Marie Flanigan Says This Timeless White Paint Is the Answer to Every Room – 'It's One of Those Rare Whites That Feels at Home Almost Anywhere'

More striking hues might dominate today's color trends, but that's not to say neutrals are on their way out. In fact, if one person knows exactly how to make decorating with neutrals feel interesting and timeless, it's interior designer Marie Flanigan.

Best known for her transitional designs that feel warm, layered, and curated, Marie's spaces prove that the best white paints needn't feel boring; in fact, they can feel just as refreshing and interesting as bolder hues.

Here to prove that neutrals will never not ground schemes and provide some much-needed respite, Marie spoke to Homes & Gardens all about her love for the classics, including her all-time favorite paint color – Sherwin-Williams Greek Villa.

When choosing a white paint, Marie often turns to one specific shade. 'Sherwin-Williams Greek Villa has long been a favorite of mine,' says Marie. 'It’s a beautifully balanced neutral with a warmth and softness that allows a space to feel timeless and inviting. I love that it creates a quiet foundation while letting the architecture, materials, and furnishings take center stage.'

'Greek Villa is one of those rare whites that feels at home almost anywhere. I especially love it in main living spaces, kitchens, bedrooms, and hallways where you want a soft, welcoming backdrop. It also works beautifully on millwork and cabinetry, creating a seamless, layered look that feels timeless rather than stark.'

'One of the reasons I return to Greek Villa so often is its adaptability. In north-facing rooms, it brings a gentle warmth that counteracts cooler light. In south-facing spaces, it feels bright and airy, a white paint that looks white, not yellow. It also performs beautifully in the softer morning and evening light, maintaining its warmth while still reading as a true white.'

'Greek Villa has just enough warmth to feel inviting while remaining incredibly clean and refined,' adds Marie. 'It doesn't compete with the architecture or furnishings, allowing natural materials, layered textures, and collected pieces to take center stage. Whether in a traditional home or a more contemporary setting, it creates a foundation that feels enduring and effortlessly elegant.'

'It pairs beautifully with warm, nature-inspired tones. I love it alongside soft taupes, warm greiges, muted greens, earthy browns, and rich wood finishes (the pictured dining room above proves this). It also complements natural stone, unlacquered brass, plaster, linen, and white oak beautifully. For contrast, I often pair it with deeper hues like olive green, charcoal, or a rich chocolate brown to create depth while maintaining a sense of warmth and balance.'

While Marie might be known for her love of off-white paints, she's not shy to embrace more moody colors when necessary. 'While I’m drawn to the serenity of a neutral palette, I love the opportunity to create a moment of contrast through color,' she says. 'When we do introduce color, I often embrace it fully through a saturated room that feels immersive and intentional. A deeply hued space can be incredibly layered and inviting, especially when paired with natural materials, thoughtful textures, and carefully considered lighting. For me, color is most impactful when it feels connected to the architecture and the overall story of the home.'

The Greek Villa Edit

If you're not planning to pick up a paintbrush anytime soon, bring this calming shade into a scheme through a collection of carefully chosen decor pieces instead. From soft linen sheets to ceramic servewear, we've rounded up some current favorite buys below.

While white doesn't always feel like the color of choice in 2026, Marie believes that by acknowledging the colors that go with white and bringing in lived-in layers and depth, you'll have a scheme that feels collected, sophisticated, and enduringly chic.

Love beautiful design ideas, expert advice, and inspiring decor trends? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.