish helps reflect light, an advantage in bathrooms that typically receive less natural illumination. When choosing bathroom paint, key factors include color selection (lighter shades for small spaces or bold colors for a cocooning effect), wipe-ability for easy cleaning, drying time to ensure proper curing between coats, and surface preparation, particularly in addressing existing damp or mold issues, sometimes requiring specialist undercoats. #BathroomPaint #MoistureResistantPaint #MoldPrevention #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #DIY #PaintSelection #DampSeal #TilePaint

BEHR has announced its 2025 Exterior Stain Color of the Year, Cedar, alongside the launch of its second annual Curb Appeal Collection, a curated palette of 45 exterior colors designed to simplify the homeowner's decision-making process. Erika Woelfel, BEHR’s vice president of color and creative services, highlighted Cedar as a warm, earthy, and versatile hue inspired by natural cedarwood, aiming for a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic. The collection is categorized into four architectural themes: American casual, craftsman, modern, and traditional, addressing the significant demand for exterior repainting, with 84% of Americans considering such projects, according to a BEHR-commissioned survey. The overall trend observed by Woelfel is a shift away from stark grays and cool beiges towards warmer, more authentic, and nature-inspired tones. This signifies a move away from the minimalist aesthetics prevalent in recent years, favoring homes that convey a sense of being lived-in and connected to the natural environment. While traditional farmhouse-inspired styles, characterized by black and white exteriors, were popular at the beginning of the 2020s, their dominance is waning. Homeowners are now increasingly incorporating natural, earthy tones into various materials like wood, stone, and metal, reflecting a desire for more personalized designs. Darker color palettes, including black, charcoal gray, and dark blue, have maintained popularity over the past few years. However, the current trend shows these dark shades being complemented by lighter, natural tones rather than serving as the sole dominant feature. This approach creates a more dynamic and nuanced exterior appearance. Woelfel emphasizes that the evolving trend leans towards personalized color choices that offer warmth and depth, while still maintaining a timeless appeal through traditional shades. The Curb Appeal Collection is designed to assist homeowners with both extensive renovations and smaller-scale updates, such as painting a front door or window trim. This flexibility allows for impactful changes without necessarily undertaking a complete exterior overhaul. Furthermore, while earthy hues like subtle browns and creamy whites continue to be favored, there is a growing demand for vibrant accent colors. Woelfel notes that bold shades such as yellow, teal, and orange are becoming increasingly popular, especially in modern home designs, adding a statement to the overall aesthetic. Repainting a home's exterior is generally recommended every five to seven years, though this can vary based on paint type, local climate, and the condition of the existing surface. #Behr #ExteriorPaint #ColorTrends2025 #CurbAppeal #HomeImprovement #PaintColors #EarthyTones #ModernHomeDesign #HomeDecor

The article delves into the anticipated paint color trends for homes in 2024, emphasizing the significant role of color in shaping the mood and atmosphere of a room. It features insights from six interior design experts, each offering their perspectives on trending colors and practical advice for homeowners embarking on decorating projects. The overarching theme highlights a shift towards a blend of strong earthy hues and bold, darker shades, while also encouraging personal expression in color choices. Sophie Robinson, an interior stylist, expresses her enthusiasm for warm, vibrant colors, specifically burnt oranges and plum shades. She recently painted her TV snug a dark plum, chocolate color, finding it conducive to a restful evening environment. Robinson advises individuals to prioritize their favorite colors, asserting that personal preference is key to long-term satisfaction with interior choices. Helen Ashmore, Head of Design at Laura Ashley, is currently drawn to dark greens, viewing her home as an extension of the natural world. She plans to use a combination of fern, hedgerow, and pistachio greens in her living room to create a cozy, inviting space. Ashmore recommends testing paint swatches in various lighting conditions over a week to observe how the color evolves, especially for north-facing rooms. Annie Sloan, a renowned color expert and inventor of Chalk Paint™, predicts a resurgence of deep, earthy brown and red shades. She suggests pairing these with periwinkle blue for a winning combination, noting that blues, greens, and pinks also complement them well. Sloan encourages trusting one's instincts over external opinions, advising that bold colors can be balanced with artwork and pictures. Interior designer Pandora Taylor observes a trend towards vibrant greens, particularly fresh, spring-like tones, ideal for adding a playful touch to smaller areas like bathrooms. Taylor stresses the importance of comparing different shades of a color to understand their base undertones—grey, yellow, or red—which significantly impact the final look. She also encourages bolder, richer choices, as they can be warmed up or toned down with lighting. Emma Valerio, Home Design Stylist at John Lewis, is captivated by blues, particularly sky blue, which she finds works well with ornate features and decorative wooden furniture. She suggests using it on walls, skirting boards, and ceilings for a significant impact, pairing it with soft greens and whites for a romantic feel. Valerio also offers an alternative to wall painting, advocating for bold colored painted furniture, such as yellow side tables or blue bobbin drawers, as a shortcut to adding color. Alexandra Buckthorp, an interior designer with a background in Arts History, advises looking to nature for inspiration in 2024, suggesting opulent natural brown earthy shades and warm mid-tone blues for main backdrops. Her personal favorites include deep terracotta chocolate browns and mid-tonal caramels, which she views as safe choices for those cautious about color. Buckthorp also cautions about the geographical location of a property, noting that a vivid magenta might work in sunny Miami but a more muted tone would be better suited for a period home in the UK, where natural light is often duller and more inconsistent with seasonal changes. The consensus among experts is to approach color selection thoughtfully, considering personal mood, lighting, and environmental context. #PaintColorTrends #HomeDecorating #InteriorDesign #ColorPsychology #ExpertAdvice #SophieRobinson #AnnieSloan #LauraAshley #JohnLewis

This article from Good Housekeeping Institute identifies the top interior paints for 2025, offering recommendations for various household applications and budgets. The selections are based on rigorous laboratory and home testing conducted by experts in the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab. The testing methodology involves evaluating paint durability, stain resistance, coverage, and finish quality through various physical and chemical stress tests. Each recommended paint brand is thoroughly described, highlighting its pros and cons, optimal use cases, and key performance indicators. The 'Best Overall' pick is Behr Marquee Advanced Stain-Blocking Paint & Primer, lauded for its balanced performance, smooth finish, quick drying time, and excellent stain and abrasion resistance. Its one-coat coverage and built-in primer offer cost and time savings, despite being on the pricier side. For those on a tighter budget, Glidden Premium Interior Paint + Primer is recommended as the 'Best Value'. While more affordable, it provides a smooth finish and fast drying, making it suitable for low-traffic areas, though it performs less effectively against tough stains. Glidden Diamond is highlighted for 'Best One-Coat Coverage', especially when painting over darker colors or seeking a quick and economical solution. It also boasts low chemical emissions, certified by GREENGUARD, but may require a second coat for certain colors or high-traffic areas due to its moderate scratch resistance. HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams Infinity Advanced Performance Paint & Primer offers the 'Smoothest Finish', ideal for prominent rooms like living and dining areas, demonstrating exceptional hiding power despite a longer drying time and higher cost. For floors, Dutch Boy Porch & Floor Interior/Exterior Paint + Primer is the 'Best for Floors', noted for its extreme durability, fade resistance, and availability in an anti-skid finish. Sherwin-Williams Scuff Tuff Interior Waterbased Enamel is chosen as the 'Best for High-Traffic Areas', enduring significant abrasion and offering a smooth, odor-free finish due to its GREENGUARD certification. Sherwin-Williams Emerald is recommended as the 'Best for Bathrooms', excelling in stain resistance and scrubability, with antimicrobial properties to prevent mold and mildew, though its finish consistency might require a second coat. Finally, Benjamin Moore Aura Interior Acrylic Paint & Primer is recognized as the 'Best Low-VOC' option. This paint is favored by professionals for its smooth application, fast drying, and minimal hazardous chemical content, supported by Benjamin Moore's Green Promise, despite having fair stain resistance. The article concludes with a comprehensive shopping guide covering important considerations such as paint finish types (flat, semigloss, eggshell/satin), color selection tips, calculating necessary paint quantities, and essential surface preparation steps for optimal results. #InteriorPaints #PaintReviews #HomeImprovement #DIYDecorating #GoodHousekeepingInstitute #PaintTesting #HomeDecor #VOCPaint

Selecting the appropriate paint for kitchen cabinets is a critical aspect of home renovation, as cabinets significantly influence a kitchen's visual aesthetic. Repainting offers a cost-effective alternative to replacing entire floors or countertops, providing an opportunity to refresh the space, conceal imperfections, and introduce a desired style. This guide focuses on various paint types and finishes, alongside essential surface preparation techniques, to ensure a durable and attractive result. The Benjamin Moore Advance Waterborne Interior Alkyd is identified as the top overall choice for cabinet painting. This hybrid paint combines the robustness of oil-based paints with the convenience of water-based formulas, offering easy cleanup, low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and excellent durability. Although it requires a longer drying time between coats (16-24 hours), its self-leveling properties minimize brush strokes and drips, making it more forgiving for DIY enthusiasts. This paint is tintable to a wide array of colors and is available in satin, semi-gloss, and high gloss finishes. It is crucial to perform thorough surface preparation, including cleaning, degreasing, sanding, and priming, for optimal adhesion and longevity. Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel ranks as a close second, offering a factory-fresh finish and comparable durability to Benjamin Moore Advance. This water-based alkyd is also self-leveling and tintable to various colors. However, it is noted to be less forgiving, with a higher likelihood of brush strokes and drip marks if applied without precise technique. While self-sealing, it still benefits from comprehensive prep work. This paint is generally more expensive, reflecting its premium quality and professional appeal. For those on a tighter budget, Behr Urethane Alkyd Semi-Gloss Enamel provides a more affordable water-based alkyd option. While offering similar durability and easy cleanup, users should be mindful of its tendency to drip or sag if not applied in multiple thin coats. Careful application and patience are key to achieving satisfactory results with this product. Chalk paint, exemplified by Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, is ideal for achieving a shabby chic or distressed look. It requires minimal surface preparation, such as sanding or priming, and bonds to almost any surface. However, it lacks inherent durability and necessitates a wax sealant or topcoat, especially for high-traffic areas like kitchen cabinets. Milk paint, such as General Finishes Milk Paint, offers a rustic, farmhouse aesthetic with a matte finish. While more durable than chalk paint, a topcoat is still recommended for cabinet applications. Both chalk and milk paints are water-based and have low VOCs. Understanding paint finishes is also crucial. Matte finishes, while visually appealing with their velvety texture, are prone to staining due to their porous nature and typically require a protective sealant. Satin finishes offer a subtle glow, effectively hiding imperfections and fingerprints while providing a degree of protection against mildew. Semi-gloss is a popular choice for cabinets due to its hard, non-porous, and easy-to-clean surface, making it suitable for active households. Gloss finishes provide a sophisticated, modern look but highlight every imperfection and fingerprint, requiring consistent maintenance. Regardless of the paint type or finish chosen, thorough surface preparation is paramount. This includes meticulously cleaning and degreasing cabinets to remove dust, grime, and grease. Sanding creates a slightly rough surface for better paint adhesion, starting with coarser grits for deep scratches and progressing to finer grits for smoothness. Repairing any gaps, cracks, or dents with wood filler before painting ensures a flawless final appearance. Finally, using a primer is often essential as it enhances paint adhesion, blocks stains, and provides a uniform base, even for paints that claim to be self-priming. Water-based primers are now highly effective alternatives to traditional oil-based options. #CabinetPainting #HomeRenovation #DIYProjects #KitchenDesign #PaintTypes #SurfacePreparation #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement

The article presents a comprehensive roundup of the leading paint brands' Color of the Year selections for 2025, offering insights into the upcoming interior design trends. A notable shift is observed towards dark browns as rich, moody neutrals, alongside a resurgence of nostalgic purple shades, positioning them as significant color trends for the year. Pantone introduced 'Mocha Mousse' as its 2025 Color of the Year, a gentle brown that emphasizes comfort and timeless interior spaces. This choice, while seemingly understated compared to 2024's 'Peach Fuzz,' reflects a preference for enduring, trend-resistant hues that foster calming environments. Dutch Boy selected 'Mapped Blue,' a mid-tone blue with warm yellow undertones, designed for its timeless aesthetic and adaptability to various design styles. This choice aligns with consumer demand for durable, functional, and classic designs that withstand the test of time. STAINMASTER's 'Truffle,' a deep brown, reinforces the trend of dark neutrals, offering depth and drama for cozy, color-drenched living spaces. Valspar’s 'Encore,' a rich navy blue, is chosen for its dramatic yet timeless quality, aiming to create welcoming and restful homes, suitable for both interior and exterior applications. HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams unveiled 'Quietude,' a cool sage green with blue undertones, as its Color of the Year. This calming, in-between hue serves as an adventurous alternative to traditional neutrals, fitting both modern and traditional homes. The brand also introduced the 'Naturally Refined' palette, featuring ten earthy and neutral shades inspired by a sustainable lifestyle. Behr's 'Rumors,' a sophisticated ruby red, signals a move away from blue-centric palettes. This choice aligns with the 'unexpected red theory' trend, offering warmth and cozy appeal, versatile for bold statements or subtle accents. Graham & Brown’s 'Elderton,' another rich brown, draws inspiration from nature, elevating neutral decorating with sophistication. C2 Paint's 'Raku' is a deep brown with warm red undertones, characterized by balance, comfort, and timeless elegance. Minwax's 'Violet' introduces purple into the mix, aiming to add joy and character to wood tones with its intriguing hue. Benjamin Moore's 'Cinnamon Slate,' an 'in-between' shade of plum and warm brown, offers a liveable approach to bold colors, alongside an earthy 2025 Color Trends palette. Sherwin-Williams presented a 'Color Capsule' of nine shades, rather than a single color, drawing inspiration from 1970s vintage palettes. Glidden's 'Purple Basil,' a warm and retro purple, further solidifies purple as a dominant trend, suitable for maximalist color schemes. Dulux's 'True Joy,' a vibrant yellow, aims to boost mood and embrace 'dopamine decor.' Dunn-Edwards' 'Caramelized,' an earthy terracotta with brown hints, offers a flattering and liveable neutral alternative, bringing subtle warmth to various rooms. Lick's 'New Nostalgia' palette, comprising eight shades, blends retro design with contemporary twists, allowing for diverse interior styles. The collective selections for 2025 indicate a leaning towards rich neutrals, bold colors, and nostalgic palettes, offering diverse inspiration for home decor trends. #ColorOfTheYear #InteriorDesign #PaintTrends #HomeDecor #ColorPalette #NeutralColors #BoldColors #ColorPsychology

Choosing the appropriate paint is crucial for the success of any furniture restoration or upcycling project, as different types of paint are designed for specific surfaces and use cases. This guide highlights the top furniture paints available in 2026, categorized by their best applications and unique characteristics, helping individuals select the ideal product for their needs. The guide emphasizes that "best" extends beyond color selection, encompassing various paint types, compatibility with furniture materials, and necessary preparation steps for optimal results. Fusion Mineral Paint is identified as a top-rated choice for its ease of use, strong adhesion, and low VOC content. This acrylic paint is non-toxic, locally sourced, and offered in 50 colors. It includes a built-in topcoat providing UV, water, and stain protection, making it suitable for various surfaces, especially wood. While it dries in about two hours, a full cure takes 21 days, during which heavy use should be avoided. General Finishes Milk Paint is recognized as the best general-use milk paint, delivering an antique, low-luster finish without containing casein or milk proteins. It is durable, low VOC, and made from over 50% renewable resources. Although it comes in only 12 pre-mixed colors, a white base is available for tinting. A topcoat is recommended for high-traffic items to enhance scratch resistance, moisture protection, and longevity. For maximum durability, Benjamin Moore Advance Waterborne Interior Alkyd is recommended. This water-based paint uses an alkyd resin to achieve the toughness of oil-based paints, but without the associated drawbacks like yellowing or high VOCs, and offers easy cleanup. It creates a hard, durable shell that resists stains, making it ideal for hard-wearing furniture such as cabinets and kitchen chairs. This premium brand offers up to 3,500 color choices and excellent coverage. Valspar Cabinet and Furniture Oil-Enriched Enamel Paint offers similar durability to Benjamin Moore Advance but may require more coats. This water-based paint, undergoing a rebranding to HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams Infinity, can be applied to almost any surface with minimal preparation. It is available in approximately 2,000 tintable colors and various finishes. While it boasts a quicker dry time for recoating, some users report longer cure times, especially in humid conditions. Conversely, Behr Marquee One-Coat Enamel is advised against for furniture despite being a decent wall paint. Its chemical composition and resin structure are not designed for the wear and tear furniture endures, increasing the likelihood of chipping, flaking, and stickiness. Furniture paint, unlike wall paint, incorporates more binders to withstand frequent contact, temperature changes, and is self-leveling for a smooth finish. The article also provides guidance on matching paint types to various surface materials: bare or lightly stained wood works with most paints after light sanding; laminate and MDF require a primer like Zinsser Shellac Primer for proper adhesion; metal surfaces need specific preparation, including rust removal and degreasing, and benefit from Rust-Oleum primers and paints. Different paint types—chalk, milk, mineral, water-based alkyd, and latex—are explained for their unique visual effects and chemical properties, helping users achieve their desired aesthetic and durability. #FurniturePaint #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects #InteriorDesign #PaintSelection #FurnitureRestoration #PaintTypes #SurfacePreparation #ProductReview

Repainting a living space is an accessible and cost-effective method to update its style, offering a less permanent way to engage with design trends compared to more significant, expensive renovations like new flooring or tiling. For 2025, several paint trends are emerging that promise to revitalize home interiors. These trends, highlighted by House Digest's in-house design expert and Journal of Design History board member Sarah Bilotta, focus on practical yet aesthetically pleasing approaches that are likely to have lasting appeal. One significant trend involves contrasting trim. Moving away from the once-dominant all-white aesthetic, designers are reintroducing classic pairings of dark trim with light walls or vice versa. This approach transforms trim, such as door frames, baseboards, and crown molding, from functional elements into decorative features, adding visual interest to a room. While bold contrasts are an option, even subtle variations like white trim against colored walls can elevate a space beyond a monochromatic scheme. Another re-emerging trend is the use of natural wood trim. After a period of decline in popularity, natural wood trim is making a comeback, influenced by styles like modern farmhouse and Scandinavian-inspired contemporary aesthetics. This resurgence is partly driven by a desire to move beyond minimalist, all-white interiors, with many homeowners now seeking more vibrant and dynamic designs. The natural grain of wood offers this desired visual richness, and its unaltered form also appeals to eco-conscious individuals. Color drenching, a technique where a single color is applied to multiple surfaces within a space—including walls, ceilings, and even furniture—remains popular. For 2025, a variation involves painting decor items, such as picture frames, to match the walls. This creates a stronger connection between design elements, adding depth and a sense of completeness to a room by seamlessly integrating decorative accents into the overall color scheme. A cohesive paint palette throughout the entire home is also gaining traction. Instead of using disparate bold colors in each room or sticking to uniform neutrals, this trend suggests employing different hues of the same color family across various spaces. For instance, different shades of green, like soft sage in living areas and a darker pine green in a master bedroom, can create a harmonious flow while still allowing for individual room character. This approach provides a unified aesthetic that is both colorful and serene, offering a sophisticated alternative to a patchwork of varied designs. Inspiration for wall colors can also be drawn from the fixed features of a room. This method involves identifying undertones in existing elements, such as the gray veins in marble or deep brown knots in pine floors, and selecting paint colors that complement these features. This approach ensures that the chosen paint color integrates seamlessly with the room's inherent palette, enhancing the overall look rather than creating discord. It encourages homeowners to embrace darker shades, as long as they resonate with existing elements, to achieve a cohesive result without overwhelming the space. Stenciling is another trend making a comeback, moving beyond children's rooms to create full-wall patterns that emulate wallpaper. With renewed interest in DIY and inspiration from platforms like TikTok, stencils allow for personalized touches and intricate designs. Techniques such as mixing texturing agents into paint can add dimension and interest to stenciled walls, offering a subtle way to enhance a room's visual texture without resorting to dramatic color combinations. Double drenching, a newer and bolder application of color drenching, involves painting walls, trim, doors, and ceilings in two slightly contrasting but complementary colors, such as navy blue and royal blue. This technique adds unexpected depth and boldness, transforming even functional elements like doors into design statements. While currently prominent in luxury design publications and dramatic spaces like entryways, its broader adoption by the average homeowner remains to be seen. Finally, painting bathroom surfaces beyond just the walls is becoming popular, particularly for updating shower tiles. Instead of traditional white or cream, homeowners are opting for full-bodied, darker colors. However, it is crucial to use epoxy paint for any surfaces that will get wet, as the improved formulas of these paints offer enhanced strength and water resistance, preventing bubbling or peeling. This allows for a less permanent and more fun approach to bathroom renovation. #PaintTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorDrenching #NaturalWoodTrim #CohesivePalette #Stenciling #DoubleDrenching #BathroomRenovation

The article explores the top paint trends for 2025, offering 17 stylish ideas for decorating with paint, as explained by interior designers and color experts. It highlights how paint, being a less permanent design choice, allows for creative home elevation through various finishes and trending colors. One significant trend is the enduring popularity of brown paints, especially rich, deep shades, which are seen as an elevated neutral. Designers recommend colors like Farrow & Ball's Salon Drab and Annie Sloan's Coco and Honfleur. These browns are versatile, pairing well with soft pastels, neutral creams for a luxurious 70s feel, or bolder colors like vivid red, orange, and pink for a regal effect, or bright greens and blues for contrast. Limewash walls are another key trend for 2025, transforming plain surfaces into textured art with a soft, cloud-like finish. This ancient technique, experiencing a revival, adds depth and an organic feel, complementing natural materials such as wood, linen, and stone. Testing limewash before full application is advised, as it typically dries lighter, and it's suitable for walls with imperfections. However, proper sealing is crucial for use in bathrooms and kitchens. Color drenching, though not new, maintains its appeal for 2025. This technique involves using a single color across walls, ceilings, skirting, doors, and even furniture to create an immersive, cohesive look. It is particularly effective in small rooms, making them appear larger and cozier. Experts suggest matte finishes for walls and eggshell for woodwork to enhance this effect, recommending it for powder rooms, hallways, and studies. Matte paint finishes are gaining traction due to advancements in durability, making them suitable for almost any space, including high-traffic areas. Brands like Benjamin Moore's Scuff X and Farrow & Ball's Dead Flat offer velvety, modern finishes that absorb light beautifully. Matte finishes are ideal for highlighting architectural details and work especially well with deeply pigmented hues like burgundy or forest green. Matching paint colors to wallpaper is highlighted as a trend that creates a seamless, tailored design. By extracting a dominant or subtle tone from the wallpaper, a harmonious and layered aesthetic is achieved. This method makes spaces feel intentional and polished, effectively extending the visual impact of wallpaper, particularly in smaller areas like bars or breakfast nooks. Saturated colors, especially jewel-tone blues and greens, are anticipated to be prominent. Designers emphasize using these rich colors in specific areas such as powder rooms, foyers, laundry rooms, and dining rooms to add character and depth. Examples include Sherwin-Williams’ Seaworthy and Westhaven, and Benjamin Moore’s Jojoba. Bold paint choices, when complemented by the overall design, can significantly enhance a space. Painted staircases are another way to make a bold statement, whether it involves painting just the riser, the step, or the entire staircase. This technique can modernize antique features or soften contemporary ones, adding a playful twist to entryways or other areas. Rich shades of purple, such as aubergine, maroon, and eggplant, are also trending for cabinetry, wet bars, and other spaces where a bold element is desired, moving away from neutral tones. Contrasting paint finishes introduce depth and visual interest by using different sheens within a monochromatic space, such as a flat white wall with a lacquered white trim. Painting woodwork, doors, or trim in a contrasting color to the walls is also a stylish approach to highlight architectural details and add character. This offers a fresh alternative to standard white trim, allowing for subtle color introduction without overwhelming the room. Deep reds and terracotta tones, continuing their popularity from 2024, are expected to remain in vogue. While bold, the "Unexpected Red Theory" suggests that small touches of red can elevate a room, even in neutral schemes. Rich wine reds and burgundy hues like Farrow & Ball's Brinjal are favored for creating moody and sophisticated finishes, particularly in powder bathrooms. Terracotta paints such as Farrow & Ball's Red Earth and Benjamin Moore's Persimmon provide a warmer, less intense alternative. Darker stains for wood are a notable trend, particularly in kitchens and baths, shifting away from all-white or two-tone schemes. This involves mixing darker woods with lighter ones or opting for richer wood stains over the pale, minimalist Scandinavian styles. Caramels that verge on yellow are gaining popularity as warm neutrals, providing depth and an inviting feel. These sandy shades work well in north-facing rooms or those lacking natural light, blending with natural materials and patterned fabrics. Closely considered shades and tones emphasize curated color pairings that add energy and depth to a space. Monochromatic schemes use shades of the same color for subtle contrast, while analogous schemes employ adjacent tones on the color wheel for a more adventurous look. Complementary tones, taken from opposite sides of the wheel, create drama while maintaining harmony. Clay tones, including plaster pinks, pale beiges, and soft brown-tone grays, are ideal for light neutral rooms, creating calming and spacious environments. Using lighter tones on walls and stronger tones on trim can make rooms feel larger. Finally, painting the ceiling, often referred to as the "fifth wall," is emerging as a fun and unexpected trend. This is particularly appealing in children's rooms, adding a vibrant touch without overwhelming the space, and is also recommended for other areas to introduce an element of surprise. Mixing and matching unexpected paint colors, looking to the color wheel for guidance, can create eclectic and individual looks, rich with visual interest, as demonstrated by playful combinations of blue and green in modern kitchens. #PaintTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorSchemes #NeutralPalette #SaturatedColors #LimewashWalls #ColorDrenching #MatteFinishes

Washable paint offers a practical solution for high-traffic areas and homes with children or pets, allowing for easy cleaning of common stains like muddy paw marks, sticky fingerprints, and even accidental spills. This guide explores the top washable paint options available, suitable for various rooms and surfaces within a home. The focus is on durability, stain resistance, and ease of maintenance, highlighting products that perform well in demanding environments. Dulux Easycare Matt Emulsion Paint is identified as a leading choice for overall washability. Despite its color pigmentation potentially not matching more expensive brands, its durability and stain resistance are exceptional. It is noted as being 20 times tougher than standard Dulux Matt Emulsion, making it ideal for scrubbing clean without paint removal. This paint is particularly recommended for areas like hallways due to its robust nature. For kitchen-specific needs, Colours Kitchen Matt Emulsion Paint is presented as the best washable option. Designed for kitchen walls and ceilings, it boasts 84 available shades, catering to diverse design preferences from soft pastels to vibrant hues. Its matt finish is currently trendy and non-reflective, suiting various lighting conditions. Furthermore, it offers moisture, grease, and stain resistance, making it also suitable for bathrooms. Farrow & Ball Matt Estate Emulsion Paint is highlighted for its superior color range and depth. While being a pricier option, its extensive color palette, with 132 shades, and higher pigment content promise rich and deep colors. This paint provides a chalky, matt finish and is wipeable, allowing for easy removal of dirt and fingerprints. An added benefit is its eco-friendly, low-odor formulation and a quick drying time of two hours, facilitating faster home updates. Dulux Quick Dry Satinwood Paint is recommended for furniture and cupboards. This washable paint is ideal for updating room elements like kitchen cupboards. Its low VOC content makes it safer for use in enclosed spaces. The formula is user-friendly, being self-undercoating, non-yellowing, and wipeable, effectively resisting grease stains and scuff marks. Finally, Sandtex Matt Masonry Paint is presented as the best washable paint for high-traffic areas with exposed stone or brick. Its microseal technology provides a dirt-resistant, waterproof, and breathable cover, ensuring longevity and resilience. With 27 colors available, it offers aesthetic versatility for masonry applications in busy areas such as hallways. Key considerations for selecting washable paint include the desired finish (matt or silk), drying time, and the range of colors available. A quicker drying time is advantageous for busy households, and while brilliant white is an option, many washable paints offer a wide array of colors to suit specific design needs. #WashablePaint #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #PaintSelection #HighTrafficAreas #KitchenDesign #HallwayDecor #FurniturePaint #HomeMaintenance

The new year is often a time for home improvement projects, and many individuals consider updating their living spaces with a fresh coat of paint. Paint industry experts are providing guidance on which colors to discard and which to embrace in 2025 to ensure interiors remain on-trend. The general consensus indicates a shift away from cool neutrals, such as grays, blacks, and stark whites, towards warmer, richer, and more earthy tones. Gray, despite its long-standing status as a classic neutral, is seeing a decline in its trendiness. Experts suggest replacing grays and cool-toned neutrals with warm neutrals like modern beiges and taupes. Khaki shades, particularly Stucco from HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, are expected to be popular in 2025, as consumers seek comfort and simplicity in their homes and prefer neutral backdrops over excessive decor. Black hues, previously a popular choice for adding dramatic elements, are also losing their appeal. Instead, the focus is shifting towards chocolate brown tones, which offer similar drama but with a softer aesthetic. This preference for deep browns aligns with current street style trends, and these saturated hues are recommended for their ability to evoke warmth and mood in any space. Cool tones in general are predicted to be out, making way for warm reds and purples. Erika Woelfel, BEHR’s VP of color and creative services, highlights the emotional depth and cultural relevance of these colors, noting that BEHR selected Rumors, a deep ruby red, as its 2025 Color of the Year. The demand for vibrancy and richness in environments is driving this trend, with these colors offering a dynamic and bold presence in both home interiors and fashion. Stark whites are another color experts suggest phasing out. Jamie Davis, co-founder of Portola Paints, anticipates a move from stark whites and grays to more saturated, earthy colors such as rich browns, blues, and greens. This shift aims to create cozier and more inviting interiors. Butter yellow, which was a significant trend in the spring and summer, is expected to continue its popularity in 2025. Ashley Banbury notes that pastel yellows with green undertones, such as Convivial Yellow, will be favored for their grounded and Earth-connected feel. Finally, the trend of painting accent walls is being replaced by a technique called double-drenching. This method involves painting an entire space in a monochromatic color scheme, where walls are coated in one hue, and ceilings and architectural details, like crown molding, are painted in a lighter or darker shade from the same palette. This approach allows for a new way to express color in the home, moving beyond traditional accent walls. #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends2025 #WarmNeutrals #ChocolateBrown #EarthyHues #DoubleDrenching #HomeDecor #Renovation