Designers' Favourite Neutral Paint Shades Beyond White That They Adore

Designers' Favourite Neutral Paint Shades Beyond White That They Adore

Decorating your home with bold hues can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn't have to be. lf you're not ready to embrace a vibrant, attention-grabbing color for your walls, a neutral tone might be the perfect choice for you. Sometimes, a low-key hue like whites might cross your mind, but as designers encourage, a neutral palette can offer more than just a plain backdrop.

15 Timeless Paint Colors You'll Never Tire Of, According To Designers That's right; the right neutral color can infuse depth, dimension, and even a hint of color to your space while complementing various design elements. Let's take a glance at some of the go-to neutral paint colors from Southern designers that steer clear of white.

Get to Know Our Experts:

• Elly Poston Cooper of Elly Poston Interiors in Richmond, Virginia
• Taylor Johnson of Taylor Johnson Interiors in Greenville, South Carolina
• Maggie Dillon of Maggie Dillon Interiors in Raleigh, North Carolina
• Mary Lauren McBride of Mary McBride Interiors in Birmingham, Alabama

Expert: Elly Poston Cooper, Richmond, Virginia:

• "Benjamin Moore Old Country (OC-76) -" This subtle dusty pink shade isn't only an eye-catching addition to interiors but has also proven itself for exterior projects. Its versatility guarantees it complements anything and everything with panache.
• "Farrow & Ball Ammonite (No. 274) -" This soft, slightly lilac hue is a marvel that harmonizes beautifully with both antiques and contemporary art. Why settle for drab when you can have aesthetically striking walls?
• "Benjamin Moore Classic Brown (2109-10) -" Classic never goes out of style, and this timeless hue is no exception. Fear not; this is the daring move you need to add warmth to your design scheme and make it feel fresh and inviting.

Expert: Taylor Johnson, Greenville, South Carolina:

• "Benjamin Moore Wales Gray (1585) -" If you're looking for an alternative to classic grays and whites, this blue-gray shade with warm undertones is the perfect choice. Paint all the surfaces—walls, trim, and ceiling—for an elevated and cohesive look.
• "Farrow & Ball Shaded White (No. 201) -** Speaking of neutrals, this one isn't strictly white! Depending on the room, it can appear as a warm taupe or a cool gray, adding depth and visual interest to your space without overpowering your design.
• "Benjamin Moore Wind's Breath (OC-24) -** Keep it warm and inviting by opting for this neutral shade. Its soft personality makes it easy to pair with various design elements, and it's not too beige to be boring.

22 Warm White Paint Colors To Cozy Up Any Space In Your Home## Expert: Maggie Dillon, Raleigh, North Carolina:

• "Farrow & Ball Setting Plaster (No. 231) -** A well-executed neutral can enhance your design scheme without taking center stage. This versatile shade effortlessly pairs with vibrant design elements and is subtler than traditional white shades.
• "Benjamin Moore Wedgewood Gray (HC-146) -** This navy-tinged neutral promises depth and versatility. It serves as a somber backdrop for design elements that need the spotlight without competing with them.
• "Benjamin Moore Grecian Green (507) -** History buffs and design enthusiasts alike would admire this timeless neutral. It offers a nod to classic design without feeling too traditional, making it perfect for those seeking a balanced blend of the old and the new. And like Johnson, Dillon suggests experimenting with the color on all surfaces—walls, trim, and ceiling—for an even more harmonious look.

Expert: Mary Lauren McBride, Birmingham, Alabama:

• "Benjamin Moore Finnie Gray (CW-55) -** Never underestimate the charm of a warm taupe. This subtle shade adds depth to any space and pairs well with various design elements, ensuring they get the attention they deserve.
• "Sherwin Williams Unfussy Beige (6043) -** Beige doesn't have to mean boring! With a winsome hint of blush, this warm neutral effortlessly adds a layer of personality to your walls and provides a stunning backdrop for artistic displays.

There you have it! Experimenting with neutrals can be a daunting task, but with the guidance of these Southern designers, it's easier than you think. Adventure into the world of neutral paint colors and see how they can redefine the look and feel of your space!

1. Southern Living showcases various home-and-garden experts, such as Elly Poston Cooper of Elly Poston Interiors in Richmond, Virginia, who recommend neutral paint colors beyond the traditional whites.
2. Elly Poston Cooper suggests Benjamin Moore's Old Country (OC-76), a dusty pink shade that is versatile enough to complement a variety of design elements, even those outside the home.
3. Taylor Johnson from Taylor Johnson Interiors in Greenville, South Carolina, recommends Benjamin Moore's Wales Gray (1585) as an alternative to classic grays and whites, which adds warmth to designs and pairs well with both antiques and contemporary art.
4. Maggie Dillon of Maggie Dillon Interiors in Raleigh, North Carolina, suggests Farrow & Ball's Setting Plaster (No. 231), a subdued neutral that effortlessly pairs with vibrant design elements, providing a balanced look that doesn't overpower the overall design.
5. Mary Lauren McBride from Mary McBride Interiors in Birmingham, Alabama, promotes Sherwin Williams's Unfussy Beige (6043), a warm neutral with a hint of blush, which adds a layer of personality to walls and creates a stunning backdrop for artistic displays.

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