Our Favorite Paint Colors
BLACK, WHITE & GRAY COLORS, FINISHES AND HOW-TO’S
I want to start by saying that I’m so appreciative of all the comments and questions I get on a regular basis. When it comes to choosing paint colors, it can be hard to know where to start. The possibilities are endless, and finding the perfect shade is not easy. This is the first in a series of quick reference guides that I hope will make the design process a little easier for you. I’m starting with paint for two reasons. First, paint really does transform a space. In fact, if you can do nothing else, I always suggest creating a new foundation with paint. Secondly, my most frequently asked questions are about paint, white paint in particular. This paint guide is an edit of my most go-to white, gray and black paint colors. If you’re looking for the perfect shade for your next project, this post is for you! Before you get lost thumbing through hundreds of swatches, keep scrolling for our tried-and-true favorites.
These are the tried- and- true colors that I have used most in my designs. My goal is to take the guess work out the process, making paint selection quick and manageable. I hope that this is a tool that will serve you for years to come. Enjoy!
White Dove OC-17
When I want a white that is warmer than Chantilly Lace, White Dove is my go-to color. It also works beautifully on trims and moldings.
A modern white with just the right amount of warmth.
SWISS COFFEE OC-45
Warm creamy white. A great white if you are nervous about white appearing to stark. The warmth of this creamy white is the perfect pairing with the warm wood tones in this bathroom ceiling.
WHISPER DEW340
A white with creamy undertones that pair well in spaces with warmer decor and flooring. The walls were painted eggshell in a warm white to create a soft look with easy maintenance.
Simply White OC-117
The warmth of this creamy white compliments the neutral decor in this space. A perfect warm white without grey undertones, not too creamy or too cool.
Chantilly Lace OC-65
My go-to bright white. A great choice for achieving a fresh, crisp white foundation. The bathroom walls, doors, trims and ceilings were painted bright white, making it feel more open, modern and airy.
Stonington Gray HC-170
A soft, light and cool gray. Walls in eggshell finish to create depth in the space.
COVENTRY GRAY HC-169
A beautiful cool-toned gray with blue undertones. Perfect for the bedroom walls of this urban modern home.
Smoke embers ac-28
A timeless, classic true gray with no lavender undertones. This beautiful gray color gives any space personality.
Gray Matters SW-7066
A versatile gray that will pull cool or slightly warm depending on the light. This gray shade adjusts with natural light.
Black Panther
2125-10
A soft, velvety off-black that is bold without being harsh. The walls in this bedroom are painted with lacquer in a satin finish for durability, creating a polished look.
Black Beauty
2128-10
Bold millwork painted in satin finish, elevating the look of this primary bathroom.
Obsidian
Century Line
A rich matte finish with a buttery soft and feel to the touch.
PAINT FINISH SELECTION
These are my go-to finishes that work best for the wear and tear of everyday life.
Ceilings - Flat
Walls - Eggshell
Cabinets, Doors and Trims - Satin
A satin finish on cabinets, doors and trims wipes off well and has a pretty sheen that doesn’t show every imperfection. A flat finish on ceilings doesn't reflect light and hides any irregularities.
Eggshell is a hard-wearing finish with a subtle sheen. This makes it easy to clean and maintain.
For example, if we paint all walls, ceilings, cabinets, doors and trims one color, vary the finishes for dimension and durability. The walls are eggshell, the trim, doors and cabinets are satin lacquer and the ceilings are flat.
For shiplap, tongue and groove or any wall paneling my go-to is satin finish for a more modern, updated look.
HOW-TO’S
How do I pick the favorites?
If you tend to like a more clean/modern look, start with the crisp/soft whites. If you lean towards traditional, try the soft/warm whites. The best advice we can you is to try it out! This is what we do for every single project. We paint large swatches on card stock and hold them up to different walls in different lights. Then we leave them up for a while to test different times of the day.
What sheens do you use? Is it the same color for walls, ceilings, cabinets, and baseboards?
Typically we do walls on eggshell. The eggshell sheen is generally our go-to for families since it is easier to wipe clean, but doesn't look shiny. Ceiling - flat. Baseboard - satin or semi-gloss depending on how traditional or formal the client’s style is. I love a subtle sheen difference between the baseboard and walls.
My house gets northern exposure, which white should I use?
North facing light is gray, so it will magnify cool tones. I would try warm whites.
Should the cabinets and walls be the same color?
Generally, when we do the white cabinets/white walls look, we use the same color on the walls and cabinets. However, if you’d like a slight contrast, I would go with a crisper white on the cabinets and a warmer white on the walls. The other way around usually makes the cabinets appear yellow.
My room doesn’t get much light, which white should I use?
When the room doesn’t receive much light, it will appear gray-ish regardless of the white used. However, if you’re dying to use white in the space, I would go with the warm whites.
We have a dark wood trims and want to paint the walls white... how do I choose?
We would recommend staying with a crsip or soft white to give a nice, clean contrast. Stay away from the warm whites against the warm trim - it will look “muddy” and have a dated appearance.
Ready to revamp your space with the perfect paint colors? Say goodbye to the endless swatch search and hello to our curated guide of tried-and-true favorites in black, white, and gray. Choosing the ideal hue can feel daunting, but fear not! We've got you covered with tips on picking the perfect shade and selecting the right finish for every surface. Whether you're tackling a full-scale renovation or a quick refresh, our guide will ensure your walls wow and your space shines bright. Let's get painting and transform your home with ease!
xx Paulina
