Paint Colors I Love to Specify
Paint is magic. It can completely transform a space, yet selecting the right color can be tricky. The architecture, lighting, and surrounding materials all influence how a color will read. These are the proven colors I come back to project after project.
Farrow & Ball "Des Nimbes"
As seen on kitchen island
A bold pop of color that somehow still feels neutral. It works beautifully on millwork or as a wall color in a cozy office or den. Pro tip: if you use a darker, bolder color like this on the walls, go all in and paint your ceiling too.
Farrow & Ball "Light Blue"
As seen on powder room walls
The name of this color is misleading. I think it reads more green than blue. It looks different depending on what it is paired with, but somehow it always look good! It's calming and helps an interior feel connected to nature. The vanity paint color in the photos above is Farrow and Ball "Card Room Green".
Benjamin Moore "Simply White"
As seen on living room walls
This is my holy grail paint color. I spec it in almost every project. Its undertones are just warm enough to give that soft, lived in feel while still reading as a true white.
Benjamin Moore "Mountain Peak White"
As seen on barn exterior
Warmer and richer than "Simply White", this is my go to white for traditional homes or in brighter settings like exteriors with direct sun. Using a slightly different white from the walls on trim, doors, and casework creates a more collected, layered feel.
Behr "Midnight Blue"
As seen on kitchen island
Its masculine, moody, and bold. Midnight Blue brings the right contrast without feeling too bright, too navy, or too black. It pairs well with dark wood tones and bright whites.
While these are some of my most tried-and-true paint colors, the best selections depend on the space. Natural light influences how a color will read, so I always recommend sampling colors before making a final decision. Selecting the right sheen is also important. This guide from Benjamin Moore breaks down different sheen options and their use cases.