There is nothing like a fresh coat of paint to revive a space. The quickest way to achieve that “light and bright” look is with white paint! Sometimes, I feel like white, as simple of a color as it is, is one of the most complicated paint colors to select. Today, I want to make this process a little easier for you, sharing my secrets for selecting the perfect white paint color for your home. 

Secret #1: Do Not Color Match. 

Yes, you read that correctly. Do not color match your paint colors! In order to achieve a clean, cohesive look, it is best to match the paint color exactly - meaning selecting paint from the same manufacturer with the same name. For example, one of my favorite white paint colors is Sherwin Williams’ “Snowbound.” Rather than going to any hardware store and getting a sample that is color matched, it is best to purchase a “Snowbound” sample from Sherwin Williams. 

Secret #2: Don’t TRy to Duplicate What You See on Social Media

In order to achieve the best results in your home, I highly recommend sampling your paint options on the wall, rather than relying on the images you see on social media. Images can be altered in many ways, meaning what you see may not be what you get in your space. If you see a paint color on social media that you love, take down the name and manufacturer, and purchase a sample! You will see the true hue of the color this way, rather than a potential filter over a social media post. 

Secret #3: Undertone is Everything

All of the colors known in the world can be created with three colors: blue, red, and yellow. These three colors are referred to as the primary colors. These colors all exist within white paints. So, as you select your perfect white paint color, keep in mind that some white colors will pull more red, while others pull more yellow or blue. It is important to find the undertone that works best with your home’s design. Here are some examples:

Secret #4: Sheen Matters

Paint sheen, also called paint finish, can greatly alter the way a color appears on the wall. For example, if you want the truest color payoff, a flat paint is best. Selecting an eggshell or satin finish will alter the color payoff due to light reflectivity. It is important to select a paint sheen that matches with the room’s function, as well as style.

Secret #5: My Top Five 

As a lover of black and white design, I have selected many different white paint colors with my clients. These are my tried and true favorites:

“Snowbound” - Sherwin Williams - 7004

“Origami White” - Sherwin Williams - 7636

“Aesthetic White” - Sherwin Williams - 7035

“White Heron” - Sherwin Williams - 7627

“Pure White” - Sherwin Williams - 7005

I hope learning my secrets will lead you to the white paint color of your dreams! There is nothing better than the perfect white paint color to make a space feel airy and bright. 

What is your favorite white paint color? Let me know in the comments below!

Designer with a purpose,

Micah Abbananto