Those who approach decorating with color with a slight caution will know all about the power of muted pastels. Not so neutral that you hardly notice them, but subtle enough to gently cocoon rather than dominate, sun-faded pastels are the answer to schemes in need of a little quiet but not silence.

While pastel rooms have gained a reputation for erring into juvenile territory (think lemon yellows, candyfloss pinks, and sky blues), sun-faded pastels are the chicer, far more enduring color trend, still offering delicious color but in a more muted dose.

'Sun-faded pastels are pastels that have lived a little,' says designer Amy McCoy of McCoy Design Studio. 'The colors feel like they've been softened by years of afternoon light rather than mixed straight from a paint chip. Think a blue that reads more "worn chambray" than "baby blue," a green that feels like sea glass rather than mint. They have warmth and depth to them, and as the trend leans toward color, I think sun-faded pastels are a great way to dip your toe into color without fully committing.'

Laura Hammett, creative director of the eponymous design studio, knows a thing or two about decorating with a muted color scheme. 'When developing our Laura Hammett Living Paint Collection, I was inspired by the enduring beauty of traditional interiors and the calming effect of nature. The palette spans warm neutrals, gentle blushes, and earthy greens – all chosen to layer effortlessly in both period and contemporary homes.'

'Heritage-inspired colors like blush pink, sage, soft olive, and warm linen offer an instant sense of refinement,' says Laura. 'They’re timeless and elegant, adding subtle character without ever feeling overdone.'

'These tones often echo the materials and patinas found in historic buildings – from the soft smoke hues of aged stone to the warmth of sun-faded plaster. Our Mulberry shade, for example, takes its cue from the deep, rich berry tones often seen in old English estates, adding drama and richness to schemes.'

'Sun-washed tones feel especially relevant right now when they’re paired with unexpected, slightly softened color combinations rather than strict palettes,' say Mike Shively and Lucas Goldbach of En Masse Architecture and Design. 'Homeowners are gravitating toward interiors that feel comfortable, safe, and lived-in, and using these pared-down tones in unexpected ways helps achieve that while still keeping a sense of uniqueness.'

'Mauve with sage green works beautifully in bedrooms or softer living spaces where you want calm but still a sense of dimension,' add Mike and Lucas. 'Mustard with blue-green tones is another combination we use often in living rooms for contrast that still feels easy.'

There's a steer away from cool-toned cooking spaces in favor of muted pastel kitchens. 'We’re using butter yellows that sit in that middle ground – stronger than a soft pastel but not overly saturated. There’s a real appetite for yellow kitchens right now, and we’ve done one recently and are working on another.'

'Color trends are gently shifting. While bold, highly saturated hues were popular in the early 2020s, these are now giving way to more nuanced and versatile shades,' says Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'Similarly, traditional grays and beiges are evolving as designers and homeowners explore warmer, more layered alternatives. Rather than fleeting microtrends, the focus is now on colors that offer lasting appeal and flexibility over time.'

'This new direction embraces ‘quietly colorful’ tones – subtle, comforting hues that feel fresh yet timeless,' Helen continues. 'Neutrals are no longer limited to flat, background shades, but instead encompass quietly confident colors with subtle undertones that feel richer and more intentional while still remaining versatile.'

'This shift towards warmer, more nuanced palettes has created the perfect environment for sun-faded pastels to come to the forefront. Shades such as dusty rose, butter yellow, and sage green offer the softness of a neutral while introducing warmth and personality and can now stand on their own as primary design elements, often forming the foundation of entire palettes.'

Sun-Faded Pastel Decor

'Sun-faded pastels offer the versatility of classic neutrals, but with far more depth and personality,' explains Helen. 'Unlike cool-toned whites, which can sometimes feel stark or clinical, these layered shades introduce subtle color and warmth while maintaining a calm and adaptable backdrop.'

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As we firmly enter August, the sun-filled days of summer are gradually drawing to a close, meaning September and all its earthy tones are growing ever closer.

While to some, it may be a little early to think about fall color schemes, Benjamin Moore is ahead of the color trend curve, releasing three lookbooks inspired by the hottest autumnal hues set to dominate in 2026.

'These three looks all reflect the broader shift away from highly decorative, trend-led interiors towards spaces that feel grounded, personal and emotionally restorative,' explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'They approach this from different angles, but together they capture the key themes shaping autumn-winter interiors - rather than fleeting microtrends, the focus is now on colours and designs that have lasting appeal and flexibility over time.'

Benjamin Moore's AW26 Color Trends

Analogue

First amongst Benjamin Moore's autumn color trends palette is 'Analogue'. Inspired by the quiet charm of a reading nook or home library, the room color idea features two classic heritage shades: black and warm white.

'Enveloping spaces away from life’s hustle and bustle allow for much-needed reconnection – with ourselves, with others and with our passions, whether reading or listening to music,' says Helen. 'The most effective schemes balance personal expression with soothing elements. A book-filled study with joinery painted in inky black produces a cocooning, creative atmosphere, perfect for gentle reboots.'

While black and white is no new color combination for a room, Benjamin Moore's Midnight Dream and Fossil are softer, more liveable alternatives to the striking pairing. Whether you're accentuating an architectural feature like an arched doorway or bookshelf or bringing a little warmth into your office, the analogue room palette is masterfully classic.

Blue Spruce

The blue and red color combination trend might sound bold, but dusty, gray-infused blues paired with vibrant orange-toned reds couldn't be more liveable. 'Blue Spruce', the second look in Benjamin Moore's autumnal trends palette, reinvents the two striking hues into a cocooning pairing for fall.

'Hints of gray can be seen in this elegant, saturated blue paint (Blue Spruce), and introducing a touch of unexpected contrast is a contemporary take on a straightforward color wash concept,' says Helen. 'For autumn, opting for a moody mid-tone contrasted with a warm-based highlight provides a surprise for the eye while maintaining a cossetting feel.'

'Using the contrasting color in a less obvious area, such as the underside of an archway, or the transition space between two rooms, is a creative way to tap into this rich and cozy autumnal look. Picking out an often-overlooked architectural element in a confident red-orange, such as Soft Glow, adds a new dimension to the enveloping effect provided by the elegant, gray-based tones of Blue Spruce.'

Cultivated Nomad

'Fitting for the season of gathering and renewal, autumn-winter schemes reflect a sense of homecoming after a period of exploration,' Helen says. 'Collected pieces, softened geometrics, textural flooring, mellow canework and abstract pattern are all underpinned by a painted canvas of nuanced greens and mineral neutrals, providing a gently unifying framework.'

'Collected Nomad', the last look in the Benjamin Moore autumn palette, combines complex pale blues (like Tranquillity), organic greens, and warm neutrals (Seaspray) for an organic, pared-back feel that feels timeless and still fall-appropriate.

'This is a cohesive take on a four-toned approach, expressed through soft sage-gray walls, complemented by mid-toned neutrals rooted in green, deep mossy grays and the gentlest of sand tones – perfect for evoking a sense of heritage architecture-meets-global sensibility.'

Benjamin Moore's three look books are filled with exciting yet enduring fall color combinations that will last beyond the cozy season. From the on-trend pairing of blue and red to the heritage warm white and black, there's a timeless yet trendy paint color for every kind of home this fall.

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Not quite blue, not quite green, and not quite gray, Sherwin-Williams' much-loved Oyster Bay is a complex pale blue paint that constantly shifts depending on the light. It's known for its tranquility and how it balances being both calming and warm.

'Oyster Bay is a soft green-gray with subtle slate-blue undertones that creates a calming, sophisticated feel,' explains Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams. 'Its balanced undertones allow it to shift beautifully throughout the day, making it feel fresh and airy in brighter spaces while taking on a cozier, more grounded appearance in lower light.'

'Oyster Bay is a sophisticated blue-green defined by its soft gray undertones and a muted, organic character,' explains interior designer Staci Steidley of Studio Steidley. 'Neither overly blue nor distinctly green, it strikes a harmonious balance that feels refined, tranquil, and effortlessly timeless. It has an understated warmth that gives it incredible versatility. Depending on the light, it can feel serene and airy during the day while taking on a richer, more intimate character in the evening. It's one of those colors that quietly adds depth without overwhelming a space.'

'One of the reasons we love Oyster Bay is its versatility,' continues Staci. 'It works beautifully in bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, and living spaces where a sense of calm is desired. It is definitely a go-to color for us in certain environments. In this project, we selected it because it creates a sophisticated backdrop to the home office, while allowing the furnishings, artwork, and architectural details to shine.'

'It's especially successful in rooms with abundant natural light but also performs beautifully in spaces that benefit from a cozy, enveloping feel. No matter what lighting it gets, it still reads beautifully, and we don't have to worry about whether our clients will love it – they will!'

'I see Oyster Bay as a mid-tone gray-green with a dash of slate blue,' says Jennifer Verruto, founder of Blythe Interiors. 'It's a dynamic color and can vary a lot depending on the lighting. It's so versatile that it can work in any room! It's a lovely color for living room and bedroom walls; when it comes to kitchens and bathrooms, we especially love it on millwork and cabinetry (pictured above).'

Due to its chameleon-like abilities to shift, Oyster Bay can be a tricky one to pair with, but a tried and tested timeless look is to layer it with soft neutrals and plenty of natural textures. Think calming beach house. You could also ground it slightly with some darker blues and grays for a less summery feel.

'Sherwin-Williams colors we love to pair with Oyster Bay are Greek Villa (a creamy white) and Iron Ore (a deep charcoal),' says Jennifer. 'We love color drenching, but if you want to add a little drama, go two shades darker and use Retreat by Sherwin-Williams on the trim, ceiling, and doors.'

'For materials, stick to organic options like stone, warm woods, and linen. For furnishings and decor, consider adding some richness with chocolate browns or saffron tones,' adds Jennifer.

'Oyster Bay pairs also beautifully with warm whites like White Duck, soft greiges like Shiitake, and deeper accents like Rock Bottom,' adds Emily. 'It really complements natural materials such as light and medium-toned woods, marble, limestone, brushed brass and woven textures, creating a layered and timeless aesthetic.'

'Oyster Bay is always well suited for spaces where a sense of comfort and relaxation is desired,' concludes Emily, 'including bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, and home offices. It also works beautifully in kitchens and laundry rooms, bringing a subtle connection to nature while remaining versatile enough to complement a variety of design styles.'

Oyster Bay-Inspired Shopping

A deeply relaxing color that provides respite from bolder powder blues, designers rely on Oyster Bay to bring sophistication and that all-important sense of calm into homes.

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Benjamin Moore's historical color collection has been making its mark in homes since its debut half a century ago. Inspired by the colors that defined homes in the 18th and 19th centuries, all of the collection's archival shades are steeped in heritage, but these six standout hues feel both fresh and enduring, able to transition into every home, modern, traditional, or somewhere in between.

A collection of timeless paint colors, the historical collection features 191 shades in total, but six shades have become some of Benjamin Moore's bestsellers, loved for their timeless elegance and versatility.

'Whether used inside or outside of the home, these colors enhance architectural details and bring character without feeling dated,' says Hannah Yeo, Senior Manager, Color Marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'Especially for exteriors, homeowners often gravitate toward colors they can live with for many years rather than colors tied to a particular moment. These heritage-inspired hues create a warm, welcoming feeling that feels timeless, which is why they continue to be favorites generation after generation.'

What Is Benjamin Moore's Historical Collection?

'The Historical Color Collection was introduced in 1976 during the American Bicentennial and was inspired by the colors found in 18^th and 19th-century architecture and interiors,' explains Hannah. 'These colors were carefully curated to capture the richness, authenticity and character of historical design while remaining relevant for how people live today.'

'Fifty years later, their continued popularity speaks to that timeless foundation. The collection includes sophisticated neutrals that bridge warm and cool palettes, as well as nature-inspired greens and other hues that feel both familiar and relevant. Each color carries a sense of history and architectural authenticity that resonates with homeowners and designers alike.'

'While the inspiration behind the palette is steeped in tradition, the collection's muted, sophisticated character transcends architectural style,' adds Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International), Benjamin Moore. 'For decades, these celebrated colors have complemented everything from contemporary to transitional spaces. With just the right level of saturation, the shades offer presence without taking center stage. They strike a considered balance between character and versatility, which is what makes them so enduring. These are colors that feel fresh and relevant today, while still having the depth and staying power to remain beautiful for years to come.'

Which Are the Best Selling Shades From The Collection?

Benjamin Moore recently revealed the best-sellers from this long-loved collection, and while some names will sound very familiar, other's where slightly unexpected...

No surprise Revere Pewter made the list. While some cool gray paints can feel sterile and short of depth, Benjamin Moore's Revere Pewter is one of those rare neutrals that brings quiet warmth and elegance to any room. It continues to be relied on for its grounding nature that enhances every architectural style.

'For those drawn to neutrals, Revere Pewter is a versatile bridge between warm and cool tones. This hue adds just enough warmth to make a room feel both contemporary and harmonious, whereas another best-selling neutral from the collection, Edgecomb Gray, is a slightly lighter and softer go-to neutral that can refresh a space, while also providing a warm, welcoming feeling due to the pink undertones.'

'Gray and warm neutrals provide balance,' says Hannah. 'They act as foundational colors that connect other elements in a space and create a sense of harmony. Their versatility is a major reason they’ve remained popular for so long.'

Greens are an expected addition to the mix too. 'Green continues to be a perennial favorite, with two standout options in the collection,' says Helen. 'Saybrook Sage is a harmonious blend of green and grey, while the dark, moody Essex Green brings a rich, hunter-green depth to a space. They highlight a strong desire to bring a soothing and grounding, nature-inspired energy into the home.'

'Both hues are hugely versatile and can therefore be used across many rooms in the home as a foundation to add accents in more saturated colours. For a living room, opt for all four walls in one of these adaptable shades with woodwork or trim in a darker gray for the perfect tonal scheme.'

It wouldn't be a heritage collection with a dark blue paint, and the iconic Hale Navy has been top of the best-sellers list since its arrival half a decade ago. It's your typical navy blue, with a deeply classic feel.

'Hale Navy remains the quintessential navy Benjamin Moore is known for, offering a softer, always-on-trend alternative to black or brown,' explains Helen. 'It works particularly well in busier spaces such as living rooms for making a versatile style statement. Alternatively, opt for this rich hue in the kitchen, on cabinetry in particular, for industrial styles or more traditional shaker kitchen designs.'

If you're planning on decorating with Benjamin Moore's Hale Navy, Helen suggests, 'Pair with a crisp white as the sharp contrast between the two hues will create a dramatic, yet calming effect.'

The best burgundy paints have made a comeback in recent years, and this feels like an unexpected addition among all the classic neutrals, greens and navies. Yet New London Burgundy, a rich red with brown undertones, has remained a consistent best seller from the Heritage Color Collection, evocative of neoclassical interiors of the 18th century.

'Burgundy offers warmth, depth and sophistication without being overpowering,' says Hannah. 'Unlike brighter reds, burgundy feels grounded and elegant, adding richness and character while maintaining a timeless quality.'

'New London Burgundy is another confident choice, blending red, violet and brown to create an elegant, welcoming statement,' Helen explains. 'This elegant hue works particularly well with everyday earthy tones such as beige or taupe to create a feeling of rustic warmth. Opt for a matte finish to provide an almost chalky appearance, which in turn will help to soften the bold color, making it supremely livable.'

From deep burgundies to rich forest greens, these six timeless shades have proven their timelessness. Heritage-steeped yet still current, they bring lasting sophistication to every space. 'Ultimately, these color families are versatile, emotionally resonant, and easy to incorporate into a variety of design styles, which is why they continue to endure,' says Hannah.

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Not all paints can create ambience in any room. While plenty have come close, there's one consistently standout hue that can make every space feel deeply moody, sophisticated, and utterly timeless, pretty much as soon as it's applied.

Able to create complex depth and softness that shifts as the light changes, Farrow & Ball's Broccoli Brown might just be one of the most versatile brown paints out there. Yes, it's moody, cocooning, and warm, but that's not to say it's reserved for the colder months; in fact, it brings a quiet softness and grounding edge to interiors, regardless of the season.

'Broccoli Brown is a dark, quiet brown with an unmistakable softness that makes it feel both reserved and incredibly comforting,' explains Charlotte Cosby, Creative Director of Farrow & Ball. 'While it's a relatively deep, mid-weight shade, it behaves like a wonderfully versatile neutral, creating a calm backdrop that allows everything from artwork to natural materials to take centre stage. Rooted in nature, it has an understated, grounding quality that brings a cocooning atmosphere to interiors, making spaces feel protected, restful and effortlessly elegant.'

'Broccoli Brown is one of those wonderfully difficult colors to define, which is exactly what makes it so interesting,' explains Britt Bengoechea, founder of Reunion Interiors. 'Despite its name, it isn’t just brown. Throughout the day, it moves effortlessly between an earthy olive, a warm bronze, and a muted khaki, revealing different undertones as the natural light changes. That’s one of the things I appreciate most about it: it never falls flat. Instead, it has an understated softness that proves darker colors don’t have to feel heavy or overpowering.'

'I used Broccoli Brown in a primary bedroom renovation (pictured above) because I wanted the room to feel enveloping, calm, and restorative', continues Britt, 'more like a retreat than simply a place to sleep. Many people will instinctively steer clear of brown, but there’s actually a deep psychology behind color, and it’s something I always consider when designing a space. Brown is inherently grounding… it evokes warmth, stability, and comfort because it’s so closely connected to the natural world, making it a great choice for a space meant for rest.'

Decorating with brown doesn't need to be reserved for snugs or home bars, explains Britt. 'What I loved most about using Broccoli Brown for this space,' says Britt, 'is that it challenges the idea that bedrooms need to be painted in paler tones. It proves that a deeper color can feel just as restful, if not more so. It also provides a beautiful backdrop for natural materials, vintage pieces, warm woods, and collected furnishings, allowing every layer of the room to feel intentional without appearing overly “designed”.'

'One of the joys of Broccoli Brown is its versatility,' says Charlie. 'It sits beautifully alongside natural textures such as weathered wood, flagstone floors, linen, wool and aged leather, enhancing its earthy, tactile character. For a tonal, nature-inspired scheme, pair it with soft neutrals such as Joa's White or Dimity or introduce the muted blue-green of Blue Gray for a timeless, understated feel.'

Whether you're designing a brown living room or a cozy snug, incorporating contrasting colors will create a more balanced look. 'In terms of color, it works beautifully with warm ivories and creamy whites, muted ochres, dusty blushes, and soft blues,' says Britt. 'There’s a reason blue and brown have remained such a timeless pairing – they balance one another effortlessly. I also love introducing walnut and worn oak to enhance its earthy undertones.'

'If you're looking for more contrast, Broccoli Brown works beautifully with verdant greens such as Yeabridge Green or the deeper Green Smoke, creating a rich, contemporary palette', adds Charlie. 'For something softer, dusty pinks like Setting Plaster bring warmth and romance, while darker accents such as Inchyra Blue on woodwork add depth and quiet sophistication.'

'I recently used Farrow & Ball Broccoli Brown in a mudroom (pictured above) and loved the richness it brought to the space,' says interior designer Marie Flanigan. 'It has such beautiful depth and dimension – it feels grounded and organic without feeling overly dark. It’s a wonderful example of how a more unexpected hue can add warmth, character, and a sense of intimacy to a hardworking space.'

In Marie's mudroom, the dark marble countertops and rustic decor pair beautifully with the grounding brown. 'Broccoli Brown is surprisingly versatile. Although it’s a bold choice, it behaves much like a neutral and pairs beautifully with a wide range of materials and colors,' says Britt. 'I would style it with plenty of natural texture to keep the space feeling inviting. Think linen drapery, wool rugs, vintage wood furniture, woven baskets, leather, antique brass, polished nickel, and natural stone. Those elements soften the richness of the color and help create a space that feels lived in rather than overly formal.'

'Broccoli Brown is never quite the same hue,' says designer Emily Nicoara. 'It shifts with the changing light throughout the day, constantly evolving. It's evocative and earthy in a way that reminds me of muddy clothes, moss beneath my feet, and afternoons spent wandering through the forest as a child.'

'The color has an incredible ability to make a space feel calm, grounded, and deeply comforting. If memory serves me correctly, it was even recommended for library spaces, which feels incredibly fitting. As someone who works as both a designer and a full-time firefighter, anything that brings a sense of grounding is invaluable.'

'This kitchen (pictured above) was designed around the feeling of nostalgia,' explains Emily, 'the longing for innocence, honesty, and the limitless imagination of a child exploring the forest. For me, Broccoli Brown healed something I hadn't realized I had buried. It became the emotional starting point for our entire home renovation. If I could personally thank the creators of this color, I would. After years of searching for the right feeling, it brought me home, and now, over five years later, I continue to fall in love with it, proving its timeless quality.'

The Broccoli Brown Edit

A light-changing brown that feels sophisticated and warm, yet equally as grounding and soft, Farrow & Ball's Broccoli Brown couldn't be more versatile. While it errs into the darker side of brown paints, its complex layers make it a year-round favorite with designers everywhere.

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Recently, it's been hard to imagine that gray was ever the epitome of chic. Since character has reigned supreme in the design world, neutrals have taken a bit of a backseat. But, despite big and bold shades becoming the new standard, neutrals are still a classic, timeless choice – even if more playful shades have stolen the limelight a little.

And if one person can confirm this, it's interior designer Shea McGee. Known for her warm, layered, and time-evolved schemes, she's no beginner when it comes to decorating with liveable neutral tones. In fact, Shea says there's always a time and place for neutrals, and she will continue to use them in 2026 and beyond, even if current color trends favor more striking hues.

But it's not just warm beiges and creams (stay tuned for Shea's all-time favorites) that the interior designer is embracing this year. From the powder blue color trend to rich moody browns, in 2026, Shea McGee is open to the unexpected, too.

Shea McGee's Favourite Neutral Paints

While decorating with neutrals might look a little different in 2026, Shea swears by the classics. From creams to off-whites to Shea, nothing beats a clean, crisp base with layers of lived-in character.

'My all-time favorite is Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore,' she says. 'It's a creamy white that makes the perfect quiet backdrop, so your collected furniture, accessories, and artwork get to be the things you actually notice. It's just as good on an exterior or on cabinetry.' Landing on the best cream paint can be tough; you want just the right amount of yellow without it feeling too warm. Shea's favorite, which is also the brand's best-selling neutral, balances the two.

'I'm going to cheat and give you a second favorite too, because I can't not mention Natural Cream by Benjamin Moore,' she continues. 'It's that rare not-gray, not-beige neutral, and it works everywhere: trim, cabinetry, walls. I have it on the ceilings in both my great room (pictured above) and my bedroom, and I've used it in more projects than I can count.'

Bolder Color Trends on Shea's Radar

But it's not just creams and whites that Shea is embracing this year; there are a few unexpected shades in the mix too. Namely, powder room. While the blue isn't exactly a neutral, it retains a balance between vibrant and muted.

A playful blue paint brings whimsy to a recent laundry room (pictured above) designed by Shea. A clever paint choice that quietly elevates the mundane task of doing laundry, it brings heritage charm and nostalgia into a practical, hard-working room.

'Right now I'm loving all things powdery blue. What I love about the color is that it still plays beautifully with warm tones,' she explains, 'so it doesn't have to tip into feeling cold. I recently switched my bedding to this color and have used variations of the color in recent projects.'

'I do lean neutral, but I'm not afraid of color,' Shea says. When introducing punchier hues, it's always wise to start in a small room, and if you really love it, then proceed to use it in other areas of the home. 'I just like to give it a room of its own. A powder bathroom or a bedroom is the perfect place to commit, because it's contained and a little unexpected when someone walks in.'

'I also tend to reach for a more muted version of whatever I'm drawn to,' she adds. Chocolate browns, deep burgundies, and olive greens have the power to feel cocooning yet equally as grounding when styled right. 'Even a color as rich as merlot feels more livable when it's dialed back a notch, so it reads collected rather than loud.'

Shop Shea's Favorite Color Schemes

Shea McGee, admittedly, will always gravitate towards neutrals for grounding her schemes, but powder blues and rich wine reds are firmly on her radar too. Both these colors can work wonderfully as part of a neutral scheme, so if you are looking to dip your toe in some of this year's biggest color trends, they are a good place to start.

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One of the hardest things about selecting a paint color is not knowing how it'll look in years to come. Color trends are such a source of inspiration, and there to be followed – but with caution. You want to be sure that the color you land on will still feel timeless once it's had its moment.

While one of the age-old color mistakes is choosing hues based solely on current fashions, it's also easy to fall into the trap of keeping things too safe by sticking strictly to 'timeless paint colors'. So, the big question is: is it possible to fulfill both? Does a color scheme that's both enduring and exciting exist? And if so, how can we achieve it?

Color experts say that bridging the gap between current and classic is possible, and it lies in five simple steps. From choosing colors you know you'll love for years to considering how you apply them, these are the ways to nail a trendy and timeless color scheme.

1. Look To the Pieces You Already Own

One of the most notorious color clichés to avoid is picking a paint color before considering the rest of your scheme. While it would be nice to choose a color that jumps out at you and be done with it, the reality is that the furniture and decor we already own play a big part in how a paint idea translates.

'Prioritize creating a palette that feels authentic to you and complements your home’s architecture and existing design elements,' explains Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'You can’t choose paint colors in isolation; you have to consider all of the design elements that are also in the space. Paint colors can do a lot to change the look and feeling of the space, but the artwork, fabric, furniture, etc. all must go along with the story as well. This will help your space to feel storied and thoughtful instead of trendy and fleeting.'

'If you don’t know where to begin, use the items in the space to influence your color selection,' continues Arianna. 'Maybe there is a color in a piece of artwork or fabric that you want to bring to the walls. Or maybe it’s something that is a few shades lighter or darker than that inspiration color. Take inventory of the items in your space that you love to jumpstart the paint color selection and create a timeless look.'

2. Consider Application, Not Just Color

It's not just about the paint colors you choose; it's about how you apply them, too. We all want to balance trendy with timelessness, but part of that process is choosing paint tricks and methods that feel classic (and avoiding fleeting fads that don't). Embracing the room contouring paint trick or the high gloss paint trend is all well and good, but always consider how you might feel about it later down the line.

'There are color families that have a perennial appeal, primarily greens, blues and of course, neutrals; all other colors beyond this tend to have mini renaissances or social ‘zeitgeist’ moments,' explains Farrow & Ball's Brand Ambassador, Paddy O'Donnell. 'I would say the best way to choose your palette is to ignore EVERYTHING and decorate with your heart. One caveat to this is not necessarily about the color you choose, but how you apply paint, e.g. color drenching; these decorating styles tend to age more than the color choice.'

'Any room that is decorated from a purely personal perspective will always resonate,' adds Paddy, 'but don’t forget, every room is a sum of many parts such as your fabric choices, the objects that co-exist within a space that tell the story of its inhabitants, etc.'

3. Test It Out In Smaller Doses

'Always start in small spaces if vibrant colors feel like a mildly terrifying commitment,' advises Paddy. 'Rich hues like Farrow & Ball's Brinjal or India Yellow will make a statement in a powder room or, if you're fortunate to have one, a mudroom or larder where you tend not to linger for too long. You’ll slowly acclimatize to the joy of color, and then you can be bolder in more shared spaces such as bathrooms or sitting rooms.'

'A home is filled with surfaces that can be painted. If there is a “trendier” color you’d like to try, start small with a piece of furniture, a door or a smaller space like a bathroom or guest room,' agrees Arianna. 'If it’s a color that you love, it won’t feel dated. Often people don’t feel like the color on the walls is dated, but more so that they want to refresh the space, and the best way to do that is with a new wall color.'

'If you are someone who is looking to try more vibrant, bolder shades and are hesitant to do so, start slow. One of my favorite places to bring in bolder color is cabinets or a kitchen island. I find people don’t feel as overwhelmed by it as by putting a bolder color on the walls.' She adds, 'Smaller rooms like bathrooms, home offices, and even bedrooms are also a great place to step outside of your neutral color zone.'

4. Let What You Love Inspire You

Like all trends, you can never be entirely sure what's going to be in and what'll be out in a few years' time. That's why choosing colors that speak to you, regardless of how 'on trend' they are, is important. Of course, we all want to be sure we're choosing timeless color combinations, but the concept of 'timelessness' is entirely subjective.

'Over the last few years, we have seen the rise of earthy pinks, warm whites and various shades of brown from tobacco to chocolate, so they could be perceived as ‘of the moment’ but, decorate from the heart and you won’t go far wrong,' says Paddy. 'It’s ubiquity you want to avoid, for example, the dark blue kitchen, the paneled wall behind the bed, etc.'

'We are facing an epidemic of banality,' states interior designer Isabel Ladd, 'where people default to neutrals because they believe that is what they "should" do in order to be "timeless," "inoffensive," or best for "resale value". Choose to surround yourself with neutrals if you LOVE neutrals and the way they make you feel. Do not default to neutrals out of fear of letting your personality show. Likewise, do not surround yourself with vibrant shades if you're trying to feign brave design choices. Rather, choose to surround yourself in vibrant shades if vibrant shades make you feel good.'

'Someone, somewhere told us that kitchens should be classic, timeless, and neutral (especially for resale - ugh). I convinced myself of that when I first decorated my house a decade ago. Uninspired by my neutral default years later, I decorated my kitchen to reflect my favorite colors and patterns because they make me feel spectacular... and I've never looked back.'

5. Embrace 'Elevated' Neutrals

If you're typically a lover of decorating with neutrals, but want to brave something a little bolder, opting for elevated neutrals that feel more interesting than your average taupe or beige is one of the best ways to balance endurance with today's trends.

'Over the past few years, we have seen a growing interest in the brown color family across both fashion and interiors, offering a softer alternative to traditional dark neutrals of black and gray,' says Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'Our 2026 color trends hone in on this idea, with a palette that we’ve named ‘Tailored Classics’ that is led by our color of the year Silhouette AF-655. Silhouette is an alluring mix of rich espresso hues with subtle notes of charcoal that can be designed in a variety of styles and spaces.'

'The new direction embraces “quietly colorful” tones – subtle, comforting hues that feel fresh yet timeless. Neutrals with pink and red undertones are becoming increasingly popular, bringing warmth and depth to bedrooms and living spaces,' adds Helen. 'Plaster pinks and soft dusky rose shades add an earthy, grounded feel while providing a perfect foundation for layered décor and evolving personal style.'

Whether you're taking inspiration from living room color trends or you're revamping your guest bathroom, balancing endurance with trending styles can feel tricky. Remember always to choose colors that first jump out at you, and consider how they'll blend with your architecture and the pieces you already own. From there, think about how and where you'll apply your chosen paint so it stands proud for years.

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If decision fatigue hits at any stage of the kitchen design process, it's usually when you start selecting colors. Perhaps white feels a bit boring, but a more vibrant hue is too bold for your style. But designers say there's one specific shade that they always return to for a warm yet timeless space: Farrow & Ball's French Gray. It's a kitchen color that adds subtle contrast without overwhelming the room and acts as a neutral without feeling bland.

What Color is French Gray by Farrow & Ball?

Despite its name, Farrow & Ball's French Gray is a far more complex color than just a standard gray, often leaning more green than gray, yet always adding warmth and classic style. And it's exactly why it's favored among designers.

'French Gray is such a versatile color, the way it leans soft green throughout the day and then becomes a warm gray as you get into the evening hours. It adds depth to the kitchen, creating a welcome feeling of being lived in and warm,' says Madeline Loomis of Mad Luxe Design.

It's a beautiful shade to try if you want to create a gray kitchen tastefully – in certain lights, the shade will emulate that soft green, while in others, it's a warm gray that makes this neutral feel instantly timeless. It's that balance of tones that creates a design that feels expertly layered and considered.

'Despite its name, French Gray is best thought of as a beautifully balanced mid-green. It has a wonderfully gentle quality that feels timeless rather than trend-led, bringing a sense of calm and softness to one of the hardest-working rooms in the home,' explains Patrick O’Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball.

'Its subtle yellow undertones stop it from feeling cold, allowing it to create an inviting, lived-in atmosphere that works equally well in traditional country kitchens and more contemporary spaces.'

Why French Gray Works Well in Kitchens

Farrow & Ball's French Gray works beautifully in a multitude of rooms, but there's a reason designers gravitate toward it in functional spaces like the kitchen. It doesn't overwhelm the room, but it adds depth and contrast that isn't easily achieved with other neutrals like white.

'French Gray has a strength and is interesting without being too bold or too boring, which makes it really versatile. There is a muted warmth to the color, while still feeling fresh and clean,' explains Juliette Wright and Natalie Stephenson, Founders of Stephenson Wright, who note the green influence is what makes the shade appeal, particularly in kitchens.

'There is a definite green undertone to the paint color, which is part of its appeal. Soft greens are a timeless choice, and we find our clients are happily drawn to them for key living spaces because they are easy to live with and based on a natural environment – something we always try to link to.'

It's also a gray paint that pairs seamlessly with the classic materials you expect in a kitchen, from classic brass and cool chrome to marble, soapstone, and even granite surfaces. Regardless of the size or style of your kitchen, this color will sit happily within it.

'French Gray works well in a kitchen setting because it doesn't ever overwhelm the space; instead, it balances out natural materials, such as marble countertops, oak floors, and brass fixtures. It is an inviting color that isn't distracting as you prepare your meals or gather with family and friends,' Madeline notes.

'It works particularly well in a timeless, classic scheme,' agree Juliette and Natalie. 'In this laundry room, we combined French Gray with aged brass hardware and a traditional butler's sink, warm limestone flooring, and Corian countertops to create an elegant yet welcoming space. Willow baskets and an embroidered linen Roman blind enhanced the relaxed, understated character.'

How to Introduce French Gray to a Kitchen

For most designers, applying French Gray to kitchen cabinetry is the best way to use this shade. It is a timeless choice, creating a warm neutral base for the rest of the design.

'French Gray is particularly effective on kitchen cabinetry, where its depth and softness add character without overwhelming the space. It brings warmth and sophistication to both kitchen island units and full schemes, creating a look that feels considered yet relaxed,' Patrick explains.

And while Madeline is a fan of French Gray cabinetry, she also recommends bringing the hue to your kitchen walls. 'In this pantry [pictured above], we painted the walls in addition to the cabinets, and it created such fun intrigue,' she explains.

'Color on the walls allowed the art to really pop in this room, but again, French Gray still has a softness so as not to feel too bold. Another favorite use for French Gray would be to use it as a contrasting trim and casing color paired with a warm white on the walls.'

French Gray works beautifully applied anywhere in your kitchen, whether it's the cabinets, walls, trim, or a fully color-drenched scheme. It's subtle enough to pair with almost any color and finish, yet bold enough to add character and depth to kitchens regardless of the design style.

'French Gray has a clever ability to blend with both classic and modern interiors. It will sit just as well in a traditional setting with timeworn oak well-loved countertops, as it does with a contemporary kitchen with a sleek book-matched marble,' adds Juliette and Natalie.

But for a truly timeless look, Patrick recommends pairing French Gray with a classic shade of white. 'It layers beautifully with different textures and wood tones, while pairing effortlessly with soft whites such as School House White and Wimborne White, making it easy to build a cohesive kitchen palette that feels elegant and enduring.'

Classic, timeless, and acting as a neutral hue, Farrow & Ball's French Gray makes it far easier to choose a kitchen color that will stand the test of time. It's also a great color to make your kitchen look more expensive, especially when paired with luxurious accessories.

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The amount of natural light a room receives depends almost entirely on where it is positioned in the home, so before deciding on a color scheme, you should first consider the direction your room faces.

Often seen as one of the trickier aspects to decorate, north-facing rooms get little direct sunlight and therefore have a cooler tone. The right color scheme is key in these cooler-toned rooms, as the wrong shade can instantly fall flat and look unwelcoming. Usually, the answer is to choose warmer, richer shades to balance the coolness – but to get the intel on exactly what's going to work best, we consulted the color experts at Benjamin Moore to find out which of its paint colors work best in north-facing spaces.

'North-facing rooms receive consistent natural light throughout the day, but it is more muted, cooler, and toned down when compared to the warm, bright light south-facing rooms receive,' explains Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'The benefit of this direction is that the lighting is a bit more even-tempered and doesn’t shift as much throughout the day, while east- and west-facing rooms experience a more dramatic shift.'

1. Mortar

While it's natural to think the lighter the better in north-facing rooms, darker, richer, more moody tones are a clever choice in these spaces as they create an instantly cocooned environment.

'North-facing rooms often receive less direct natural light and therefore feel cooler, which is an important consideration when selecting paint colors,' says Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'Especially smaller, more intimate spaces can benefit from a richer, deeper palette, where natural light is limited.'

'Painting walls, woodwork and even ceilings in enveloping shades such as Mortar or Metropolis creates a dramatic and sophisticated effect,' adds Helen. 'Layering the space with lamps, wall lights and candlelight will further enhance the atmosphere, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.'

2. Timid White

'When choosing white paint for north-facing rooms, opt for shades with warm undertones to soften shadows and prevent the room from feeling stark or dull,' advises Helen. 'If you are looking for an off-white paint, try hues that lean more yellow for added warmth and brightness,' says Arianna. 'Colors like Cotton Balls, Cloud White, and Timid White can counterbalance that cool northern exposure. Cotton Balls is slightly brighter, while Timid White is softer with creamier tones. Cloud White sits right in the middle in terms of brightness.'

'Whites with delicate hints of red, pink or soft peach, such as Opulence, create a gentle, flattering glow throughout the day,' Helen adds. 'These subtle undertones feel more balanced than yellows in cooler light conditions and help maintain warmth as the light changes. To maximize light reflection and add depth, consider using a higher-sheen finish on trim and woodwork, such as a semi-gloss or high-gloss, which will introduce dimension and brightness to darker areas of the room.'

3. October Mist

Sage green paints often work in north-facing rooms, provided they're not too gray or cool in undertone. Some gray green colors might be suitable, but shades that are further on the gray side might not suit a room already more bluish in tone.

'If your goal is to make the space feel brighter, it is best to avoid shades with strong gray undertones, which can appear flat or muted. Instead, consider a soft gray-green such as October Mist to counterbalance the cooler light,' suggests Helen. 'The green undertone brings a natural warmth and luminosity to the room, while providing a versatile backdrop for complementary shades such as sun-baked terracotta tones or tonal olive greens.'

In this north-facing living room (pictured above), October Mist brings just the right amount of vibrancy, bringing a refreshed, light feel to the space without feeling stark or too cool in tone.

4. Edgecomb Gray

While cool tones are a no-go in north-facing rooms, not all gray paints are a write-off. In fact, complex, taupe-infused grays are a clever choice for these spaces, as they can create a warm yet still lightening effect.

'If you are looking for grays and neutrals, consider slightly warmer and lighter colors than you typically gravitate toward,' suggests Arianna. 'Colors like Silver Fox and Edgecomb Gray can work well in these spaces. Because the room tends to be more muted and shadowed, opting for slightly lighter colors can help to not make the space feel too heavy.'

Instead of color-drenching your space in one warm gray hue, keep it limited to woodwork or architectural features, like the built-in bookcase painted in Edgecomb Gray pictured above, paired with a ceiling painted in Winter's Snow.

Light affects paint colors, so in north-facing spaces that receive little direct sunlight, always opt for warmer rather than cool or overly stark tones.

'Like any space, you want to take into consideration the look you are trying to achieve,' adds Arianna. 'You also want to consider the amount of natural light the room receives. If your room does not get a lot of natural light or the natural light is covered by window treatments for most of the day, the direction the room faces will make a minimal impact.'

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A striking pink meets orange; coral is a shade we haven't seen too much of in recent years, with plaster pinks being the go-to safe choice for a warm paint color. Yet in 2026, we are slowly seeing this bolder hue making a resurgence as terracotta takes over from pinks and coral becomes a chicly daring trend to try – and designers agree it brings with it a deeply sophisticated, deeply timeless edge.

While vibrant shades like coral may once have been dubbed garish, this year's color trends embrace more striking hues packed with personality. Surprisingly classic if used well, the pinky orange hue brings a cheerful edge to interiors. From lavish home bars to beautiful bed nooks, it's proving to be a versatile color this summer and beyond.

'I wanted the bedroom to feel enveloping, uplifting and full of personality,' explains designer Harriette Cayzer, co-founder of Taylor & Turner, who designed the whimsical coral-drenched bed nook pictured above. 'Bedrooms are often decorated in very muted palettes, but if you have a small space, with an unusual layout, especially a spare bedroom, you can really embrace color because they're such personal, restorative rooms.'

'Coral just has a wonderful warmth to it,' continues Harriette. 'It sits somewhere between pink, terracotta and peach – so it creates a cocooning atmosphere without ever feeling heavy. In this room, the coral also beautifully enhances the natural light, creating a soft, flattering glow throughout the day and making the space feel warm and welcoming.'

'My advice would be not to think of coral as a statement color, but as a warm neutral. The exact tone is everything – a softer, more muted coral is incredibly versatile and much easier to live with than something overly bright. Layer it with plenty of texture through natural linens, bouclé, timber and woven materials to create depth, and balance it with softer shades like warm whites, oatmeals or stone. If you're hesitant, start with textiles or painted joinery before committing to all four walls. Once you see how beautifully coral changes throughout the day with the light, it's often far less daunting than people expect.'

Interior designer Cindy Rinfret went bolder for her use of coral, leaning toward a more orangey-toned hue. Cindy opted for a high-gloss coral paint to adorn the walls of this artful home bar that sits in Tommy Hilfiger's Palm Beach home. The color might be bold, but it feels entirely appropriate in a room designed for entertainment. 'Coral is so making a comeback,' states Cindy. 'Everyone looks beautiful in a coral room, and it instantly creates an upscale “Hermès” vibe. It is so flattering and creates a festive party ambiance,' she adds.

While it can be tempting to drench snugs or more intimate spaces in moody colors, vibrant hues are a clever, refreshing way to infuse life into these spaces. 'It’s a great accent color in a stuffy library or feature color in a bar,' as seen here, adds Cindy.

When styling the bold hue, Cindy suggests pairing it with natural materials for a laid-back, coastal New England feel. 'I love it mixed with bamboo, sisal, tan, and green.'

'I chose coral because it brings warmth, happiness, and personality to a space that's often overlooked,' says interior designer Heather Ware on the room pictured above. 'Laundry rooms are some of the hardest-working rooms in a home, so I love making them feel just as thoughtfully designed as the kitchen or living room. Coral transforms an everyday chore into something a little more joyful, especially when it's layered with natural wood tones, and timeless details that give the space character.'

'I think color is making a comeback, and coral is one beautiful expression of that,' continues Heather. 'After years of playing it safe with all-white and gray interiors, homeowners are becoming more confident in creating homes that reflect their personalities. People are craving spaces that feel warm, joyful, and lived in, and color has the power to do that. Coral, in particular, brings an optimistic energy while remaining surprisingly sophisticated. Whether it's used boldly or in small doses, it's a color that can feel both timeless and fresh.'

'Start with a single piece of furniture, artwork, pillows, or wallpaper, and layer it with natural materials like wood, linen, cane, and brass,' she adds. 'Coral also pairs beautifully with greens, blues, and creams, making it easier to live with than many people expect. The key is balance. Let coral bring the warmth while the surrounding materials provide a sense of calm and timelessness.'

The Coral Edit

Coral's (welcome) return suggests we are all embracing more characterful, eclectic choices, in terms of color and beyond. 'For a number of years we've seen lots of earthy neutrals, greens and rich browns dominate interiors, but people are now becoming more confident with color again,' says Harriette. 'Coral feels like a natural progression because it offers warmth and optimism without being overpowering. I think people are increasingly looking for homes that feel joyful and individual rather than simply following trends, and bolder colors, when used well, can lend themselves perfectly to that.'

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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.

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A color-drenched look can make a beautiful statement in a room. Whether it's a punch of vibrancy or a cocooning hug, saturating your scheme with a hero paint color lets you make as bold (or subtle) a statement as you desire.

While color drenching can be summed up as covering a room in a hue, there's more to the room color idea than meets the eye. In fact, like all praiseworthy design trends, pulling off the look comes down to a keen eye and avoiding the (all-too-easy-to-make) paint mistakes that can get in the way of your new color scheme.

'When thoughtfully executed, color drenching softens visual transitions between architectural elements, minimizes awkward angles, and creates a seamless, intentional design,' explains Emily Kantz, Color Expert at Sherwin-Williams. 'The key is selecting a color that complements both the function of the room and the amount of natural light it receives.'

Here, we delve into the 5 color drenching mistakes interior designers see time and time again, so you know what to avoid when creating a beautiful, colorful scheme in your home.

1. Not Fully Committing to the Look

Whether you're color drenching a kitchen or going full on dark and moody for bedroom color ideas, the number one rule when committing to the drenched look is to go big. Leaving out architectural features like millwork or ceiling trim makes the job appear half-finished (and half-hearted).

'The biggest mistake is going halfway in,' explains interior designer Lindsey Walsh of Lindsey Walsh Interior Design. 'The way to avoid it is don't hold back! Many don’t understand that color drenching means going all the way. That means all of your millwork (door casings, crown, chair rail, wainscoting, wall panelling, built-ins, baseboards), all of your doors, your walls and your windows (casing, muntins, mullions, etc.). If you color drench a room and leave your window muntins the pre-finished white they came in, it will ruin the entire effect.'

2. Ignoring Texture

'The biggest lost opportunity is ignoring texture,' says interior designer Jen Baxter of Baxter Hill Interiors. 'When every surface is the same color, texture becomes the primary source of visual interest. Without that variation, the room will feel flat – and with lighter colors, I think texture matters more.'

In fact, a room can feel overwhelmed by paint without any texture, particularly if you're going for a bold jewel tone like Sherwin-Williams Forward Fuchsia or Rockwood Dark Green for something on the darker side. Small doses of texture invite contrast and give the eye something else to take in, other than just the walls.

If you're color drenching a bedroom, for example, remember to bring some beautiful contrast through bedding or a floor covering. A plush pile rug will pair beautifully with a smooth, shiny wall color, as would a chunky knitted throw draped at the end of a bed.

3. Color Drenching a Small Space a Light Color

While color drenching often makes small spaces look bigger, it's worth bearing in mind that this doesn't apply to every shade. Always pay attention to the size of your scheme, and pick a color family accordingly.

Instead of keeping things bright and light in small rooms, commit to the space's smaller parameters, rather than trying to make them into something they're not. 'When small spaces are color drenched in a light color,' says Lindsey. 'You can still see how small the space really is. You can also see the architectural flaws clear as day (hello soffits!).'

On the other hand, going big with an encompassing, rich color shows confidence, creates drama, and translates as far more intentional. 'When a small space is color-drenched in a saturated, dark hue, the effect is magical. The bold, saturated color starts to feel borderless,' explains Lindsey, 'making the space feel much more expansive, and that annoying soffit starts to melt away, turning the room into a little jewel box.' This is where the bold shades that transform small rooms truly come to life.

4. Forgetting Contrast

Of course, color drenching is all about going bold and committing to one hue. However, that's not to say you shouldn't incorporate other colors in your scheme; in fact, creating intentional contrast is what makes a saturated room truly shine.

'The last one is forgetting contrast entirely,' adds Jennifer. 'A single small pop of color in a different register gives your eye somewhere to rest and actually makes the drenched color feel more confident.' This can be achieved through clashing colors or a more familiar hue that falls under the same color family.

It needn't be through bold paint colors either; simple tweaks like adding a yellow picture frame to a wall covered in burgundy paint will create just enough opposition that it only brings your walls to life. 'It can be as simple as a vase of flowers, throw pillow, stack of books, or one ceramic object,' advises Jennifer.

5. Overlooking Finish

'One of the most common color-drenching mistakes to avoid is overlooking your chosen paint finish, especially when it comes to durability,' says Helen Shaw, Director of International Marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'As with color itself, the wrong finish can undermine both the look and longevity of a space. Different levels of sheen don’t just change how a paint color appears; they also influence how light behaves across surfaces, how refined the finish feels and how well the room stands up to everyday wear.'

'To make the right choice, it’s essential to consider the function and level of wear each space demands. Matte finishes are often chosen for their soft, luxurious quality, creating an almost chalky, light-absorbing surface that can beautifully tone down bold colors. However, they’re also less forgiving in high-traffic areas, where scuffs and marks are harder to clean, making durability a key consideration rather than just an aesthetic one.'

'On the other hand, gloss paint offers far greater resilience and washability, while also amplifying color and light for a more dramatic, high-impact effect. When used intentionally, a full gloss scheme can feel bold and immersive, but it requires confidence in both execution and maintenance.'

While a color-drenched design may seem easy to get right, in addition to embracing one leading paint color across a whole room, there are many other factors to consider to help you achieve the perfect look.

By carefully considering your paint finish, incorporating eye-catching layers of texture, and bringing in a palette of complementary colors, you'll have a scheme that feels accomplished, well-balanced, and utterly timeless.

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'Safe' neutrals may have had some bad press in recent months, but that's not to say that every shade is worth writing off. This year, rich, complex neutrals that feel layered and warm are a calming choice that balance the striking shades amongst this year's trends.

While some beige paints can fall into the flat or forgettable category, Benjamin Moore's Pashmina is the rich, warming hue that proves neutral doesn't have to mean boring. 'Perfectly balanced between warm and cool, light and dark, Pashmina is a sophisticated neutral that feels at home in any space,' says Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'It's a timeless taupe enriched with soft, moody undertones.'

There are, of course, plenty of colors replacing beige in 2026, but there's no denying that sometimes all a scheme calls for is a grounding neutral for it to truly come to life.

'Pashmina is one of my favorite taupes because it sits right in the middle,' says interior designer Nikka Winchel, founder of Halcyon Haus Design. 'It isn’t too gray, and it doesn’t read overly beige. It has enough depth to feel intentional, but it’s still soft enough to use throughout an entire space. I also love that it changes with the light. It always feels warm, but it never falls flat.'

'I spent a long time looking for the right taupe for this project (pictured above). I wanted something with depth, but I didn’t want it drifting too far into gray or reading too beige. I also knew I didn’t want a color that was so light it disappeared or so dark that it felt heavy. Pashmina landed right in that sweet spot. It has enough complexity to feel interesting, but it’s still incredibly versatile.'

'The kitchen gets beautiful western light, which pulls out the warmer side of the color and gives the cabinetry a really soft glow later in the day,' adds Nikka. 'It shifts throughout the day, but it never loses the richness that made me fall in love with it in the first place. From the beginning, I wanted the cabinetry to do most of the talking, so every other finish was chosen to support it rather than compete with it. Once we landed on Pashmina, the rest of the palette came together naturally.'

While the beige gray color trend was big a few years ago, it still feels timeless and enduring when paired with more vibrant shades. 'Its stony grey character pairs beautifully with almost any color, making it a favourite for both contemporary and classic interiors,' says Helen. 'A delicate blush undertone adds warmth and depth, allowing it to complement rich oranges for a welcoming, energised atmosphere, or muted mid-tones for a softer, more serene and understated look.'

'I think Pashmina is at its best when it’s paired with natural materials,' advises Nikka. 'It’s beautiful with warm whites, light oak, handmade tile, natural stone, plaster, and metals that have some warmth to them. I also like mixing polished nickel with unlacquered brass because the contrast keeps the palette from feeling too expected, and this is a perfect pairing for this color.'

'Style-wise, it’s incredibly versatile,' adds Nikka. 'It works just as well in a traditional home as it does in something more contemporary because it doesn’t feel trendy. It’s simply a really well-balanced neutral that lets the materials around it shine.'

When decorating with Pashmina, consider the colors that go with beige for a well-balanced scheme that balances neutrality with color.

'A popular Benjamin Moore hue, this perfectly balanced neutral is well-loved for its adaptability and depth,' says Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'Pair this timeless midtone with a soft off-white, like Steam AF-15, on the trim and ceiling. Bring in texture with chunky knits in charcoals and chocolates – like Kendall Charcoal HC-166 and Black Bean Soup 2130-10 – for added warmth.'

'Pashmina is a rich, warm greige that feels soft and timeless,' states Melissa Oholendt, founder of Oho Interiors. 'It’s one of our favorite non-white trim colors. It adds subtle contrast and definition without feeling too stark. It pairs beautifully with soft whites and deep blues.'

The Pashmina-Inspired Edit

While 'sad beige' was named one of the paint colors going out of style in 2026, Pashmina, a deeply complicated, layered beige with rich undertones, couldn't be further from boring, bland, or forgettable.

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Few interior trends have had as lasting an impact as farmhouse decor. White-washed walls, reclaimed wood, shiplap, and modern black hardware are hallmarks of this aesthetic that soon became the go-to in modern American homes as social media trends gained momentum.

But trends come and go, and as the design world welcomes a return to more experimental interiors that are less about fitting into a distinct trend box and more about reflecting personality, farmhouse white is starting to feel tired and predictable.

Instead, designers are using soft and subtly warming colors as the backdrop of a room, offering a more expressive look that generally feels more interesting than white. Here, designers discuss why we're moving away from farmhouse style to these quietly confident color trends, and how to decorate with them.

The Rise and Decline of Farmhouse White

The rise of farmhouse white has been significant for good reason; it originally gave homeowners a fresh start against the colorful palettes of decades prior. 'Farmhouse white emerged as a reaction to the heavy Tuscan interiors of the 1980s and 1990s, offering a fresh, bright backdrop that photographed beautifully in the age of Pinterest and Instagram,' says designer Kim Mauney, based in Charlotte, North Carolina.

'Farmhouse white felt fresh, clean, and timeless, and during the rise of modern farmhouse style in the 2010s, that was exactly what homeowners wanted,' adds Dunn-Edwards' color marketing manager, Lauren Hoferkamp. 'White gave them bright, open rooms and a versatile backdrop that worked with almost any furnishings, making it equally appealing to builders and home buyers.'

It's not just inside the home where farmhouse white dominated, but for exterior paint ideas, too. 'White siding with black trim and black accents became one of the most recognizable images in residential design: high-contrast, modern yet familiar, and irresistibly photogenic,' Lauren says. 'Home renovation television, Pinterest, Instagram, and new-construction developments carried it everywhere, until a clean backdrop became the look every home seemed to want.'

And while decorating with white will always have a level of timelessness to it, the white-washed rooms with wood tones and very little color may be starting to tire. The design world is once again welcoming a bolder approach to color and palettes that rebel against the formulaic social media-inspired aesthetic with something more unique and unexpected.

Why Homeowners Are Moving On

'After more than a decade of white interiors and white-and-black exteriors filling every feed and subdivision, the look simply became predictable,' Lauren explains. 'White did its most important work during the pandemic, when people spent more time at home than ever and wanted spaces that felt calm, orderly, and full of light. But the very thing that made white reassuring during uncertain times, its neutrality, is what makes it feel flat once life settles down. A room with nothing to say starts to feel sterile rather than serene.'

Today, we're seeing a return to authentic, lived-in homes that turn to bolder room color ideas, reflective of the homeowners' personality. 'Homeowners now want rooms that feel personal rather than borrowed from a formula, spaces with warmth, character, and the sense of having been collected over time,' says Lauren. 'The trend cycle is doing what it always does, swinging back from minimalism toward layered interiors, natural materials, and saturated, mood-driven color.'

Rooms that make a statement and feel full of personality are rarely painted white; they embrace more adventurous colors that tell a story. What's more, contrast and tension are important to rooms that feel truly interesting and memorable, which can be tricky to achieve with white.

'Today, we're seeing a return to warmer colors and layered interiors, with creams, olives, mushrooms, and burgundies creating a richer backdrop for antiques, texture, and collected pieces,' says Kim. 'Many of these are colors our grandparents used, but we're pairing them with modern art, cleaner silhouettes, and a lighter hand, making them feel entirely new again.'

The Palettes Replacing Farmhouse White, and How Designers Are Using Them

The color palettes replacing farmhouse white aren't overly specific – many different colors add softness, depth, and warmth. That said, designers talk through some of their favorites below, from soft greens to dusky pinks.

And while these delicate colors feel like a more current alternative to farmhouse white, that's not to say white is disappearing altogether. White can still be incredibly effective, but it needs texture in interior design to stop it falling flat. 'The shift isn't really about abandoning white,' says Lauren. 'It's about warming it up. Warm whites, mushroom tones, taupes, and greiges keep a room bright while adding the nuance stark white lacks.'

Plaster Pinks

Soft pink paints are emerging as a more warming alternative to white, bringing depth and color while the dusky quality keeps rooms feeling grown-up and timeless. This color palette was chosen for this historic home, where it complements its aged quality.

'Rather than the conventional flat white, we wanted a color that felt fresh without losing the building's bones,' explains the designer Sophie Goldhill of Hector Interiors. She chose Jonquil by Edward Bulmer (Farrow & Ball's Setting Plaster is a similar shade that's easier to source in the US), which she describes as 'a warm, yellow-leaning pink especially suited to hallways and period properties, sitting comfortably against the exposed beams and travertine floor rather than fighting them.'

Plaster pink paints like this one look modern when used with color-drenching, along with warm wood tones and natural textures to add depth.

Airy Blues

Pale blue paints feel on-trend and inherently calm, making them a good alternative to farmhouse white. This kitchen color scheme pairs light blue cabinets with wood tones and warm metals, which ensures this cool-toned hue feels welcoming and cozy.

'For this kitchen, we wanted something that still felt fresh, airy, and timeless, but with more depth and personality than a traditional all-white kitchen,' explains designer Sara Malek Barney of BANDD/DESIGN, based between Los Angeles and Austin. 'This soft blue-gray was the perfect alternative because it almost behaves like a neutral. It has enough gray in it to feel sophisticated and grounded, but enough blue to bring warmth, charm, and a sense of character to the space.'

Although soft blue paints like this one are fairly forgiving, adding contrast to the space takes it up a level. 'The wood adds warmth, and the lighter materials keep everything from feeling too heavy,' Sara explains. 'We also brought in warmer metal finishes and a vintage-style rug to tie the palette together and make the kitchen feel less new build and more lived-in and collected.'

Muted Greens

Green is nature's neutral, which makes it incredibly liveable. From kitchens to bedrooms, light green paints bring a relaxed feel to rooms while adding much more warmth than white. If you're new to decorating with color, look to green paints that are quiet rather than anything too saturated, such as Benjamin Moore's Thornton Sage, which was used here.

'For this space, I used a Cowtan & Tout fabric on the bed, which served as the starting point for the room's color palette,' explains the Georgia-based designer Lauren Robbins. To keep things cohesive and calm, Lauren repeated this soft green hue across other elements. 'I pulled the lightest shade of green from that fabric and color-matched the walls, washing them in Thornton Sage, then layered in additional greens and neutrals from there,' she explains.

'Because this color is so subtle, it acts as a neutral, setting a mood of serenity and calm while adding visual interest and offering more depth than a true white,' says Lauren.

Earthy Neutrals

A move away from farmhouse white doesn't have to be colorful – a revised take on neutrals can add plenty more depth to a room. This kitchen feels richly layered with the palette of earth tones – most notably the cabinets painted with Benjamin Moore's Stone Hearth, a soft stone color.

'We love a kitchen that feels classic but doesn't lack for coziness,' says designer Melissa Oholendt from design studio Oho Interiors, based in Minnesota and Colorado. 'A great greige color is the secret to that, and Stone Hearth is one you will see repeated in different applications in our projects because it's not white, but still maintains a lightness while feeling cozy. It also gives us a lot of bandwidth to adjust the design and make it feel entirely different.'

Texture and materials are key when decorating with earth tones. Take inspiration from this kitchen and add interest with natural wood, warm brass details, and textured stone – it's what gives a room that layered feeling.

Soft Gray-Greens

Gray-toned greens are another stylish shift from predictable whites, especially effective if you're looking for just a subtle hint of color rather than anything too bold. 'We chose to paint this primary bedroom in Farrow & Ball’s French Gray, which is a warm gray with subtle green undertones,' explains Mira Eng-Goetz, lead designer at Portland and Paris-based Jessica Helgerson Interior Design.

'There’s a tendency to choose a shade of farmhouse white when we’re aiming to create a space that is soothing and light-filled,' Mira adds. 'Soft, complex neutrals on the lighter end can achieve the same effect while adding some character and depth to a room.'

By extending the same paint color to the woodwork and trim, this room feels modern and more relaxed than it would if a white paint were used for these details.

Think of this shift as less about the colors themselves, and more about the way we decorate our homes. The decline of farmhouse white isn't saying that white is out – it represents a return to personality-led interiors that feel soulful and dynamic, rather than Instagram-ready homes that can feel overly predictable and lacking in depth.

White is the lightest of colors; some say it shouldn't even count as a color, and yet it's the one that sparks the most debate in interiors. That's because when decorating with this timeless, universally loved color, the wrong shade can totally throw off a room and make it feel cold, uninviting, and, in 2026, dated.

Thankfully, the fix to a much warmer and welcoming space is simple. From white paints with subtle warm undertones to light, earthy neutrals that add depth, designers are all saying the same thing: ditch the cool-toned, brilliant white paints for a design-led space. Here, you can find out exactly why bright whites have fallen out of favor among designers, and how to fix this common color mistake with more flattering paint shades.

The 'Safe' White That Isn’t Safe Anymore

Decorating with white, specifically very bright whites, became the default color choice for modern homes for lots of reasons: it offered a modern look compared to the more colorful palettes of decades prior, and it was seen as a safe choice when considering the resale value of a home. But good design is rarely about playing it safe, hence why stark white is often seen as a decorating mistake in 2026.

'For many years, stark whites were associated with a clean, modern aesthetic, but today, people are craving homes that feel warmer, more personal, and connected to nature,' explains the Houston designer Marie Flanigan. 'Cool whites can sometimes feel clinical or impersonal, particularly in residential settings.'

'The reality is that many cool whites can read cold or even clinical, particularly when paired with the natural materials that have become so prevalent in today's interiors,' adds Hannah Goldberg of Hannah Charlotte Interiors. 'Warm woods, Taj Mahal quartzite and other natural stones, linen textiles, Roman clay finishes, and plaster walls all carry inherent warmth and depth. When juxtaposed against a stark white with a strong blue undertone, the contrast can often feel harsh rather than harmonious.'

As interior design trends favor decorating styles that allow layering, warmth, and personality, bright white can feel at odds. 'I don't think it's a coincidence that the shift happened around the time we all started spending so much more time at home,' designer Kara Childress says of the decline in stark white. 'The pandemic had a way of clarifying what we actually wanted from our homes, and for most of us, that was comfort.'

It's not about ruling out white altogether – it's the complexity of the undertones of white paint that's important. Warm-toned whites offer a light and airy interior and feel welcoming, whereas those with cool undertones can all too often feel drab. 'It's all about choosing the right white,' says Jess Ebert of Four Story Interiors, based in Charlotte, North Carolina. 'A warm white acts as a quiet backdrop rather than the star of the show, allowing natural materials, layered textures, and richer finishes to take center stage. It becomes a visual palate cleanser that brings balance to a room without feeling sterile or flat.'

Why Cool Whites Fall Flat

Taking a closer look at the undertones (or lack of undertones) of any given white paint gives a clearer picture of why they can be tricky to get right. 'Cool, stark whites often make a room feel expansive and less dynamic,' explains Kara Childress. 'They can also read as sterile, and tend to flatten the elements that make a space interesting, like vaulted ceilings, a beautiful plaster finish, or a unique architectural moment. Those special details can get lost against a wall that's too bright or sharp.'

'Blue-based whites often reflect cooler light, which can make a space feel flat or even a bit sterile, especially in rooms with limited natural sunlight,' Marie Flanigan adds. 'They can also cast an unflattering tone on skin and compete with the warmth found in natural materials like wood, stone, and brass. Because of these undertones, they require very careful consideration of lighting and furnishings to keep a room from feeling cold.'

It's in lower light rooms where the undertones of cool-toned whites are especially tricky, explains Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore: 'While these undertones help balance warm sunlight and keep south-facing rooms looking crisp and fresh, they can appear flat, gray, or slightly cold in darker spaces or north-facing rooms with cooler light.'

What Designers Are Choosing Instead in 2026

Switching from bright white paints to warm white paints is a simple swap, but there are other options, too, which you can explore here.

Warm White Paints

The easiest replacement for stark or cool-toned whites is those with warm undertones. Instead of feeling overly bright and jarring, these hues quietly soften rooms, while still allowing that much-desired light and airy look. In this living room, Benjamin Moore's White Dove was used. 'It has a softness to it that never feels cold,' says designer Katie Davis, who's based in Houston.

'With rooms that have this much natural light and volume, we wanted the backdrop to feel warm and relaxed rather than bright white or overly crisp,' she adds. While the choice of white paint is important, so is the surrounding decor, suggests Katie. 'We layered in warm woods, aged beams, upholstery with movement and pattern, natural textures, and softer brass tones so the house feels collected and comfortable.'

Choosing a white paint that looks white, not yellow, can take some consideration. 'It’s important to test colors in the actual space before committing,' Helen Shaw recommends. 'Sample pots are especially useful, allowing you to observe how a white looks in morning light, evening light, and under artificial lighting, as well as in different weather conditions.'

Earthy Neutrals

Beyond warm white paints, delicate neutral paints with earthy undertones make a great alternative to bright white, such as Farrow & Ball's Shaded White, which was used in this breakfast nook. Despite its name, it's actually a greige paint with depth and warmth.

'We love this color because it adds just the right amount of depth without being too warm or too gray,' says the Utah designer Ali Henrie. 'We tend to gravitate toward softer off-white colors in our designs that feel more lived-in and timeless. These off-whites help to soften the space and add depth without making a room feel overly bright or heavy.'

Layered Tonal Palettes

Another way to reimagine all-white rooms is to opt for a palette of tonal neutrals. Although soft and just a step away from white, subtle earth tones offer depth that gives rooms character.

'While Oho is known for our use of color in general, there is something hard to resist about an incredibly calming, both mentally and physically, room that feels tonal from floor to ceiling,' explains Melissa Oholendt, the founder of Oho Interiors.

'We knew that to play nicely with the warmth and coziness of Accessible Beige, we needed a white that wasn't going to detract or take away from the warmth,' she adds. 'Choosing a white that has warm (but still clean) undertones, such as White Dove, gave us a nice complement to the greige color of the cabinets. The designer trick to using white is really to layer in whites and off-whites with similar undertones. The more the merrier.'

Cream Tones

Cream tones feel slightly vintage-inspired and can create charming, warm spaces, as demonstrated in this kitchen. While bright white creates a very modern look, cream offers a slightly aged quality.

'This kitchen is set in a historic home in Iowa, a midwestern state known for its vast fields of corn,' explains designer Mira Eng-Goetz of Jessica Helgerson Interior Design. 'We chose a soft, buttery white for the cabinetry, which pairs nicely with the warm wood flooring and helps this newly renovated kitchen feel as if it’s always been just as it is.'

How to Fix a Cold White Room (Without Repainting Everything at Once)

If you're not able to repaint bright white walls, lighting can be an effective tool to warm up a room and stop it from looking stark. 'In rooms that don’t receive much natural light, artificial lighting has a huge influence on how a white paint color is perceived,' says Helen Shaw.

'Bulbs above 3500K tend to cast a cooler, bluer light that can exaggerate any gray or blue undertones in the paint,' she adds. 'Lower color temperatures produce a warmer, cozier glow, helping the space feel softer and more inviting.'

You could also swap any cool-toned metals, such as chrome, for warmer ones, as well as adding plenty of texture. 'To keep a white room feeling rich and layered, I focus on texture and contrast – mixing plaster walls, natural wood, linen upholstery, woven materials, antique brass, and stone to create depth and visual interest while maintaining a calm, cohesive palette,' says Marie Flanigan.

Another way to warm up white walls is to add colorful decor. While the walls in this dining nook already have warmth, a similar approach can be followed with bright white. 'For this space, we layered in blues and purples,' explains Augusta, Georgia-based designer Lauren Robbins.

If you do decide to paint the walls to complement a similar palette of blues and purples, go for a white paint with soft undertones, but not so warm that it looks yellow. 'Some of my favorite warm white shades are Benjamin Moore's Ivory White and Opaline at 50% (which helps remove the yellow undertones), and Farrow & Ball's James White,' says Lauren.

While accent colors, decor, and lighting can help to warm up existing bright white walls, that's not to say bright white paints don't have their place. For Kara Childress, they often work well when used sparingly. 'I love using a pure white accent within a room painted in a warmer shade,' she says. 'It's almost counterintuitive, but a pop of bright white in artwork, trim, or a key piece of furniture actually draws out the warmth and depth of the wall color rather than competing with it.'

This was the approach Kara followed in this dining space. 'I brought in artwork with bright white backgrounds for exactly this reason,' she says. 'It lets the wall color come forward and those beautiful undertones, particularly in plaster finishes, really sing.'

White rooms aren't out of style – they're just evolving to feel softer and warmer. Make sure to pay attention to the undertones when choosing paint shades to avoid anything too cool, or go for something much more colorful with these white paint alternatives

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Fresh, timeless and always interesting, there's something powerful about a front door drenched in green. Whether it's a moody olive or a heritage forest green, it's a hue that almost always makes the gateway to a home look more expensive – and designers agree.

While front door colors do a great job at injecting personality into our houses' facades, they also boost curb appeal when chosen well. From the best sage green paints to the best dark green paints, interior designers say it's specifically organic greens that can bring an enduring heritage feel to exteriors that only gets better with time.

'A deep heritage green is one of the easiest ways to give a front door a more established, expensive look,' says interior designer Lauren Saab. 'Shades like Benjamin Moore’s Essex Green or Hunter Green have a richness that works beautifully with everything from classic brick homes to more modern exteriors. Green also has a natural quality that helps a home feel welcoming while complementing the surrounding landscape. The key is choosing a muted, saturated green with plenty of depth since those darker tones will always feel more timeless than brighter ones.'

'Drawing on the natural environment and choosing tones which mimic the environs will add a welcoming atmosphere,' explains Helen Shaw, director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'Deep greens such as Olympus Green 679 will add a beautiful warmth to homes and complement the outside world rather than distract from it.'

Green paint not only ages gracefully and brings a heritage feel to a home's exterior but it also feels harmonious with nature, making it a lasting choice for years to come. Conveniently, it's a color that looks good every season, so you needn't worry about switching it up when the months get colder, either.

'I absolutely love a green front door,' says interior designer Jennifer Hunter. 'In fact, I painted the front door of my Connecticut home in Farrow & Ball's Carriage Green, and it's one of my favorite design decisions we've made. There's something so timeless about a deep green, especially against a warm white exterior. It feels classic and beautifully echoes the landscape surrounding the home.'

'To me, a front door should feel warm and welcoming,' Jennifer adds, 'so I always finish the look with natural materials like rattan and terracotta planters filled with boxwoods in every season, then layer in flowering plants as the weather changes.'

Painting your front door green will upgrade curb appeal in a weekend and instantly make your entrance feel more sophisticated.

'Sherwin-Williams Dried Thyme is a personal favorite for instantly making a home's front look more expensive,' explains interior designer Mollie Ranize of Dmar Interiors. 'That's because it's a complex, grayed sage, not a flat green. That depth reads as expensive. It shifts with the light, pairs effortlessly with stone, warm wood, and brass, and signals a deliberate, design-forward choice rather than a safe default. It makes a facade feel rooted and quietly luxurious instead of trendy.'

Greens pair well with a variety of house styles, too, whether you live in a historic Tudor-style home or a Tuscan-style house like the property pictured above. 'Bricked frontage houses look particularly elegant with doors in deep rich colors which nod to the period that they were built and will complement the original brickwork,' adds Helen.

Outdoor Accessories Best With Green

While there are front door colors to avoid in 2026, green isn't one of them. Classically heritage yet fresh and on trend, it's one of those rare paint colors that will always boost curb appeal and make a front entrance feel more expensive.

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Gray might be a little controversial in the design world as of late, falling from its early 2000s fame, and frequently topping lists of colors to avoid using in 2026. But that's not to say it's been officially scrapped for good.

While lackluster charcoals and mid-tone cold grays might no longer be the go-to neutrals of choice, not all gray paint is on the way out. Paint colors like Gray Owl (one of Benjamin Moore's most popular neutral tones) are proof that there is such a thing as complex, liveable grays that feel subtle, quietly grounding, and still interesting in 2026.

'Gray Owl is a light grey with a cool, crisp cast,' explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International), Benjamin Moore. 'This subtle silver-like hue offers a soft and refined luminosity that instantly brightens a room. Its cool undertones provide a more modern and crisp appearance than other greys, making it a hue that is especially suited to contemporary urban settings.'

Here's how designers are using this timeless Benjamin Moore gray paint.

1. Apply It To Kitchen Cabinetry and Surround with Textures

'Gray Owl is one of those rare colors that feels quietly dynamic rather than static,' explains interior designer Leigha Heydt, founder of Heydt Designs. 'I think it is at its best when paired with natural materials that reinforce its quiet, organic character.'

'I love combining it with white oak, walnut, natural stone, linen, wool, handcrafted ceramics, and warm metals like unlacquered brass,' Leigha continues. 'Layering texture rather than introducing too many competing colors allows the subtle complexity of the paint to shine and creates spaces that feel relaxed, welcoming, and enduring.'

'One of Gray Owl's greatest strengths is its flexibility. It pairs beautifully with warm whites, earthy greens, muted blues, charcoal accents, and natural wood tones. Because its undertones shift so gracefully with the light, it bridges both warm and cool palettes, making it an incredibly versatile foundation for a home.'

2. Use Gray Owl as a Timeless Exterior Color

'I would describe Gray Owl as a versatile hue that can go many different directions, depending on what is paired with it,' says Alison Arrington, founder of The Design Room. 'It has a subtle green/blue undertone, but is softened and appears warmer when paired with White Dove (as shown in this picture).'

'I chose this color for an exterior paint because the project has a Cape Cod vibe, which this color is perfect for. I used dark navys, light sea greens, and cream tones throughout the home, which act as perfect compliments coming from the outside where Gray Owl was used. One thing you will notice is that the stone that I chose has very similar tones to Gray owl, as well as creams and beiges. This was one way to sway the paint color to appear warmer than it would have if it was paired with cooler tones. I prefer to bring warmth. It tends to be more cozy and livable.'

When using gray in 2026, always pair it with organic textures. 'Other tones and materials that look great with this color,' says Alison. 'Light to medium rift oak, stone with multi-tones that have this color as well as creams and beiges, dark wood tones complement it also.'

3. Color Drench a Living Room

While there are times not to paint a room gray, in homes blessed with natural light, it's a clever shade to use as your main wall color. 'We selected it for every painted surface in the home, including the walls, trim, doors, and windows, to create a calm, cohesive backdrop that allows the architecture, natural light, and materials to take center stage,' says Leigha.

'Perhaps the greatest testament to the color's longevity came from the homeowners themselves. After living in the home for more than ten years while raising four children, they recently repainted the entire interior and chose Gray Owl again. To me, that's the definition of a timeless color. It wasn't selected because it was fashionable; it was selected again because they genuinely loved living with it.'

'What I appreciate most about Gray Owl is the way it evolves throughout the day,' she explains. 'Depending on the quality and direction of the light, it may read softly green in one room, warmer and almost taupe in another, and additionally reveals a subtle blue undertone. Rather than becoming predictable, it continues to feel fresh and calming as the light changes throughout the day and across the seasons.'

Gray Owl-Inspired Shopping Picks

While not all grays are in this year (plenty of shades are replacing gray in 2026), Benjamin Moore's Gray Owl is a liveable, grounding shade that feels subtle yet unique, doing far more than your average neutral.

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Cool-toned grays may have had their moment, but that doesn't mean that all grays are taking a backseat in 2026. In fact, those warm, more complicated grays that shift in the light are starting to feel like a welcome palette cleanser among some of the more striking hues that make up today's color trends.

While designers have long loved the timeless neutral that is Farrow & Ball's Elephant's Breath, this year, it feels like one of the few accepted gray paints that actually stand up against the eye-catching shades that are dominating this year. Layered with purple notes, it's a refreshingly layered gray that couldn't stray further from the controversial cool-tone that we've said goodbye to.

Whether you're a lover of simplicity or simply want a neutral paint color that feels classic yet still warm and interesting, Elephant's Breath is exactly how to use gray in 2026.

1. A Tranquil Home Office Bathed In Pale Gray

While plenty of hues are replacing gray in 2026, Elephant's Breath proves that not all gray paints are out of style. 'It's a very calm, sophisticated gray with the warmth of the taupe undertone,' explains interior designer Marie Kalsi, who used it on the walls of a client's home office.

'When we started this project, the only item our clients wanted to keep was the roman blind in this dark purple damask pattern. So, we chose Farrow & Ball's Elephant's Breath not only for its calming greige quality but also for its hint of magenta and taupe.'

'For contrast, we painted the bespoke cabinetry in Farrow & Ball's Brinjal to really pull the scheme together,' Marie explains. 'We also paired Elephant's Breath with Skimming Stone for the ceiling to not only accentuate the ceiling height but to also create a layered neutral aesthetic, which created a beautiful backdrop for the Roche Bobois Eden Rock collection to complete this modern, glamorous mid-century scheme.'

2. A Living Room That Changes In the Light

'I’d describe Elephant’s Breath as a neutral for people who don’t usually choose neutrals,' explains Henrietta Alice Green, of Henrietta Alice Home. 'It has beautiful lilac undertones that become especially apparent when it’s flooded with natural light in a south-facing room. During the day it feels soft, fresh and uplifting, while in the evening it settles into a cozy, warm grey that creates a really inviting atmosphere.'

There are times you should never paint a room gray, but in light-flooded rooms, it's often a clever choice. 'This room is our snug, so I wanted it to feel cozy and cocooning in the evenings while still feeling light and airy during the day,' Henrietta explains. 'The French windows bring in lots of sunlight, which really enhances the color’s subtle undertones and changing character throughout the day. I also loved how it worked alongside the original cornice detailing, highlighting the architectural features without overpowering them.'

'I think it’s an incredibly versatile color. In this room, I paired it with a palette of bright pastels and a deep teal armchair, which adds richness and depth, particularly in the evening light. Pops of pink and blue work beautifully with Elephant’s Breath’s lilac undertones.'

3. A Romantic Bedroom Layered With Gray Notes

'Elephant's Breath is a wonderfully nuanced warm gray with subtle taupe and mauve undertones,' says interior designer Juliette Saier. 'Depending on the light, it can feel soft and airy during the day, then become richer and more enveloping in the evening. It has a quiet sophistication that avoids both the coldness of traditional grays and the sweetness of beige.'

'The apartment (pictured above) features beautiful historic architecture, including detailed wall moldings, high ceilings, and herringbone parquet flooring. I wanted to highlight these classical elements while giving them a more contemporary and understated character,' Juliette explains. 'Elephant's Breath provided the perfect balance: enough depth to accentuate the moldings and architectural relief, yet soft enough to maintain a calm, residential atmosphere. It creates a refined backdrop that allows natural materials, artwork, and furniture to stand out without competing for attention.'

'Elephant's Breath pairs beautifully with layered neutrals and earthy tones,' adds Juliette. 'In this project, it was combined with Wimborne White on the ceilings and cornices to maximise light and highlight the room's original architecture, while Skimming Stone was used on the inner moulding details to create a subtle tonal contrast. Charleston Gray, on the skirting boards, adds depth and grounding to the overall palette.'

4. A Bright and Airy Laundry Room

'I describe Elephant's Breath as a muddy lilac gray, which acts as an elevated neutral,' begins Kate Daskalakis, founder of KSD Designs.

While there are colors to never pair with gray in 2026, a delicate wallpaper couldn't be a more complementary choice. In this laundry room, Kate applied it to the cabinetry for subtle depth, bringing richness without compromising the room's airiness. 'This built-in is in my studio,' she explains, 'and I chose it because I wanted to give it a moment for people to giggle at the silly name but appreciate the elegance of it in a space.'

'I love to pair it with blues, like Plummet by Farrow & Ball,' she adds, 'and greens like French Grey, and for a white, Pointing by Farrow & Ball (as shown in photo). And I love it with a sage velvet or a chocolate mohair. I love to use it in more historical homes, as it adds depth and enhances the home's natural character.'

5. A Marble Bathroom Grounded With Gray Walls

Interior designer Hazel Morris shares her thoughts on the warm gray paint. 'It's such an interesting color and can look really different placed in different spaces, sometimes lilac and sometimes gray, sometimes even off-white! Always warm and rich and quite luxurious.'

'I chose this color as, being incredibly versatile, it worked across the whole master suite (pictured above) as a perfect backdrop to some of the richer and more pigmented tones we used in the spaces, such as the burgundy bath. Timeless enough to be suitable for period properties and newer styles of property too,' she adds.

'It pairs best with stronger and more contrasting tones, such as the heavily veined marble we chose (picking out the purple-y tones here), darker-toned, antique wood and timbers, warmed based colors such as burgundy. It also works incredibly well as the more pigmented tone in a mostly neutral scheme.'

Elephant's Breath-Inspired Shopping

A complex gray that shifts in the light, Farrow & Ball's Elephant's Breath is a timeless neutral hue that strikes a balance between warm and fresh, perfect for almost every style or size room.

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Taking its name from antique silverware, Sherwin-Williams Pewter Green fuses earthy forest green and aged gray into one timelessly moody hue.

Best described as a grounding gray-meets-green, Pewter Green might've been on the market for over twenty years, but it's been the go-to dark green paint in the design world since 2020.

Today, Pewter Green by Sherwin-Williams is still the go-to paint choice for every space in need of a little luxury and richness. 'While it draws inspiration from nature, it feels refined rather than overly rustic, making it a versatile choice across a variety of design styles,' explains Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams. 'Depending on the lighting, Pewter Green can read as a deep green, soft olive, or moody neutral, creating depth and warmth while maintaining a timeless appeal.'

'Pewter Green lends itself beautifully to a layered, collected aesthetic,' explains interior designer Kelsey McGregor, founder of Kelsey Leigh Design Co. 'It works especially well with the cottagecore approach to decorating, where color-drenching and character-rich details take center stage. I love pairing it with patterned curtains, floral textiles, vintage artwork, and pieces that feel timeworn and collected over time.'

It makes sense then that the moody green hue worked so well in the farmhouse kitchen pictured above. 'This project dates back to 2018, when black and white painted cabinetry was dominating kitchen design,' explains Kelsey. 'We wanted to push beyond those expected choices and try something that felt fresh while still being timeless. I had originally been inspired by a beautiful green-painted closet island I had seen and wondered what that color could look like on a much larger scale. Pewter Green felt like the perfect opportunity to bring that idea into a full kitchen, creating a space that felt rich, inviting, and a little unexpected at the time.'

'Pewter Green looks especially beautiful alongside natural wood tones and warm brass finishes,' adds Kelsey. 'Green and red/orange sit opposite one another on the color wheel, which creates a natural harmony between the paint color and the warmth of wood. I particularly love it paired with Minwax Weathered Oak stain on white oak. Kelsey suggests, 'Rusty reds and deep aubergine or plum tones can create a striking contrast while still feeling sophisticated, such as Sherwin-Williams Dark Auburn.'

'I wanted a color that felt moody, timeless, and sophisticated while still being practical for a hardworking family space,' explains Sarah Elizabeth Belleau, founder of Elizabeth Lane Interiors, on the green mudroom pictured above. 'Pewter Green has beautiful gray undertones that give it depth and softness, creating a cozy, elevated feel rather than reading overly bold. As a mudroom that sees plenty of daily traffic from my children, I also loved that it would gracefully hide the inevitable dirt, scuffs, and everyday wear while still feeling beautiful and intentional.'

Naming the colors that go with dark green, Elizabeth says, 'Pewter Green works best when layered with natural textures and warm accents. I love pairing it with unlacquered or aged brass fixtures, woven baskets, natural wood tones, linen textiles, and an earthy, textured rug. These organic elements soften the richness of the paint color and create a space that feels warm, inviting, and collected.'

'Pewter Green pairs beautifully with warm neutrals such as cream, ivory, taupe, and camel,' adds Elizabeth. 'It also complements natural materials like white oak, walnut, rattan, and stone. For metals, brass and bronze bring warmth and contrast, while black accents create a more dramatic, modern look. The versatility of Pewter Green is what makes it so timeless. It can feel traditional, modern, or organic depending on the materials layered alongside it.'

'We selected Pewter Green because our client expressed an interest in green cabinetry,' Katilyn of Ainslie Design Studio explains, referring to the moody kitchen pictured above. 'After evaluating the overall style of her condo and taking inventory of the existing décor, we noticed a moodier, more sophisticated aesthetic throughout the space. The dark hardwood flooring further reinforced this direction.'

'With these elements in mind, we felt Pewter Green would be an ideal choice. Its gray undertones create a muted, refined green that complements darker finishes without overwhelming the room. Rather than making the cabinetry a focal point, our goal was for it to feel like a seamless extension of the condo’s design.'

'Pewter Green SW 6208 works beautifully as both a statement color and a supporting neutral,' agrees Emily. 'It can add character to cabinetry, kitchen islands, built-ins, powder rooms, and accent walls, while also creating a cozy, enveloping feel when used throughout an entire room.'

'The color pairs especially well with natural materials such as warm wood tones, stone, linen, leather, and woven textures, helping to create spaces that feel layered, inviting, and connected to nature,' adds Emily. 'Homeowners can also incorporate brass or matte black finishes to further elevate the look.'

Pewter Green-Inspired Shopping

A moody, deep green with notes of rich gray, Sherwin-Williams Pewter Green is a timeless paint color that can be used in various settings across the home, injecting luxury and depth into any room.

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A beautifully designed kitchen isn't defined solely by its finishes or fixtures. Color choices play an equally important role, influencing everything from the mood of a space to how luxurious it appears.

As kitchen color trends continue to move away from one-size-fits-all neutrals, designers are embracing shades with greater depth and personality. The result is a new generation of kitchen color ideas that feel more bespoke, more characterful, and ultimately more expensive.

Whether it's a buttery yellow inspired by historic homes, a deep blue rooted in the landscape, or a rich red that adds instant gravitas, these are the colors designers are using to help kitchens look more expensive in 2026.

1. Rich Burgundy Red

Decorating with burgundy has long been used in traditional country kitchens, bringing warmth, depth, and a sense of permanence to hardworking spaces – such as in this Leicestershire kitchen in a converted mill in the UK.

Burgundy kitchen ideas are making a confident return – a perfect example shade is deVOL's Refectory Red, a heritage-inspired paint that instantly gives cabinetry a grander presence. Rich and enveloping without feeling overwhelming, it has the ability to make even simple furniture feel more refined and substantial. The color works particularly well alongside authentic materials such as black granite, slate, aged brass, and dark timber, creating the layered, luxurious look often associated with historic English interiors.

For a more subtle nod to the burgundy trend, we've just spotted Staub's Beautiful Burgundy 7-Qt Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven, on a limited-time deal at Williams-Sonoma. The classic Dutch Oven design is perfect for keeping on display on the hob or shelf, helping to bring color and character to the space.

2. Butter Yellow

Yellow may not be the first color that comes to mind when designing an expensive-looking kitchen, but the latest iterations prove otherwise. Designers are embracing soft, butter-yellow kitchens that bring warmth, personality, and an effortless sense of optimism to a space.

In a coastal kitchen in Edinburgh, Scotland, designer Ailsa MacConnell of Studio Mac used Farrow & Ball's Hay to bring warmth to the space without sacrificing its relaxed, understated feel. With its dusty character and subtle green undertones, the color responds beautifully to the cooler quality of northern light, creating a scheme that feels sunlit even on overcast days. ‘We wanted the kitchen to feel as though it was filled with sunshine, even on a gray Edinburgh day,’ Ailsa explains. ‘Hay has a beautiful buttery quality to it, and its subtle yellow undertones brought exactly the warmth and sense of joy we were looking for without feeling too sweet or overpowering.’

Unlike stronger yellows, which often demand attention, Hay has a quieter presence. It softens the room, complements natural materials, and gives the kitchen a warmth that white kitchen cabinet ideas often struggle to achieve.

Whether you're inspired to repaint your kitchen in a joyful yellow shade or start small with a stand-out yellow appliance like the iconic Butter KitchenAid Stand Mixer (now discounted at QVC), there is no denying the truly uplifting and unique feel of a butter yellow color scheme.

3. Nuanced Navy Blue

Navy has long been a kitchen staple, but in 2026, designers are gravitating toward more complex interpretations of the classic shade. Rather than crisp, traditional navies, today's most sophisticated blue kitchen ideas have a chalkier, weathered quality that feels more relaxed and connected to the landscape.

For this kitchen, designer Sarah Lederman chose Farrow & Ball's Stiffkey Blue, a shade inspired by the salt marshes of the Norfolk coast in the UK. ‘I tend to gravitate toward colors that feel as though they've existed for centuries rather than colors that feel tied to trends,’ says Sarah. Against warm wood floors and painted beams, the color feels rooted in its surroundings. Sometimes reading as navy and at other times appearing almost charcoal, it offers a softer, more contemporary alternative to traditional dark blue cabinetry.

The upholstered barstools beautifully complement the blue paint finish in this kitchen design, with the wood frame adding a perfect dose of warmth and contrast to the scheme (you can achieve a similar look with these upholstered stools from George Oliver at Wayfair)

4. Midnight Blue

In this countryside project, dark blue cabinetry was chosen to bring depth and comfort to a naturally darker room with low ceilings. Rather than fighting the lack of natural light, the design embraces it, creating a cocooning atmosphere that feels calm and welcoming throughout the day.

‘We went bold with darker colors to create a confident statement in a dark room,’ says Nicky Mudie, founder and director of Violet & George. ‘The dark blue worked well against warm oak and patinated copper worktops, aged brass and rich brown glazed tiles.’

Copper pots are definitely having a moment in current kitchen trends. Not only are they excellent for cooking, but they work wonderfully as a decorative element (as seen in the kitchen above), helping to achieve a luxurious contrast in color and material – and we've just spotted a saving on the Gotham Steel Hammered 15 Pc Ceramic Cookware Set Nonstick at Walmart.

Far from making a space feel smaller, deep blue can have the opposite effect when paired with the right materials. It blurs hard edges, softens the room’s architecture, and creates the kind of enveloping atmosphere that makes people want to linger.

5. Clotted Creams

While richer colors may be dominating kitchen trends, designers agree that a beautifully judged cream remains one of the most refined choices of all. The key to this neutral kitchen idea is to choose a shade with warmth and depth rather than the cooler, flatter neutrals that have defined kitchens in recent years.

Today's heritage creams feel inspired by natural materials and traditional interiors, allowing craftsmanship, texture, and architectural details to come to the fore – such as this Edwardian home in London clad in cream subway tiles. Helen notes these warmer neutrals are becoming increasingly popular. ‘At deVOL, we are installing cupboards in rich but pale creams; we think of it as a clotted cream,’ she says. ‘These gentler, more earthy natural colours sit perfectly with wooden or honed Carrara marble worktops to give a warm, light and airy feel to a room.’

The chic ruffle shade (you can buy a similar ruffle shade on Etsy) in this space also helps to bring elegant depth and movement to the neutral scheme, and highlights just how important your chosen finishes and accessories can be in helping to bring a neutral room to life.

As kitchen ideas continue to evolve, color is becoming one of the most effective ways to create a space that feels elevated and enduring. The shades designers are gravitating toward for 2026 interior design trends aren't necessarily louder or bolder; they're simply more nuanced, drawing inspiration from heritage interiors, natural landscapes, and time-honored materials.

Whether you opt for something cocooning or more classic, the key is choosing a color that feels connected to the architecture and atmosphere of your home. When used thoughtfully, the right shade can make a kitchen feel instantly more expensive.

Color has the power to completely shape how a space feels – and crucially, how expensive your home looks. The difference often comes down to nuance: undertones, saturation, and how a shade interacts with natural light.

While no color is inherently ‘wrong,’ designers agree that certain tones can unintentionally make a space feel flat, harsh, or overly mass-produced. Highly saturated hues, stark contrasts, and overly clean pigments tend to lack the depth that gives interiors a layered, lived-in quality.

Instead, designers consistently favor complex, slightly muted shades to make a house look expensive – colors with earthy undertones or softness that evolve throughout the day. Below, color experts share the tones they tend to avoid and the elevated alternatives they turn to instead.

1. Non-Earthy Greens

Green is often seen as a safe, nature-inspired choice – but not all greens bring the same sense of ease. Interior designer Harriet Sale notes that many people gravitate towards cleaner, brighter greens, but without any earthiness, these shades can feel slightly artificial. ‘One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing very clean or bright paint colors,’ she says, which can leave a room feeling ‘flat, harsh or slightly mass market’.

Harriet instead favors what she describes as ‘dirtier’ or muddier greens – tones with subtle olive, moss, or brown undertones that shift gently with the light. Hattie used Light Olive Green by Edward Bulmer in a recent barn conversion project to soften the feeling of a newly built space and create interiors that felt ‘grounded, settled and as though they had evolved naturally over time’. With its soft, chalky quality, the shade moves between olive, moss, and something almost stony depending on the light, creating a relaxed, timeless backdrop. As Harriet notes, ‘the best colors are the ones that feel as though they’ve always existed in the room’.

2. Fluorescent and Overly Saturated Hues

Bright, fluorescent tones can feel energetic, but they often overwhelm a space rather than enhance it. Interior designer Chizitera Pennington explains that ‘fluorescent colors demand a lot of attention and don’t easily give space for personal treasures and craftsmanship to shine,’ which can make a room feel less considered and ultimately less elevated.

Softened versions of bold colors – think ochres, clay tones, or sun-washed yellows – create a much more refined foundation. Chizitera points to shades like India Yellow and Marmelo by Farrow & Ball as perfect examples – earthier interpretations of brighter hues that feel confident rather than overwhelming. ‘Any color in a muted, earthy tone provides a solid foundation for a room,’ she says, allowing art, furniture, and personal details to shine.

3. Flat, Primary Blues

Blue can be one of the hardest colors to get right in a space – it can either feel calming and elevated or cold and slightly clinical, according to interior designer Ailsa MacConnell of Studio Mac. ‘Colors like this often have a flat, primary undertone, meaning they don’t interact particularly well with light.’ Without that complexity, the shade can feel one-dimensional with none of the tonal variation that creates visual interest.

Instead, Ailsa suggests turning to earthier, more nuanced blues, such as Cerullian Blue by Edward Bulmer. Unlike flatter tones, this shade has a soft, chalky undertone and is rich in natural pigment, allowing it to absorb and respond to light beautifully. The result is a color that shifts subtly throughout the day, adding depth and movement to a room.

4. Ultra-Bright, Cool Whites

Some of the most popular modern white paints are also the most deceptively difficult to use well. New York-based designer Lauren Carlucci points to Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore – ‘a crisp, pure white with slightly cool blue undertones’ – as a key example. While undeniably beautiful, she notes that ‘beautiful does not always mean right.’ The challenge lies in its clarity. ‘Chantilly Lace tends to expose what a room is missing rather than enhance what it already has,’ Lauren explains. In spaces with warm woods, brass, or natural stone, it can feel cool and slightly detached, even competing with the materials it’s meant to support.

Lauren recommends Dimity by Farrow & Ball, ‘a warm white with the palest blush undertone that shifts beautifully throughout the day’. Its subtle warmth creates a more cohesive, composed feel, allowing surrounding materials to sit in harmony.

5. Stark, Brilliant Whites

While similar in theory, stark whites pose a different issue – particularly in homes with softer natural light. ‘A very stark, brilliant white can often make a room feel flat and slightly cold,’ says designer Hattie Hansard of Joanna Wood Interiors. She adds that it can make interiors feel ‘developer-led or temporary,’ while running the risk of stripping away warmth and making architectural details appear harsher.

Hattie’s alternatives include Slipper Satin and Joa’s White by Farrow & Ball, both of which offer a gentler, more enveloping quality. These tones respond beautifully to shifting light, creating a calmer, more timeless feel that works effortlessly with natural materials and traditional details.

6. Cool-Toned Grays

Once a go-to neutral, cool-toned gray has quickly fallen out of favor among designers. Los Angeles-based designer Kim Lapin says she ‘especially avoids icy grays,’ explaining that they can make a space feel ‘flat, cold, and lifeless’. Often associated with more generic, overly sterile interiors, these shades can feel uninviting even when styled well.

In their place, Kim favors more grounded neutrals – shades that feel connected to natural materials rather than synthetic or overly polished finishes. Colors like Shoji White by Sherwin-Williams, Revere Pewter and Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore have a slightly weightier, more tactile quality – rather than sitting flat on the walls, these tones work in tandem with wood, stone, and textile.

7. In-Between Pinks

Not all soft colors feel calming – some can read as uncertain or indecisive. Designer and author Libby Cameron points to shades like Hummingbird by Benjamin Moore, a muted pink paint that sits somewhere between blush and mauve. The issue, she suggests, is not softness itself but a lack of clarity: tones like this can feel ‘neither one thing nor the other,’ which can leave a space looking unresolved.

If you’re drawn to pink, Libby recommends opting for something more defined, such as Ballet Slippers by Benjamin Moore – a true, pale pink that feels calm and flattering without ambiguity.

Ultimately, creating a home that feels considered comes down to nuance. The most successful schemes rely on subtle shifts in tone – colors with the right undertones, a sense of balance, and an awareness of how light moves through a space. Rather than relying on stark contrasts or overly perfect finishes, designers tend to favor palettes that feel cohesive and gently varied. It’s this interplay, between materials, color, and light, that gives a room its sense of ease and longevity. Even the smallest adjustment, whether warming up a white or choosing a more grounded green, can transform how a space is perceived.

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The best color schemes don't just reflect a palette of stylish paint shades; they are in keeping with how the room is used and when it is used, and they acknowledge how the natural light changes from morning to evening.

When color schemes are designed to reflect how a room is used – think light and airy kitchens that enhance the daylight to dark and moody snug rooms used for relaxing in the evenings – there is a notable shift between light and dark; day and night, otherwise known as dual color palettes.

'When picking colors for a whole home, I always look at a mix of light and dark,' says the designer Jessica Hobson. 'You need those dark, dramatic spaces in a home that create special moments and give a big impact, as well as the light and airy spaces that seem more effortless and seamless.'

Here, designers explain how to create daytime and evening room color ideas for a home that feels dynamic across the day.

The 10:00 AM Palette

10 am color palettes are for rooms used primarily in the morning: think kitchens, breakfast nooks, and open living spaces. Because these rooms typically receive lots of daylight, they lend themselves to a palette of neutrals and low-saturation colors, where lightness is enhanced.

'My approach to these spaces comes down to how I want the room to feel – it should be welcoming, soft, and easy on the eyes,' says designer Gabrielle Bove of Opaline Interiors. 'I'm drawn towards shades that are found in nature in less saturated hues and stick with warm whites that pair well with other natural materials like wood and linens.'

While light neutrals work well in these rooms, it's important to choose the right undertones to ensure the room feels soft and welcoming. 'The best 10 am palettes feel bright and fresh without feeling cold,' adds Lauren Saab of Saab Studios.

'Morning light is very revealing, so softer whites, warm neutrals, and natural materials tend to work especially well,' says Lauren. 'These palettes work especially well in lighter, airy rooms because they help the space feel calm, open, and naturally energized throughout the day.'

These types of color palettes are a favorite for designer Marie Flanigan, who often turns to decorating with neutrals. 'I gravitate toward palettes that feel luminous, soft, and quietly layered during the day,' she says. 'In light and airy rooms, I prefer to let the walls and natural light create the brightness while warmth and saturation come through materials like wood, linen, leather, and stone.'

'This approach gives a space depth without heaviness and allows the light to move beautifully throughout the day,' she adds. 'The result feels calming, timeless, and deeply connected to the architecture.'

When choosing paint colors for rooms mainly used during the day, it's important to base them on the room's orientation, since this will affect how warm or cool they look. 'Different undertones in a paint color will be revealed depending on the intensity and direction of natural light,' explains designer Sarah Fischer of Sarah & Sons Interiors.

'Elements in a room that I consider 'bossy' can also influence those undertones,' she adds. 'For instance, wood cabinetry could influence a seemingly neutral color to read as more pink or yellow. My goal is to find a paint color that complements existing elements and has a slight muddiness so that it doesn't feel too flat and can handle shifting light throughout the day.'

While warm white paints set a clarifying backdrop, something slightly more colorful can add energy to a room. 'The spaces in which you normally spend time in the mornings set the tone for how you start your day,' explains the designer Ashton Taylor. 'We tend to design these spaces to feel simultaneously soothing and energizing.'

This light green kitchen is light and airy, with extra warmth and optimism. 'It feels like a breath of fresh air first thing in the morning,' explains Ashton. 'It's the perfect backdrop to make a quiet cup of coffee or to cook breakfast with the whole family.'

Beyond paint colors, you should also consider how decor enhances the mood. 'During the high daylight hours, the more light, the better,' explains the designer Jessica Hobson. 'Open those window coverings, turn on the overhead lights, and lamps. This will give you a bright and energetic vibe.'

The 10:00 PM Palette

By contrast, 10 pm palettes are for rooms used in the evenings, taking on a much cozier, cocooning feel that nurtures rather than awakens. 'During the day, they can read heavily, but once the lamps are on and the light drops, those deeper tones start to feel softer and much more atmospheric,' says Lauren.

'Darker palettes work especially well in spaces like libraries and powder rooms because they are spaces typically experienced for shorter periods of time,' she says. 'Those deeper tones can create a strong sense of mood there without becoming visually overwhelming.'

'There is nothing I love more than setting the mood, whether it is a romantic dining room ideal for candlelight or an earthy, neutral living room begging for evening conversations by the fire,' says Ashton.

From dark green to charcoal, rich ochre to muddy neutrals, leaning into dark paint colors is often the best way to set a cozy mood in evening rooms. 'Mixed with luxurious textures and the right lighting, a dark palette feels truly inviting after the sun goes down,' Ashton adds.

Color psychology also comes into play with dark color palettes. 'Richer tones absorb light in a way that makes a room feel grounded, layered, and atmospheric after sunset,' explains Marie. 'I often think about how a home should transition emotionally from 10 am to 10 pm, and deeper finishes help create that shift in mood. Soft lighting against darker materials creates warmth that feels both elegant and comforting.'

When choosing lighting for evening palettes, lean into soft, ambient options. 'Opt for lower wattage with lamps and candles,' advises Jessica. 'A must-have for me in any room is dimmers. Placing fixtures and recessed lighting on dimmers is an easy way to allow you to have full control of the light and overall vibe of the room; I promise they are well worth the upgrade.'

Layering in interior design stops dark rooms from feeling flat. 'I like to layer in darker jewel tones, dark stained wood tones, or different layering techniques like plastered walls or wallpaper,' shares Gabrielle. 'Like in a favorite restaurant or bar, every element in the room aids in the overall experience – a dark velvet sofa, dimmed lighting, sparkle through a gilt mirror, a crystal sconce, a special fabric. All of these layers create an intriguing yet comfortable atmosphere.'

The Transition Zone: Where Day Becomes Night

While it makes sense for morning rooms to embrace lighter palettes and evening rooms darker ones, this can, in practice, create an abrupt contrast between light and dark. To keep things cohesive and ensure a flow throughout your whole home, consider in-between colors in transitional spaces, such as plaster pink paints, earthy neutrals, or mid-tone green paints.

Beyond paint ideas, you can also use clever lighting ideas to shift the mood of a room throughout the day, something that can be needed in open-plan spaces that naturally transition from day to night.

'Perhaps the easiest way to create a change in mood and energy in a room is simply with layered lighting,' Jessica explains. 'I love using multiple light sources in every room: natural light, recessed lighting, hardwired ceiling fixtures and sconces, lamp light, and finally, candlelight. These layers of light allow you to create a mood or feeling in a room without changing anything else.'

How Designers Build Dual-Palette Homes

The best way to design color palettes that work across day and night is to think of your home as a whole. 'I set a vision and concept for the entire home, and then decide on a palette for each room that is dependent on the house, the function of the room, and the overall design direction,' Gabrielle explains.

By doing so, it can help each room within your home to feel connected rather than random. 'A whole home palette should ensure the colors relate and flow from room to room, with the colors complementing each other and the overall design story,' adds Gabrielle.

Aside from rooms that follow an obvious light or dark palette, start with chromatic neutrals in transitional spaces such as entryways that work seamlessly across the day. 'I begin by creating a quiet foundational palette that allows for continuity and flow,' says Marie. 'From there, I layer in moments of depth and contrast in spaces that are meant to feel more intimate or moody.'

Another approach is to start with the hub of the home and build the rest of your schemes around this. 'When designing the color story of a house, we typically start with the room that is the 'heart',' says Nadia Palacios of Nadia Palacios Architecture. 'Whether it’s the kitchen, family room, a bar, or a lounge, whatever the most important room of the house might be, that sets the tone for the whole project. We want colors that complement each other, and we aim to create a balance between richness and neutrality.'

Across all color palettes, remember that lighting is key, helping to set the right mood for the space. 'Lighting and materiality are essential because color is never experienced in isolation,' says Marie. 'Natural light, layered textures, and warm finishes ultimately shape the atmosphere far more than paint alone.'

If you have rooms that are used in equal amounts throughout the day and in the evenings, it's important to find a color that shifts effectively with the changing light – soft in the morning light and cozier in the evenings.

'When selecting a paint color, we consider how the room feels and looks in bright morning sun versus the ambient light needed in the evening,' says Maggie Griesbark of MNG Design. 'We want the space to feel bright and joyful in the morning, but serene and calming in the evening.'

'I find that a soft blue wall paint color mixed with creamy whites and sage greens on upholstery and textiles is a color palette we frequently use in bedrooms,' adds Maggie. 'Additionally, a variety of lighting sources is needed to support the overall mood throughout the day, and window treatments are essential for filtering light properly. All of these elements weave together to create a room that feels welcoming at any time of day.'

Choosing color palettes for your home that are in harmony with the shifting daylight creates balance and helps to define different rooms. Not only do these palettes encourage the intended mood of a room – think a light and airy kitchen or a dark and moody living room – but they also add contrast and interest to a home as it shifts between palettes of varying intensities.

Neutrals might've once been the safest bet, but as color and character continue to dominate trends, the forgettable shades that once ruled the design world are really falling out of fashion in 2026.

As 2026 color trends embrace all things saturated, rich, and deeply comforting, lackluster paint ideas that were once so popular (but now fall flat in today's homes) are being booted out. While many of these shades will come as no surprise (case in point: cool gray), designers and color experts say it's not just the usual neutrals that are starting to feel a little dated this year.

So, what paint colors are in and which are out? We reveal the hues going out of style in 2026 and the shades replacing them.

1. Cool Gray

'Cool gray is starting to feel dated,' states interior designer Lauren Saab. 'For years, it was the go-to choice for everything from walls to kitchen cabinets, but many of those icy gray tones now feel flat and impersonal. A lot of homeowners chose gray because it felt like the safe option. The downside is that safe often ends up looking sterile.'

While decorating with gray had its moment in the mid-2000s, today it lacks the warmth that adds character and life to our homes. Richer, deeper neutrals are replacing gray in 2026, instead, explains Lauren. 'Warmer neutrals are taking its place. Soft mushroom tones and muted taupe feel far more connected to the materials showing up in homes today, from warm woods to natural stone and unlacquered metals.'

'Cool gray often competes with those elements, while warmer neutrals allow them to shine,' adds Lauren. 'That's one reason they tend to feel relevant long after a trend cycle has passed.'

2. Sage Green

'I actually think one of the colors beginning to feel less relevant in 2026 is the very muted, grayed-off sage greens that dominated interiors over the last few years,' says Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design at Lick.

'For a while, those soft sage tones answered exactly what people needed,' continues Tash. 'Post-pandemic, there was this collective craving for calm, safety, and stillness within the home, and those cooler blue-gray greens delivered that beautifully. They felt soft, easy to live with and incredibly non-threatening.'

'But color trends are always emotional reflections of where we are culturally, and what I saw coming through strongly at Milan Design Week this year was a real shift away from restrained, desaturated color palettes and towards colors with far more vitality, warmth and personality.'

Deeper colors are replacing sage green. 'The greens dominating Milan weren’t those washed-out, barely-there sages. Instead, we saw rich olive greens, acidic chartreuse accents, muddy botanical greens, and yellow-based greens with much more energy running through them,' says Tash. 'And I think that speaks to a much wider movement happening within interiors right now. People are craving homes that feel more emotionally expressive and soulful again. We’re moving away from playing it safe with color and towards colors that feel deeply personal, comforting and full of character.'

3. Sterile White

While the best white paints will always be popular, all-white schemes feel far less relevant in 2026.

From white kitchens that feel a little clinical to overly pared-back, minimalist bedrooms that lack warmth, entirely white rooms no longer speak to us like they once did. 'I think there is a collective fatigue with white walls,' says interior designer Betsy Wentz. 'In real spaces, white often feels cold, sterile, and lacking soul for everyday living.'

While white is fine in small doses (think ceiling trim or window frames), this year, richer hues are replacing walls drenched in white. 'I’m noticing a shift toward spaces with more personality, which means embracing color that has some warmth, depth, and complexity,' adds Betsy. 'That can be anything from subtle color-washed neutrals, like a soft lavender, to saturated, moody hues like a smoky jade.'

4. Sad Beige

The sad beige era is over. While warm neutrals are sometimes required, designers are no longer relying on flat, forgettable beiges to ground their schemes.

Beige rooms are a thing of the past says interior designer Jennifer Baxter of Baxter Hill Interiors. 'More than a specific paint color, I'd say the commitment-free neutral palette is what feels increasingly dated: the cool grays, safe whites, and beiges that don't really take a position. Many homeowners have stopped finding neutrality reassuring, and it's now reading more as a lack of thought or intention. The major design shows this year like High Point and WOW!house all pointed in the same direction.'

So what's replacing beige in 2026? 'If I had to choose one direction replacing the neutral-by-default era, it would be earthy mineral colors,' says Jen. 'Soft terracottas, clay pinks, muted olive greens, and chalky blue-greens that feel connected to nature and change beautifully with the light.'

Lackluster neutrals and gray-toned sage greens are out this year. 'In my own work, clients are gravitating toward more personality through color,' explains Jen. 'They want something that feels like it belongs to their house specifically, and I love that. The common thread is that people are becoming more interested in homes that feel specific to them and to their architecture. The conversation has moved away from choosing colors that won't offend anyone and toward creating rooms with a genuine sense of identity.'

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Reminiscent of sunbaked terracotta, Farrow & Ball's Naperon is a gentle, peachy paint loved for its warmth and radiance.

'Inspired by the origins of the word apron, this is a familiar clay color with a well-loved feel,' explains Farrow & Ball. Naperon quietly saturates a space, bringing grounded calm and tranquillity that lasts beyond sunrise. It's the perfect summer color trend, but the earthy, almost heritage quality makes it a timeless choice too.

'Naperon is such a warm and uplifting color that feels both nostalgic and contemporary at the same time,' says designer Emily Dreelan of Emily Day Interiors. 'It has earthy terracotta qualities, but the soft pink and orange undertones stop it from feeling too heavy. In bright natural light, it almost glows, and even in the evenings, it still feels cozy and bright, which is why it works so well in living spaces.'

Part of the charm of the terracotta color trend lies in the warmth it brings to every space. Shades like Naperon serve as a quiet yet rich backdrop that beautifully envelops without overwhelming a room.

'I chose Naperon for its quiet warmth and earthy depth,' explains interior designer Noëlle Baartmans. 'The natural clay tone creates a cocooning atmosphere: soft in the morning light, intimate by evening when the lamps are on. It carries a grounded elegance that feels both organic and refined.'

While living spaces pair beautifully with the grounding hue, Naperon brings refreshing warmth to bathrooms, too, proving some all-important comfort. The sun-soaked bathroom pictured above proves its ability to make clinical rooms feel inviting and familiar. 'What I love most of Naperon it brings a sense of calm, warmth. In bedrooms especially, Naperon has a beautiful way of making the room feel layered, serene.'

Terracotta paints often work well in midcentury style interiors, too. 'When we were designing this home, we really wanted to stay true to its original 1970s character through the colors and pattern used throughout the scheme,' explains Emily. 'Naperon felt like the perfect choice because it's warm, vibrant, and full of personality, which suited the style of the house beautifully.'

'We decided to have the living room furniture sprayed in the shade rather than use it on the walls,' explains Emily, 'as it created a bold focal point whilst still feeling balanced within what was quite a tricky room layout.'

While terracotta paints like Naperon are colors replacing blush pink, they can feel a little bolder than subtler pale pink tones. To keep your scheme grounded, pair them with organic materials, advises Emily. 'I always advise clients to be brave when it comes to color. Shades like Naperon can completely transform a space and bring so much warmth and character into a home. It works beautifully paired with natural materials and layered with textures and patterns, and I personally love using colors like this on furniture and joinery rather than a full feature wall as it allows the color to make a statement without overwhelming the room.'

'Despite it having a slight plaster pink undertone to it, it’s incredibly earthy and grounding,' explains designer Nicole Thompson of Sleek Chic Interiors. 'It’s got that classic Farrow & Ball metamorphic quality to it, looking like a dusty peach in certain lights and a muted terracotta clay in other lights. Naperon reads slightly redder, more terracotta in tone when positioned next to a darker red such as Red Earth.'

'I wanted to introduce a warm, naturally earthy color that would focus the eye as you walked into the space,' explains Nicole. 'As I was working with this coffered ceiling (pictured in the living room above), the idea was to double-drench it with Red Earth in the centre and then Naperon on the outer part of the ceiling for a really interesting and colorful look that still felt subtle. Naperon is the next shade down from Red Earth, so it works perfectly in a double-drenched look.'

'It’s such a hugely warm and welcoming color that it’s perfect for pretty much any room orientation. To avoid a shade like this looking out of place, I recommend working in the color in some capacity somewhere else in your room so it feels intentional, whether that’s with some textiles or a piece of furniture.'

Naperon-Inspired Homeware

Want to bring this warm, summery yet cozy shade into your home without paint? Shop these Napoleon-inspired buys.

Naperon is quiet yet enhancing. 'As it’s a naturally earthy color, it pairs so well with other earthy shades and natural materials,' says Nicole, 'which makes Naperon such a versatile, easy color to work with. Think reds, browns, creams and greens, any colors that you find in nature, and you’ll be able to bring together for a really calm and collected color scheme that works in your space.'

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Gray might be experiencing a slight hiatus in interior design in recent years, but this certainly doesn't apply to Benjamin Moore's iconic Boothbay Gray HC-165. Woven with powdery blue notes, the silvery gray paint color has proved popular ever since its debut in 1976.

Relied on by interior designers for its sophisticated feel that quietly enhances any setting it's applied to, there's a reason Boothbay Gray is one of the best gray paints on the market. Able to master the balance between light and dark, the sophisticated gray-meets-blue is layered with an array of tones that make it far more than your average one-dimensional gray.

'The most appealing grays go beyond simple blends of black and white,' explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'They’re layered with nuanced pigments that create richness and visual interest. Boothbay Gray is a timeless blue-gray known for its quiet versatility and refined character.'

How To Decorate With Boothbay Gray

Boothbay Gray is the ideal gray to be using in 2026 because it's a slightly more neutral take on a powdery blue – a huge color trend right now, but because it leans slightly more gray than blue, it has a more timeless appeal. 'This timeless blue-gray is effortlessly adaptable,' explains Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'Neither too blue nor too gray, Boothbay Gray HC-165 finds an easygoing balance between refined and welcoming. It is a great option for a cool gray that doesn’t feel austere or dull, and works beautifully as a color palette staple in interiors or exteriors.'

1. Apply It To Bedroom Walls

There are times when you should never paint a room gray, but in the case of a light-filled bedroom, these rules don't apply. 'Boothbay Gray is a sophisticated blue-gray,' says interior designer Chelsea Kasch, founder of Chelsea K Designs. 'I consider it an elegant and timeless color vs the usual grays that have been trendy.'

While the off-gray paint blends into hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms, its quiet depth complements bedrooms beautifully. 'Bedrooms are my favorite areas to use Boothbay Gray. I love using it on a door in an entryway, too.' In the sleep space pictured above, Chelsea chose it as the main wall color. 'I have paired it with Gray Mist by Benjamin Moore as well as Steam by Benjamin Moore for a more neutral blend. Also, accenting it with dark slate or charcoal can also be unforgettable.'

2. Color Drench a Den

If you're planning on using gray in 2026, Boothbay Gray is a timeless alternative to the cool-toned neutrals that can read a little drab. 'It's a statement blue without being too saturated,' explains interior designer Kelly Sutherland. 'Blues can be challenging if you don't select one that is a bit grayed down. Too pale goes nursery, and if it's too saturated, it loses its sophistication. I used this color in my den (pictured above) at 75% in a high gloss, and it was the perfect, happy color!'

'I've used this color in a primary bedroom and a casual den. I think it is a versatile color. It would also look fabulous in a laundry room. I do prefer this color in a room with at least a few windows for the natural light to highlight its beauty.'

'The easiest part of using this color is that it is complementary to so many other colors,' adds Kelly. 'I used it in my den with Rose Tarlow's Carmen fabric, and the gold popped against the blue backdrop. It also pairs well with greens, yellows, pinks, or any warmer toned colorway.'

3. Make It Your Exterior Color

Muted and gentle, Boothbay Gray is an enduringly classic exterior paint that brings a heritage feel to facades, from colonial-style homes to shingle-style properties.

'I love to use this color on exteriors with crisp white trim in Decorator’s White OC-149, explains Arianna. 'The soft notes of blue bring just the right amount of color while still creating a classic look.'

An exterior paint color to make a house look more expensive, Boothbay Gray uplifts without feeling juvenile or overly bright. It's not just a clever exterior paint choice; it transitions seamlessly inside the home, too. 'For interiors, this color really shines in well-lit rooms bathed in natural sunlight,' explains Arianna. 'I love it on kitchen cabinets with softly shaded walls in Classic Gray OC-23 or Silver Satin OC-26 for just the right amount of contrast.'

4. Use It On Kitchen Cabinetry

'To me, Benjamin Moore’s Boothbay Gray is a soft, coastal gray-blue that feels timeless and calming without reading overly trendy,' says interior designer Jessica Koltun. 'It has enough warmth to feel inviting while still bringing in that subtle, moody sophistication that works beautifully in luxury homes.'

In the kitchen pictured above, the pale gray-blue brings just the right amount of charm without compromising the bright and airy feel of the space. 'I think the color looks best in spaces with good natural light, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, living spaces, and even cabinetry. It creates a very serene atmosphere and can shift beautifully throughout the day depending on the lighting.'

'Boothbay Gray pairs especially well with warm whites, creamy off-whites, natural wood tones, unlacquered brass, limestone, and soft earthy neutrals,' explains Jessica. 'We also love layering it with textured materials to keep the space feeling warm and elevated rather than too cool.'

Boothbay Gray-Inspired Shopping

A refreshing variation on lackluster grays that ruled the 2000s, Boothbay Gray feels neutral yet noticeable. It's uplifting and cheery, yet still restrained and understated, making it perfect for almost every space. When decorating with the powdery hue, always consider the colors to never pair with gray for a well-balanced scheme.

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Benjamin Moore has revealed its best-selling paint colors specifically for the bedroom, so if you’re after a soothing, relaxing shade that will aid a good night's rest, the hunt is over.

These four shades are delicate and muted without feeling forgettable, offering a calming uplift without overwhelming a space; striking that perfect balance that so many of us look for when exploring characterful bedroom color ideas.

We spoke with Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore, and Arianne Barone, Color Marketing Manager, to find out how best to decorate with these timeless bedroom colors and why they continue to prove so popular.

'We typically see people reaching for more calming hues when choosing paint colors for their bedrooms. This can help create a more tranquil space to relax and unwind', says Helen. 'These four colors all exude that gentle, easygoing feeling. They also have some color and depth to them, bringing a presence but also softness to the space. Off-whites are always a timeless option. But for bedrooms, where people often want to create a warm and cozy space, midtones or hues with a touch of color can really help emphasize that feeling.'

From a gray-tinted blue to muted sage, these popular shades are well on their way to becoming some of the best Benjamin Moore colors to use in bedrooms.

1. Pashmina AF-100

'Perfectly balanced between warm and cool, light and dark, Pashmina AF-100 is a sophisticated neutral for a bedroom,' explains Helen. 'This stony gray works well with almost every other hue, and it's this versatility that gives good reason for its popularity.'

'A popular Benjamin Moore hue, this perfectly balanced neutral is well-loved for its adaptability and depth,' adds Arianna. 'Pair this timeless midtone with a soft off-white, like Steam AF-15, on the trim and ceiling. Bring in texture with chunky knits in charcoals and chocolates – like Kendall Charcoal HC-166 and Black Bean Soup 2130-10 – for added warmth.'

Pale pinks and plaster tones are a welcome accompaniment to Pashima, helping to enhance the warmth of the neutral brown tone. 'A subtle blush undertone allows it to pair beautifully with deep orange for an energised, inviting space, or with muted mid-tones for a more calming, understated effect,' says Helen.

2. Wind Chime AF-465

'A touch of gray gives Wind Chime AF-465 a heightened sense of tranquillity and harmony,' says Helen. 'The softest touch of green invigorates this gray hue, creating a quietly confident presence in the bedroom. As a versatile foundation, this delicate celadon shade moves effortlessly from room to room, enveloping spaces in warmth and comfort.'

A sage green paint that edges more on the neutral side, Wind Chime is perfect for neutral lovers looking to create a calming space while still keeping things interesting. While white will always be a popular bedroom color trend, this nature-inspired hue feels equally as timeless and far more cocooning.

'When using this color in a bedroom, layer in other green paint colors like Jojoba AF-460 and Spring Bud 520 for a subtle but intentional contrast,' advises Arianna. 'Create a relaxing oasis by bringing in floral-inspired bedding, crisp white linens, and leafy plants.'

3. Porcelain 2113-60

'Porcelain 2113-60 is a dusty lilac that introduces gentle warmth and a whisper of color to a bedroom,' explains Helen. 'When paired with a refined off-white with green-gray undertones, it creates a harmonious balance that feels both elegant and inviting. This combination is particularly suited to a whimsical, dreamlike interpretation of a vintage mauve scheme.'

While lavender paints tend to feel juvenile, Porcelain is infused with pale gray undertones, making it feel livable yet still uplifting. 'Use a crisp white paint color, like Chantilly Lace OC-65, on the trim and ceiling for maximum contrast,' advises Arianna. 'Light cottons in blushed off-whites, like Whitewater Bay OC-70, can add a playful warmth to the space.'

4. Van Courtland Blue HC-145

Richer than a pastel, but still muted and pared-back, Van Courtland Blue HC-145 is perfect for bedrooms in need of a little depth. With a regal feel, it complements characterful homes as well as newer ones, enveloping and enriching bedroom walls.

'An elegant, old-world blue, Van Courtland Blue bridges traditional and contemporary interiors with ease,' explains Helen. 'Its cool character, softened by gray undertones, brings a calming, airy quality to a bedroom. In south-facing spaces, it takes on a subtle luminosity, adding brightness and depth without ever overpowering the surroundings.'

While a blue pastel room might lack depth, Van Courtland Blue has the right amount of gray for it to feel richer and deeper. When decorating with the sophisticated hue, Arianna recommends, 'Opt for a softer off-white on the trim and ceiling, like Dove Wing OC-18, for a gentler contrast. Pair it with warm wood tones, ticking stripe bedding and woven accents for a classic yet relaxing look.'

From soothing sage to warm taupe, these four muted shades are perfect for all bedrooms. Richer than stark white yet still calming and neutral, they're a calming canvas that will pair beautifully with all interior design styles. Next, explore the best-selling Benjamin Moore white paint that designers cannot get enough of.

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A timeless white paint that feels warm yet never yellow, Benjamin Moore's Cloud White OC-130 is a bestseller for a reason.

Loved by interior designers across the country, Cloud White is often named one of the best Benjamin Moore white paints for its enduring feel and ability to both brighten and warm a room at once. While shades like Swiss Coffee and Simply White will always be firm favorites, Cloud White is making its mark in interiors everywhere this year.

'Soft and beautifully balanced, this versatile white brings an effortless sense of lightness to any space,' says Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'It delivers a clean yet gentle appearance, with a warm undertone that avoids any hint of yellow. Subtle and sophisticated, this soft white evokes the airy quality of vapor clouds drifting across a clear sky.'

When choosing the best white paint, Arianne Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore, says Cloud White is perfect for spaces that require both brightness and warmth. 'Cloud White OC-130 is a versatile off-white paint color with a subtle hint of warmth. It has more yellow than the perennial favorite White Dove; so if you’ve sampled White Dove but are looking for something a bit creamier and warmer, Cloud White is a great option to consider. I love to use it in rooms with cooler lighting or spaces that are more dimly lit because its yellow undertone can help to lift and soften the space.'

'I love to use this hue for both interior and exterior paint projects,' adds Arianne. 'Cloud White is a great option for an exterior because it is a brighter, crisper white paint color without being too stark. Colors will cast brighter in the natural light, so choosing a white paint color with a bit of warmth is a great way to balance the light.'

Interior designer Marie Flanigan names Cloud White as one of her favorite white paints and uses it in many projects. 'Cloud White is a soft, luminous white that feels effortless and lived in. It carries a gentle warmth that reads beautifully as a global finish, which is a color I thread throughout the home in different applications.'

'When used in a bedroom, it creates a calm, cocooning backdrop that lets the architectural details and furnishings take center stage,' explains Marie. 'It pairs especially well with a mix of materials. In the bedroom (pictured above), an architectural wood headboard, soft muted drapery, and layered linens all sit comfortably within its tonal range. It is a white that supports both contrast and harmony, which makes it incredibly versatile.'

'Let Cloud White carry across walls and millwork for a seamless, quiet envelope,' she adds. 'It thrives in natural light, where it can shift subtly throughout the day. I also love how it allows texture to do the work, whether that is panelling in the bath or the interplay of textiles in the bedroom. It is a foundation color that feels intentional without ever calling too much attention to itself.'

Cloud White excels in already bright spaces. 'It performs best in bright, well-lit spaces and pairs seamlessly with warm, earthy palettes,' explains Helen. 'Use it as a crisp contrast for deeper wall colors or combine it with shades that share its warmth, such as medium tans with golden undertones or soft, neutral beiges. For a more classic look, it also complements elegant, old-world blues, making it equally at home in both traditional and contemporary interiors.'

While white can sometimes feel sterile or stark, the beauty of Cloud White is its gentle warmth that makes light-filled rooms feel welcoming rather than harsh. In this bright and airy bathroom, Marie wanted to lean into its open proportions, opting for a classic white paint with the right amount of yellow. 'When it was placed in a client’s bathroom, it reflected the natural light in a way that felt fresh and not overly clinical.' She adds, 'The warmth of a wood vanity and antique brass fixtures in a bath feel elevated against it.'

A timeless white that does all the work for you, Arianne says, 'If you are looking for a soft and subtle backdrop, with just the right amount of warmth, Cloud White is a great option to consider. Use it on the walls, trim and ceiling for uninterrupted color flow.'

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Shopping for paint is a key part of most decorating projects, but it's often one that involves endless deliberation when finding the right color, finish, and quantity, especially if you're buying from a brand you haven't used before.

And while there are plenty of ways to actually shop for paint – online, at your local paint stores, or at brand showrooms – feeling unsure about where to start isn't uncommon. With that in mind, we're taking away the guesswork with our guide that covers pretty much everything you'll need to know about the paint-buying process.

From a deep dive into each of the best paint brands available in the US (as recommended by interior designers), to useful paint ideas for the sampling process and mistakes to avoid, this will help you shop smartly.

How to Choose the Right Paint Brand

Choosing a paint brand is the first step in the paint-buying process, and there are lots of factors to consider when comparing brands. The first consideration, and perhaps most obvious, is the color selection – some brands lean classic, while others feel much more contemporary, so you should start with a brand that feels aligned with your interior style.

The quality of the paint is equally important, and, as you'll find out below, certain brands are praised for their pigment-rich paints and durable paint finishes. Some brands have a limited range of finishes to choose from, while others have an extensive. If you have a particular finish in mind, high-gloss, for example, it can be useful to choose a brand that is widely known for its reflective finishes.

Price is also an important consideration. If you have a decorative look in mind for a certain room, perhaps a specific shade of red, investing in a design-forward paint brand that specializes in its color palette can be worth the money. If you're looking for a neutral paint to coat many surfaces throughout your home, the likes of Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are safe bets.

The Best Paint Brands in the US

From Farrow & Ball to Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore to Behr, designers reveal what makes them shop at their respective favorite paint brands, helping you to find the best match for your priorities when it comes to paint.

Benjamin Moore

Dating all the way back to 1883 in New York, Benjamin Moore is a well-known paint brand across the US, and its paint shades are incredibly popular among interior designers. It offers an extensive range of colors, primers, and paint finishes, covering interiors and exteriors.

'We really love their color selection,' says the Philadelphia-based designer Michelle Gage, who often uses Benjamin Moore paint colors in her projects. 'They offer over 3,500 premium paint options, which is wonderful when we’re looking for that “just right” shade. We love Benjamin Moore’s tools and resources; it makes our job easy, and we’re also confident that the end result will make our clients happy.'

When it comes to choosing colors from Benjamin Moore, Michelle says that it covers all sorts of interior design styles. 'Every project we do is different, so what we’re looking for changes with each design – we may be looking for bold and bright hues to provide a punchy backdrop or something more neutral to let, let’s say, the sofa shine,' the designer explains.

Aside from its extensive color range, the brand is also celebrated for its durable finishes. 'My go-to choice is Regal Select Interior,' says Michelle. 'It’s crafted with precision, and the outstanding washability and scuff resistance mean my designs hold up to real life. I feel at ease knowing the product and color will stand the test of time.'

It's also easy to get hold of Benjamin Moore paint, not least because it is stocked in over 7,500 retailers throughout North America, which you can search with its store locator. 'Benjamin Moore paints are available through locally owned retailers, and you can find products, colors, and inspiration both online and in-store,' explains Michelle.

Sherwin-Williams

Sherwin-Williams is a popular US paint brand that dates all the way back to 1866. Offering an extensive range of colors, finishes, and coatings, it is known for its professional products, while it also has lots of helpful tools, such as an online color visualizer and an app for color recommendations. It also highlights seasonal shades with its 'Color of the Month' series.

The Texas-based designer Marie Flanigan regularly turns to Sherwin-Williams paint products for her interior projects. 'I return to Sherwin-Williams because the color library is expansive but also dependable, which makes it easier to design with confidence,' she says.

Many of Sherwin-Williams' best-selling paints are white paints, from Alabaster to Shoji White, but Greek Villa is a standout shade for Marie. 'In my own home, Greek Villa offered a soft warmth that felt inviting without being too creamy,' she adds. 'I recently used Carriage Door in a lacquered finish for a lounge, and it created a rich, tailored mood that felt very intentional.'

Its wide range of paint finishes is another pull to the brand for Marie. 'I am especially drawn to higher gloss and lacquered finishes when I want depth and a more elevated feel,' she explains. 'In contrast, their matte and low sheen paints are beautiful for everyday spaces because they soften light and feel timeless. The finish always supports the overall mood I am trying to create.'

In addition to shopping online, there are thousands of Sherwin-Williams paint stores across the US, making it easy to shop for their products in person.

Farrow & Ball

Founded in Dorset, England, Farrow & Ball is a coveted British paint brand that's known for its pigment-rich colors and eco-friendly approach: handcrafting each of its products with sustainable ingredients. Although British craft is its core, it has a cult following in the US, with showrooms in various states, from California to New York.

'I’m consistently drawn to Farrow & Ball for a few key reasons, but it really comes down to the quality and intentionality behind their colors,' says the NYC designer Jennifer Hunter. 'First, their palette feels incredibly considered. Rather than overwhelming you with endless options, every shade is curated, which makes it much easier to find colors that feel timeless and cohesive. There’s a restraint to their collection that I really appreciate as a designer.'

'Farrow & Ball offers what I would call a refined approach to the color wheel,' agrees the designer Katherine Shenaman. 'Their palette usually appeals to a more mature audience, whether in age or in experience, when it comes to design. The clients who appreciate their colors usually have an educated eye, as far as design, and appreciate interiors that are sophisticated and elegant, while still having a bit of depth and perhaps even a bit of gravitas.'

While Jennifer praises Farrow & Ball for its curated palette, the quality of the paint itself is what keeps her coming back. 'Their paints are so richly pigmented that the shades shift beautifully throughout the day, depending on the light,' she explains. 'A color never feels flat as it has dimension and movement.'

You'll likely have heard of Farrow & Ball's most popular paints, from Hague Blue to Setting Plaster, most of which have a slightly darkened, aged quality to them. 'Inchyra Blue is a perfect example of a beautifully deep ocean blue that has green, blue, and gray,' says Katherine. 'Pink Ground is another favorite, and I’ve used it multiple times in nurseries and young girls' rooms.'

There are various paint finishes available at Farrow & Ball, from flat to eggshell, but its gloss finishes are a favorite for Jennifer. 'We love using Farrow & Ball in Full Gloss because it completely transforms how a color reads in a space,' she adds. 'Full Gloss is their highest-shine finish, which means it reflects a significant amount of light and gives that almost lacquered, mirror-like effect.'

To shop Farrow & Ball, you can visit one of their showrooms and order online, or you can head to one of their many stockists, which include the likes of Ring's End and Catalina Paint. 'The Paint Store at Ronald Shaffer Interiors in West Palm Beach is the local supplier for Farrow & Ball,' explains Katherine, who is based in Florida.

While you can easily order directly from their site, you can also browse all of Farrow & Ball's showrooms and stockists here.

Backdrop

Founded in 2018, Backdrop is a Los Angeles-based paint brand that has a cool and contemporary edge, reflected in its streamlined paint finishes and design-forward color range.

Modern interior designers turn to Backdrop when selecting paint shades for their projects. 'We’re drawn to Backdrop’s edit of colors,' say Chelsey Cox and Rachel Rector of Florida-based design studio Chinotto House. 'There’s a confidence to the palette, whether it leans bright and playful or deep and saturated. The tones land with a clear sense of mood.'

Kristina Khersonsky, the designer behind LA-based STUDIO KEETA, is another fan of Backdrop. 'Backdrop has a thoughtful, edited color palette,' she says. 'They offer a tightly curated set of colors that feel interesting and current and help with decision fatigue. Their colors are named and marketed in a way that helps visualize the essence, not just the hue. They are also of great quality with low VOC and are Green Wise Certified.'

'I love a wide range of their colors,' Kristina adds. 'Our go-to white paint is Harvest Moon. It’s a crisp white with a subtle warm undertone that doesn’t lean too yellow or too pink. We’ve also used Masterpiece Theatre in a powder bathroom, which is one of my favorite colors they offer at the moment. It’s an opulent olive brown that feels both unusual and familiar.'

When shopping for Backdrop paint, it has selected stockists across the US, including Schumacher, which is where Kristina sources it. Or, you can shop for Backdrop paints directly from their website. 'Backdrop’s team is a big part of why we keep coming back,' say Chelsey and Rachel. 'From swatches to final orders, the process feels supported and easy. That level of service matters to us, especially when we’re sourcing across multiple elements for a project.'

Fine Paints of Europe

With products manufactured in the Netherlands, Fine Paints of Europe prides itself on the quality of its products: paint formulas that result in an elevated look while offering longevity to last for years to come.

The Texas designer Courtnay Tartt Elias of Creative Tonic Design turns to Fine Paints of Europe for her projects, citing its impressive quality and color range. 'If you know me, you know I love a high-gloss finish, and that quality is key,' she says. 'Fine Paints of Europe gets it right every time.'

'Beyond the quality, the colors are a huge draw,' she says. 'The range is extraordinary, and the intensity of the shades is unlike anything else on the market. They've got a depth and richness that reads so beautifully in a finished space. I keep coming back to them, project after project, because I know I can find the color I want and never have to doubt the quality.'

'Their Hollandlac line produces a finish that is truly in a class of its own,' she explains. 'If a project of mine involves high-gloss lacquer (and quite a few of them do!), it is almost certainly going to involve Fine Paints of Europe. The Hollandlac Brilliant is incredibly densely pigmented and dries into an almost mirror-like finish.'

To shop for this Dutch-based paint brand, head to one of its retailers across the US. 'Here in Houston, I source mine through Moxie – I love everything in their store, paint included,' adds Courtnay.

Behr

Based in Santa Ana, California, Behr Paint Company is available exclusively at The Home Depot. In addition to its interior paints, it is known for its exterior paints, from wood stains to floor paints.

The Pennsylvania-based interior designer Leanne Ford is a fan of Behr's paint products, using various shades for her projects – most notably, its neutral paints.

A favorite of Leanne's is Ultra Pure White. 'You can get this one right off the shelf and paint away,' she says. 'My friends will write to me constantly to ask which paint to use, and this is my forever suggestion. It’s the perfect white for a modern space – no tint, and it works well in high gloss or flat. I love it.'

When looking for something warmer, Leanne turns to Behr's Crisp Linen. 'I am currently on my third project where I am covering both the interior and exterior in it,' she says.

Another go-to white paint from Behr for Leanne is Blank Canvas. 'It’s warm and welcoming but still clean and fresh with a hint of vintage,' she says. 'And, quite literally, creates a blank canvas for you to create on.'

In addition to visiting your local Home Depot, you can also shop online and order directly from the Behr website.

C2 Paint

Focused on its craft and timeless approach to color, C2 Paint is an independent American paint brand that offers artisan products. Each of its paints – from interior finishes to exterior – is low VOC, making it a good choice if you're looking for an environmentally-conscious brand.

Its paint colors don't feature any black ink, instead focusing on dynamic colors that feel inspired by the natural world. 'As a designer, what I really like about C2's paint shades is the color mix of their complex pigment formulas, not just adding white to a few tints,' says the Chicago designer Elizabeth Drake. 'It makes such a difference how the sunlight bounces off the color, giving more of an artistry feel than functional.'

'I’ve loved using Margarita C2-657,' she adds. 'It’s a fern green but with enough lemon and lime undertones to give it life – perfect for north-facing rooms. It brings its own sunshine to the room.'

You can use its helpful store locator to find a retailer where you can shop for C2 Paint in-person across the US, or you can order paint online. 'I got hooked on C2 when the dealer was near our studio, but when he retired, I started ordering it online from the website,' says Elizabeth.

Additional Paint Brands to Explore

• Little Greene: A British paint brand known for its environmentally-friendly paint products. Its color range is steeped in British heritage, making it a good option for more traditional decorating ideas. It has a showroom in Greenwich, Connecticut, and is stocked at various US retailers.
• Graham & Brown: In addition to its wallpaper designs, British-based Graham & Brown offers paint colors that feel timeless, livable, and full of charm. It recently held a temporary pop-up in NYC, and you can order paints directly from its website.
• Valspar: Valspar is a 200-year-old paint brand that offers an extensive range of colors and finishes, from wood stains to floor paints. You can shop Valspar products at Lowe’s, as well as at independent retailers.
• Clare: With a focus on making shopping for paint easy, Clare is an online paint brand with helpful swatch bundles to simplify the selection process. Its products are also zero VOC.

Where to Buy Paint: Online vs In-Store

Ordering paint directly from a brand website is often the easiest way to purchase paint, but visiting a showroom to browse color selections can be a great way to gain room color ideas and get first-hand expert advice.

If you know which general color you want for a room, but don't have a specific shade in mind, comparing various tones in a showroom or paint store can be really useful, and it means that you don't need to order endless samples. You'll also be able to see what paint finishes a brand offers, and chat with an expert about the best suit for your project – something that can be tricky to understand if you're not already familiar with the brand and its products.

Aside from project-specific shopping, visiting paint brands' showrooms in person can be a wonderful way to gain fresh ideas for future projects, and you may find yourself drawn to a color that you wouldn't have looked twice at online.

How to Buy Paint Online

Buying paint online is easier than ever, with many of the biggest paint brands providing useful tools to make the whole process straightforward. That said, it's important to consider various factors before purchasing.

Firstly, order samples online of your chosen colors. In addition to the more traditional sample pots, you'll find that some brands also offer peel-and-stick color cards that allow you to move the sample around the walls to test in different lights. 'We always start by swatching the paints in the space,' says Jennifer Hunter. 'Even if it’s a color we’ve used before, we’ll swatch it again in the new space. Light changes everything, and a color can read completely differently depending on orientation, time of day, and surrounding materials.'

Once you've chosen your colors, you also need to compare the different finishes. Gloss finishes create a statement look and reflect lots of light; satin paints are mid-sheen and wipeable, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas. Eggshell is a popular finish for interiors, offering a subtle level of sheen, while matte finishes provide a rich, chalky look with even less sheen. Flat paints have no sheen, offering a velvety look and disguising wall imperfections the most.

With your paint colors and finishes selected, think about how much you will need for your project. Helpfully, many brands, such as Benjamin Moore, have a paint calculator on their website so you can get a good idea of how many tins you'll need. Do your research to find out how many coats of paint each brand generally requires, too. If you're on the cusp of needing another tin, it's usually a good idea to purchase this at the same time, since there can sometimes be slight differences between batch numbers.

Before placing your order, make sure to check the specific return and exchange policy of your chosen brand. And, if you don't already have all the painting equipment you need, some brands also sell brushes and rollers on their site, so you can order everything all at once.

Designer Tips for Getting it Right

• Always Sample Paint Shades: 'As far as sampling, it is always best to have painters do 2' x 2' samples on at least two walls in a room, to truly understand how the light moves around the space,' says Katherine Shenaman. 'Colors which are critical to a specific room should be viewed multiple times during the day as well.'
• Compare Paint Colors Against Existing Decor: 'Test colors against any key elements, including the flooring, the stone, millwork, and fabrics,' says Kristina Khersonsky. 'The paint should always support the materials, not compete with them.'
• Focus on Undertones: 'Pay close attention to undertones, especially with neutrals, since they can shift more than expected,' says Marie Flanigan. 'I also like to compare a few options side by side to make sure the final choice feels balanced and considered.'
• Invest in a Professional Painter: 'A good painter is worth the money: they should verify quantity and will usually handle the purchasing, and they will know how to prep and prime a space properly,' says Katherine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The main mistake you'll want to avoid when shopping for paint is ordering large quantities when you haven't properly sampled the color. Paint colors change vastly depending on the lighting of a room, so you should ensure you're happy with it at all times of day. 'Paint never reads the same on screen or even on chip,' says Kristina Khersonsky. 'The lighting in the room also dictates how the color shows up.'

If you're going to be color-matching a paint, don't rush the process. 'If someone encourages you to buy from another source, and has your Farrow & Ball selection color-matched, I suggest doing samples of each, side by side,' advises Katherine Shenaman. 'The depth of the pigments in Farrow & Ball is unmistakable, in comparison to their competitors.'

When choosing high-gloss paints, you may want to turn to the expertise of a professional painter, warns Courtnay Tartt: 'I think it is so important to find a painter with experience and expertise in high-gloss lacquer finishes if that's what you plan to use. The application process is genuinely complex and quite specific. There's an involved method of tinting the primer, then spraying and sanding, spraying and sanding, and on and on! It's like an art form, so an experienced professional is your best bet.'

By taking the time to properly sample shades and research the various paint finishes from your chosen paint brand, you'll hopefully avoid making any color mistakes. While shopping online for paint is easier than ever, sometimes the best starting point is visiting your local paint store or brand showroom, especially if you are using a new brand and need some expert advice.

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We spend hours agonizing over paint samples, taking time to ensure the perfect color is chosen to instantly bring a kitchen to life. So why, after all of that back and forth, does your kitchen still not look right?

The truth is, no matter how careful you are about selecting the right kitchen color, the success all hinges on the paint finish. It's one of those small details people easily overlook, but it's one of the most important factors in a hardworking kitchen.

Here's everything you need to know about choosing the right kitchen paint finishes, why it's so important, and how designers make the right choice. Heed their advice, and you'll never make the same mistake again.

Why is it Important to Choose the Right Kitchen paint Finish?

The finish of your kitchen paint is really important on two levels. Functionally, it dictates the durability of your paint, and in a hard-working room, it's crucial to get it right. But it also impacts the way a room feels in the same way different colors do.

'The interplay of paint color and finish has the power to define a kitchen that feels distinctly personal, balancing expression with everyday function. Color sets the foundation, shaping mood and style while influencing how a space is perceived,' says Hannah Yeo, Senior Manager of Color Marketing at Benjamin Moore.

'Paint finish impacts both aesthetics and functionality, and in a space as hard-working as the kitchen, you want to get it right,' agrees interior designer Kathy Kuo. 'The finish determines how much light reflects off a painted surface, and how well it stands up to the inevitable messes that happen in a kitchen.'

Durability is perhaps the most important thing to prioritize, especially when it comes to cabinetry that experiences a lot of wear and tear. Different sheens and finishes show marks more and can be damaged more easily, something you always want to avoid.

The Paint Finishes to Avoid in Kitchens

So, which finishes are a hard no when painting your kitchen? 'Flat or matte finishes are typically not recommended due to their more porous nature and less durable finish,' says David Underwood, Technical Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore.

And he's not the only one who recommends staying away from very matte finishes. Tom Wicksteed of 202 Design echoes his advice. 'Chalky, matte finishes typically don't have the durability required for a working kitchen. High gloss is a bold choice for kitchen cabinetry and typically only works in a select few combinations of color, lighting design, and room setting,' he notes.

So, what makes matte paint finishes so much less durable? 'They're essentially paints with no (or very little) protective coating, which means every splatter of tomato sauce becomes a permanent fixture,' Kathy explains. 'An eggshell finish can work in low-traffic zones, but I wouldn’t recommend it near the stove or sink where life gets messy.'

The Best Paint Finishes for Kitchens

If matte paint finishes are to be avoided in a kitchen, the opposite should be favored. Satin and higher sheens are far more durable, adding a protective finish that allows your chosen paint color to last longer in a busy kitchen.

'A satin paint finish is my go-to for both kitchen walls and cabinets. It has a gently lustrous appearance and is much more resistant to stains than flat, matte, or eggshell finishes,' says Kathy.

'Higher-gloss finishes are especially well-suited to kitchen environments where surfaces are exposed to frequent use,' agrees Hannah. 'Their smooth finish allows for easy cleaning and long-term maintenance, while their reflective finish enhances light and showcases the precision and craftmanship of cabinetry and millwork.'

That's not to say you can only use a higher sheen in a kitchen – you can mix different finishes throughout the room, but it's a case of understanding which areas require higher durability, and which can sustain a more matte finish.

'Thoughtful contrast between finishes can create focal moments within the space. Pairing a matte wall finish with high-gloss millwork in a deeper hue allows architectural details to take center stage, transforming functional cabinetry into a design feature and elevating the kitchen with a custom, refined look,' says Hannah.

And if you want to create more of a decorative statement without compromising on functionality, Kathy suggests experimenting with glossier finishes on your kitchen cabinets.

'If you want to add a little extra dimension to the room’s design, consider a semi-gloss finish on kitchen cabinets to highlight the millwork details and add an extra layer of durability,' she suggests.

It's an approach that works particularly well in more compact schemes, too. 'In smaller kitchens, lighter hues can create an airy, open feel, while higher sheens amplify the effect by reflecting light into the room, making the space appear larger and brighter,' Hannah adds.

The most important factor to consider when choosing paint finishes is how you actually use your kitchen, and the areas that need more durability. Base cabinets almost always require that extra level of protection, but other areas can get away with something more design-led.

'The nature of the kitchen, the cabinetry design, and layout can also help inform the choice of finish,' says Tom. 'A display cabinet, for example, could use a more matte, chalky finish which won’t have the durability of a lacquer system, which is more appropriate for the high-use, base cabinet level and working parts of the kitchen.'

No matter which colors you choose for your kitchen, finish is the one thing that remains key in every scheme. The easiest way to think about it is that busier working zones require a satin or glossier sheen.

'Always test finishes in your kitchen before applying paint to every surface, because sheen levels can vary depending on the environment and lighting,' Kathy advises. 'I also remind clients that a higher sheen highlights imperfections, so make sure your surfaces are properly cleaned (and sanded as needed) before you apply glossy paint!'

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Gone are the days when pastels reigned supreme during the spring season. With character and playfulness replacing stereotypical interior design, more unexpected hues are cropping up in this year's spring color trends.

Woven with familiar muted tones and zingier, more unpredictable hues, Benjamin Moore's spring color palette sets the benchmark for a spring filled with color. From subdued yellows that feel traditionally seasonal to a fiery red that sets off the hushed tones, the palette is a refreshing move away from the usual pale pinks and baby blues that dominate color trends this time of year.

Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International), Benjamin Moore, explains, 'This palette takes its cue from classic spring tones, reimagined with added depth and complexity to celebrate the beauty of the present moment.'

Composed of six serene shades, Benjamin Moore's spring color palette feels refreshing yet livable. While each shade feels seasonal (without being obvious), they're also room colors that add subtle vibrancy that lasts beyond the spring season.

While it wouldn't be spring without some muted tones, from a soft sage green to a pale lemon yellow, these light shades feel spring-appropriate without straying into the obvious or juvenile pastel room ideas.

'Lighter, brighter shades that lean into soft pastels bring a sense of freshness and uplift,' explains Helen. 'They thrive in sunlit rooms, where shifting light reveals their subtle undertones. Raindrops on Roses carries the gentlest hint of lavender, energizing yet flattering, while Fresh Dew, a delicate blend of green and gray, both soothes and invigorates with its feather-light presence.'

No color scheme is complete without a good white. Benjamin Moore's Simply White is the grounding neutral that pairs beautifully with the hushed pastels and brighter shades. Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore, says, 'Simply White OC-117 is a brighter white paint color with a hint of yellow. This Benjamin Moore staple has just the right amount of cheer and warmth. The perfect use-anywhere hue, pair it with warmer neutrals and off-whites for a fresh but still welcoming look. Bring in pale pastels, leafy greens, and sky blues for the ultimate spring vibe.'

Fresh Air 211 is a more stripped-back take on butter yellow. Helen explains, 'Nothing captures the essence of spring quite like the soft glow of lemon and buttermilk, and Fresh Air embodies this beautifully. Its pale yellow base, grounded by subtle brown undertones, strikes a perfect balance of fresh yet gently anchored, never overly sweet. Swept across all four walls, it creates a space that feels calm and quietly uplifting. Layered with natural textures or offset by playful accents, it delivers an understated brightness that endures.'

Grounding earthy neutrals bring depth and contrast against the pale hues. While colors like Mountain Lane 488, (Arianna describes it as 'An earthy hue that conjures up thoughts of lush hillsides') might be unexpected, they couldn't be a more welcome respite from the muted tones. Helen says, 'It evokes the calm sophistication of a plant-filled veranda and pairs effortlessly with other nature-led tones like soft browns, warm beiges, and gentle greens.'

Perhaps the most playful, unexpected shade of them all, Benjamin Moore's Raspberry Blush 2008-30 sets off the deep green and pale pastels, bringing some much-needed vibrancy and surprise that makes this palette feel so unique.

Arianna says, 'A vivacious shade of coral-tinged with pink, Raspberry Blush brings personality and vibrancy to a color palette. Take a playful spin on the classic red dining room by using this charismatic shade.'

Helen adds, 'Shades tinged with coral, such as Raspberry Blush, come alive throughout the day, especially in sunlight, radiating a charismatic, vivacious energy inspired by the vibrant colors of the kitchen. This lively coral, touched with pink, feels bold yet approachable, offering the perfect unexpected pop of color for a modern take on the unexpected red theory.'

Colorful Spring Shopping Picks

Benjamin Moore's spring color palette is delightfully refreshing. Filled with sophisticated pastels, an earthy olive green and a zingy red, it's a palette that perfectly balances light and dark and everything in between.

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You're not in the minority if you spend hours browsing paint colors online, sampling them to find the perfect shade for your walls, only to default to painting the ceiling bright white. Indeed, there seems to be an unspoken rule that ceilings must be painted white, but the emerging paint trick known as ceiling blurring says otherwise.

Instead of playing it safe with white ceilings, ceiling blurring is the technique of continuing the wall color onto the fifth wall, but in a slightly lighter shade to gently draw the eye upwards and, crucially, avoid the harsh contrast that stark white often creates. While this ceiling idea works in basically any type of room, it's especially effective in small rooms where the lack of contrast helps to make the space feel larger.

Here, interior designers explain all you need to know about this clever paint trick – from the best paint shades to use to the most flattering finishes – along with stylish examples to inspire your next decorating project.

What is Ceiling Blurring?

'When considering how to paint a room, it can be tempting to default to a white ceiling,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 'However, a far more cohesive scheme can be achieved by considering the ceiling as part of the room’s overall palette. Using a softer tone on the ceiling, known as "ceiling blurring", softens edges rather than making the ceiling a focal point, creating a more seamless and enveloping feel.'

Essentially, ceiling blurring is where the same color as the walls is used on the ceiling, but in a lighter tone. 'The graduation in color is gentle on the eye, helping the ceiling feel less imposing and the room more harmonious,' adds Ruth.

Not only does this paint trick avoid the harsh contrast of a white ceiling with a bolder color on the walls, but it can help to make small, boxy rooms feel more expansive – guiding the eye upward without a strong endpoint.

While bold, colorful shades allow for a fun, unexpected look for ceiling blurring, it works with any color palette, from neutrals to bright tones. 'Soft, neutral, natural, and stone-inspired colors work beautifully within a graduated scheme, creating a sense of calm and restoration,' explains Ruth. 'By moving from deeper, richer tones to lighter, airier shades, the room achieves a natural, effortless flow, where colors gently combine.'

When it comes to choosing the right paint finishes, Ruth recommends going for a matte finish: 'the surface feels soft to the eye and rich to the touch, diffusing light gently and adding subtle depth.'

Stylish Examples of Ceiling Blurring to Inspire Your Project

From bedrooms to kitchens, ceiling blurring works as a clever paint technique in lots of rooms, enhancing its proportions and making a space feel soft, cozy, and considered.

'In bedrooms, ceiling blurring works particularly well, as the sense of continuity helps the space feel calm,' says Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands. In this bedroom, a gray-green paint was used on the walls and doors (Mylands' Lamb's Ear BH.06), while a lighter gray-green, Uncle Maths BH.05, was used on the ceiling.

'In rooms with detailed trimwork or architectural moldings, it can be effective to carry the wall color up and across these features, using the ceiling as a subtle point of contrast,' adds Dominic. 'This approach allows the architectural details to remain defined, while still maintaining an easy transition between the wall and ceiling.'

Before choosing colors for your scheme, keep in mind the difference between light and darker palettes. 'Using two different paints in the same lighter tone helps reflect natural light, making a space feel more open, while two deeper shades can create a more intimate atmosphere,' says Dominic. 'In both cases, matching tones closely maintains a sense of continuity and blurs the boundary between wall and ceiling.'

Using wallpaper in place of paint on the ceiling can create a similar effect, while adding extra depth and movement to the space. In this home office, a textured sisal wallcovering in a muted shade of blue was used on the ceiling, while a dark blue paint, Sherwin-Williams' Sea Serpent, was used on the walls.

'The client wanted a dramatic and moody feel in this study, so Sea Serpent was a great fit for the walls,' explains the Washington-based designer Shannon Adamson. 'The sisal lends a subtle texture to the space and helps with sound absorption. It also keeps the ceiling from feeling too heavy and oppressive, which can happen when deeper paint colors are continued onto the ceiling, even in smaller spaces.'

In kitchens with full-height cabinetry, you can follow the same approach to ceiling blurring, painting cabinets in a richer color, and then using a lighter version on the ceiling.

'For this kitchen, I wanted to maintain a burgundy color scheme for the cabinetry, painting them a shade of Brinjal,' says the designer Cecilia Casagrande of Boston-based Casagrande Studio. 'I also chose Setting Plaster for the ceiling color to complement the cabinets and prevent them from overwhelming the space, as can happen with dark cabinets and white ceilings. In this case, the ceiling plays a significant role in the overall design.'

Light gray-green paints work wonderfully in bedrooms, setting a tranquil feel, and taking them onto the ceiling creates a cocooning effect. 'For this bedroom, our goal was to create a relaxing atmosphere that showcased the beautiful window treatments,' says Cecilia. The designer settled on Farrow & Ball's Mizzle for the walls, with the slightly lighter tone of Cromarty for the ceiling. 'This subtle color change added a touch of brightness without altering the overall aesthetic,' says Cecilia.

Not only does painting the fifth wall a tonal version of the wall color create a cohesive, soft look and create the illusion of more height in small spaces, but it also feels more current than bright white ceilings that can come across as dated. If you're looking for some inspiration for choosing a color palette for this paint trick, browse the bold shades that transform small rooms.

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Gray hasn’t had much attention in interior design of late, in any form. However, there is a gray-adjacent color that’s been a rising trend this year so far: gray-green. Not quite gray, not quite green. Not as soft as sage, and not as ethereal as celadon, these gray-green tones are calming and grounded.

Gray-greens are shades that dance in natural light – so naturally they are beautiful in light-filled settings – but because they can shift so dramatically, they can be tricky to get right. You need to pay close attention to the undertones: too much gray can appear cold, while too much green, and you lose the depth.

Here to guide you through the green-to-gray scale, these five spaces showcase the versatility of this complex color trend and will help you decide where you sit on the spectrum – and which shade suits your space.

Understated and refined, this green kitchen comes to life through its thoughtful layers of color and texture. A bold Carrara marble crowns the center of the room, while the pale gray green paint sits calmly around it, providing respite from the marble's striking effect.

James and Sara Horsfall, founders of The Bath Kitchen Company, sought a muted gray-meets-green to complement the kitchen's overall minimalist vibe. They explain, 'We wanted a color that still had a neutral aspect to it and wasn’t over-dominating. Ash Grey was very soft, not too cold, and a perfect accent to a pared-back home.'

Described by Farrow & Ball as, 'The underlying green in this shade means that it will appear more intensely colored in natural daylight and greyer in areas of low light,' Ash Grey not only works beautifully beside organic materials but also comes to life with daylight. James and Sara add, 'Inviting, soft yet warm, Ash Grey works well with the English light that flooded the kitchen.'

While gray-green hues are complex, understating their undertones will help you decide which tone works for your space. While Benjamin Moore's Nantucket Gray has a grayer undertone than Farrow & Ball's Ash Grey, which edges on the darker side, placing it slightly further along on the gray-green spectrum.

On the lookout for a paint color that felt in keeping with her client's historic home, interior designer Chloë Rideout selected Nantucket Gray for its grounding powers and ability to enhance without jeopardizing a room's integrity. She explains, 'The mudroom is located in a small New England town (called West Newbury, Massachusetts) as part of an addition to a house that was built in the 1790s.'

'Nantucket Gray is one of my favorite chameleon paint colors to use, especially on millwork and cabinetry, as it acts as a neutral base for a room but still provides an interesting depth with the green undertones. To me, it is a green first and then a gray.'

Chloë explains, 'I chose it in this mudroom as I felt it would change beautifully throughout the day as the sun travelled, shifting from green to more of a warm gray at night, and contrast nicely with the brick floors.'

A gray-meets-gray that perfectly blends the two hues, Benjamin Moore's October Mist feels pretty central on the gray-to-green color spectrum. With distinct notes of depth matched by muted tones of green, it's a versatile color that feels fresh whilst still able to envelop.

Emily Sandford, founder of Sanford Collective Interiors, says, 'We chose October Mist for the trim in the adjoining living room, where the walls are a very soft white. In the mudroom, we carried the color onto the walls, ceiling, and casework to create a more enveloping moment. Because the flooring transitions between the two spaces, it helps establish a sense of continuity while still giving each room its own identity. There were also existing elements at play, including the cedar bench and slate floors, and we wanted to gently balance those warmer undertones with something soft and grounding. October Mist felt like the right way to gently anchor those without competing with them.'

Emily adds, 'October Mist is a soft, silvery sage that sits between green and grey. It is quite nuanced and shifts throughout the day depending on the light. In a more enclosed space like this mudroom, it deepens and settles into more of a moody tone, while the adjoining living room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, it reads almost luminous. There's a softness to it that keeps it from feeling heavy, and enough complexity that it doesn't read as flat. It's the kind of color that feels considered without announcing itself.'

A significantly grayer looking green, Farrow & Ball's Pigeon falls on the gray end of the color scale, making it the perfect choice for rooms in need of depth that's restrained yet still rich.

Emily Ruff, Founder of Cohesively Curated, explains, 'I call Farrow & Ball's Pigeon a chameleon color depending on what you put next to it. In some spaces, it can feel more gray than green, and it also has blue undertones in some lighting. It is a really beautiful and calming color that goes well with everything.'

Emily explains why the gray-green worked as a living room color. 'Our clients purchased this home and loved these original built-ins, but didn't love the wood tone they had. They really didn't want to paint the entire main floor, and the walls had a lovely warm white that we could easily work with. We wanted to bring in a color on the built-ins that didn't feel too bold and distract from the beautiful view out of all of the windows. Pigeon is definitely green, but it is subdued, so it feels like a neutral.'

Described as 'a calming gray with natural energy', Coat Paints' Jojo's Green is one of the darkest gray-green paints out there. A charcoal gray mixed with green, it's a sympathetic choice that's perfect for historic homes.

Jojo Barr, founder of House Nine Design, says, 'It's an endlessly characterful gray-green paint with a slightly earthy, ‘muddy’ quality that gives it real depth and sophistication. There’s a calming, natural energy to it – grounding, reassuring, and incredibly easy to live with.'

'Jojo’s Green naturally evokes that English Heritage aesthetic – cozy, comforting and quietly timeless, which suited the snug setting within this Cotswolds home beautifully. It brings depth without overwhelming the room, creating a space that feels both intimate and enduring.'

The Gray Green Shopping Edit

While sage green might feel a little overdone at times, the gray-green trend combines sage's heritage charm with gray's moodiness. While it's easy to style gray-green tones, be wary of the role of light when choosing a paint color by considering the far-reaching spectrum of pale sage to gray.

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Small kitchens, which can often be lacking in natural light, typically welcome a palette of light neutrals in efforts to make them feel more roomy, but going for something more colorful in these hardworking rooms can be much more effective.

When choosing the best colors for small kitchens, designers often turn to the much-loved paint brand Farrow & Ball, using its nuanced, earthy shades to add character and depth.

Here, we've rounded up five Farrow & Ball paints that are favorites among designers, ranging from dusky greens to soft pinks. While each of them is a bolder choice than neutrals, they feel livable and calm, while adding plenty of design flair to small kitchens.

1. Cooking Apple Green No. 32

Cooking Apple Green is one of those colors that feels soft enough to use in place of traditional neutrals. If you're looking for a paint shade that adds a hint of color to bring interest to a small kitchen, without going too bright or bold, this one could be for you.

'The starting point for this kitchen was the backsplash: an antique-feeling but lively tropical ceramic tile,' says the Florida-based designer Katherine Shenaman. 'The client wanted her small kitchen to feel like a "jewel box", so we chose a complementary green that felt understated yet luxurious at the same time. Aged brass hardware throughout and the reclaimed oak flooring also added to the overall feel of this lively but timeless kitchen.'

'Some people may think an all-white kitchen feels larger, but in general, we find that the opposite is true,' she adds. 'People seem tired of the predictable and more eager to explore more creative ways to design small spaces, especially kitchens.'

2. French Gray No. 18

French Gray is a popular Farrow & Ball paint color – an in-between shade that sits somewhere between gray and green. Because of its gray tones, it feels calm and easy to live with, especially when compared to gray paints, which can fall flat.

Here, it was used on the cabinets, adding depth and a refined feel to the room. 'The colors of the kitchen cabinets help meld the period of the house with the more contemporary aesthetic of the homeowner,' explains the designer Ryan Kopet of Tennessee-based Miles & Kirk. 'I find the color to be expansive and warm, while not diluting the charm of the space. As our primary goal was to highlight the homeowner's art collection, we love this palette as a great backdrop to modern art.'

3. Stiffkey Blue No. 281

Dark blue paints add drama to small kitchens, and shades like Stiffkey Blue lend a sense of sophistication, especially when paired with warm brass fixtures.

The designer of this small kitchen, Kristin Kostamo-McNeil, principal designer at Anne Rae Design, recalls discussions with the client to find the right shade of blue: 'We agreed that a deeper tone was essential to achieving the drama he envisioned for the space,' she says.

'We paired the paint with a slightly deeper blue tile backsplash to complement rather than compete with the blue-washed cabinets,' she adds. 'Stiffkey Blue is a wonderful choice for a small kitchen when you're after something dramatic and intimate, with a feel that's both luxurious and unexpected.'

4. Green Smoke No. 47

Green Smoke is a dark green paint that has a dusky, muted quality that makes it feel soothing and mellow. 'This shade of green works beautifully in a small kitchen because it offers a richness of color while still acting like a neutral,' says NYC designer Jennifer Hunter.

'Greens that are slightly muted with gray undertones tend to recede visually, allowing the cabinetry and walls to feel layered rather than busy,' she explains. 'Instead of relying on white or beige to make the room feel open, the green creates a calm backdrop that adds character without overwhelming the space. In a compact kitchen, it brings warmth and personality while remaining timeless and versatile.'

5. Pink Ground No. 202

Pink paints make a comforting, stylish choice in small kitchens. Soft shades feel like just a step away from neutrals, while adding warmth, character, and a cozy feel. Here, Pink Ground was used on the walls, a dusky shade that doesn't lean too sweet, along with Farrow & Ball's Pointing on the cabinets.

'Pink Ground is one of my favourite colors to use because it has such a lovely warmth to it,' explains the interior designer Sophie Garland who use in her own cozy country cottage. 'It’s especially good in smaller spaces, as the pale tone brings in color while still keeping the room feeling light and fresh.'

Landing on the right paint color is one of the most important steps in decorating compact spaces, but there are lots of other creative ways to make a small kitchen look more luxurious, from lighting to countertop ideas.

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Last year, Los Angeles–based home brand Lulu and Georgia reached out to fellow Angeleno Portola Paints with a problem: paint. L&G’s style-savvy clientele knew their sofas from their settees, but paint colors proved to be a persistent pain point.

The resolution was simple: Lulu didn’t make paint. Portola did.

And the rest is history. The two brands have just launched a six-color paint collection of sophisticated pastels – yellow, pink, blue, and green – alongside refreshed neutrals in brown and tan. Available in Roman Clay, Lime Wash, and Acrylic paint finishes (Ultra Flat, Eggshell, and Semi-Gloss), the range leaves room for nuance but is intentionally edited – not every shade, just the right ones, meant to sit comfortably alongside your most fashion-forward L&G furniture and decor, season after season.

Because while it is spring – ‘tis the season for pastels – both Portola and Lulu and Georgia insist these shades are pretty perennial. ‘Pastels always come back around this time of year, but these feel a little more grown up,’ notes Lulu and Georgia founder Sara Sugarman. ‘We wanted them to feel playful, but not overly sweet, and grounded enough that you could actually live with them year-round. That balance is really at the core of how we think about design at Lulu and Georgia, pieces that feel fresh but still have staying power.’

The colorful shades – Aberdeen, Patisserie (a warm, buttery yellow – Sara’s personal favorite), Costa, and Terra – bring an airy, room-anchoring quality to dining spaces and sitting rooms – the kinds of areas that can handle a little oomph. But, according to Sarah, it's the browns and neutrals that 'really hold everything together.'

Havana (a warm, brown-ish beige with rosy undertones) and Casa Forma (a sunbaked ivory) ‘give the palette some depth and make the softer tones feel more livable,’ she continues. ‘I think of them as the base layer, you build around them. Once that’s in place, you can bring in the pastels in a way that feels easy and not too precious.’

The brands’ respective focuses – paint and furniture – might not seem to share much in common, apart from, perhaps, a shared proximity to Erewhon, but both Portola and Lulu and Georgia operate from a similar ethos: an interest in at-home storytelling, rooted in creativity, play, and a kind of low-key timelessness.

‘Unlike furniture or fashion, which move through clear seasonal cycles, paint doesn’t typically shift on a quarterly basis,’ says Portola Paints co-founder Jamie Davis. ‘This collection gave us the chance to explore that more seasonal perspective, while still keeping longevity at the core. The colors feel fresh and timely, but they’re designed to live well beyond a single moment.’

So while pastels are often reserved for a few warm-weather months (if not relegated to nurseries), this new lineup feels playful enough to stick around far, far beyond.

Ahead, the only pale paints that matter right now.

If this color trend-averse collection had to be categorized, it would likely land somewhere in whimsy – though, according to Jamie, that might undersell it.

‘It was exciting to find a more playful moment for colors you might not have expected,’ the Portola Paints co-founder says of the sunny, slightly surreal palette. That push toward something a little stranger, a little less expected, is what keeps the room colors from reading too 'spring' or overly sweet, as pastels so often do. ‘Fun in the moment, but still has a timeless quality,’ he adds.

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Knowing how to decorate rooms with awkward proportions, from narrow spaces to rooms with sloped ceilings, spaces with tall ceilings to those with prominent architectural features, can be a tricky task. But, with the clever paint technique that is room contouring, you can start seeing these unique features as an opportunity to let color creativity take the lead.

This paint trick is being used by designers in endless creative ways, proving that structural changes aren't always needed to improve the flow of a room. Instead, it cleverly tricks the eye, shaping how the space is perceived, with the use of contrast, depth, and balance.

Here, experts explain all you need to know about room contouring and how to try it out in your own space with the most stylish paint ideas – from painted ceilings to color-drenching.

What Is Room Contouring?

Rather than painting the walls just to add stylistic flair to a room, room contouring takes a more tactical approach to enhance or transform its proportions. Essentially, this technique is all about using paint shades in strategic places to trick the eye.

'By applying tonal shifts across walls, ceilings, alcoves, trim, and other architectural features, different surfaces are visually emphasised or softened,' says Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore. 'This approach helps reshape how a space is experienced by adding depth and dimension to rooms that might otherwise be one-dimensional or creating the illusion of a more streamlined look for awkward architectural features. It can also create the illusion of a larger or more balanced space, highlighting architectural details, and give a room a more layered, visually interesting finish.'

But how exactly does this work? 'It uses light and shadow to influence how we perceive a room’s structure,' says Helen. 'The technique uses darker tones to make surfaces visually recede, creating the impression of depth, while lighter tones or areas with stronger lighting appear to advance, drawing attention and highlighting particular features.'

Within the realm of room contouring, there are endless applications to explore. Dark paints could be used on the ceiling or walls to rebalance certain rooms. 'Dark colors absorb light, which makes walls or areas appear to recede, creating the illusion that they are further away or smaller,' says Helen. 'This effect is ideal for crafting a cozy, intimate, or dramatic atmosphere.'

Painting ceilings a similar hue to the walls can 'blur' the room and make it feel more cohesive and softer by avoiding harsh contrasts. 'Light colors reflect light, making surfaces appear closer, brighter, and more expansive,' she says. 'They can open up a space, making it feel larger and airier, which is especially useful in small rooms or areas with limited natural light.'

'People often find spaces with softer visual transitions, curves, and layered depth more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing than environments defined only by flat planes and sharp angles,' Helen adds. 'Contouring introduces these visual shifts and gradients, which can make a room feel more dynamic and balanced.'

Variations of this paint technique can be adopted for pretty much any room, depending on what you're trying to achieve. 'Small rooms, such as living rooms and bedrooms, benefit from carrying color onto the ceiling in a slightly deeper tone (such as color capping),' Helen suggests. 'This creates a cosseting, intimate atmosphere while unifying the design so the ceiling feels like a deliberate part of the room rather than an afterthought.'

'In larger spaces, room contouring can help make the environment feel less overwhelming or more dynamic,' she adds. 'For example, painting a far wall in a darker shade can make the space feel more intimate or establish a dramatic focal point, while lighter, contrasting colors on mouldings, cornices, or alcoves highlight architectural details and bring them forward.'

Stylish Ways to Contour Rooms With Paint

The best type of room contouring depends on the constraints of the space you're decorating and the look you're aiming to achieve, but to give you some inspiration for embracing this technique, we've rounded up some stylish projects below that use paint in clever and unexpected ways.

In the dining room of this Paris apartment with tall ceilings, Farrow & Ball's India Yellow was used on the ceiling to ground the room. 'With everything we did on this project, we wanted to create warmth and visual interest without a lot of construction changes,' says the designer Jessica Helgerson. 'The large featureless ceiling becomes a soft and beautifully glowing surface that gently radiates warmth down onto the room.'

When painting the ceiling a bolder color than the walls, be mindful of the difference between warm and cool colors. 'Cool-toned colors such as blues and cool grays tend to recede, which can make rooms feel larger and more tranquil, whereas warm-toned colors, like reds, yellows, and warm browns, naturally advance, creating a sense of intimacy and making spaces feel cozier,' explains Helen.

Using a dark color, such as black paint, on the lower portion of a wall not only adds a refined look, but it can also ground the space and make it feel much cozier, especially in tall, narrow rooms.

'This bathroom was small, but we wanted it to have a large impact,' says the designer Alexandra Kaehler. 'We painted the wainscoting an unexpected black, which pulled not only from the floor tile, but also the toilet seat (which is unfortunately the first thing you see when you walk in), and also the leopard design in the paper. It became a dramatic, unifying component of the design.'

In rooms with prominent architectural details, such as a bay window, painting them a bolder shade can add a sense of warmth and softness, rather than large spaces feeling distant and stark.

'Painting the bay window a warm yellow was a deliberate way to bring a sense of sunlight into the room,' says the designer Jennifer Hunter of this bedroom. 'Because bay windows naturally project outward, highlighting them with a brighter color draws the eye toward that architectural feature and emphasizes the room’s depth. The yellow creates a cheerful focal point that feels like sunlight pouring into the space, reinforcing the floral wallpaper and giving the impression of a meadow in bloom.'

In rooms where you want to create a cozy, atmospheric feel, dark paints work wonderfully, especially when they wrap the room. In this living room, Sherwin-Williams' Cyberspace was used on the walls. 'For such a large living space with great natural walls, dark walls provide a great balance and give a cozier feel,' says the designer Melissa Oholendt, founder and design principal at Oho Interiors. 'This room connects to an entryway and a dining area. To subtly differentiate the rooms, the ceilings got special treatment. The ceiling in the living room is a taupe-y grey which feels distinct but is still a nice transition into the ceilings in the adjoining spaces.'

'Rooms like this can feel quite awkward spatially if the design isn’t considered,' says Cath Beckett, co-founder of Yellow London, about this bedroom with a sloped ceiling and exposed wood beams. 'Sloped ceilings tend to compress the room visually, but opting for a playfully structured wallpaper creates a sense of expansion. Exposed beams can appear rough and heavy if they’re left untouched, so treating them with color helps incorporate them into the design and makes the architecture feel intentional rather than dominant.'

To keep things cohesive, the woodwork and beams were painted with the same color – Farrow & Ball's Calke Green. 'Instead of the beams jarring against the ceiling, the color links the structural elements together, so the door frame, beams, and skirting are one,' Cath adds. 'That helps guide your eye through the space and adds balance to the sloped room.'

Entryways are often narrow spaces that can risk feeling cramped, and so the right paint colors are key. In this narrow hallway, dark green paint was used to cleverly guide the eye upwards to focus on the generous height of the space.

'This stairwell is one of the first things you see when you walk into the home, and we wanted it to be a prominent feature, not just blend in with the walls,' says Mary Beth Sullivan, founder and principal designer at MB Sullivan Design. 'While the ceilings are quite tall, this is a rather narrow corridor. Going with a bolder color choice on the bookcase draws your eyes up and makes the area feel more spacious.'

Hopefully, these projects will assure you that rooms with awkward proportions can often be rebalanced with a tactical approach to paint, rather than defaulting to painting tricky rooms white. Don't be afraid of going bold with the richest colors – they can often be the most effective in grounding a space and adding depth.

Don't forget to choose the right paint finishes for your room contouring, too. 'Matte finishes are generally preferred for deep contouring because they absorb light, enhancing the sense of depth, while glossy finishes reflect light and can undermine the illusion, flattening the intended visual effect,' says Helen.

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Farrow & Ball's Stiffkey Blue takes its name from a coastal English village in North Norfolk, where its marshy beaches are threaded with deep blue sea. A navy blue with a touch of inkiness, Stiffkey Blue might have nautical roots, but it's long been loved for its rich, deeply comforting qualities, able to blend into both traditional and modern settings.

A not-quite navy woven with brighter undertones, Stiffkey Blue comes up time and time again in designers' picks of the best dark blue paints, loved for its enduringly sophisticated feel and versatility.

Patrick O’Donnell, Farrow & Ball's Brand Ambassador, says, 'Stiffkey Blue is a bold, strong, regal blue. Add a splash of Stiffkey Blue for a scheme that has longevity and flexibility, especially when teamed with a clean, complementary off-white such as Dimpse. This chic and timeless combination is just the ticket for a makeover that remains relevant as you move through seasons from year to year.'

Deep enough to cocoon yet vibrant enough to dance with the light, Stiffkey Blue is a richer and naunced that a navy. While navy blues tend to cocoon and sometimes overwhelm a room, this deep blue feels distinctly brighter, perfect for both small and large spaces.

This charming powder room designed by Otta Design proves the encompassing power of this blue paint. The studio's director, Alex Keith, explains, 'The client fell in love with the Farrow & Ball Shouchikubai Wallpaper with the pops of orange and blue. The background of this wallpaper was Stiffkey Blue, so to add extra impact, we wrapped the color over the ceiling in a gloss finish and added it to the paneling.'

To integrate Stiffkey Blue into any scheme, consider the colors that go with navy blue for a balanced look. Alex adds, 'Stiffkey Blue works really well with strong accent colors, in this case the orange, but would also work well with a strong bright green like Farrow & Ball's archive color Danish Lawn.'

A jewel-toned blue, Stiffkey Blue not only enriches small spaces, but it's perfect for living rooms in need of moodiness and depth, as proven by interior designer Laura Stephens' sophisticated creation.

Laura explains, 'We were looking for a deep, grounding color that would feel both practical and considered, particularly for use below the dado rail, where it’s more prone to scuffs and everyday wear. Stiffkey Blue has a wonderful richness to it; it’s undeniably dark, but it never feels flat or heavy. There’s a subtle depth and movement in the color that keeps it visually interesting, even across larger areas, and it brings a sense of structure and calm to the space.'

'Stiffkey Blue is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of tones, Laura continues. 'I particularly love using it alongside a soft, ivory white such as Wimborne White, which lifts the depth of the blue and creates a really classic, balanced contrast. Metallics, particularly aged or brushed gold, also complement it beautifully, adding warmth and a touch of softness to the overall scheme.'

Stiffkey Blue Decor

Love the rich yet bright tone of Stiffkey Blue? These decor picks will bring a similar shade into any room.

A deep, inky blue with vibrant yet moody notes, Stiffkey Blue is an all-rounder paint color that works in almost any space. Whether it's a large living room in need of sophistication or a compact powder room, Stiffkey Blue enhances architecture and works with a plethora of design styles.

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While white paint might sound like the easiest paint color to choose for your home, it's a hue that's far from definitive. With a plethora of shades that make up the white color spectrum, it's fair to say the art of choosing the perfect white paint is a skillful one.

From cooler-toned crisp whites to the richer, creamy ivories, there's more to this unassuming color than you might think. While shopping for the best white paint can be tricky, knowing what to look for will help you land on not only a choice that suits your space but one that never appears yellow.

Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar, says, 'Choosing a white paint color that actually looks white and not yellow comes down to two major factors: the type of natural light a room receives and the color’s undertone. White paint colors are chameleons and pull in light and other color from surrounding objects.'

When looking for a white paint that will never lean yellow, the amount of daylight and the color of the daylight (i.e., the orientation of your space) are factors that you should always consider before anything else.

Helen Shaw, Marketing Director at Benjamin Moore, explains, 'South-facing rooms benefit from strong, warm sunlight, so whites can easily accommodate those without noticeable undertones, such as white paints with cool grey, blue or violet undertones. These tones act as a counterbalance, neutralising the intense golden light to keep the room appearing crisp and clean rather than overly creamy.'

Helen suggests some of Benjamin Moore's best white paints if you want to avoid any yellow undertones. 'Options such as Chantilly Lace OC-65 help maintain a bright, fresh look, while Decorator’s White OC-149 offers something more muted, with a hint of gray that creates a soft off-white that doesn’t lean strongly toward any particular tone. In north-facing rooms, which tend to have cooler light, whites with warm undertones work best to counteract shadows and prevent the space from feeling dull. Look for whites with subtle hints of red, pink or very soft peach, such as Opulence 879, rather than yellow, as these undertones create a gentler glow and help the colour feel balanced throughout the day.'

Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore US, continues, 'White paint colors are very easily influenced by their surroundings. Lighting, decor, and other design elements in the space can all affect how a paint color casts. If you find white paint colors are leaning too yellow in your home, consider looking at cooler white paint colors. Some popular, cooler white paint colors to look at are White Heron OC-57, Decorator’s White OC-149, and Horizon OC-53.'

When choosing a white paint, consider not only natural light but also the artificial lighting sources too. Arianna explains, 'If the room relies on artificial lighting, you have a bit more control over how the paint color casts. For white paint colors that are looking too yellow, consider changing the lightbulbs to something with a higher kelvin temperature that mimics daylight. This light is cooler and bluer. Often lightbulb boxes will say daylight, soft warm light, etc'.

The issue with choosing a white paint is that it's hard to tell how the color will appear in context. When you are looking at 100s of white paints in store, they can look very similar, and really understanding the undertones can be tricky.

Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design at Lick, has an easy hack to make the undertones of white paint clearer when you are shopping around. 'A really simple trick I often suggest to clients is to hold your paint sample next to a sheet of pure white paper. When you do this, the undertone becomes much easier to see. You will quickly notice whether the white leans pink, yellow, or gray, and that makes it much easier to decide whether it will work in your space.'

'It is also worth remembering that white does not exist on its own,' Tash continues. 'The other elements in your room – flooring, sofas, kitchen cabinets, tiles or artwork – all influence how a white will appear. If you are aiming for a crisp, contemporary look, pairing a white with cooler or modern pink undertones alongside natural materials like wood, stone, or linen can help keep the space feeling balanced and fresh.'

She adds, 'Sampling is essential. Whites are incredibly sensitive to both light and surroundings, so I always encourage people to test samples and move them around the room, looking at them at different times of day. For example, west-facing rooms often pick up warmer, redder tones in the evening light, which can make warmer whites appear more creamy. Ultimately, choosing the perfect tone of white is about understanding undertones, how the light changes in your room, and the materials you’re styling your space with, so everything works together naturally.'

A white room can feel surprisingly inviting when the hue is right for the space. Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene, explains, 'White is one of the most versatile colors you can use in your decorating and can be used as both a striking main color or a quieter highlight on ceilings or woodwork. Yet white is often one of the most difficult shades to choose, mainly because there are many nuances and hues, so finding the right tone of white can be a challenge.'

In south-facing rooms where the light is bright and warm, where warmer whites can feel yellow, Ruth recommends French Grey Pale or Flint as they 'will read as more neutral whites, whereas warmer whites such as Silent White or First Light can appear quite cream in tone. Colors in north-facing rooms tend to appear consistently flatter and cooler than they would do bathed in natural light, meaning slightly warmer whites such as Silent White Pale or Stock will appear more neutral in tone.'

Ruth continues, 'For a crisp, clean finish, Shirting is one of the brightest whites in the Little Greene palette, offering a pure mineral white without the harsh blue tinge created by artificial brighteners, making it perfectly suited to a minimalist decoration style. Whilst almost pure white, Loft White is slightly softer on the eye, making it ideal for both classic and contemporary schemes where a clean bright white is the aim.'

Yes, choosing a white paint can be harder than it looks, it's trickier than a color as it's such a chameleon shade that you never quite know how it's going to work in your space. With factors like daylight and decor to consider, there are plenty of things worth mulling over before deciding on the right hue for you.

As Arianna says, 'Before painting, study the overall lighting in the space. If you find that it leans warmer and gets a lot of warm southern exposure, the cooler white paint colors mentioned above may work better. If you find the space is grayer and more shadowed, a warmer white paint color can help to brighten the space.'

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While red might be a hue with fiery connotations, earthy red, its far gentler counterpart, is a color that couldn't be more grounding, and I am noticing it everywhere in 2026 so far.

Okay, if I were to envision a serene color scheme rooted in nature, I'd imagine deep khakis, warm browns, and faded terracottas long before any red paint. A hue that, on paper, couldn't be further from a neutral, red might usually be thought of as a bold choice, but these interior design projects prove that earthy red (a subdued take on red as we know it) can feel as tranquil and grounded as any neutral.

Falling somewhere between red and terracotta, earthy red feels warm enough to cocoon, yet stripped-back enough to enrich without overwhelming a room. Able to dance beautifully in natural light, the organic hue is the new way designers are decorating with red paint.

This cozy living room edges on the more vibrant side, but the earthy red is subtle enough to gently enrich the space without dominating.

Interior designer Polly Ashman explains decorating with earthy colors isn't limited to neutrals. 'We chose an earthy red to create a warm, enveloping atmosphere that feels both grounding and inviting. In a country house, these natural tones connect beautifully with the surrounding landscape and shifting light. The color brings depth and richness to the room while also creating a sense of comfort and intimacy, particularly in the evening when the light softens, and the space takes on a lovely golden glow.'

'Earthy reds pair beautifully with softer, balancing tones and natural textures,' suggests Polly. 'We layered warm woods and woven fibres to keep the palette relaxed and harmonious. Antiques, patterned textiles, and greenery help soften the richness of the color and give the room a collected, timeless feel.'

Charles Tashima, Founder of Studio Tashima, used Little Green's Tuscan Red in a recent project, using it on the bespoke built-in in the family room.

He explains, 'The color emerged through conversations with our client. We had a great collaboration with her. We find these the best projects and most fun to work on. We chose Tuscan Red to bring something warm and deep, but also bright and strong – working well during the day as a definitive colour but also working well at night, giving the room a fiery, cosy atmosphere.'

Charles adds, 'This was particularly important for this family/TV room, which we deliberately put in the darkest part of the house: on the ground floor facing northeast. The high garden fence made light levels even more challenging. We felt an earthy red would bring warmth and presence to the space during the day, pulling you away from thinking of it as a dark room.'

'These reddish hues, together with the earthy red of the room, act as accents within the house, reinforcing a palette rooted in natural materials. While earthy interiors often remain within muted browns, beiges and greens. We offset these with reds and rusts, which introduce a sense of warmth, depth and character.'

While decorating with red can feel a little bold, this charming (actually quite dark) living room couldn't feel more serene and inviting. Laura Hanbury, co-founder of Vanrenen Hanbury, explains, 'We chose Red Ochre by Edward Bulmer for this room, which is a double-ended drawing room, and although it has north, south, and east-facing windows, it can sometimes feel quite dark. We needed a color that worked just as well during the day to feel warm and grounding without being too dark, but that would really come alive in the evening when it is mostly used.'

Laura recommends colors that go with red, such as creamy tones and warm neutrals, when using the earthy hue. 'Earthy red hues look great with a soft woodwork color to frame them and keep an element of lightness. Here, we used Milk White on the ceilings, skirtings, and cornices, and we applied a similar principle to the window dressings, using plain cream linen to punctuate the stronger color on the walls.'

A paint color that works beautifully with natural light, earthy red elevates dark rooms as well as those flooded with daylight, providing a golden glow that grounds a scheme.

Emma Perkin, Director of Emil Eve Architects, used earthy red in this light-filled modern living room. 'Terracotta was the signature material for this house, which featured two quarry tile-clad extensions. We wanted to carry that rich color into the interiors, and the living room was the perfect space to fill with this earthy red – it creates a lovely sense of warmth and being cocooned.'

Emma continues, 'It's always important to consider the quality of light the room gets when choosing a color – this room is east facing, so the walls work well with the golden morning light, and then bring more richness and warmth as you move into evening.'

She adds, 'These reds look great with other earthy tones. In this house, we used ochre and different greens. Muted neutrals also work well, and these hues pair beautifully with natural wood.'

Earthy Red Decor

A color that feels grounded and connected to nature, earthy red couldn't be further from all the usual reds we're used to. While cherry red feels striking and burgundy feels dramatically rich, earthy red's warm undertones and a lack of vibrancy make it the perfect choice for spaces that need some depth and a little saturation.

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Designing a small kitchen can pose plenty of design challenges, from ensuring enough storage for appliances to allowing adequate countertop space, but landing on the right color palette in these compact rooms is just as important.

While white paint can be appealing in kitchens with limited square footage, in hopes of making them feel lighter and brighter, designers are increasingly opting for richer and more colorful tones from Sherwin-Williams. Adding depth, warmth, and a design-led look that can be tricky to achieve with white, these richer hues can be just what's needed to elevate small kitchens.

But what are the best colors for a small kitchen, exactly? Here, we've rounded up five favorite Sherwin-Williams paint colors among designers for small kitchens to inspire your next project. Although bolder than light neutrals, each of them has a muted, earthy quality that makes them easy to live with.

1. Portsmouth SW 9644

Portsmouth is an in-between, muted color that is versatile enough to work like a neutral paint in kitchens. Although technically a blue-gray color, it has green undertones that offer warmth – an important consideration for kitchen color ideas in compact spaces.

'We chose Sherwin-Williams' Portsmouth for this kitchen because of its quiet depth,' says Hannah Goldberg, founder of Hannah Charlotte Interiors. 'The effect is soft and calm, acting as an anchor that grounds the space without overwhelming the room.'

'Portsmouth works especially well in smaller kitchens because of how it responds to light,' she adds. 'Throughout the day, the tone shifts subtly – brightening as the sun fills the room and becoming more atmospheric as evening sets in. That gentle movement gives the cabinetry dimension and prevents the space from feeling dark or static.'

'The result is a kitchen that feels layered and alive, where color adds richness while still maintaining a sense of calm – a balance that’s especially important in more compact spaces,' says Hannah.

2. Naval SW 6244

Although it can be tempting to stick to light tones in small kitchens, much darker tones can be really effective, adding depth and contrast rather than playing it safe. In this open-plan kitchen and living space, a dark blue paint was used (similar to Sherwin-Williams' Naval). 'It was important that it not feel overly “kitcheny,” but instead read as something more architectural and refined within the larger apartment,' says the New York and Madrid-based designer Allison Garcy.

'The color works beautifully with the flooring and connects effortlessly with the surrounding materials, from the tile and wood tones in the kitchen to the wallpaper in the adjacent foyer,' she adds.

'The cabinetry recedes just enough to allow the other design elements of the apartment to shine, creating a layered, cohesive environment where the kitchen feels seamlessly woven into the overall architecture of the home,' says Allison.

3. Softened Green SW 6177

Light green paints are a wonderful alternative to neutrals, adding much more warmth and softness, while maintaining a light and airy feel that's easy to design around. In small kitchens, they're a great choice if you want to keep things fairly bright without defaulting to white paints.

Here, Softened Green, a calming shade that nods to country kitchen ideas, makes the perfect complement to the white wall tiles and kitchen countertops. 'We wanted the kitchen to feel elegant and comfortable with a happy color that provides a soft contrast to the natural stained wood of the island and flooring,' says the North Carolina designer Kara Cox. 'Softened Green by Sherwin-Williams gave the kitchen an English cottage feel that tied back to the classic Tudor architecture of the home.'

4. Night Owl SW 7061

Night Owl is a muddy, green-toned gray paint that feels aligned with the latest color trends that favor rich and comforting hues. Not too dark but mellow and calm, it brings depth to kitchens and a slightly unexpected look.

For the Washington-based designer Shannon Adamson, who used this rich neutral paint on the kitchen cabinets in this small kitchen, darker tones are an obvious choice for compact spaces. 'A smaller kitchen affords more freedom to go all-in on a bold or dramatic cabinet color,' she says. 'Used in smaller doses, there is less of a chance that the color will become heavy or overbearing.'

'In this kitchen, I used Night Owl, a gorgeous deep evergreen that lends depth and visual weight in the otherwise light space,' says Shannon. 'It's a perfect timeless green that reflects the surrounding landscape, without leaning too yellow or too blue. It also plays beautifully with warm woods.'

5. Cascade Green SW 0066

Cascade Green is another natural-feeling green paint color that lends itself to small kitchens. Part of Sherwin-Williams' Historic Color Collection, it brings moodiness and a slightly aged quality to rooms, making it a good option if you're looking to add character to a compact, modern kitchen.

Here, Cascade Green was used as a kitchen cabinet color, adding warmth and breaking up the palette of neutrals. 'The clients wanted color, but not in a noisy way,' explains the designer Nureed Saeed, founder of design studio Nu Interiors, which is based between California and New Jersey. 'Sherwin-Williams' Cascade Green is a bright and cheerful addition to any kitchen renovation. Not too yellow, not too blue, it holds a beautiful, rich saturation that feels colorful without overpowering the space, making it ideal for a small kitchen.'

Rather than defaulting to white when decorating a small kitchen, consider it an opportunity to go slightly bolder with your colors to add more depth and interest. All of these shades, from soft greens to gray-blues, are muted enough to keep your space feeling calm, and by using them on cabinets along with a warm white paint on the walls, your space will feel balanced and livable.

Remember to sample your paint shades before committing to see how they look in different lighting conditions throughout the day.

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Whether we're writing about the most timeless kitchen cabinet colors or sharing the hottest new interior design trend, color is part of the everyday here at Homes & Gardens. And our sources for the next biggest color trends can come from anywhere, but one voice we always listen to is that of Farrow & Ball.

Icons in the paint and color world, its brand ambassador, Patrick O'Donnell, is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to any color queries, and when he shares what's the next big thing in the color world, we listen.

Last year was defined by rich burgundies, pretty powder blues, and of course, the notorious buttery yellow, loved for its soft, enveloping qualities. And this year, the love for understated vibrancy and comforting richness continues. Sharing his color trends for 2026, Farrow & Ball's brand ambassador, Patrick O’Donnell, explains that these four color families in particular 'will be making a strong presence in 2026.'

1. Faded Terracotta

We might only be a quarter of the way into 2026, but faded terracotta is already defining this year's trends. Falling somewhere between plaster pink and orange, this earthy, quiet neutral is a warmer alternative to once-popular neutrals like gray or beige.

Patrick says, 'Faded soft terracottas, verging on blushy-pink apricots, are going to be huge.' While some of the best terracotta paints have a deep, rich orange undertone, the beauty of faded clay tones is their neutral feel, able to sing in the background of any room in the home. Patrick goes on to say this color family 'is really lovely and really gentle.'

Picture a living room donning an understated peachy tone, or a bedroom drenched in a pinker version of the hue. Patrick suggests some of Farrow & Ball's most beloved examples, the notorious Setting Plaster, and the slightly darker Templeton Pink.

2. Rich Chocolate

Deep, unctuous versions of brown had the world of interiors in a chokehold last year, with the most stylish rooms being color-drenched in glossy browns. Farrow & Ball says that the love for rich, really dark, brown will continue in 2026.

Patrick calls them 'rich chocolates', characterized by their depth. He continues, 'While chestnuts and tobaccos are really beautiful, we're going to see a little bit of a renaissance of darker browns.' Shades like Cola, a dark brown with red undertones, and the warmer Wainscot are perfect for enveloping a room with richness.

Patrick suggests these rich chocolate browns are 'beautiful for cabinetry or even a sitting room would just be heaven in a dark chocolate.' He recommends 'throwing in burnt oranges, pinks, and greens' for a harmonious contrast. Think the marmelade inspired Marmelo, the understated Pink Drab, and the charming Cooking Apple Green.

3. Eggplant

It'll come as no surprise that deep plum is a color trend Patrick predicts will only get more love in 2026. They quietly crept into the back end of last year, cropping up in cozy snugs, powder rooms, and kitchens last fall.

Patrick says, 'The other thing that's coming through quite strongly again is that aubergine note. I think we've seen a lot of that in editorial.' Referring to Brinjal (which Heidi Caillier used to decorate Kendall Jenner's mountain home last year), Patrick adds, 'we got a lot of resonance from that. Those lovely, kind of plum, winey, aubergine notes will be really big this year.'

Deep eggplant hues are best in small rooms; they pack a punch and open up restricted architecture. If you're planning to decorate with Farrow & Ball's Brinjal, pair it with crisp whites, earthy grays and greens, or pale pink.

4. Soft Yellow

All big trends have a knock-on effect. In the case of color, butter yellow took the interior world by storm for the entirety of 2025, meaning it's inevitable it will ripple into 2026, too.

Patrick says, 'I think soft yellows are going to come through. I know we keep talking about yellows and they never seem to have a full renaissance, but I think really gentle pale or buttery notes like Hay and Sudbury Yellow will.'

While soft yellows are refreshingly easy to style (unlike sunnier shades), it's still worth considering the colors that go with butter yellow to ensure your scheme feels balanced and timeless. A pastel yellow kitchen would welcome richer accents like navy or even burgundy; equally, a pale yellow bathroom might appreciate crisp white trim or crown molding to make the hue pop.

Not a white, beige, cream, or gray in sight in Patrick's predictions for the colors of 2026, proving that these once go-to neutrals are far from the radar. These colors are still very usable and livable – terracotta shades in particular are ideal if you are looking for a neutral-adjacent shade that's going to give more depth and interest.

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When square footage is limited, it can be tempting to put aside bold design ideas in favor of an understated neutral palette in hopes of making the space feel bright and breezy. But, according to designers, it's almost always better to embrace a room's small proportions and decorate confidently with richer shades.

'Small rooms naturally lend themselves to a strong color palette, especially when they don’t benefit from a huge amount of natural light,' explains Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore. 'Using a deep hue in such spaces can instantly create a glamorous, cocooning sensation – something that works particularly well in cloakrooms or small studies.'

Here, interior designers reveal the paint shades they turn to when exploring room color ideas for small spaces, to give you a fresh dose of color inspiration. From deep blues to earthy reds, these colors add depth, warmth, and drama to small spaces, taking them from predictable to full of design flair.

7 Bold Shades That Transform Small Rooms

'Painting the room from floor to ceiling in rich colors such as plum and dark green can look particularly striking, and you can play with light sources to create mood and ambience,' says Helen. 'Consider a higher finish, like semi-gloss or high-gloss, to bring reflection and dimension to these spaces. This finish is particularly effective if the space features period details, panelling, or when used on trim to create depth.'

From the latest color trends to enduring, classic shades designers rely on time and time again, this is how to level up a small room with paint in 2026.

1. Inky Navy Blues

Dark blue paint shades are a great way to add drama to small rooms. In this home bar designed by Jessica Helgerson, Farrow & Ball's Stiffkey Blue was used on the walls, cabinetry, and trim: a rich shade that works in both traditional and more modern settings.

'The deep saturated blue is a pretty complement to the warm brass counter and wood floor,' says Jessica. 'It feels classic and calming.'

When decorating with a dark blue like this one, a gloss finish helps to add movement. 'The high gloss finish of this small room bounces the light around and gives the space a sparkly, glamorous feeling,' she adds. 'The color itself keeps the space feeling sophisticated rather than glitzy.'

If you're looking for something slightly more muted, try Benjamin Moore's Hale Navy, or Little Greene's Hicks' Blue.

2. Warming Terracottas

Warm color schemes are a great choice for smaller spaces, ensuring they feel welcoming and cozy rather than distant. 'This terracotta-pink is warm without being overly saccharine, and it creates this cocooning effect that makes you want to curl up and stay a while,' explains the designer Rebekah Zaveloff, co-founder and creative director at Imparfait Design Studio, who opted for Benjamin Moore's Drenched Sienna on the walls here. 'It really makes the room feel special, not small.'

'People think you need to paint small rooms white to make them feel bigger, but that's a myth,' she adds. 'Dark or saturated colors actually make a small space feel more intimate and intentional, like a jewel box rather than a cramped afterthought.'

'This color shifts beautifully throughout the day,' Rebekah explains of the terracotta walls. 'In morning light, it reads more peachy and soft, and as the day goes on, it gets richer and more saturated. That's the magic of choosing a color with depth – it's not static, and it evolves with the light, which keeps the room from ever feeling one-note or boring.'

3. Dark Gray-Blues

If you're looking for a color for a small room that leans more neutral, designers recommend rich shades of blue-toned gray paints. 'Darker colors soften edges and make a room feel more inviting,' says the designer Marissa Stokes. 'Instead of making a space feel smaller, they add warmth and a layered, cozy quality, which works beautifully in a study.'

Here, Farrow & Ball's Inchyra Blue was used, a moody color that serves as a more reserved way of decorating with blue. 'The color changes subtly throughout the day,' Marissa adds. 'In brighter light, the blue-green tones feel fresh and rich. At night-time, the gray undertones come through, giving the room a softer, calmer feel.'

If you prefer green tones rather than blue, try Little Greene's Livid for a similar muted and moody scheme.

4. Vivid Blues

Small rooms are the perfect spaces to make a playful statement. Unlike larger and more open living spaces, smaller rooms are usually less frequented, and therefore, you can go bolder without overwhelming your home.

'Dark colors like this deep blue blur the edges of a space,' says the designer Erin Fearins of Studio SFW, who used Benjamin Moore's Kensington Blue in this powder room. 'Instead of clearly seeing where the walls end, the eye perceives more depth, making the room feel larger and more expansive. Powder rooms are perfect for bold, dramatic color – adding personality to a small space and turning it into an unexpected design moment tucked inside your home.'

'Since there’s no natural light in this space, using a deep blue actually elevates the fixtures, allowing the traditional vintage white pedestal sink and Austrian glass flower mirror to really pop,' Erin explains. 'As light reflects off the mirrored niche, the color reads rich rather than dark, creating a jewel-box effect.'

5. Wine Reds

In this laundry room, Farrow & Ball's Preference Red, a rich and warming hue, was used on the walls, cabinets, and ceiling for a cocooning and unexpected look.

'Because the color is enveloping the entire room, it reads more saturated and slightly pinker than it might on a single accent wall,' says Katie Cunningham, principal designer at Light and Dwell. 'The lacquer amplifies the depth, giving the space a rich, almost glass-like finish that shifts beautifully throughout the day.'

'The uniformity actually makes the space feel intentional and expansive in its own way, rather than a small room trying to feel bigger,' she adds. 'It creates an enveloping, confident, slightly romantic mood. There’s warmth, drama, and intimacy, but because of the lacquered finish, it still feels polished and fresh rather than heavy. It’s equal parts playful and sophisticated.'

'Natural light softens the red and brings forward its rosier undertones, while evening light deepens it into something moodier and more dramatic,' says Katie. 'The reflective finish prevents the color from absorbing too much light, which keeps the room feeling vibrant rather than dark.'

6. Olive Greens

Decorating with green brings a relaxed and livable feel to a room, especially with a paint shade that's not too dark or saturated, such as Sherwin-Williams' Retreat, which was used here.

'We often embrace deeper tones in smaller rooms because they blur the boundaries of the space rather than emphasize them,' says the designer Melissa Holt of Holt Design House. 'We used Retreat by Sherwin-Williams to create an enveloping effect that's intimate and grounded. It transforms a utilitarian room into something intentional and quietly sophisticated.'

'As the light shifts throughout the day, the color reveals subtle depth,' she adds. 'In morning light, it feels fresh and botanical; by evening, it becomes richer and more tonal. That movement keeps the room dynamic while maintaining a calm, restorative mood.'

7. Jewel-Toned Teals

Teal is another favorite color among designers for small rooms. This jewel-toned color has an air of opulence about it, and so it works especially well with warm-toned brass and natural stones in small bathrooms.

'Petite spaces are begging for a high dose of personality,' says Sarah Goesling, owner and principal at Goesling Group, who used Benjamin Moore's Dollar Bill Green here. 'This paint color is rich, but not overwhelming: a deep, soft approach to green that envelopes the room and complements the tile color. It helps create a mood-evoking sophistication without being pushy.'

'The sconces on either side of the leather mirror are reeded, so the light output refracts against each reed and glows against the rich green hue on the wall,' says Sarah.

Since the smallest rooms usually aren't the main living areas, but rather rooms that are used less often, it makes them the perfect spaces to have fun with paint colors and go for something bolder than you usually would.

To make the most out of these color ideas, consider using color-drenching to fully wrap the space, helping it to feel extra cozy, cohesive, and unexpected.

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Established paint brand Behr has unveiled its most sought-after colors of 2025, offering a glimpse into the palettes that captivated homeowners and designers alike. While some favorites are familiar (we're looking at you, Swiss Coffee), a handful of unexpected shades hint at a growing desire for hues that feel richer, bolder, and characterful.

Neutrals continue to dominate the best-seller list, yet sumptuous jewel tones made an equally compelling appearance, suggesting that 2026 color trends will celebrate not only grounding classics but also colors imbued with depth and emotion.

Where Behr’s beiges and creams once quietly anchored interiors, this year’s trends predict a bold shift: deep, enveloping shades (historically used as accents) are poised to step into the spotlight, redefining the concept of 'neutral' for homeowners looking to create a lasting statement.

What Were Behr's Best-Selling Shades In 2025?

Unsurprisingly, last year's paint trends continued to favor reliable neutrals. Kayla Kratz, Senior Director of Color & Design Strategy at Behr, explained, 'Neutrals have quietly had a makeover, and Behr's 2025 bestsellers are the proof. Swiss Coffee remains a go-to for its creamy, milky softness, while shades like Blank Canvas and Even Better Beige reveal how white and beige are evolving.'

More than your standard neutral paint, Kayla adds, 'Blank Canvas reads as a soft warm white with a hint of sunlit cream. It works beautifully across full walls or on trim and molding, where it feels tailored rather than sharp. Even Better Beige leans into a subtle sand tone with a limestone-like warmth that gives walls quiet substance without heaviness, a welcome quality in north-facing rooms that can otherwise feel cool and flat.'

It wasn't just neutrals that were popular in 2025; Kayla reveals jewel tones received plenty of appreciation. 'At the same time, we saw a rise in homeowner preference for richer tones. Hidden Gem (Behr's Color of the Year 2026) introduces a smoky jade that adds mood to bedrooms, cabinetry and dining rooms.'

Kaylad adds, 'Nocturne Blue delivers inky depth without reading black, perfect for a moody study with natural wood shelving and a desk. Then there’s Cracked Pepper, a soft charcoal that grounds lighter palettes and transforms a small half bath into something that feels deliberately considered rather than overlooked.'

What Can We Expect Color Trends To Look Like this Year?

While decorating with neutrals will always bring timeless appeal, 2026 will see interiors fully embracing richer, more immersive hues. Expect spaces awash in deeply saturated blues and enduring greens, as color-drenching transforms from accent to statement, bringing depth and warmth to every room.

Kayla says, 'What the 2025 bestsellers reveal is that homeowners are anchoring spaces with a warm neutral like Blank Canvas or Even Better Beige, then committing to saturated moments: a luxe dining room in Hidden Gem, a reimagined kitchen island in Nocturne Blue, and a powder room fully drenched in Cracked Pepper. The result feels considered rather than cautious – bold and grounded in equal measure.'

Fearless color choices are set to dominate in 2026. Kayla adds, 'That push-pull between quiet and bold is what will define interiors going into this year. Homeowners are less afraid of contrast and increasingly, they're using paint as the medium that ties together how they want each room to feel, rather than a single colorway that has to match everything else.'

What Paint Colors Will Be Big In 2026?

Butter yellow and rich burgundies may have dominated the world of interiors last year, but in 2026, expect to see more grounded, rich tones with organic notes. From earthy colors like rich dark greens to warm blacks, mellow reds, and deep ochres, these unctuous tones will be in all of your favorite interior designers' projects.

Kayla adds, 'In 2026, earthy and jewel-inspired tones move from accent to anchor. Grounded greens, warm terracottas, and rich browns will continue to grow as homeowners seek interiors that feel connected to nature. Think of a smoky jade bookcase with mineral depth, or a burnished terracotta carried from walls to ceiling for a room that wraps around you.'

Powder blue was an unexpected fall color trend last year, but 2026 will welcome deep notes. Kayla says, 'Deeper greens and sophisticated blues, like smoky jades and navy-leaning hues, are rising in popularity for their ability to anchor a space while maintaining harmony and offering far more visual interest than stark whites and cool grays.'

While last year revealed our universal love for both ends of the color spectrum (neutrals and jewel tones), for this year's interior design trends, there will be an even greater focus on layered spaces that make color the star of the show. Kayla says, 'The shift is not away from neutrals. It is toward layered rooms where warm foundations and saturated accents work together to tell a more complete story about how a space is meant to feel.'

She adds, 'What unites all of these directions is an appetite for color that envelops. Rooms in 2026 will feel layered, immersive, and intentionally composed, like a good story you don’t want to leave.'

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Renowned for its versatile palette of heritage hues, Farrow & Ball has long been the go-to destination for those in pursuit of the perfect paint color. While every shade in their extensive library has its charm, a select few 'hero' tones are particularly well-suited to small living rooms.

When it comes to standard living room color ideas, the choices can feel endless – but for more compact spaces, a handful of shades truly shine. Whether you’re styling a narrow lounge or an open-plan layout that seamlessly merges your kitchen with your living area, these designer-approved Farrow & Ball colors elevate architecture and make the most of every square foot.

From effortlessly livable off-whites to gentle, soft pinks, discover the three shades interior designers recommend for small living rooms that feel bright, inviting, and beautifully proportioned.

The Best Farrow & Ball Paints For a Small Living Room

1. Jitney

A neutral living room might sound a little boring, but Farrow & Ball's Jitney, a warm taupe-meets-brown, couldn't be further from bland. While many of us are moving away from classic neutrals for this year's living room color trends, if you're looking to keep things simple and relaxed but want to move away from using white as a neutral, Jitney is a refreshingly richer shade that's perfect for creating a timeless scheme in 2026.

While brown might not be an obvious 2026 color trend, Patrick O'Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball, explains, 'Browns as a color family are making a comeback and will make a beautiful, elegant statement in any room, but especially smaller rooms. Often, they add warmth and work effortlessly with pinks, greens, and blues.'

Deep enough to enrich yet pale enough not to overwhelm, Jitney brings unbeatable warmth to a small living room, providing the perfect canvas for richer pops of color in decor and furniture. Patrick adds, 'Earth tones offer comfort and gentle warmth without creating an overpowering statement – ultimately creating a tranquil space, and Jitney is the perfect example of a mid-earth shade.'

2. Joa's White

Undeniably one of the best cream paints on the market, Joa's White is a classic off-white color with taupe undertones. A versatile color, it's a shade that brings an openness to small living rooms, without straying into the overly clinical or sterile.

Interior designer Polly Ashman used the long-loved cream in a recent project. She explains, 'This is a north-facing living room, so we didn't want anything too heavy or cold. We wanted to keep it light and inviting and let the art, fabrics and accessories do the talking.'

While white undeniably makes smaller spaces feel larger, a cream living room is remarkably warmer and more inviting. Polly adds, 'Joa's White is a lovely warm neutral that is a great choice for a smaller living room as it doesn't take over the space, it lifts the room and allows you to layer on top with either stronger colors or earthy neutrals.'

3. Setting Plaster

Loved for its softness, you've likely heard of Setting Plaster. A Farrow & Ball color that bridges the gap between light and warm, it's a gentle pink that works beautifully for a neutral scheme. Able to cocoon and still uplift, it's the perfect color for elevating and adding an inviting warmth to a small space.

Sarah Limbert, founder of Poets Corner Interiors, explains, 'We chose Setting Plaster because we wanted the room to feel both light and fresh during the day, yet warm and cocooning in the evening, a space that could transition beautifully from morning coffee to relaxed nights in.'

Unlike bright pinks, which can feel feminine, small living rooms decorated with plaster tones feel comforting and serene. Sarah continues, 'Setting Plaster is exceptionally well-suited to small living rooms. I often describe it as an elevated neutral as it carries more personality than beige or off-white, yet remains incredibly versatile. It never feels cold or flat, but equally, it avoids the heaviness that can sometimes make compact spaces feel smaller.'

There are colors you should never paint a small living room and colors you should, and these three timeless Farrow & Ball shades definitely fall into the latter. Neutral yet still warm and interesting, they are perfect for enriching a small space with quiet vibrancy, designed to work alongside any interior design style.

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If you've ever stepped back from your finally complete room and questioned why it seems to fall flat, you're not alone. Indeed, carefully selected furniture, lighting, textiles, and window treatments aren't always enough if the wall color isn't quite right.

And so, instead of attempting to add more soul to your room with more decor, it might be worth taking a look at your paint colors. While neutrals work wonderfully in certain rooms (light-flooded spaces that feel light and airy), some spaces benefit hugely from a richer palette of paint colors.

That said, choosing the right paint ideas to add more depth to a room can be tricky, especially if you're used to lighter tones. To help you on your way, here, interior designers share the paint colors they turn to when they want to add more depth than light neutrals.

6 Paint Colors Designers Use to Add Depth to Rooms

'Some fear that adding a dark color to a space will make it appear claustrophobic; however, dark colors cleverly absorb the light, making the division between walls appear blurred,' explains Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore. 'This "blurred edges" effect adds depth and dimension to a room, making the space appear larger, rather than more cramped as some may fear.'

Beyond the wall colors themselves, it's also important to choose the right paint finish when looking to add more depth to a room. 'When used thoughtfully, an all-encompassing gloss finish can bring real drama to a space,' adds Helen. 'Deep, jewel-toned hues add warmth and sophistication, creating a cozy retreat, especially when paired with ambient lighting. They not only reflect light and enhance dimension but also inject a space with a sense of characterful luxury.'

1. Soothing Teals

Decorating with teal is soothing yet exciting when used on the walls, and Benjamin Moore's Aegean Teal is a favorite for the designer Kristen Fiore of Kristen Elizabeth Design. 'Aegean Teal adds depth due to its complex blend of warm and cool undertones,' she says. 'The blend of blues and greens, although cool in nature, read warm when balanced with the cool gray undertone. This complexity forces the eye to process multiple tones, creating a three-dimensional richness on a flat wall.'

Because teal is a blend of blue and green, a room's lighting will affect which tones are most prominent. 'Aegean Teal changes significantly throughout the day depending on its light source,' adds Kristen. 'We love it in low-lit rooms, but the color really comes to life when you color-drench a room with a lot of natural sunlight. South-facing rooms work the best as the vibrancy of the blues and greens is pulled forward.'

'When the sun goes down, and you switch to warm artificial light, it deepens into a cozy, enveloping teal,' she says. 'We like to experiment with different accent colors such as Amazon Green to create a dark, dramatic accent, Farrow & Ball's Oval Room Blue or Borrowed Light to pull the blues and grays forward, and for a more contrasting, softer traditional feel, Benjamin Moore's Edgecomb Grey is a good friend.'

2. Blue-Toned Grays

Adding more interest to your walls doesn't need to be loud – a well-chosen blue-toned gray paint adds more color than classic gray paints, but with enough restraint to keep things feeling neutral.

Farrow & Ball's Inchyra Blue is a popular blue-gray, which adds moodiness and drama to rooms. Ansley Majit, the founder of L+P Interiors, describes it as 'a super complex shade that adds instant depth without overwhelming a space.'

'Its slightly dusty quality keeps it feeling refined and relaxed at the same time, sophisticated, but never too formal,' she adds. 'This color is especially effective in rooms with less consistent natural light, because it maintains its richness in darker conditions while responding beautifully when light filters in. In softer or indirect light, the color feels warm, layered, and dynamic rather than flat.'

'We love pairing it with ocher and warm gold tones to bring in contrast and warmth, and it’s equally striking alongside deep dusty pinks and rich maroons,' adds Ansley. 'While it’s a true color, it functions almost like a neutral; it’s incredibly versatile and complements a wide range of palettes.'

3. Dark Pine Greens

Green paints add depth to rooms while offering a relaxed and calming feel, and going for a dark tone is a simple way to add a sense of drama. Although bold, Benjamin Moore's Tarrytown Green is cool enough to feel livable. 'The color is complicated, ranging from green to blue to almost black depending on the light,' explains the designer Jessica Helgerson, who used this moody shade in this dining room foyer.

When using a shade as dark as this one, it's important to consider the room's lighting conditions. According to Jessica, it lends itself to rooms that don't receive direct sunlight, where it can be used liberally, and is best used in smaller doses in brighter rooms. 'This color works well as an overall color in rooms that are naturally darker, or as an accent in sunnier spaces,' she says. 'It is a lovely complement to warm tones like terracotta or gold.'

4. Rich and Warming Browns

If you're drawn toward neutral hues, consider adding depth to your room with a rich chocolate brown on the walls. Sophisticated and grounding, decorating with brown is warming and cozy.

'This rich chocolate brown wraps the bedroom in a cozy cocoon, but more importantly, it creates depth through contrast and dimension,' explains the designer Paloma Contreras, who used Benjamin Moore's Dixon Brown. 'Dark brown is one of those colors people hesitate to use, yet when done well, it allows lighter furnishings, artwork, and textiles to really stand out.'

'A color like this naturally adds dimension, so the room feels layered and interesting rather than flat,' adds Paloma. 'Dixon Brown feels warm and grounded, and when paired with creamy whites, natural textures, and brass, it brings a beautiful sense of richness to the space.'

'In very dim rooms without contrast, a color like this can feel heavy,' she adds. 'But when it is balanced with light textiles, mirrors, and warm metals, it reads intimate and refined rather than dark. It works best in rooms with natural light, especially soft or indirect light that enhances its warmth and richness.'

5. Moody Reds

If you're feeling braver, why not go for a moody shade of red on the walls? Incredibly warming, red paints make a bold statement, but choosing the right shade is key. Farrow & Ball's Preference Red is a popular wine color that leans more towards a plum shade than traditional red.

In this dining room, Preference Red was used to color-drench the space. 'I'm always drawn to red when a room needs conviction,' says the designer Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA. 'In this space, the red feels intentional rather than decorative. It anchors the room emotionally, and instead of floating, everything else around it – like the furnishings, the art, the light – has to push against it. Red has the rare ability to create both intimacy and drama at the same time.'

'Red absorbs and reflects light in a way that changes throughout the day,' Kristina adds. 'In the morning, the light is reflective and can feel energetic. In the evening, it deepens into something moodier and cocooning.'

6. Mossy Greens

A mid-tone green paint is a great way to add depth to a room, while keeping the space feeling uplifting and soothing, rather than moody and dramatic. In this living room, Benjamin Moore's Great Barrington Green was used, adding warmth and complementing the wood tones.

'This home is a jewel box as it’s rich in color, emotion, and memory,' explains the designer Sarah Goesling, owner and principal at Goesling Group. 'It’s designed to feel special, expressive, and lively, and every moment tells a story to create a deeply personal space for our client.'

'Like most of Benjamin Moore’s Historical Color Collection, this color plays best with natural light,' adds Sarah. 'With the large, wall-to-wall windows in this living room and kitchen, we had the benefit of embracing the natural light. I believe letting the color exist in its most natural environment is the best version possible.'

Once you find a paint shade for your space that works in harmony with your style, the room's lighting, and the decor itself, you'll be well on your way to creating a room that offers depth, warmth, and interest. While it can be tempting to stick to a palette of neutrals, the richer and more nuanced shades listed here can add a lot more coziness and movement, without overwhelming with too much vibrancy.

It's in the name: cool blue. This shade says cold, and with that, I assumed uninviting. But I can no longer ignore the rise of this pale, sky blue. I am seeing it everywhere I look, from my own social media feeds to the houses on the pages of Homes & Gardens. Cool blue is the color of 2026 so far.

Blue is, of course, a timeless shade, as versatile as a neutral, and there's always a certain blue that's topping color trends. Right now, it's a cool, muted blue that's powdery but not as soft as a powder blue, and uplifting but not quite as bright as a sky blue. Named recently within Pinterest's 2026 palette, it's a shade that's set to dominate this year.

As a once-skeptic about how these cooler shades work when you still want your home to feel warm and inviting, I asked designers how to work with cool blues in a way that's not going to make my rooms feel icy.

'Cool blue can feel beautifully classical and elegant, think of Robert Kime’s pale blue sitting rooms and bedrooms layered with warm textiles and dark wood furniture. Equally, it can feel very contemporary, especially when used in a full color drench,' explains color expert Harriet Slaughter explains.

Harriet addresses my immediate concerns with the color leaning too cold to create cozy spaces by telling me it's about the shades I can pair it with. Combining this on-trend shade with warmer hues is her simple solution.

Sharing the colors that go best with pale blue, Harriet explains 'I love pairing it with bright red accents for a flash of warmth, or with natural materials such as oak, sisal carpet, and brass detailing. In simple color theory terms, orange sits opposite blue on the color wheel, so cool blue is a wonderful way to temper rooms with very warm or orange-toned timber floors.'

'I chose to paint my son’s nursery in ‘Celestial Blue’ by Little Greene,' she continues. 'Although it reads as a cool blue, this particular shade leans slightly warmer, which makes it perfect for creating a cozy, restful space. I decided to drench the room ceiling, woodwork, and all, which made for a very cocoon-like space.'

With soothing, gentle qualities, it's hardly surprising that Charlotte Boundy chose to use a subdued blue in the guest bedroom of her home. But like me, she also tends to steer clear of cooler colors in her home, but makes an exception for cool blues.

'Whilst I don’t often gravitate towards cooler colors in my interiors, there is something about Light Blue by Farrow & Ball that I return to time and time again,' she explains. 'It has an unmistakable gentleness, a traditional blue with a softness that never feels cold and seems to shift beautifully over the course of the day.'

'Light Blue is not a color that clambers for attention or risks falling out of favour; it endures. It sits as naturally within the pared-back simplicity of a contemporary interior as it doesn’t amount to the layered textures and gentle patina of a country house, proving that the most lasting colors are often the most understated.'

A calming color that bridges the gap between neutral and striking, cool blue can provide a grounding touch to a room with a lot going on, as proven with this eclectic living room designed by Rebecca Hughes.

'Soft, pale blue is one of my favorite colors to use because of its inherently calming and restorative nature,' explains Rebecca. 'It evokes the quiet of the sky and sea, which makes it particularly well-suited to spaces where relaxation is a priority. In bedrooms, cool blue creates a serene, airy atmosphere.'

'I love using pale blue on bedroom walls as a gentle backdrop, paired with a warm creamy white on trim, ceilings, or bedding to keep the space feeling balanced and inviting. The warmth of the creamy white prevents the blue from feeling too crisp, creating a soft, harmonious contrast. Layering in natural textures – such as wood furniture, linen bedding, woven rugs, or subtle brass accents – adds depth and warmth.'

While cool blue could sound sterile in a bathroom, when balanced with lived-in accents, it can provide tranquillity and calm that's so fitting in a room designed for getting ready or slowing down.

This blue bathroom, designed by Leonora Birts, is proof that cool blue creates character in a bathroom, particularly when balanced with vintage details. She explains, 'I tend to use cooler blue colors in either bathrooms, or kitchens. Rooms where there is a lot of natural space and light, so the room doesn’t feel too cold and dark.'

'If you're using a cool blue in the home, you have to balance it with good levels of decorative lighting and warm colored fabrics. I love the combination of blues and warm yellows.'

Shop Cool Blue Decor

From whimsical lighting to elegant bookshelf decor, these six cool blue picks will bring a cool, calm, and collected feel to your home.

Alright, I am sold. Cool blue works in the right space, paired with the right colors and the right layered decor. But this is a chameleon shade, and it will totally change depending on the room and the light it gets, so be sure to order plenty of samples before you commit to a paint color.

'If I had to choose a favourite color, cool blue would certainly be up there,' Harriet tells me. 'It is calming and incredibly livable, but it does need thoughtful placement as it can sometimes feel a little cold, and I would generally be cautious in north-facing or naturally gloomy rooms.'

There are few paint techniques as effective as color-drenching when creating a room that feels cohesive, design-led, and the perfect amount of playful. Wrapping a room in one color, including the ceiling, woodwork, and doors, avoids the harsh contrast that's otherwise apparent when details are painted default white, and can even make small rooms appear more spacious.

And while color-drenching is proving to be more of a timeless way of decorating than a fleeting trend, the key to its success is choosing the right paint shade – one that resonates with the mood you want to create and the light levels of the room. 'By wrapping the walls, millwork, trim, and ceiling in one deep hue, the room feels immersive and intentional, like a jewel box,' explains interior designer Marie Flanigan. 'It quiets visual noise and lets the craftsmanship, proportions, and furnishings feel collected rather than competing.'

Below, interior designers share the paint colors they turn to when color-drenching rooms. From rich and bold shades that bring drama, to soft neutrals that offer calm, these ideas prove that color-drenching is a versatile way to decorate with paint, no matter your decor style.

1. Powder Blue

If you want to step away from neutrals with a more colorful scheme, consider drenching your walls with a light, powdery shade of blue. Naturally calming, a blue color-drenched scheme works well to create a relaxing bedroom.

Here, the designer Maggie Griffin used Benjamin Moore's Brewster Gray, a muted hue that offers timeless appeal. 'With every fun angle of the ceiling, rooflines, walls, and windows, I wanted to highlight all of those details by painting the entire space in one shade of blue,' says Maggie. 'Brewster Gray in a satin finish covers the handsome tongue and groove paneling throughout the space. With pretty green undertones, the room never feels cold or gloomy.'

Cooler, dusky blue paints like this one can feel balanced and fresh in well-lit rooms, such as south-facing rooms, but you may want to go for something warmer in naturally darker rooms to keep it cozy. In this case, the sunlight streams into the room in the morning, adding warmth to the cool color scheme. 'At night, with the drapes drawn, the room becomes cozier and softer, perfect for a good night's rest,' Maggie says.

2. Earthy Taupe

Color drenching isn't just about colorful hues that infuse a room with boldness. For a more grounded approach, neutral paints work wonderfully, resulting in a cohesive space with minimal contrast.

'I’ve always been big on matching trim and ceiling paint colors to wall color,' explains the designer of this guest bedroom, Steph Schlegelmilch of Studio Seva. 'It softens a space, which is important to me, especially in bedrooms. It’s actually quite rare for me to introduce contrast with the typical white ceiling and trim. Color drenching creates the illusion of taller ceilings, as there is no real delineation.'

For this space, Patagonia by Portola Paints was used in a plaster finish. 'It’s one of my favorite colors in a bedroom because it brings in warmth without being too dark,' says Steph. 'It’s the perfect mix of gray and beige.'

While white paints can feel stark in a bedroom, this neutral shade delivers warmth and softness. 'This color, along with the textures throughout, brings a subdued, calming feel to the space,' says Steph. 'I wanted it to feel timeless yet modern and clean. This color offered the perfect backdrop to complement the rest of its design.'

Although neutral, this wall color offers plenty of difference as the light changes throughout the day. 'The natural light really bounces in this room,' says Steph. 'At night, it reads a little deeper, which is ideal for setting the scene for winding down the day.'

3. Muted Green

Green paints are a happy medium between color and neutrals, and they work especially well for living room color schemes. Muted tones, such as earthy sage or olive, bring depth and richness when color-drenched, without overwhelming this social space with too much saturation.

'I knew that I wanted a moodier feel,' says designer Maggie Griffin, who opted for Benjamin Moore's Dark Olive in a satin finish throughout this room. 'It's easily wipeable, but also highlights pretty shadows throughout the day, unlike flatter paints.'

Earthy greens like this one also lend themselves perfectly to traditional decorating ideas, especially in spaces with decorative details. 'With the Tudor architecture of the exterior, I incorporated moldings into this space that reflect the style, and the deep olive hue nods to the style as well,' says Maggie.

What's more, cozy shades of green tend to translate well to lots of room orientations – warm enough in low light rooms, while muted enough to not overpower light and bright spaces.

4. Rich Red

A bolder paint shade used across all walls, woodwork, and the ceiling is a failsafe way to add impact, not least when you choose a gloss paint finish for extra drama. In this home library, designer Marie Flanigan used Sherwin-Williams' Carriage Door, which she describes as 'a rich oxblood-inspired tone that feels historic yet surprisingly modern.' 'The room feels intimate, layered, and quietly dramatic,' she says.

'Color-drenching allowed the architecture to fully take the lead,' says Marie. 'The lacquered finish adds depth and interest without reading heavy. The deep color creates a sense of calm confidence; moody but not somber. It invites lingering, whether for conversation, reading, or a slow game of chess, and feels equally appropriate by day or evening.'

If you're drawn towards dark paints, going for a gloss finish like this one reflects light, which can stop the space from feeling too heavy. 'The lacquer captures the daylight from the windows and gently bounces it back into the space, creating a sense of depth and movement throughout the day,' says Marie. 'In brighter moments, the room feels energized and luminous despite the deep color. In the evening, the gloss softens, and the walls recede, allowing the space to feel more intimate and enveloping. It’s a dynamic effect that brings the room to life without ever feeling flashy.'

5. Muddy Brown

You can also embrace a dark color scheme while keeping things neutral by drenching a room with brown paint. In this bedroom, a custom paint shade wraps the walls in a plaster finish, achieving an earthy look without falling flat. 'It is very matte and has a good amount of movement, but also very smooth to the touch,' says the designer Doniphan Moore.

'I wanted to create a mood without relying on something “colorful”,' says Doniphan. 'The space is warm and comforting, but surprisingly restrained. As a guest room, it creates an atmosphere that is easy to relax in, sleep in, and be present in.'

'In certain parts of the day, it feels much more golden brown, and in the evening, with artificial light, it has a slightly more gray-green undertone,' he adds. 'I love that plaster allows for this changing vibe throughout the day – it’s so successful in creating a mood based on the time of day and what’s going on outside.'

6. Dark Khaki

In home offices, a dark shade of khaki is a great way to create a moody and timeless look when used on all walls. Here, it extends to the built-ins, resulting in a harmonious space that brings personality to a functional room.

'I wanted to create a dramatic space that enveloped you and felt distinctly different from the rest of the home,' explains the designer Lindsey Black. 'Color drenching in a space with a significant amount of millwork prevents the room from feeling choppy by keeping the color continuous across the ceiling, trim, walls, and bookcases.'

When decorating with a deep shade like this one, the right paint finishes are key, preventing it from looking flat by adding subtle variation. Here, an eggshell finish was used on the walls, matte on the ceiling, and satin on the millwork. 'The overall feel of the room is moody and inviting,' Lindsey adds. 'The color brings a sense of calm and warmth, which is ideal for a study.'

Choosing the right color will make or break your color-drenched scheme, so it's important to sample shades before committing so you can see how they look in different lights. While bold and deep shades are a stylish choice for small rooms or those that are mainly used during the evening for relaxing, those that lean more neutral can be a more livable choice in the main social spaces, such as kitchens, living rooms, and entryways.

Small rooms can often be the trickiest to design, and a big part of this is getting the right color palette. When dealing with these pocket-sized proportions, we naturally lean towards light colors such as white, pale gray, or a soft beige, assuming these will open up the space.

However, despite light colors traditionally being the default here, it's actually the opposite that tends to ring true. Lighter shades aren't always the best colors to make a small room look bigger. Darker, richer shades can make these compact spaces feel larger and more intentional, along with adding depth and personality to overlooked corners of the home.

It’s worth bearing in mind that not all dark colors are made equal, and some particularly shine in small spaces. From deep caramel brown to rich burgundy and forest green, we asked five color experts for their favorite dark shades and why they work so well in small spaces.

1. Rich Burgundy

Opting for this dark red, wine-inspired shade is a shortcut for injecting character and depth into a small space. 'The value of these shades is that they can make a space feel bigger than it is, or create a cocooning, intimate and luxurious feel depending on how they are used,' Dominic Myland, CEO of luxury paint company Mylands, explains.

Deep red shades instantly add depth to walls. 'Whilst warmer undertones of orange and magenta can sometimes feel too energetic for smaller spaces, if the overall saturation is muted and soft, then the eye isn’t directly drawn to the walls, making it appear bigger,' Dominic details.

Rich burgundy works particularly well in both home offices and small bathrooms. 'Dark red is a sophisticated choice for an office as it is not distracting to the eye and helps to create a calming environment that allows you to focus,' he points out. Meanwhile, the depth of dark red really suits bathrooms that lack windows or significant light. 'The warm undertones allow you to embrace the reduced sunlight without making it feel confined,' he explains.

When it comes to application, a confident color-drenched approach can make all the difference. 'Flooding the room with a single color creates a unified impression. This decreases visual noise and makes spaces appear larger,' Dominic suggests.

2. Caramel Brown

Decorating with brown, specifically a soft caramel brown, is very effective in small spaces because it brings warmth, richness and character without feeling heavy or flat. 'Unlike some darker shades, which can appear overly gray or dull and risk making a room feel enclosed, earthy browns have a natural depth and softness that feels inviting rather than oppressive,' designer Laura Stephens shares.

A deep caramel brown has an elegance and warmth that avoids a cave-like effect. 'Instead, it creates a cocooning atmosphere that feels considered and comforting, adding sophistication and visual interest without overwhelming the space,' she says.

Laura explains how this saturated shade creates a strong sense of depth, which is beneficial in smaller rooms. 'Rather than stopping the eye abruptly, it allows surfaces to recede visually, giving the illusion of greater space. This depth softens boundaries and corners, which can make a room feel more expansive and cohesive.'

Recently challenged by a small home office with awkward angles and a north-facing aspect, Laura turned to using this deep caramel brown. 'The room lacked warmth and energy before, but this earthy brown transformed it. The color grounded the space, added warmth, and made it feel far more inviting and usable,' she notes. Meanwhile, the warm brown actually enhanced difficult architectural features rather than highlighting them.

This deep caramel shade also serves as a beautiful backdrop for other colors, with its depth and saturation allowing brighter hues to really shine, while still feeling balanced and grounded. 'I love pairing it with crisp white details for contrast, or introducing bolder accents such as cobalt blue, grassy green, or even earthy reds, all of which sit harmoniously against it,' Laura recommends.

3. Forest Green

This nature-inspired shade succeeds particularly well in small spaces thanks to the complexity of the color. Nina Lichtenstein, a Westchester-based Interior Designer, explains how a flat or overly cool dark color can feel heavy or oppressive, but forest green really sings when a room is on the small side. 'The depth of forest green adds visual richness, its undertone often leans warm or earthy, and its saturation is strong enough to feel intentional without being harsh,' she shares.

These qualities give the color dimension, so it responds well to changes in light throughout the day. 'Morning light might bring out its freshness, while evening light deepens its warmth,' she explains. It can also make spaces feel deeper and more immersive, even if its footprint hasn’t changed. 'A forest green absorbs light and reduces contrast at the edges, allowing walls to visually dissolve,' she continues.

Nina often chooses a forest green in small home offices. A constant reminder of the natural world, it carries an inherent sense of balance and restoration, which is why it works so well in spaces meant for concentration or retreat. 'In a small home office, a forest green reduces visual noise, supports sustained attention, and allows the room to feel purposeful rather than cramped. Instead of the walls calling attention to themselves, they recede, allowing the mind to settle,' Nina says.

4. Soft Black

While decorating with black might seem tricky, it can be a rich and dramatic option for a small space. 'A small space is a small space and bright white walls won't make it any larger. I'm all about embracing the darkness, and the right black will envelop you with warmth,' Seattle-based designer Allison Lind explains. Plus, for some, it’s more appealing than a bold color. 'It maintains a neutral palette for the color-averse clients, but still offers depth, dimension and drama,' she adds.

When choosing the right black for a small space, undertones are key. 'I always prefer a black that has warmer undertones as it reads softer to the eye. Think more of a cozy cave than a sterile cavern,' Allison says. This means looking for a black that has brown or red undertones and avoiding those with blue ones.

Allison shares how this warm-undertoned black can work particularly well in spaces where you wish to add a bit of drama or coziness. 'This is a go-to for us in powder bathrooms and even bedrooms,' she says. Color drenching the room, including the ceiling, creates the most effective impact. Meanwhile, using a textured black, perhaps a black tile or stone in a bathroom or a black wallpaper in a small bedroom can really elevate the space.

5. Navy Blue

For a dark color that serves as a sophisticated neutral as opposed to a bold color, navy blue is always an excellent choice for a small space. Mark Schubert, Principal and Founder of Chicago-based M2 Design Lab explains how it has just the right level of depth for a small room with enough weight to ground a space without feeling too heavy.

Within navy, its undertones and saturation levels will impact the end look of your small room. 'A navy with cooler, inky undertones feels architectural and modern, while one with warmer or slightly green undertones can feel more classic and cocooning. Meanwhile, highly saturated navies feel bold and confident, while slightly muted versions feel softer and more atmospheric,' Mark explains. Selecting the right balance of all three ensures the color enhances the space rather than overwhelming it.

Navy is especially effective in small powder rooms, vestibules, home offices, and intimate dining rooms or small bedrooms where you want impact without relying on square footage. 'I often use it in windowless powder rooms, where the lack of natural light actually enhances the richness of the color, as well as in narrow hallways or reading nooks to create a sense of drama and destination rather than treating them as purely transitional spaces,' Mark says.

Mark suggests coloring-drenching an entire small space in a deep hue like dark navy so the boundaries blur and the eye reads the space as larger and more cohesive. 'The result is a room that feels deeper and more immersive,' he shares.

Whether you're giving your home office a fresh update, tackling a tiny bathroom renovation, or perhaps still feeling perplexed with how to make a tiny bedroom feel cozy, it’s time to rethink outdated rules about light and dark colors. Picking a dark hue could be the missing piece in the puzzle and a much-needed solution to create a warm and inviting space that feels more spacious than it actually is.

No one can deny the appeal of a high-gloss paint finish. With its reflective and lustrous sheen, it's eye-catching, statement-making, and undeniably luxe – a bold finish with guaranteed visual impact.

Although high gloss paint seems to be a reflection (pun intended) of current design trends and the collective desire for unique, personality-driven interiors, it's not the most obvious or easiest paint finish to choose. Dramatic looks aside, this finish is rather difficult to work with, too. It requires an arduous application process, and one small hiccup in its glaze can ruin its entire effect. That said, 2026 is the year to take risks with design, and if applied right, in the right space, a high-gloss finish is one of the most stylish statements you can make.

To understand just how to use this tricky yet rewarding paint finish in interiors, we spoke to designers who have mastered all of the nuances and complexities that come along with high gloss paint. Here's how they use it for the best outcome.

How to Use High Gloss Paint

With its high reflectivity and lustrous shine, high gloss paint deserves full attention. Knowing how and where to use it in interiors can help you make the most of its unique visual appeal.

According to John B. Murray, founder of John B. Murray Architect LLC., it helps to consider the purpose of a room before deciding whether or not to use high gloss paint. For instance, John says that because of its reflectivity, high gloss paint might not be the best choice for relaxation zones within the house, like a cozy bedroom. 'But in a room where you're entertaining and you have beautiful light levels, it adds a level of glamour,' John explains of high gloss paint. That makes it an ideal choice for living rooms, dining rooms, entryways, and even kitchens.

Another factor to consider is how to use high gloss paint. Of course, it looks good as traditional wall paint, but high gloss can work wonders as an accent detail, too – perhaps as molding, as door paint, or even as cabinet paint. Let's look at some examples of its use in interior design, below.

1. Create a Back Drop for Maximalist Spaces

If you're interested in designing a luxury living room, high gloss paint is definitely the right paint for the job. Its reflective appeal is undeniably chic, and when used in a bold color, it commands attention.

Patrick O'Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball, explains that the brand's 'Full Gloss' finish on wainscoting and paneling creates a stylish reflective sheen, 'that can help bounce precious light around in otherwise gloomy spaces,' he explains. Just look at the room above as an example. Finished with Farrow & Ball's Vardo in full gloss, the room radiates a moody yet elegant vibe, and the glossy paint helps illuminate the room with its reflective sheen.

Since living rooms are typically considered the center of entertainment in a home, it makes sense to choose a lively paint color and finish to enhance the atmosphere of the space.

2. Make An Accent Door Shine

In case you haven't heard, accent doors are the new accent walls. They're a low risk, high reward way to add a level of style to a space, especially if you paint your door with a glossy finish.

In the entryway above, designed by the team at Elizabeth Krueger Designs, the high gloss-painted door acts as a statement feature that adds a level of luxury to the space. The color of the door tastefully complements other elements in the room, and its high gloss finish creates a glamorous, shining effect – especially as it picks up light from the opposing side of the room.

This apartment overlooks Lake Michigan in Chicago, and according to Erin Fischer, Director of Operations at Elizabeth Krueger Designs, 'the high gloss finish pulls the lake and horizon right through to the front door.' This example demonstrates high gloss paint's innate ability to reflect its surroundings, connecting any space to the environment in which it exists, while simultaneously stylizing the atmosphere around it.

3. Choose High Gloss For a Statement Small Kitchen

John B. Murray explains that high gloss is an incredibly durable paint finish – not only is it resistant to scuff marks and most scratches, but it's very easy to wipe clean. For these reasons, it makes sense to use high gloss paint as a kitchen cabinet idea.

In the green kitchen above, designed by John's architecture firm and partnering designers, both the upper and lower cabinets are finished in a glossy green paint, as well as the door frame and the crown molding. The rich green color grounds the kitchen, and its reflective finish picks up light. Together, these details create a dynamic space that feels luxe and sophisticated. Plus, the glossy coat on the cabinets makes the kitchen feel much larger than it is.

'That notion of reflectivity adds the depth,' John explains of the high gloss in this room. 'It's not quite like looking in the mirror, but as you're looking there, you see the space reflected, which is a very unique feature.'

4. Use High Gloss to 'Lift' a Ceiling

High gloss paint can make just as grand an effect on the ceiling as it can on any other surface in the home. According to John, a glossy ceiling has a way of 'lifting' a room. '[High gloss paint] sort of dematerializes the ceiling a bit, and in essence, I think it gives a lift,' he explains. It's a ceiling idea that can invite significant amount of visual interest to a space.

Just take the living room above as an example. Aside from the vibrant pink drapes, the space is refined and quietly elegant by design. However, the reflective sheen from the high gloss ceiling completely transforms the space – it's as if you're looking into a mirror. John quips that if you were to look at this room upside down, it would almost be the same.

The reflection on the ceiling creates a dynamic visual effect, transforming the room into one with movement and depth. It's a style choice that can be featured in any room, too – from large great rooms like the one above to small closets.

5. Color Drenched for A Luxuriously Dramatic Look

High gloss paint is already a striking feature, so when used to color-drench a room, it becomes that much more impactful. The room above is a prime example. With its deep red-drenched walls finished in a reflective sheen, this room feels like a cozy oasis with a sophisticated undertone.

According to the room's designer, Marie Flanigan, the high gloss finish does two things for this room: it heightens the sense of depth and atmosphere of the room, and it simultaneously keeps the room grounded and cozy. 'The family wanted a place to truly unwind – somewhere that felt a bit moodier and more masculine – so the deep burgundy took on a richness and clarity in high gloss that you simply don’t get with a flat finish,' Marie explains.

The room's pre-existing architecture certainly aids in establishing this rich, moody atmosphere as well, but the high gloss paint amplifies it. 'With the incredible bank of floor-to-ceiling windows, the natural light becomes part of the design, reflecting softly across the walls and shifting throughout the day,' Marie says. 'That interplay of light keeps the space from ever feeling heavy, even with such a saturated color.'

What Colors Work Best in a High Gloss Finish?

There are lots of colors that look good in a high gloss finish. Because this sheen is so reflective, it can be beneficial to lean into its expressive nature by choosing an equally bold color. For a dramatic look, opt for Little Greene's Adventurer in the brand's Intelligent Gloss finish. As a rich cross between deep purple and red, this shade can create a cocooning effect in interiors, and in a high gloss finish, it'll add a touch of luxury to any room. Farrow & Ball's Beverly can do the same. As a deep shade of green, this color can fill a room with earthy elegance, especially if selected in the brand's Full Gloss finish.

High gloss paint can be just as effective in brighter bold shades, too, like yellow or blue. Take the image above as an example. This ceiling, finished in a high gloss shade of blue, makes an impressive impact on the room itself. John B. Murray, the architect behind this project, explains that the blue ceiling mimics the effect of the sky, which is a charming touch to add in the foyer of a home.

Even muted shades like white, tan, or gray can work wonders in a high gloss finish. John says that he's used Farrow & Ball's Wimborne White in Full Gloss on the ceilings in his own apartment. As a muted neutral with a subtle hint of yellow, this shade can add character and subtle glamour to any room, especially when chosen in a high gloss finish.

With its glistening, glossy, and reflective nature, high gloss paint has a way of transforming any room into one with character, dimension, and dramatic appeal. When done right, it's a paint trick that can instantly make any room look more expensive. That said, it's not the easiest paint finish to work with, and if done wrong, it can look messy, unattractive, and certainly not pleasing to the eye.

So, use high gloss paint thoughtfully and with intention. Trust me, its smooth and shiny outcome is certainly worth the effort.

It's fair to say that gray hasn't been the most popular color in recent years, ever since warmer hues came to the fore in an attempt to make neutral spaces feel warmer and more inviting. That said, gray can in fact offer a lot to a room, so it's worth giving this cool, tricky shade another shot in 2026.

While it's true that gray rooms can fall flat – cool tones on cool tones can appear drab – they can also bring freshness, moodiness, and provide a calming backdrop for decor to shine.

The key to using gray in a way that feels right for the direction of design in 2026 – think thoughtful layering, adding plenty of interesting textures, and ensuring soft contrasts. Below, we've rounded up some of our favorite gray rooms to give you some stylish ideas, along with tips from designers on how to build your scheme with intention.

1. Choose a Dark, Warm-Toned Gray Paint

Dark gray paints are a great way to add drama to a room, especially if you go for one with a warm undertone, so it doesn't feel drab. In this home office designed by Kindred Interior Studios, Sherwin-Williams' Porpoise was used at 70% strength, creating a sophisticated and slightly moody feel.

'This study is a great example of how gray can feel welcoming, layered, and timeless when it’s used thoughtfully,' say the designers Sydney Foley and Emma Legg. 'Instead of a flat or cool-toned gray, we chose a warmer, deeper gray for the walls that acts as a true foundation for the space. It brings in richness and dimension while still reading as a neutral, allowing the furnishings, finishes, and architectural details to really shine without competing for attention.'

'For 2026, we’re loving grays that feel complex and organic,' the design duo adds. 'Tones with warmth, subtle earthiness, and a finish that reads more “strong neutral” than traditional gray. These deeper, warmer grays create a sense of depth and permanence, making a room feel collected and intentional.'

2. Pair Light Gray With Blue and Warm Tones

Knowing the best accent colors for gray is key to a stylish scheme. When decorating with light shades of gray, designers Elizabeth Bennett and Mallory Robins of KOBEL + CO turn to variations of blue and beige to complete the color palette. 'In this space, we brought in soft blues and beige notes to complement the gray-toned walls, keeping the overall room serene but layered,' they say.

Since gray is a cool color, the warmth of beige tones helps to keep the space feeling cozy and inviting, while blue feels harmonious alongside gray, resulting in a calming space. 'To keep a space feeling bright and inviting when decorating with light gray, we'll play within the warm-cool spectrum of a color,' the designers add.

3. Team White Walls With Light Gray Trimwork

For a much subtler take on adding gray to your space, take inspiration from this living room, which teams soft white walls with a pale gray paint on the trim and ceiling. 'Trim (baseboards, window casings, doors) is often an afterthought, but by bringing in a small touch of gray, it drew attention to those details and made them a focal point,' explains the designer Mary Beth Sullivan of MB Sullivan Design.

'In addition to the trim, we brought in gray throw pillows and a vintage rug that had gray undertones,' the designer adds. 'The combination of these cool neutrals balanced the more visually dominant warm tones in the space.'

When choosing a light gray paint for your trimwork, make sure to test it to see how it looks as the light changes throughout the day. Light gray paints with warm undertones, such as Farrow & Ball's Ammonite and Benjamin Moore's Classic Gray, tend to feel softer and more welcoming than overly cool tones.

4. Color-Drench a Room With Gray Paint

If you're going to be painting the walls with a gray paint, consider color-drenching the space. While accent walls can feel outdated, a bolder approach where the color is wrapped on all four walls and includes woodwork, trim, and doors tends to feel much more aligned with the latest interior design trends.

This was the direction the interior designer Hannah Blumenthal took in this dining room, which manages to feel both timeless and playful. 'While pale gray walls can feel cold and uninspiring, a room dipped in deeper gray paint feels rich and enveloping – perfect for spaces like dining rooms, which can handle a bit of drama,' says Hannah.

'Dark gray walls are especially elegant when paired with walnut furniture and jewel tones such as those found in the rug and inset cabinet in the dining room of this historic Washington, D.C. home,' she adds.

5. Use Gray as a Calming Color in Living Rooms

In this living room, gray forms the base of the color scheme, from the bookshelf to the plaid sofa, resulting in a calming space that allows richer colors to be layered. 'Instead of fading into the background, gray takes on a starring role as both a spatial and stylistic anchor,' says the designer Javier Burkle of Burkle Creative.

On the bookcase, Benjamin Moore's Galveston Gray was used, which is otherwise known as Benjamin Moore's Graystone. 'The color’s warm undertone keeps the millwork from feeling stark, allowing it to blend naturally with the home’s softer palette,' says Javier.

'The pattern adds depth and a sense of ease, reminding us that gray shines when it’s layered rather than left alone,' he adds. 'While the homeowners have a deep love of neutrals, this room also nudges them forward with a green sofa that brings in contrast and personality. Gray quietly does the heavy lifting here, grounding the bolder choice and keeping the space feeling calm and cohesive.'

6. Add a Whimsical Touch With Gray Wallpaper

Decorating with gray isn't just about paint, but wallpaper, too. Since wallpaper ideas can often be bold and busy with intricate patterns, choosing one in a gray tone is a great way to make the whole scheme feel more livable and balanced.

'Gray is still great on walls, especially a purposeful hue,' says the designer Michelle Gage. 'In this farmhouse dining room, we used gray as the primary color within the wallpaper – as well as on the trim and ceiling to really drive the look.'

When it came to choosing the furniture for this room, Michelle extended the gray palette to the dining chairs and rug, while warmth was added to the scheme with the large wooden dining table.

These spaces prove that with a considered approach, gray can be a stylish and sophisticated hue to incorporate into your home. Whether you drench your walls in a moody gray (warm undertones are favored) or add subtle gray accents through furniture and decor, gray can bring the right level of moodiness and contrast to your space.

If there’s one thing interior designers agree on right now, it’s that color is back in a big way. After years of safe neutrals, they're leaning into shades that bring energy, warmth, and personality back into a space – which is exactly where Sherwin-Williams’ happiest paint colors come in.

These are paint colors chosen by the brand's color experts, not just for how they look on the wall, but for the energy, optimism, and happy room ideas they bring to a space. And according to Sherwin-Williams' color marketing manager Emily Kantz, these four standout shades from the designer-and-DIYer favorite paint brand will instantly give you a mood-boosting color scheme.

Sherwin-Williams’ Happiest Paint Colors

From joyful pinks to optimistic yellows, these four standout shades not only reflect the color-trends of 2026 but also prove that the right Sherwin-Williams paint color can instantly change how a home looks and feels. And if you aren't looking for a paint project, we've curated some home decor pieces to bring these vibrant colors into your rooms. Here are the top four Emily recommends.

1. Dragon Fruit

Decorating with pink is a well-known way to make a room feel happy. From blush pinks to dusty tones, pink has long been a preferred way to graduate from neutrals, but Emily suggests going even bolder in 2026.

'Dragon Fruit SW 6855 is a bold, high-energy hue that channels passion, creativity, and individuality,' she explains. 'This shade thrives when used with intention, such as on an accent wall in a dining room or entertaining space where homeowners want to spark conversation and make a statement.'

'Paired with minimalist furnishings, clean lines, and expressive artwork, Dragon Fruit creates a space that feels daring, modern, and unmistakably personal.'

2. Pennywise

Warm, orange-reds are seeing a rather surprising comeback in 2026, with terracotta decor becoming one of the chicest ways to bring warmth into a space. Not quite decorating with red, and not quite decorating with orange, Sherwin-Williams' Pennywise SW 6349 is a rich terracotta-inspired orange that feels both energetic and inspiring.

'Its depth gives it an enveloping quality, making it ideal for living rooms or gathering spaces rooted in heritage, storytelling, and connection,' says Emily. 'There’s a warmth to this shade that feels nostalgic yet current, perfect for interiors inspired by cultural traditions or fall-forward palettes.'

'While bold in character, Pennywise SW 6349 remains inviting, adding visual depth and a sense of comfort that encourages people to settle in and stay awhile,' she adds.

3. Aquastone

Sitting between blue and green, this almost-turquoise shade brings instant vibrancy to a room while still feeling balanced and surprisingly livable. Traditionally used as a color pop, December's birth month color is being embraced for bolder applications.

Whether used on a feature trim or wrapped across walls and ceilings, Aquastone SW 9043 delivers freshness, energy, and a strong sense of personality. 'Its a joyful blue-green that brings instant vibrancy to a space,' Emily explains.

'Traditionally, it works beautifully as a focal point in lively rooms like dining rooms or creative spaces, where its energy can really shine,' she says. 'But we’re also seeing growing interest in color drenching, and Aquastone is a fantastic candidate for that approach. Covering walls and even the ceiling, in this bold, happy hue, creates an immersive, expressive environment that feels fresh, confident, and unapologetically fun.'

4. Icy Lemonade

Of course, decorating with yellow is at the top of the list of sunny, happy colors. Icy Lemonade SW 1667 proves that yellow doesn’t have to be deep or golden to feel stylish. This lighter, playful shade offers a fresh way to introduce optimism and warmth without overpowering a space.

'We typically guide homeowners toward richer, deeper yellows because they’re often easier to balance in a space,' Emily suggests. 'But with the resurgence of retro-inspired decor, lighter, more playful yellows are having a well-deserved moment.'

'Icy Lemonade feels fresh, optimistic, and full of personality, making it a standout choice for adding energy without overwhelming a room,' she continues. 'It works beautifully as an accent on kitchen cabinets or doors, but it’s also surprisingly effective on all four walls in smaller spaces like mudrooms or entryways, where it instantly brightens the experience and sets a cheerful tone the moment you walk in.'

Happiness at home doesn’t come from playing it safe, but from choosing color with confidence. As interiors continue to move toward more expressive, personality-led interior design trends in 2026, introducing Sherwin-Williams’ happiest paint colors could be one of the simplest, most powerful ways to boost the mood of your home this year.