interior design, Paint

Our Guide To The Best Neutral Paint Colors (that Aren’t White!)

There's something to be said about a fresh coat of white paint - it's crisp, clean, and offers a completely blank palette. So, don't get me wrong when I say I'm ready for a change of pace, because it will always be a classic. But, as much as I love the look, we're definitely ready for something with a little more depth and added interest. Take the path less traveled and check out our guide to the best neutral paint colors that are anything but stark!

a guide to the best neutral paint colors for your home that AREN'T white!

Tones of green are always in my go-to palette. I'm attracted to the soft, neutral hue below...

Our the coco kelley Guide to the Best Neutral Paint Colors that AREN'T White | Green Grays

It adds color without really having to commit to something crazy and bold. It's subtle and goes with pretty much any type of decor or finish. I'd style this bedroom with white, gray, or blush textiles. Organic wood tones would also look pretty amazing against this paint color!

Our the coco kelley Guide to the Best Neutral Paint Colors that AREN'T White | Beige

We live in a world where people automatically think "boring" when they hear the word beige. It kills me! Why? Because beige is so beautiful when done correctly!! It literally goes with anything and everything, but more importantly- it pushes me out of my comfort zone to find interesting decor because the possibilities are limitless. In that way, I guess it's sort of challenging (in a good way), ha! Farrow & Ball sort of takes the guess work out of colors like these because their limited selection means each color is sort of amazing - try Elephant's Breath for the perfect tonal beige.

the coco kelley Guide to the Best Neutral Paint Colors that AREN'T White | Cool Gray

Gray has been having a moment for a few years now. It's chic, easy and looks amazing with metals. In my opinion, cool gray was created for rose gold, brass, or even nickel finishes for a tone-on-tone look. Restoration Hardware is an often overlooked source for paint, but we have to say they know how to nail greys!

the coco kelley Guide to the Best Neutral Paint Colors that AREN'T White | Pink and Blush

If you're ready to commit to a feminine color and subdued hue, please please paint your space blush! Someday I dream of having a studio soaked in this gorgeous color. It's just as bright as white, but with more attitude, interest, and personality. Try a shade like 'Oyster' if you want to sneak an undertone in, or 'Mauve Hint' if you really want to go for it!

the coco kelley Guide to the Best Neutral Paint Colors that AREN'T White | Warm Grays

Warm gray, otherwise known as greige, is exactly what the nicknames sounds like: gray and beige combined. The red and yellow undertones cause this color to be inviting, with all the trendiness that neutral gray has to offer. I'd paint my walls in eggshell or something similar with a really flat finish to exaggerate the soft, chic undertones.

If you're still not convinced... what's the plus side to painting your walls something other than white? These colors will also help add contrast to architectural elements like moulding and millwork! Even a subdued tone can make your trim look crisp and really pop.  Most people add fresh paint to their walls every 7 years, but I think I might have to jump on board a little earlier to take advantage of these gorgeous non-neutral hues. xo, Sarah

Need help picking the perfect paint? Hire us at The Emerald Studio!