Choosing the perfect neutral color can be tricky, especially when it comes to finding the ideal white. If you’ve ever picked a sample that looked great in the store but turned yellowish on your walls, you’re not alone. At down2earth interior design, we know the power of a dependable neutral to complement any color palette. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of our tried-and-true favorite neutrals to help make your next paint decision effortless. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or planning a whole-home makeover, this guide will point you in the right direction!
Stephanie Ebner
Interior Designer, Phoenix Office
“Sherwin Williams Panda White (SW 6147) is a versatile off-white paint color that’s perfect for interior design projects, adding warmth and sophistication to any space. Its subtle beige undertones create a cozy yet elegant atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and more. Ideal for both modern and traditional interiors, Panda White complements a wide range of accent colors and materials, ensuring a timeless look in your design.” See an example of an installed kitchen with Panda White cabinets below, plus a living room rendering, using the AI tool MidJourney.
Amy Cuker
Interior Design Director
“Ever since I started offering paint consultation services here at down2earth interior design, Greek Villa (SW 7551) by Sherwin Williams has been my go-to neutral because of its warm undertones and remarkable versatility. Whether using it for walls in a matte, satin, or eggshell finish, or painting trim in a semi-gloss finish, Greek Villa effortlessly adapts to its surroundings. With its understated elegance and ability to evoke a feeling of home, Greek Villa by Sherwin Williams stands as a timeless classic in the realm of neutral paint colors. I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. Heathered Nest wrote a lengthy blog post on why this soft neutral white color just might be the right one for you.”
Jillian Moskovitz
Design Consultant
“I love white walls as a backdrop for interesting furniture, rugs, and art. My go-to white is Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore (OC-65). It is crisp, modern and creamy but not yellow. It’s a classic white that looks good with any type of décor or color palette but especially when paired with wood tones. This room designed by Jamie Haller is a favorite.”
Avigail Cohen Sorek
Design Consultant
“In my opinion, a soft, light gray such as Marilyn’s Dress by Benjamin Moore (2125-60) offers a highly refined and elegant base for a residence. It provides a stylish canvas for displaying art, furnishings, and any type of exquisite collection.”
Tara Kingsley
Operations Manager
“As D2E’s Operations Manager, I don’t do paint consultations, but a personal experience lead me to my trusty neutral. When remodeling our kitchen, I was trying to find a trim color that matched the soft white cabinets we’d selected. I went through several options, but in the end the winner was White Dove by Benjamin Moore (OC-17). After a few years with a deeper color on the walls, I decided to have them also painted in White Dove and was so happy with the result. It feels fresh but not sterile and never seems to pull unwanted undertones, even as the light changes throughout the day. This shade is the perfect canvas and allows me to swap out accessories in different colors, based on the season. Turns out that House Beautiful agrees! This image from the article illustrates its simple beauty perfectly.”
Finding the right neutral paint color can make all the difference in creating a cohesive, inviting space. With our list of favorite tried-and-true neutrals, you can confidently choose a shade that complements your design vision and enhances your home’s overall aesthetic. Whether you’re updating a single room or tackling a full redesign, these reliable colors will serve as the perfect foundation. Ready to bring your vision to life? Schedule a call with down2earth interior design today, and let’s get started on your next interior design project!