Ask anyone what my favourite colour is and no doubt they would say white! I have been a fan of neutrals for as long as I remember. In 2009 my dad and I went to get my brand new moped (so when I moved to the big city I would adapt effortlessly). I had my eyes on a crisp white 150cc classic Vespa but the showroom we went to didn't have any white and were offering mega deals for any in stock bikes - so I got baby blue. Funny thing is I told my dad before going into the store I really want white with a beige seat but I will take any colour BUT blue.
If I could have a millions dollars for every time somebody asks me "What is the best white paint colour?" well I'd be a millionaire! You would think it would be an easy answer, I mean its white how hard could it be? If you have ever looked a a paint deck you will know - it's a nightmare. You have neutral whites, cool whites, warm whites, off-whites and about 1000 in between. Lucky for you I am going to share with you my favourite go-to whites and what I use them for!
Pro Tip: NEVER paint match, always purchase the brand of paint that you pick from the swatches (the reason could be an entire blog post on its own!)
Below are my favourite Fifty (10) Shades of White.
Benjamin Moore: OC-65 Chantilly Lace
Chantilly Lace is probably the most universal paint colour out there. It is not too warm, not too cool and generates a fresh yet inviting space. It works well with all wood tones and it perfect for walls, ceiling, trim and cabinets. If I built a new home, everything would be Chantilly Lace.
Benjamin Moore: CC-20 Decorator's White
Decorator's White is a slightly cooler off-white. It contains a little gray, just enough This is my go-to trim and cabinet colour for most clients.
Benjamin Moore: OC-17 White Dove
White Dove is a warm white that has a luminescent finish and creamy grey undertone which brings a lovely calmness to homes in urban environments especially those that often experience grey and overcast skies.
Sherwin Williams: SW7005 Pure White
Pure white has no hidden undertones of blues, yellows or pinks. It is a white that is so soft and elegant it can truly ground any space.
Farrow & Ball: 2001 Strong White
Farrow + Ball has the most luxurious paint in my opinion and strong white is one of my favourites. It is best for south-facing rooms with blue and grey undertones. It has a subtle urban and contemporary vibe.
Benjamin Moore: CC-40 Cloud White
Cloud White is a stunning warm white that is effortlessly timeless and classic. A perfect cabinet colour for a country kitchen or a subtle cream for a nursery, this is a traditional style staple.
Sherwin Williams: SW7006 Extra White
Extra White is the perfect white for a contemporary open concept home where you want to paint the walls and trim the same colour. It is a very cool white so it is important to be careful when pairing it with warm wood tones and fabrics.
Sherwin Williams: SW7008 Alabaster
Alabaster is a soft neutral, off-white. It offers a stunning warmth without being too creamy. I love using this colour in a bedroom to create a soft, peaceful retreat.
Benjamin Moore: OC-117 Simply White
Simply White is simply beautiful. Its a crowd pleaser and a perfect white cabinet colour. It’s one of those colours that looks warm when paired with warm tones and cool when paired with cool tones. It also really works well in those darker rooms with little to no natural light with its cozy and crisp reflection.
Farrow & Ball: 2003 Pointing
Pointing is a classic white named after the colour of lime pointing used in traditional brickwork. It softens the feel of a room when paired with strong, traditional colours. For a little warmth on the ceilings, I like diluting pointing to 75%.
There you have it, a white for every occasion! The last thing I wanted to point out is never paint a ceiling just "ceiling white". I usually match the trim, doors and ceiling but change up the sheen - flat on the ceilings and satin on the trim and doors. The light reflects differently on each surface but you have the same tone for a seamless transition. If you are still lost after this, my best advice is to TRY IT! I do this for every project, paint large swatches directly on the walls in a few difference areas where the lighting changes. Look at the swatches at different times of the day and watch the patterns. When you do this - I guarantee it will be very obvious which white is best for your space (and if you still don't know - call me!)
e.