The Best Versatile White Paint Colors And What You Need to Consider When Selecting Different Shades of White
One of the questions I get asked frequently is “What is the best shade of white?” Whether you’re looking for a clean, minimalist, crisp white for your kitchen, or a serene and warmer white for your bathroom, choosing the right shade of white can be a daunting task with the endless choices available. White is more than just a default color, and far from cold. It serves as a backdrop to showcase your home’s personality and unique style. Today, I’m sharing 6 of my favorite shades of white along with 4 tips for choosing the perfect white paint colors that will help you create a cohesive color story in your home.
When selecting a white shade, consider the subtle undertones within the base of the color.
Every shade of white has an undertone, either warm or cool. Cool whites have a blue or gray undertone that feels crisp and clean with a feeling of formality. Warm whites typically have a yellow undertone that feels soft and illuminating.
C2 Paint Chit Chat - A warm, rich, soft shade of white and very versatile.
Bel-Air Mansion Courtesy of C2 Paint
2. Consider all the design elements in the space and how they will impact the color.
When selecting a shade of white, consider the elements of the room such as the floor, ceiling height, the amount of ambient light and natural light in the room, as well as the architectural elements and furnishings in the space to ensure a cohesive look that unifies the space.
C2 Paint America’s Cup - A warm, welcoming white, perfect for a room with lots of natural light. Use as a trim color in a semi-gloss finish.
Courtesy of Boston Magazine
C2 Paint Milk Mustache - A subtle warm white with variegated undertones, making it one of the most versatile whites, perfect with earth tones and with a blend of cooler palettes.
Courtesy of This Old House Photography Nat Rea
3. Know what direction the room is facing before selecting a shade of white.
North facing rooms offer great indirect light and tend to cast a cooler, flatter tone throughout the room. Add richer colors in north facing rooms to warm up the space. South facing rooms are often the brightest and tend to feel warmer. Use a cooler white to neutralize the room. East facing rooms benefit from early morning light, and might need a little cheering up with a slightly warmer undertone. West facing rooms benefit from the “golden hour” and tend to cast interesting shadows throughout the day. Take advantage of this light by accentuating the architectural elements in the room in bold accent colors.
BM Classic Gray - My “go to” white in bathrooms. Not too cool, not too warm. Perfect in any room, regardless of the direction of light.
Designer Audrey Interiors Photography Julia Dags
BM White Diamond - My “go to” all purpose cool white. Great for ceilings, trim, cabinets. Never too white or too yellow.
Courtesy of Historical Concepts
4. Use more than one white to create interest and to neutralize the space.
Introduce a few shades of white to balance the space. That subtle difference can make a huge difference in the way the room feels. White doors in a rich white, with a softer white trim balances the room and keeps things interesting, while allowing the other elements in the room to take center stage.
C2 Paint Paper Clip - A soft neutral white that adds just the right amount of richness and interest to the room.
Courtesy of A Forma Di Casa
Whether you're planning a complete home makeover, a seasonal refresh or just looking for assurance with your own ideas, our expert color consultations offer a comprehensive approach to creating the perfect color palette for your home.
Warmly,
Audrey
P.S. Wherever you are in life, remember to make your home the best it can be.
