You Shouldn't Care what my Favourite White is...
Have you ever googled “what is the best white paint colour?” Or read a blog post about someone’s top paint colours? I know you’re just hoping to get some assistance in what seems like an endless choice of various, similar shades of white. I understand, I do. But here’s the thing.
It doesn’t matter what other people think is the best white.
It doesn’t even matter if it’s your favourite white (unless you’re starting from scratch with your design).
You know why?
Because at the end of the day it needs to be the RIGHT white for your home.
If you’re wanting to paint your existing space white because all you see on Pinterest is these beautiful white modern farmhouse style homes, just know, white may not be right for you. I know. I’m sorry. But I promise you’ll thank me later.
The existing finishes and colours in your home will quite literally determine what your paint colour options are.
Do I have a few go-to whites, off-whites and creams that I use frequently? Yes. But that’s mainly because a lot of the homes I’m working on are of a certain age and tend to have other hard finishes in common.
So I’m sorry to say that just because someone says “Dove White” is the perfect white, it doesn’t mean it’s the perfect white for you.
But you still kind of want to know what my favourite whites are, right?
Too bad!
Okay I’m kidding. I can tell you what my favourite whites are. But don’t go choosing it just because I like it. Remember what we just learned! You need to choose a paint colour that complements your space.
My house is painted in Sherwin Williams Snowbound. I was starting from scratch so I could almost do whatever I wanted. I like Snowbound because it’s an off-white but it has a hint of warmth due to a slight violet undertone. My trim is Extra White, because that’s the white I liked for a slightly more white-white to go along with Snowbound. My rental suite is Pearly White with High Reflective White (a true white) as the trim. I frequently use Pure White (an off-white) for cabinetry and trim too. I also like Origami White - it goes well with a lot of undertones and I like pairing it with bold blue tones in particular. Greek Villa is another one of my go-to choices, especially when paired with warmer tones. Heron Plume is one of my favourites for when a space needs a white that is a greige.
But remember - none of this truly matters.
You need to focus on what your space needs.
So how do you choose the right colour for your space?
Hire a professional.
I mean it.
As someone who is trained in colour (including being a True Colour Expert), I have hours upon hours of training and years of experience. Most of the True Colour Experts, myself included, offer both virtual and in-person colour consultations. Find us, email us, hire us. Get it right the first time.
Kierstin Smyth Design
Edmonton Interior Design Consultant