Interior design trends may shift, but certain paint colors remain reliable staples for professionals. These aren’t just popular shades; they’re hues that designers return to consistently, adapting them across diverse spaces. We asked three interior designers for their favorite paints, including specific brands, to help you create a beautifully curated home.
Dark Green: For Tailored Luxury
Dark green is a surprisingly strong contender, offering depth and sophistication. Craig Gritzen favors Studio Green by Farrow & Ball, citing its ability to make spaces feel polished and upscale. “This saturated green makes artwork pop and pairs well with brass and natural wood,” he explains. It’s ideal for offices, studies, or cozy reading nooks where a moody ambiance is desired.
Warm Cream: The Optimistic Neutral
Charlotte Broadribb champions Little Greene’s First Light, describing it as embodying “positivity and optimism…like the first light of dawn.” This soft cream with a yellow undertone creates a naturally bright look, making it a calming choice for color-drenching rooms. Consider it for breakfast nooks, living rooms, or bedrooms to evoke a fresh, morning-like atmosphere.
Rich Maroon: Timeless Depth
While whites and neutrals are easy choices, maroon delivers depth and dimension that many spaces need. Elizabeth Ryan notes that maroon is a designer staple that feels both established and current. Farrow & Ball’s Preference Red or Sherwin-Williams’ Rojo Marrón are excellent options; they’re velvety and surprisingly adaptable for dining rooms, home offices, or bar areas.
Gray-Green: The Chic Backdrop
When you need a color that complements rich furnishings without competing, gray-green is ideal. Ryan recommends Sherwin-Williams’ Evergreen Fog or Farrow & Ball’s Treron, noting that these shades create a sophisticated backdrop in dining rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Black: Bold Foundation & Accent
Black offers striking contrast and can anchor cozy spaces or highlight architectural features. Sherwin-Williams’ Tricorn Black is a classic, often paired with Benjamin Moore’s Cinnamon Slate to balance boldness with depth. Use black in dramatic dining rooms, kitchens, or bathrooms for a high-impact look.
Taupe: The Unexpected Sophisticate
Taupe gets a bad rap for being predictable, but it adds sophistication when used strategically. Ryan suggests using a taupe ceiling with vibrant walls or glossy taupe paneling to elevate a space. Sherwin-Williams’ Loggia is a versatile choice for bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, or bathrooms.
Warm Pink: Calming Serenity
Warm pink offers a soothing alternative to beige, providing color without sacrificing relaxation. Charlotte Broadribb uses it specifically in bedrooms to create a physically soothing environment for better sleep. This shade is also well-suited for kitchens and bathrooms.
These colors aren’t just aesthetically pleasing; they’re chosen for their ability to shape the mood and functionality of a space. Designers rely on them because they work, regardless of the latest trends.
