Whether a classic neutral or a subtle variation within a color family, a neutral paint color has many advantages in a room design:
They are flexible, classic colors that are always in style.They are perfect for people who are unsure of their color preferences, or who change their minds a lot. A room’s color scheme can be changed merely by switching accents against the neutral background. They are ideal for people who prefer bright, colorful accents and furniture.
Overview
Color Family: Varies and can lean into grays, taupe, beiges, greiges, and even whitesComplementary Colors: They work with virtually all colors because they’re neutralPairs Well With: Most colors pair well with these neutralsMood: CalmingWhere to Use: Great for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, offices
Here are 10 of the best neutral paint colors for your home’s interior walls. “This color is versatile with any design style—from coastal to contemporary to traditional,” according to Noelle Micek Interiors. “We have used it in bedrooms, dining rooms, and even bathrooms!” “The new go-to neutral is GREIGE!” says Lisa Lorino, of LJL designs. “Greiges have a wonderful softness to them with subtle undertones of beige, keeping them from falling flat. There are so many good greige colors out there but my go-to favorites are Benjamin Moore’s Gray Cashmere (2136-60), Sherwin Williams’ Repose Gray (SW 7015), and Farrow and Ball’s Pavilion Gray (242).” “Benjamin Moore’s White Dove (OC-17) is my favorite white. It seems to provide a gentle contrast and pop to any color your put with it, so it is my go-to trim color,” she says. “My go-to cool neutral is Benjamin Moore’s Balboa Mist (OC-27). The great quality about this color is that different tones come through at different times of day, or as you change the light source, so it works well with a variety of color palettes.” Determine how much paint you need with The Spruce’s Paint Calculator (below).
