How Do Paint Colors Get Their Names?

The naming conventions for paint colors often extend beyond simple descriptors, aiming to evoke emotional connections and associations. While many shades of pink might be straightforwardly categorized as referencing natural elements like roses or shells, some brands opt for more evocative or even quirky names such as 'Calamine' or 'Dead Salmon.' These names can significantly influence a customer's perception and choice, as highlighted by designer Daun Curry, who recalls a client selecting a paint color based on its appealing name, 'Peace and Happiness.' Color consultant Debra Kling notes that while names can enhance a hue's appeal, the actual appearance of the paint on a wall can differ from the impression given by its name, particularly with creams that might unexpectedly lean towards yellow. Natalie Ebel, co-founder of Backdrop, a direct-to-consumer paint company, emphasizes the importance of names that resonate emotionally with customers, aligning with the brand's philosophy of helping individuals create their personal 'backdrop' through color. Backdrop's color names, like 'Harajuku Morning' and 'Modern Love,' are inspired by real-world experiences, places, and feelings, aiming for an approachable yet imaginative connection. Farrow & Ball, another paint manufacturer, is recognized for its creative and often historically-referenced naming approach. Their 'Colour By Nature' palette, developed in collaboration with London's Natural History Museum, draws inspiration from Werner’s Nomenclature of Colours, an 1814 guide that links hues to natural markings. For example, 'Scotch Blue' connects to the throat of a blue titmouse and copper ore. Joa Studholme, Farrow & Ball’s color consultant, explains that some names emerge serendipitously, like 'Plummett,' inspired by the color of a fisherman’s lead weight. Studholme provides further insights into the origins of Farrow & Ball's distinct pink names. 'Calamine' is a nostalgic reference to the soothing lotion, intended to evoke comfort and create calming interiors. 'Dead Salmon,' despite its unusual sound, has a historical basis, found on a 19th-century decorator’s invoice, where 'Salmon' referred to the color and 'Dead' denoted a matte paint finish. Similarly, 'Sulking Room Pink' originated from exploring the etymology of 'boudoir,' which derives from the French word 'bouder,' meaning 'to sulk,' leading to a name that reflects both softness and a touch of whimsical defiance. The popularity of pink in home design has been notable since 2014, influenced by cultural phenomena like Wes Anderson's 'Grand Budapest Hotel' and the 'rose gold' trend, with Pantone designating light pinks as signature colors in 2016 and 2017. Paint marketers strategically choose aspirational names that spark imagination. Benjamin Moore's 'First Light,' their 2020 Color of the Year, is a soft pink whose name aims to evoke positive experiences. PPG Paint's 'Linen Ruffle,' a popular taupe-tinged white with a pink undertone, is named to suggest domestic comfort, while other colors like 'Kenny’s Kiss' and 'Salsa Diane' are more personal, inspired by employees' pets or attire. HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams' 'Romance' also aims to stir emotional connections, reflecting a broader industry trend of imbuing paint colors with narratives and feelings to appeal to consumers. #PaintColors #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorPsychology #BrandStorytelling #DesignTrends #FarrowAndBall #BenjaminMoore #BackdropPaint

This service offers in-home color consultations for exterior paint and stain choices for clients residing in or near Atlanta. The consultation aims to simplify the process of selecting exterior colors, removing the guesswork often associated with such decisions. Beyond paint and stain, the service can also cover a range of related design topics, including lighting, hardware, roofing, shutters, gutters, and house numbers, ensuring a comprehensive approach tailored to each home's unique aesthetic. Before the in-person meeting, clients are required to complete a detailed questionnaire. This questionnaire allows them to articulate their ideas, preferences for colors and design, and upload photographs of their home's exterior. This pre-consultation step helps the consultant understand the client's vision and prepare accordingly. During the on-site visit, the consultant brings a wide selection of large paint swatches, which clients can keep for future reference. The consultation involves a collaborative discussion about likes and dislikes, an exploration of various color combinations, and ultimately, the finalization of design decisions. Clients are encouraged to ask any design-related questions concerning their exterior during this session, aiming to leave them feeling confident and enthusiastic about their design project. To maximize the effectiveness of the consultation, clients are advised to gather inspiration imagery beforehand. This can include examples found online or from homes in their neighborhood that they admire, serving as a valuable starting point for discussion. Each consultation is personalized and flexible, allowing clients to focus on either their interior, exterior, or both, depending on their specific needs. The duration of the consultation is typically between 90 minutes to 2 hours, with a minimum of 1 hour, and can extend based on the project's size, complexity, and the client's desired time investment. The service operates on an hourly rate of $225, with a 1-hour minimum. Clients living outside the immediate perimeter of Atlanta may incur an additional fee for travel time. The consultant works with reputable paint brands such as Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Farrow & Ball, and Behr, and offers color matching across these brands. However, large swatches are exclusively available for Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore colors. The range of topics discussed during a consultation is broad, encompassing not only paint and stain colors but also the appropriate product and sheen for different exterior surfaces like siding, trim, brick, stucco, porch floors, steps, garage doors, railings, decks, and fencing. Other topics include lighting, hardware, roofing, windows, shutters, gutters, house numbers, and various substrates and materials. Clients are encouraged to review testimonials and examples of past work, which are available on the consultant's website, Google, and Houzz, as well as a gallery of featured exterior projects. The consultant is an Atlanta native and serves clients throughout Atlanta and Georgia, emphasizing the value of in-person collaboration. Booking a consultation is facilitated through an online scheduling system, with options to reach out for any preliminary questions. The overall goal is to assist clients in selecting the correct paint colors efficiently and effectively the first time around, thereby simplifying the often-daunting process of exterior home design. #ExteriorPaintColor #AtlantaDesign #HomeConsultation #ColorExpert #DesignServices #PaintSelection #ArchitecturalElements #HomeRenovation

Choosing the right paint color for a home can be a challenging and often overwhelming task, given the vast array of shades and finishes available. To simplify this process, leading paint experts from prominent brands such as Farrow & Ball, Clare, Sherwin-Williams, Behr, and Benjamin Moore were consulted to identify their most popular hues. The selection spans from classic neutrals to deeper, more complex tones, reflecting current design trends and timeless preferences. Farrow & Ball's popular choices include 'De Nimes No. 299,' a versatile blue-gray that shifts in appearance based on light conditions, making it suitable for both interiors and exteriors. For those seeking a unique alternative to common pinks, 'Sulking Room Pink No. 295,' a dirty-rose hue, creates an intimate and comforting atmosphere, especially when paired with complementary tones like 'School House White' or 'Peignoir.' 'Paean Black No. 294,' a Georgian-inspired, red-based black, offers a sophisticated touch for contemporary or bohemian spaces and serves as an accent for other Farrow & Ball reds. Sherwin-Williams highlights 'Pure White' as its most popular color, valued for its neutral balance that avoids leaning too cool or creamy. It is often recommended for monochromatic schemes, using different finishes for walls and trim. 'Tricorn Black' is their truest black, ideal for dramatic accents such as ceilings or trim. Among blues, 'Aleutian' stands out for its calming, zen-like quality, making it a popular choice for bedrooms, while 'Rainwashed,' a pale green with gray hints, pairs well with soft pinks like 'Charming Pink' for a gentle pastel aesthetic. For a bold statement, 'Rave Red' is a sophisticated and timeless option, particularly favored in modern farmhouse designs, and suggested for entryways to create a strong first impression. Clare's bestsellers include 'Headspace,' a soft blue-green that evokes a calm, airy feel, perfect for serene bedrooms. 'Current Mood,' a deep, moody green, defies neutral trends and is ideal for creating a sophisticated focal point in smaller spaces like powder rooms. The versatile neutral 'Penthouse,' a sophisticated greige, reflects light beautifully and complements various design aesthetics. For a warm white, 'Whipped' is Clare's top seller, providing a delicate feel that works well in living rooms and is particularly effective in north-facing rooms. Benjamin Moore's popular colors feature 'Hale Navy,' a classic dark blue that, despite its boldness, is considered easy to integrate into diverse design styles, from nautical to modern. 'White Dove,' a creamy white, offers warmth without a yellow cast, making it adaptable to both warm and cool palettes and suitable for refreshing trim and doors. 'Edgecomb Gray' is highlighted as an ideal neutral, a muted yet warm gray that provides a pleasing balance and an effective backdrop for various decorative styles. Behr's selections showcase 'Porcelain Peach,' a mildly orange tone that hints at a broader trend towards burnt and brewed orange hues. 'Dark Crimson' is a classic and refined choice for front doors, reflecting a shift towards rustier red versions with orange and brown undertones. Lastly, 'Blueprint,' Behr's 2019 Color of the Year, is a deep blue-gray that has gained significant popularity for its versatility, working well as an accent or across entire spaces, especially when layered with other blue shades for a monochromatic look. These expert-approved colors offer a guide to navigating paint choices, ensuring a balanced and aesthetically pleasing result for any home. #PaintColors #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DesignTrends #ColorSelection #NeutralPalettes #AccentColors #FarrowAndBall #SherwinWilliams

Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are leading paint retailers in the US, offering numerous products and color options. This article consults five painting companies to compare these two brands, highlighting their strengths and ideal applications. Both brands offer good product lines, supported by extensive research and development. However, specific situations may favor one over the other, influencing choices for DIY projects, professional painting, and specialized applications like cabinets. Regarding interior design preferences, experts often recommend a mix of both brands. Color consultant Amy Wax notes that Sherwin-Williams excels in earthier tones like grays, beiges, and slate blues, while Benjamin Moore offers brighter, more energized colors. The choice of brand can depend on the desired aesthetic and specific project goals. For color matching, opinions are divided, though Sherwin-Williams is often cited for superior color-matching software and mixers, according to Matt Kunz of Five Star Painting and Michael Camper of M&M Precision Painting. Benjamin Moore's Aura line, however, is considered trickier to match precisely. Despite claims of one-coat coverage, experts like Camper advise applying two coats after priming to ensure a high-quality finish. Climate suitability is another differentiating factor. Benjamin Moore's Regal Select and Aura lines are popular for high-sun areas, as are Sherwin-Williams' Duration and SuperPaint. For humid climates like Florida, Sherwin-Williams' Resilience is recommended due to its quick-drying properties and resistance to heat and humidity, which helps prevent paint from peeling. When hiring professionals, it is advisable to use the paint brand and type they recommend, as crews often develop expertise with specific products. This familiarity ensures optimal application and results. Although higher-quality, more expensive paints are suggested, materials account for only about 10% of the total project cost, making labor savings more impactful. For DIYers, self-leveling paints like Benjamin Moore Aura or Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane (for trim) are more forgiving of imperfections. Benjamin Moore is often preferred for touch-ups, as Sherwin-Williams paints can become shinier with multiple coats, potentially leading to flashing (glossier spots). For painting cabinets, water-based alkyd paints are recommended due to their durability and ease of cleaning. Sherwin-Williams ProClassic and Benjamin Moore Advance are suggested as suitable options. Both brands offer tools to assist in color selection, including color chips, website visualizers, and sample jars. Benjamin Moore's Personal Color Viewer allows users to upload photos and digitally paint rooms, while Sherwin-Williams offers the ColorSnap Visualizer and a "Snap It Button" for creating color palettes from photos. Sherwin-Williams also provides free virtual color consultations, a service not currently offered by Benjamin Moore. Peel-and-stick samples are available from both brands for testing colors in different lighting conditions and locations. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are highly regarded by painting professionals, with preferences often depending on specific project needs, desired color palettes, and environmental factors. The final choice can hinge on factors like ease of application for DIYers, durability requirements, and regional climate considerations. #PaintBrands #HomeImprovement #DIYPainting #ProfessionalPainting #InteriorDesign #ColorMatching #PaintDurability #ClimateConsiderations #CabinetPainting

Farrow & Ball, a British paint company, is renowned for its distinctively named paint colors, which include "Dead Salmon," "Mouse’s Back," and "Elephant’s Breath." Unlike other brands that use conventional names, Farrow & Ball embraces experimental and eccentric titles. The creative force behind these unique names and the paint colors themselves is Joa Studholme, the company's color curator. Studholme develops the saturated hues from her home in the English countryside, a process she describes as "radically low-tech." Her inspiration stems from a blend of current trends, personal travel experiences, and observations in nature. She typically introduces about nine to twelve new shades every couple of years, which are then presented to the creative team for approval and production. The naming process often occurs concurrently with the color development, with Studholme stating there is "no exact science to it" and that the names largely come directly from her imagination. Studholme has been with Farrow & Ball for approximately 24 years, having joined when the brand was gaining popularity in the UK during the 1990s. Before her role as color curator, she worked as a TV producer. The broader creative team at Farrow & Ball also comprises individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, contributing a variety of perspectives to the ideation process. Studholme emphasizes the importance of a paint's name, considering it to be as significant as the color itself. She shares the origins of several notable Farrow & Ball paint names, offering insights into their conception. For instance, the color "Pelt" and its name came about in seconds when Studholme saw a lead fishing weight, which she then named after its function, "plummet." This anecdote highlights the spontaneous nature of her creative process. Another example is "De Nimes," a color Studholme initially wanted to call "workwear" due to its inspiration from East London hipsters' denim. The name "De Nimes" was ultimately chosen as a nod to the historical origin of denim fabric from the city of Nîmes, demonstrating a blend of contemporary influence and historical reference. The infamous "Dead Salmon" name, despite its macabre sound, is derived from an 1805 painter's invoice found at a historic English hall. In this context, "salmon" refers to the color itself, and "dead" indicates a matte paint finish, dispelling any literal interpretation related to fish. This reveals the historical and linguistic nuances embedded in some of the names. "Elephant’s Breath," one of Farrow & Ball's most revered paints, was named about 50 years ago by John Fowler, a notable colorist of his generation. This name exemplifies the brand's tradition of evocative and memorable titles. "Mole’s Breath" is a darker variation, named by Studholme to complement "Elephant's Breath," suggesting an animal with a similar deeper tone. The origin of a pink shade, initially conceived by Studholme as resembling an old 1920s kitchen dresser, was deemed a "boudoir color" by the head of creative. The team ultimately delved into the etymology of "boudoir," which comes from the French word "bouder," meaning "to sulk," showcasing the research and discussion that can go into naming. The name "Arsenic" refers to the pigment historically used in green wallpapers, connecting the paint to art history, even while acknowledging its somewhat grim connotation. "Rangwali," a vibrant pink, is a travel-inspired name. Studholme's experience during the Hindu festival of Holi in India in 1990, where people throw colored powders, led to this name. "Rangwali" specifically refers to a pink powder symbolizing happiness. Lastly, Studholme admits to intentionally choosing names that are challenging to pronounce or possess an intriguing quality, such as "Inchyra Blue" and "Stiffkey Blue." She notes that while many pronounce "Stiffkey" as "stiff key," the correct pronunciation is "stew key," named after a beach in Norfolk she visited with her children. This deliberate choice aims to make the names memorable and distinctive. #FarrowAndBall #PaintColors #JoaStudholme #ColorCurator #InteriorDesign #PaintNaming #HomeDecor #CreativeProcess #ColorInspiration