Jessica Alba's striking exterior paint color makes a bold, dramatic statement – experts explain how to make this tricky tone work

Exterior paint color is one of the first things we notice when we drive up to someone's house. That's why it's important to choose a color that makes an impression. For an idea, look no further than Jessica Alba's home.

The actress's on-trend paint color is a rich black shade. Her color choice fits in perfectly with the modern rustic exterior of her home. It is the ideal complement to her natural, reddish wood patio and the lush greenery of her backyard. When paired with the clean lines of Alba's home, including the hexagonal portion that sticks out from the rest of the house, the black paint creates a very contemporary and striking effect.

'Many people are under the misconception that you should not paint the outside of your home in a bold shade,' says Jennifer Ebert, color expert and digital editor at Homes & Gardens. She continues, 'Choosing a bold paint color is never a bad idea. It helps create a strong first impression for visitors and can help give you stronger satisfaction if you love the shade you've chosen. Black paint strikes a perfect balance between boldness and palatability.'

She continues, 'It is one of the best exterior paint colors because it is widely loved, but it is also unexpected and dramatic. On Jessica Alba's home, these benefits are proudly showcased against wooden accents and greenery.'

Painting your house exterior in the style of Alba's home requires some planning. To recreate the look, Andy Roe, CEO of Roe Paint, advises: 'For the best results, I recommend using a high-quality matte black paint, like Sherwin Williams’ Tricorn Black, and applying at least two coats.'

Andy Roe

Roe is the CEO of Roe Paint, a corporate and residential painting company in the Treasure Valley, Idaho. He has over 20 years of experience in the painting industry. His company serves as the official paint and coatings company for the Boise State Broncos.

He continues, 'Proper surface preparation is key to a successful black exterior. Fix any damage, clean the surface thoroughly, and prime if needed. The dark color will show any flaws, so take the time to start with a smooth base.

Accent colors, like black shutters, natural wood, or metal details, help offset the bold shade and create visual interest.'

Whether you repaint your house in black or not, the key takeaway is not to be afraid of a bold exterior paint shade. If Jessica Alba is embracing the look, it's good enough for us.