Searching for the best white paint colors? Instead of going to Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams and blankly staring at the hundreds of white paint chips, skip straight to these 8 tried and true favorites and I guarantee you’ll find one that will look fantastic in your space!
Picking the perfect white paint color for your space isn’t always easy (make sure to read my post on how to choose paint colors for tips!). Unlike other colors where the true color is pretty obvious from looking at the paint chip, whites have lots of undertones and subtle nuances that can make two colors that look similar on a paint chip look totally different once they’re painted on the wall.
Wading through the endless number of white paint options to find a good fit can get pretty overwhelming so I’m sharing my eight tried & true white paint colors. These are the paint colors that I LOVE and that decorators and homeowners rave about time and time again. (post includes affiliate links – full disclosure statement available {here})
I’m sharing these favorite whites in order from darkest to lightest based on each paint color’s LRV (Light Reflectance Value) which indicates how much light the paint color reflects. Paints with a lower LRV will appear darker than paints with a higher LRV.
1. Behr’s White (52) LRV 83
Behr’s White 52 is a soft white that’s the closest of any of my favorite whites to being an off-white since it has the lowest LRV. It’s a slightly cool white which pairs well with blues, including the accent wall of Behr Blueprint in my daughter’s bedroom:
You can see more pics and all sources for this space in my post on her boho bedroom colors.
Room Sources: Gold quatrefoil pendant | Moroccan leather poufs | Small acrylic lamp | Chest of drawers | White linen quilt
2. Sherwin Williams’ Alabaster (SW7008) LRV 82
Sherwin Williams’ Alabaster, which Brittany of Addison’s Wonderland used in several rooms of her amazing historic home, is similar in depth to Behr’s White 52 but it’s a warm white rather than a cool one. In addition to the stairway below, you can see Alabaster in action in Brittany’s mudroom, hallway, master bathroom and more in her house tour {here}.
3. Benjamin Moore’s Decorator’s White (CC-20, OC-149) LRV 82.68
Decorator’s White has a touch of gray that softens it and makes it a great choice for cabinets and trim. A beautiful example is Bree of ZDesign at Home’s kitchen (her cabinets and trim are Decorators White) – you can see more of this fabulous space {here}.
It’s close to being a pure white but with a touch of coolness and a softness that you don’t get with the brighter whites. Decorator’s White can also be a great choice for a wall paint color if you want a fairly pure white that’s not too stark.
Tip: Learning how to paint yourself instead of hiring out can save tons of money! Get my step by step in my post on how to paint a room
4. Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17) LRV 83.16
White Dove is a beautiful warm white that we had in our kitchen (pictured below) before we remodeled it. It’s not only a great color for walls, but also a favorite for molding and cabinets. It has warm, yellow undertones with a touch of gray that make it a soft white that’s warm and welcoming.
Sources: Rolling baker’s rack (similar) | Hanging herb boxes
5. Benjamin Moore Cloud White (OC-130) LRV 85.05
Benjamin Moore’s Cloud White is somewhere between White Dove and Simply White (the next white on my list) in how bright of a white it is. This is what the three samples looked like when I tested them out in our family room before deciding that Cloud White was the winner for this space:
I used Cloud White throughout our family room – on the planked ceiling, the walls, and the trim (matte on the walls & satin on the ceiling and trim). It was the perfect neutral backdrop for the large art wall around our TV. You can see more pics of this space and a complete source list for it {here}.
Sources: TV console (similar) | Chandelier (satin bronze) | White tasseled pillow cover | Blue linen pillow cover | Green & blue block print pillow cover | Faux fiddle leaf fig tree | Rug | Pair of floor poufs | Art prints (details in {this post} | Acrylic coffee table (similar) | Coffee table tray (28″ square) | Black and white striped box (on coffee table) | Brass cricket (on coffee table) | Wood beads | Rattan chair
I also used Cloud White in our kitchen when we remodeled (I switched from White Dove because our new cabinets were a whiter white than before so it was a better fit) – you can see more pics plus all sources in my post on my kitchen remodel.
Sources: Lantern pendants over island (12.5″) | Rattan counter stools in Fog | Pulls on island drawers (12″) | Large framed floral art print
Also take a look at my kitchen eat-in area where you can get another peek at Cloud White on the walls. Want more details on this great white paint color? Check out my Benjamin Moore Cloud White review that shows a side by side comparison of how this white compares to other popular white paint colors.
6. Benjamin Moore’s Simply White (OC-117) LRV 89.52
Simply White is possibly the most versatile of all whites. Like White Dove, it has a warm undertone but it’s a bit lighter and brighter. It’s the color that I chose to paint most of our NC home including our guest room:
Sources: Beadboard bed (weathered white) | 12″ Memory foam queen mattress (no boxspring needed) | Blue & white quilted shams (similar) | Blue tasseled edge pillow covers | Navy embroidered lumbar pillow cover ( with {this} pillow insert) | Navy border duvet cover | White quilt | Woven bench | Nightstand (similar) | Lamp (similar) | Round mirror
For more pics, see my posts on this blue and white bedroom and our small breakfast nook that are both painted Simply White.
7. Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace (OC-65) LRV 90.04
Chantilly Lace is a beautiful crisp, clean, bright white paint color that reads as a true white with a touch of blue. It’s a great choice for contemporary spaces but can also look good in more traditional homes such as this light and bright living room by Chelsea of Making Home Base that you can see more of {here}.
When I designed our master bathroom remodel, I knew that I wanted white walls since they’re the perfect neutral backdrop. I ended up choosing Chantilly Lace which was the just-right crisp white for the space:
Sources: Wood & rattan double vanity | Vanity knobs | Bathroom faucets – brushed nickel | Vanity lights | Vanity mirrors – gold | Marble stacking dishes | Soap & lotion sink set with tray | Toothbrush holder | Bamboo toothbrushes | Gray & white striped towels | Robe hooks – golden champagne
The color tone of it works beautifully with marble (which is also a cool toned white) so it’s a great choice for many bathrooms and kitchens. If you’re considering using Chantilly Lace, I share more details about it and how it compares to other similar whites in my post on Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace.
8. Farrow & Ball’s All White (No. 2005) LRV 91.8
Farrow & Ball’s All White is exactly that – it contains no other pigment except for white, creating a soft yet crisp white without the colder blue undertones of a brilliant white. It’s the color that I used on the shiplap walls and trim of our master bedroom remodel that you can see more of {here}.
Sources: Upholstered bed (similar) | Gray nightstands | Camp stools (similar) | Table lamps (similar) | Semi flushmount light (available {here} and {here}) | Gray & white patterned linen duvet – no longer available | Gray & white dragon/floral pillows | Quilt in king (color is Flagstone) | Drapes (mine are single-width blackout lined) | Diamond jute rug
How To Figure Out the Best White Paint Color For Your Space
Never choose a paint color just by looking at the paint strip. You need to see what they look like in your home! The same white paint color can look totally different in one home vs. another due to the lighting conditions of the space. I highly recommend that you buy peel-and-stick samples of the white paint colors you’re considering on Samplize (I linked each color’s Samplize sample under the paint color description).
See my post on how to choose paint colors for more tips on testing paint samples.
What Color Should I Use for the Baseboards and Trim?
When painting with whites, I recommend that you paint your baseboards and trim the same white as the walls but a higher sheen. Depending on the room being painted, I used flat, matte, or eggshell on the walls and satin or semi-gloss on the trim. The higher the sheen, the brighter the paint color appears so if, for example, you use matte on the walls and satin on the trim, they will look great together since they have the same undertones. However, the satin trim will look a bit brighter so you still get the perfect amount of subtle contrast between your wall and trim colors.
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What Color Should I Use for the Ceiling?
I typically recommend that you paint the ceiling with the same white paint color that you’re using on the walls (flat or matte is best since in hides roller marks and imperfections). You could also choose to use a single ceiling paint color throughout your home – my favorite is Benjamin Moore Muresco ceiling paint.
How About Color Matching?
It’s possible to have a paint color from one brand mixed by another brand (for example, asking Sherwin Williams to mix paint that’s identical to a Benjamin Moore paint color). Sometimes color matching works and sometimes it doesn’t. But with whites… just don’t do it! There is very little pigment in white paint colors so just a small change can cause a big difference in how the color appears when painted on your walls.
Now that I’ve shared my favorite white paint colors, do you want to know about some of my other favorite colors? Check out…
Also be sure to check out {this post} where I share all of the paint colors in my home! Thanks as always for stopping by!
Kim @ Savvy Southern Style says
Yes, there are so many whites. I use Chantilly Lace on our trim and I have Linen White in a guest room.
Kris @ Driven by Décor says
Linen White is a pretty one too – I should have included it on my list!
riley says
If you’re looking for a crisp white, Benjamin Moore’s Mountain Peak White is a good choice.
Kris @ Driven by Décor says
Thanks for the tip Riley – I will have to check that white out!
Anonymous says
Benjamin Moore – Atrium White and Mascarpone are my favorites – Atrium White neutral not too blue or yellow great for trim and ceilings. Mascarpone – warm – creamy without being yellow. Much prefer it to Linen White.
Kris @ Driven by Décor says
Thanks so much for adding to the list of beautiful whites!
Millenia says
Maybe you could help me!? I have white/gray/light blue (looks like marble) ceramic tiles with dark grey filling in between everywhere in my apartment and was wondering which white to put on my walls. Im in a basement so i dont want for it to look to cold ???? i tried blue on my wall and I ended up not liking it at all ????
Kris Jarrett says
Hi Millenia!
Unfortunately picking the right white paint color is something that really needs to be done in person. What I would recommend is that you pick up the color strips for these white paints and bring them home to look at them in your space. Pick your three favorites and get sample cans in those colors – paint a large area (two coats!) in each of the three colors and I promise that it will be easy to tell which color is best with everything else you have in your space!
Lynn says
we are renovating an older home Traditîonal Greek Revival. I want to use a creamy white for the interior. What’s your opinion on using one color like dove white by Benjamin Moore for the wallboards as well as the trim for moldings , mantle and other trimwork. Is using one color in this way a trend now or should I stay with two contrasting shades? Thank you
Kris Jarrett says
I actually love the look of White Dove for both the walls and trim (I have that combination in my kitchen!). Even though it’s the same color, the different sheen makes the color look slightly different so I feel like it gives some subtle contrast yet still flows together really well.
John sanders says
What are your thoughts on Benjamin Moore line Aura vs. Regal Select and would you do trim in either of those two or Benjamin Moore Advance?
Kris Jarrett says
Hi John! I’ve painted with all three of those Benjamin Moore paints and they’re all great paints. I use Regal Select in semigloss for trim unless I’m painting over oil-based paint, in which case I use Advance. Hope that helps!
Barbara B. says
I have all oil base alkyd trim and want to switch to latex. Do you sand before using Advance? Is it worth trying to do this or should I just forget it? Thanks.
Kris Jarrett says
It’s best to lightly sand before using Advance when painting over oil but just enough to scuff the surface – there is no need to do heavy or time intensive sanding 🙂
Sherry says
HI Kris, I’m stuck between White Dove and Swiss Coffee. I like both but one or the other looks better on my walls in different parts of the house. What do you think about BM Swiss Coffee?
Kris Jarrett says
Unfortunately I’ve never used that color Sherry so I can’t really comment on how it compares to White Dove. Sorry!
Vicki says
for those with questions about walls vs trim colors…I just painted my home with a color called Weathered White. I used the European look with same color base and crown. What I ran into was the crown created a shadow and looked darker , so I had it lightened up quite a bit and in a semi gloss. It was right above painted cabinets which were in the wall color but semi. It was all seamless and gave a great look to a 60′ rancher with lower ceilings. I read about this European style on some decorating site. It was great solution.
Kris Jarrett says
Thanks for sharing Vicki!
Lauren says
Hi there! I’m curious after looking at this great article because you seem to know your stuff, what white (white on white for trim and cabinets) you’d suggest for a room that doesn’t get a ton of sun throughout the day. I’m saddened to discover my hubby and my first house seems to not have many, or big, windows though I would really like to punch up the light and airy factor. Creme and oat coastal or white and oat and creams is the look I’d like most (both in decor and on walls, etc). Do you have any suggestions? It’s hard to find suggestions for this look when the room isn’t a bright one! Thanks!!
Kris Jarrett says
Lauren I think several of the whites in this post might work well for you – it just depends if you’re looking for a cool white or warm white and what intensity. I’ve found that Cloud White works well in darker spaces so maybe try a sample of that first and go from there!
Cristi says
Thank you for this amazing article! It has been extremely helpful in my process of converting to more white walls in my house! In regards to your comment about Cloud White working well in darker areas, would it compliment Decorator’s White cabinets well? Based on your article and my samples, I’d like to paint my current gray cabinets Decorator’s White; however, I’m still searching for a white for the walls /trim/ceiling that won’t compete. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated! 🙂
Brenda says
Good article! I’m needing to refresh some spaces in our home that were painted white when we bought the house but remind me of ‘primer’! It just doesn’t look finished! I love white and want to keep it white but use a ‘warmer’ version of the color! I was feeling overwhelmed about how to go about it! This article comes at a good time! Thanks Kris!
Kris Jarrett says
I’m so glad that you found it helpful Brenda! XOXO
Linda says
Has anyone used BM Alabaster? Is it the same as SW’s?
Anonymous says
No I actually made that mistake by specifying the wrong brand.
Grandy says
Wish I had read your entry a year ago. We just built our new home on the NC coast where we get lots of bright light in the upstairs rooms. I had two bedrooms painted Simply White after painting numerous board a variety of whites. As soon as the rooms were completed, before we even moved in, I knew I had made a mistake. The rooms looked a ‘greeny-yellow’. Awful! They look even worse now that my red, white, and blue themed bedding is in there. I hate to paint and my husband refuses to pay a pai ter!
Kris Jarrett says
Ugh! I have seen Simply White used time and time again and be the perfect white BUT I’ve also seen it turn green – I tried to use it in my own home and painted one wall but it definitely had a green tint in my space. It varies so much from house to house!
Angela G says
Just painted simply white and the painter thought maybe they got it wrong it looks green. He has to do one more coat so I can change. This is for all bedrooms. The rest of my home is the sw alabaster. What should I put over the simply white to not be green?
Brenda says
HI
I am having the same problem with both Cloud White and Simply White-I feel your pain!
I have a tint on my windows and grass and blue water outside which impacts I am sure, but even in a washroom with no window, the paints still look green.
Wondering if you have come up with any solutions? I just hung up from Sherwin Willliams after discussing Alabaster, which they tell me has gray instead of yellow undertones and would be similar to Cloud White.
I guess this is why the root word of paint is pain.
Would be interested to hear from you.
Thank you.
Brenda
Kris Jarrett says
Brenda one thing I found is that the Matte sheen of both paints is quite a bit different than the flat so I’ve gone back to using flat since it’s less yellow/green. Cloud White flat doesn’t give off any of the green tones in my house!
Cristi says
Flat finish on walls is a very helpful hint! I’m from the old school of using “eggshell “ on the walls but I really love your idea of using a Matte sheen -makes for a much more updated look! Thx for that!
Laurie says
I love Benjamin Moore colors. I used their Simply White for the trim in my house and White Dove for my kitchen cabinets. Pretty much all my walls are painted in one of their colors. Mostly neutrals, blues, or greens.
Kris Jarrett says
Laurie I’m with you – especially when it comes to whites Benjamin Moore is my go-to!
Design Chic says
Wonderful information, Kris. Benjamin Moore Simply White and Dove white are my “go to” colors. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Kris Jarrett says
Love those too! Hope you got spoiled on Valentine’s Day!
Joycee says
Does White Dove work for cabinets in a small kitchen with low natural light?
Annie says
Which whites do you recommend for high altitude north facing rooms?
Kris Jarrett says
I don’t know about high altitudes but for north facing rooms, white paint colors with warm undertones work best!
Katy Beacher says
Is it my monitor or do all these whites have a touch of blue? I think I like Chantilly Lace the best. But it is really hard to tell.
Thank you.
Kris Jarrett says
It’s your monitor 🙂 Many of these are warm whites that aren’t at all blue.
Caralee Moore says
This post came at the perfect time!! I have been trying to find the perfect white on our our huge fireplace wall. Our walls are BM Revere Pewter and our trim is just basic white (that the previous owners had chosen). I would like it to be a soft white without being too yellowy . Any recommendations for what white would work best on that wall? Thank you for your time.
Kris Jarrett says
One you could try is Cloud White – it’s exactly that, a soft warm without without too much yellow.
Karen B. says
Kris,
This is very helpful. I’ve seen several of the BM paints in various whites. It can be overwhelming. Thanks for the detailed descriptions. I think the next time I have to paint I’ll paint with Simply White.
xo,
Karen
Kris Jarrett says
Thanks Karen! So glad that you found it helpful!
Lauren@SimplyLKJ says
Great information Kris. I am in the process of choosing a white paint for the trim/doors/cabinets in our home. Our current “white” has been custom matched the past few times since it is no longer available. So I need to find a current white I love. Of course my sweet hubby says “white is white”. LOL
Kris Jarrett says
Lauren I had to do that in our last house – there were several whites and I didn’t know what any of them were so I had to just cut the cord and start fresh! Hope you find one that you love!
Bree says
Kris this is such a great post!! You can bet I’ll be referring back to it soon:). And thank you for sharing my kitchen…I feel so honored it made your list?
Kris Jarrett says
Bree, I appreciate you letting me share your beautiful kitchen!! XOXO
Karen @ decorhint says
Hi Kris,
Thanks for the tips on white paint! I thought I had my heart set on Simply White for our home – until I saw your Living room with Cloud White. I just love that room of yours and I might have to give this cloud white color a try.
Kris Jarrett says
If you do, you’ll have to let me know how you like it!
Susan says
We are doing a new build and I am completely lost in picking a white for the ceiling. Our colors are neutrals for the most part (SW Sea Salt and On the Rocks, BM Silver Mist and Pale Oak). I am leaning toward BM Simply White, SW Pure White or Alabaster. Impressions on an would look best?
Diane says
I am looking for soft white (not too stark) for exterior in south florida. A lot of sun east/west facing. Any suggestions, looked at Swiss coffee & greek Villa. Also, nice trim color with co tast. Roof and pavers multi terracotta/grey/slight yellow.
Dani says
I have Greek Villa everywhere trim, ceilings, and walls and LOVE it. I have found that what impacts the look the most is lighting. I’m sure you are aware of this but look at paint in brightest sun, dimmest cloud cover, and night time lighting. Then go with what looks best. Best luck
R says
Did you ever decide what color? I’m looking Pure White and Greek Villa for my coastal stucco house. I’m going for a Mallorcan/Moroccan vibe.
Kris Jarrett says
How fun! Unfortunately I don’t ever feel comfortable making specific recommendations without seeing a space in person – colors can change so much depending upon the other colors in a space, what direction it’s facing, etc.
Coco May says
Thank you for this post. I am going out today to get samples and paint foam core boards 3 different whites to try in our new-to-us home! I plan to use the same color ceiling, walls and trim in most of the house. What finish is most modern? Some designers advise matte for ceiling and other satin. Some advise eggshell for wall and others say matte. Semi-gloss or satin for trim? Should kitchens and baths be different in paint finish from the rest of the house.? I love your BM White Cloud look with the black and white photographs. My husband is a black and white fine art photographer, so that setting was very persuasive! I will do my homework on the color, but can definitely use your insight on finish. Many thanks!
Kris Jarrett says
I think finish is very much personal preference – I typically do matte on the walls, flat on ceilings (the more sheen, the more that you see imperfections and most ceilings have a lot of them), and satin on trim. In terms of what’s most modern, honestly I think it’s either end of the extremes – either matte or high gloss! And as far as kitchen and baths, I’ve used BM matte on those too because it’s a scrubbable flat but I don’t have young kids getting water everywhere either. For a space that gets really heavy use you’re better off going with a higher sheen. Hope that helps!
Karen says
I’m planning on having my new kitchen cabinets and trim painted in Simply White. Is there another Benjamin Moore white you think would pair well with it on the shiplap walls and ceiling? Thinking of either Dove White or Cloud White, but am open to other suggestions. It is a west facing room with lots of green reflecting from the outside. (Living in a rainforest)
Kris Jarrett says
Hi Karen – it’s hard to say for sure since whites can look so different from space to space but I will say that I tried Simply White in my house that has a lot of green reflecting from the outdoors and it turned the white a greenish tone so I ended up using Cloud White. I would definitely paint some boards a few different whites and try them out in your house.
Karen Doss says
Do you have a favorite white in Behr? I have used whitecliff beige in Glidden, the swatch looks very beige but yet it looks very white in my entry and halls. I love it, but was going to use it someone else’s bedroom and now I’m leery it won’t look the same it looks in my home. Ahhh what to do. I wanted to use Behr as a Home Depot is close and a good price point for my client.
Thanks,
Karen
KD Interiors.
Kris Jarrett says
Hi Karen,
I’ve used Behr in other colors but unfortunately I’ve never used their whites!
Andrea says
Have you ever used Sherwin Williams Aesthetic White? I’m going for the white on white look, but I definitely don’t want it to feel sterile. My cabinet guy is recommending doing the kitchen cabinets and built-ins in SW Aesthetic White, which means I’d also probably have to do my trim in the same color since it’s all one, big open space and my cabinets will extend to the ceiling. I’m having a terrible time making a decision on how to tie it all together!
Kris Jarrett says
Sorry Andrea – I’ve never used that white before!
Susie Holton says
Please help me pick an exterior white for my lake house in north Louisiana, which is cedar with a Certainteed Weathered Wood roof and copper gutters. I’m trying to decide between BM White Dove, BM Gray Owl, SW Natural Choice, SW Alabaster, SW Dover White…. HELP!!! Thank you so much!
Kris Jarrett says
I’d love to help but feel that the only way to choose outdoor paint colors well is to see samples on the house in person – the same color can look very different from house to house depending on materials, surroundings, etc.
Diana Dambra says
I moved to a modern condo with great light, but very traditional furnishings and art work. In our old house, we used BM Antique White to have a creamy look, and I am thinking of doing it again, but with all the light, would Linen White be a better choice?
Anonymous says
Natural choice!
Stephani says
For a kitchen would you suggest satin or matte? We will actually be painting the entire house one colour to start
Most likely chantilly lace or simply white, white heron, Decorater’s white
Kris Jarrett says
Most people will suggest satin for a kitchen because it’s more scrubbable but I actually use flat or matte everywhere because I like the lack of sheen and how easy it is to touch up.
Christine L Blum says
Hi Kris,
My husband and I live in a townhouse that has all sliding glass doors. We keep the blinds and curtains closed during the day to keep the heat from beating in and the air running all day (we live in Florida).
I want to have the interior updated as we haven’t painted in 16 years. I have decided that White Dove BM and Alabaster SW are the top contenders as of right now for all the walls pretty much throughout. I want the trim & ceilings white but have no idea what white to chose with either paint.
My furniture is off white (Ikea slipcovers for sofa & chairs) with multi blue striped large area rugs in the living room area. Without seeing pictures what’s your opinion on both paints and what white for the trim & ceilings.
I’m NOT good with color at all so I found your blog and knew you were the person I wanted to ask.
Thank you in advance, Chris
Kris Jarrett says
Chris, I wish I could help but I would just be guessing in helping you pick out the perfect white for your space without seeing it in person!
Kris says
I love your break down of the whites! We chose cloud white for our kitchen cabinets, and revere pewter for our main walls (open concept) now 3 years later I am hating the revere pewter and finding it too dark. I am having a heck of a time finding a lighter wall colour yo bo with my cloud white cabinets!! Any advice??
Kris Jarrett says
Try Benjamin Moore Gray Owl or Repose Gray!
Silvia says
Great article. Can you recommend a white to go with golden oak? Our house is 100+ yrs old with the original oak trim and floors. We have decided not to paint the oak trim. Thanks
Kris Jarrett says
Whites are so tricky that honestly the same white can look totally different in two different homes so I really can’t make a blanket recommendation for a white – I would just be guessing. Sorry!
Maeghan Ottrey says
Silvia, did you end up finding a white you like? I’m about to move into a 100+ year old home and I’m looking to narrow down on some whites to go with our golden oak trim! Kris- any suggestions as to whether I should stick with trying warmer whites instead of something more stark like Chantilly?
Kimberly says
Hello! I have a very small home and I have chosen blue/green/gray colors throughout. Our Hall connects our living (SW Silver Strand) and kitchen (SW Rainwashed) so you can see from one room to the other. There is no light in the hall except from the adjacent rooms. I was thinking that SW Alabaster would lighten it up and keep the house from feeling too cool…..
Glenda says
I painted my bedroom Benjamin Moore paper white in a matte finish and love it!!
Kris Jarrett says
Thanks for sharing!!
Denise says
Love your blog,
I read the SWs post too, what would be a good alternative in SWs for BMs Simply White (for walls), and Decorators White (for ceiling and trim).
Kris says
My guess would be Pure White and Extra White
Leah Y says
I love your web-site, very informative!!
I am looking to paint my dining room walls with White Dove and ceiling Kendall Charcoal – thoughts? Are their another paint colors beige tones you would recommend for a ceiling?
Susan says
Hi, I’m stressing over having my kitchen cabinets painted. I was thinking chantilly lace until you mentioned a cool undertone. Floor and granite mixed in off whites and beiges and the backsplash is alabaster subway. Which warm white (BM) would you suggest that wouldn’t look dingy in a small dark kitchen?
Kris Jarrett says
I wish I could help but honestly I would just be guessing without seeing the space in person! Sorry!
Gina says
Thank you for all the tips! Seriously white has been the hardest paint color to choose. Can I ask, what color is your trim where your walls are white dove and your kitchen walls are cloud white? Are they the same color?
Kris Jarrett says
I generally use the same color for the trim as the white on the walls but a different sheen (I use Satin for most of my trim)
Dede Moynahan says
Your pictures are beautiful! I have moved to NC and I am finding my furniture that I had in NY looks too formal with Chippindale, silk club chairs, formal sofa and oriental area rugs. I want to brighten the room up but keep it warm. I’d like to make it look more modern looking. There are large windows and high ceiling with walnut wood floors. Would Alabaster work with Decorator White trim? Any suggestions?
EMC says
I love ’em all. I chose BM Simply White and lightened it by 25%.
Now our NYC co-op looks as bright and warm under normal conditions as the sun-filled rooms always pictured for S.W.
RHONDA HAMILTON says
I was looking for paint ideas when your site came up. It shows the colors I was looking at accept for one “Dune White”. My daughters have renovated their Kitchen and Bathrooms and used Dune White which goes with their gray accents really well .
I am redoing my large family room and just can’t decide what to do with my fireplace. 1st choice was to tile it, 2nd choice to white wash it, 3rd choice is to paint it white. I thought of using Cloud or Chantilly on the walls and then going with a stark white on fireplace. What are your thoughts? Do you think this would be too much of a contrast?
My walls right now are a carmel color, carpet beige tones so it is going to be a huge change that’s for sure.
Thanks and loved all your photos.
Kris says
I painted a brick fireplace in BM Simply White pearl finish and it looks great!
Lindsay W. says
Thank you for such a helpful post! I am a very big fan of your work and this is a most welcomed “cheat sheet.” I was wondering if you had any recommendations for a ceiling color that is just slightly a pale blue? I don’t want it to be overtly blue, but just a very subtle hint indicating a blue undertone. I’d love to hear your thoughts on past experience with various colors. if you’re willing to share? Thank you in advance!
Kris Jarrett says
So sorry for the super late response – I unfortunately haven’t ever used a pale blue on the ceiling (even though I love the idea) so don’t have a specific suggestion for you. Hope you’ve been able to find one that works for you!
Janet says
Hi Kris,
My husband and I purchased a new house in Southwest Florida, and are looking for the perfect off-white paint. After trying a few samples, we think that we are going with BM Moonlight White. It looks nice and creamy, but salesperson mixing the paint says that it has yellow in it. I want it to look warm, but still fresh. We have SW Extra White on trim and large beams on ceiling, and will also have a large wall with a lot of ship lap in Extra White. Would you mix the two? (Area rugs and kitchen cabinets are a creamy color). Your thoughts?
Jana says
You’re so right on how hard it is to choose whites!! We’re redoing our kitchen and currently have Dunn Edwards swiss Coffee on our trim from when the house was built. I want the cabinets to look white and not sure I if I can change and go a bit lighter for the cabinets or still go with the Swiss coffee. The contractor gave me his sample of DE Swiss coffee which he uses the Benjamin Moore scufxx brand paint in light sheen and has them make their formula of DE Swiss coffee. It just doesn’t look like my trim. It looks darker, dull and has a greenish tint. My trim looks warmer and lighter. Have you used Dunn Edwards Whisper? Do you think Swiss coffee or Whisper has a yellowish cast? I’m not sure what way to go!
Julie says
We used Whisper White in our kitchen and on our shiplap fireplace. It’s gorgeous with no yellow undertones.
Has anyone used Decorators White on the walls in their Master Bedroom? Our contractor said either SW Pure White or Decorators White. Will Decorators White be too stark?
Lisa says
Beautiful room! I adore it so much! Your ceiling and walls are both Cloud White, but are they different sheens? I’m wanting to paint both my trim (satin) and my ceilings (flat ) Cloud White and wanted to achieve your seamless look. So pretty. Thank you!
Kris Jarrett says
Hi Lisa – yes I use Cloud White on my walls in Matte or Flat and do my trim in Satin!
Tiffiny says
Hi, Love LoveLove the kitchen however I can seem to find what color that you have used for your walls in the kitchen?
Leslie Alamo says
what white color would you recommend for a tobacco acacia floor? the floor is very bold and rich and currently my walls are an sherwin williams almond. Im trying to tone down the warmness in the room but not have too stark of a white.
Lisa says
I had my heart set on BM chantilly lace before reading comments… we have a modern home and walls, ceiling, trim will all be same color. I want a white that has just a bit of a “dirty” undertone so that it doesn’t read too white. I don’t want a creamy look, just not a hospital look… in your experience, does chantilly lace read very white white, or does it give a bit of a “dirty” undertone? (I use the term dirty in a good way) I was also love the tone of BM white dove but have decided it too dark and am using it on my modern farmhouse exterior.
Kris Jarrett says
Unfortunately I’ve never used Chantilly Lace personally so don’t have any more input on it other than what I described in the post.
Lanza says
What kind of advice is to describe the Chantilly Lace, yet you have never used it. Is this an ad paid by BM?
Amancia says
We are redoing our house after water damange and will have natural acacia floors. What color did you end up going with? Our cabinets will be white so I’m worried about choosing two whites that bring out something unappealing in one another. All the non white colors I liked online looked awful in my space. I want what you are looking for, not cream and not sterile. I might settle on High Reflective White for all of it, to be safe but since this is my chance to get it all right since every single thing is being redone, I want to love it!
Carol says
I am a huge fan of BM paints…and have used Linen White for years. We have just purchases a traditional cape…and I need help deciding which color white to paint on most of the walls…the house already has white trim and a white kitchen. I am looking for a whiter white than Linen White…The secondary color will be a peach. Any suggestions?
Kristine Dempsey says
Love cloud white ..its a great all around white …clean and crisp but not stark.. creamy whitoiy greys browns or yellows easy on the eyes white.
Kim says
What white would you choose in a kitchen with beige cabinets?
Kim says
Sorry, I meant “greige” cabinets!
Marianne Carnevale says
Does Sherwin Williams have a paint like BM Chantilly Lace. They said they can make.
Jackie says
Thank you so much for all of your beautiful ideas! I love in a farmhouse and I am planning on painting the kitchen with white walls and trim and sage green cabinets. I think White Dove would be nice on the walls. Should I paint the trim that color? Is it a good stylish color for Farmhouse white?
Kris Jarrett says
I’ll often paint the trim the same white as the walls but a different sheen (Satin or Semi Gloss) so that would likely work well for your kitchen. White Dove is a great color that looks beautiful in most spaces – I would just throw a sample of it up on your wall to make sure it doesn’t go to yellowish in your home.
Michelle Goodrich says
S.O.S. Kris!
Help!
Help!
Our kitchen/living room/dining room is open concept. Windows are north facing. Looking out from the kitchen you see our raised marbled red brick fireplace (grays, blacks, reds, whites) with vaulted ceiling. The front of the fireplace is black. Our floor is 90’s beige’ish tile with gray grout. That’s not changing unfortunately. 🙂
We’re painting our oak cabinets BM White Dove. Our kitchen has a huge skylight. We were thinking of painting the ceiling all the way up with the White Dove versus Simply White. Or should we continue White Dove all the way up?
Edgecomb Gray on all other walls.
Second question is would it make sense to use White Dove on all the trim (baseboards, windowsill, garage door), fireplace mantle and ceiling or should we go with Simply White and just stick with White Dove on the kitchen cabinets?
Help pleeeeeease. Any suggestions are welcome!
Side note: We also have a built in oak buffet in our living room (near the fireplace) that I was thinking should be White Dove.
Thank you!
Jenna says
Wanted to send a huge thank you for giving me a color that was similar to alabaster. I have been searching everywhere for a comparison in Behr or Benjamin Moore and finally have an answer. You rock!
(I’m a paint color nerd too and collect swatches constantly so I can relate)
Helen williams says
I want to paint the walls in my family room a white but have very little wall space but lots of trim around a wall of French doors and another huge window. I would like to paint the shiplap which I am using as accent above fireplace and along ceiling trim the same color. Then paint the trim and kitchen cabinets perhaps a complimentary white in satin finish. Let me know your thoughts please. Thanks!
Lynn says
These are fascinating posts to read. We are still ( more than one year later) in the process of rebuilding/reconstructing our home after Hurricane Michael. Far too many decisions are being made at the pace of our contractor’s work schedule. Best advice I’ve had from a neighbor who is ahead of me is to use pieces of sheetrock for color samples! After failed attempts at dumpster diving I purchased a half-sheet & cut it down into 12” squares. It is much more effective than using foam or poster board. Every color that looks great on chips looks terrible in our rooms. Loss of trees is making a BIG difference even in the effect on existing painted wall colors! Don’t be tempted to skip the need for testing colors on sample boards and moving them around in each room!
Kris Jarrett says
I totally agree! Sample boards are key – especially with whites! Good luck with your rebuild!
Roman says
I chose Origami white throughout my house. It has less of a yellow undertone than Alabaster. I love it.
Ann says
I am have cabinets made with Benjamin Moore Swiss coffee . I am having. Black walnut island base with portico cream quartz . Windows both side of the kitchen more light then direct sun . Farmhouse . Can’t figure out the white I should use for trim and a wall color.
Rhonda says
What white would you suggest for a beach house? Not stark white but I know I want white ? floors are a light brown . Thanks so much
Kris Jarrett says
Paint looks different in every house so it’s impossible to pick without seeing it in your lighting but Simply White and Chantilly Lace are two fresh whites that would be good options to try!
Francine says
Need your help…… I am trying to figure it out. I am not designer. Of course! I am going to have the intense white (BM), Matte for the wall which it goes with Decorator White (BM) Semi Gloss for the trim. But for the Vanity, Which Should I use Decorator White or Snowbound? I have the white toilet and dove grey highland tiles in the bathroom wall. What color for the ceiling?
Karen says
We just bought a beautiful ocean front condo on the isle of palms, sc and all the floors are driftwood, artificial wood not real wood. It is a gray taupe color. I am thinking about using Accessible Beige, which is a SW paint, which white would be pretty with Accessible Beige or do you have another color that you would suggest. Help
Carol says
What is your opinion of sherwin and Williams aesthetic white for a kitchen wall? My cabinets and trim are dark wood. The walls now have too much golden tones. I want a brighter/whiter look.
stephanie says
Do you happen to know where the TV stand in the picture for BM white cloud picture above is from? thanks!
Jocelyn says
Thanks Kris for this post! I have been struggling with much the same….
Having moved into an apartment after having three walls of glass in my living room to one large East facing window and one North facing door, I am struggling with the need for “brightness’.
I had my LR painted from a medium gray to Ben Moore,Distant Gray. Thinking it would be drastic enough and bright enough. Not so. It is still dull on an overcast, snowy, rainy day.
So, after reading your post and feeling similar about how white is a necessity, I’ve convinced my husband to go with Chantilly Lace. He asked why I didn’t just do that in the first place, but there was a sense of insecurity because of the gray on all the other walls that I wasjust playing it safe. Gotta have faith.
I am now ready to make the final leap! Your LR is fresh and evokes a sense of clarity that is lovely.
Thanks for sharing….
rachel says
HI,
IF I PAINT MY EAST FACING LIVING ROOM IN SIMPLY WHITE WHICH SHEEN SHOULD I USE?
Kris Jarrett says
The higher the sheen you use, the more “white” it will look. I use flat for most rooms simply because it’s so easy to touch up but matte or eggshell are good choices too since they’re more scrubbable – it’s really just personal preference about the look you want!
Debbie says
I am wanting to paint my ceiling in my kitchen walls are a WV36011 waverly home classics. I want to use Benjamin’s Moore paint, want the ceiling to turn out a true white because I need a bright room to bake in. Don’t want anything that will go blue. Suggestions
Kristi says
My staircase is being completely redone in PPG Pure White – any recommendation on a white that would go best?
Glenda says
Your posts are always so helpful. It helped me tons in my kitchen remodel. Any recommendations for Sherwin Williams whites? I need to paint by baseboards but i always get so overwhelmed i keep putting it off. I don’t have a BM near me.
Danae Noel says
What sheen of cloud white did you use in your living room for the walls?
Elizabeth says
Cotton balls by Benjamin Moore in my house reads as a crisp white with no grey or yellow undertones. Everyone I know loves White Dove and I thought for sure I would use that. But for some reason it has a definite grey tone in my house’s lighting? So I totally agree with your suggestion of testing it on large foam boards first!!!
Brandy says
What color is the island with the champagne pulls???
Pam says
Hi Kris! Thank you for sharing all of this great information. I have a big old colonial. We recently painted the living room revere pewter. I would like to paint the main hallway and dining room a lighter color to compliment the living room. I would love your suggestions.
Kris Jarrett says
Hi Pam. I would look at the lighter colors on the Revere Pewter color strip and see if any of those appeal to you. Also light grays and whites tend to work well with that color. Any more specific recommendations would have to take into account everything from your flooring to furniture to what kind of light your house gets so I’d be shooting in the dark unfortunately.
Danielle says
I just used magnolia bisque and one horn.great paibtbut colors are much lighter than swatches…
Gwen says
Hi I am thinking about painting my kitchen walls white. My question is which white do you think would look good with medium oak cabinets? Really appreciate your help!! Thank you! Gwen
Lilly says
Hi I loved this post but I’m still confused as to what color to use on an outdoor lanai area with a caged pool area. There are two large sliding doors that flow into the Lanai. I want to have the Lanai flow extending from the rest of the house which is painted BM White Dove.
The floor looks like weathered grey planks like he rest of the house also. My fear is how the white dove undertones will look too dark in the outside with the grey tile. I’m going for a hamptons look.
Would love feedback.
Thanks!!😬😊
Kirsten Valentine says
I just keep reading this over and over!!! Thank you!
Carole says
Hi. Would you know what the color of the wall is in the Z-design kitchen. This looks like a perfect color for my needs as our bath has greys and light browns. Thank you.
Kathryn Allen says
Home Hardware
Angel Wings is my favourite white.
I painted my condo great room and it looks spectacular!!
Callie Nelson says
Hi there,
I am wondering if it would work well to use Cloud White on my walls with Chantilly Lace for the ceiling?
Thanks
Callie
Alicia says
I’m stuck between Navajo white and Linen white (Benjamin Moore) for my office. I have mahogany built ins (shelves and desk). Neutral furniture fabric and window treatment. It’s a bright space. Any thoughts?
SS says
Hi, I am thinking of painting my cabinets with BM Chantilly Lace. Shall I brighten up trim throughout the house even more for contrast? If so, what is brighter that won’t clash? Thanks a mil for your expertise.
Donna says
Have you ever used BM Distinct Gray? Would love your thoughts!
Mary Ann Goicoechea says
I am looking for an exterior white for the trim on a brick house with black shutters. Any suggestions?
Barb says
Try BM snow on the mountain! Love that color
Diane Shultz says
Thank you Kris on your helpful ideas using white paint..I almost finishing a 1300sqft guest house build 2bdrm/2bath..I’m going with Sherwin Williams Pure White matte walls, satin cabinets & trim & doors..it is an open concept plan with kitchens& family room no walls..I will have GE cafe series white appliances so lots of white ..will pull in color with furnishings pillows etc..your thoughts? Thank you, Diane
Rebecca says
When you paint your trim in different whites in different rooms, what color do you paint your doors? For example, all of our doors are painted Decorator’s White, but when we redid our bathroom I painted the walls/ceiling/trim Cloud White and the door is definitely brighter. But I didn’t paint it on that side because it opens up into my room where the trim is still Decorator’s White. Just curious what you do. Thanks!!
Philippa says
Would you say it is ok to mix different trim colours in different rooms in the house?
elizabeth says
I found that the white paint called Cotton Balls by BM is a great crisp white with no undertone. Maybe you can check that out next time. Love your posts!
Lori Nader says
What color white is best for exterior rancher with black shutters and grey hardscape? Rancher is brick and t-11 siding. Thank you.
Mynde says
Wedding veil what are undertones?
Mandy says
Just want to say THANKS so much for your wonderful posts !! Really helps someone like me who for the life of me cannot decide what color (more like how light / white ) I want to go with my paint change for my main floor. It’s a open space concept floor so our living room, kitchen, dining is all in one open space and it’s been difficult trying to see if an accent wall even makes sense. Terrified of doing too much !
Kelly says
What neutral would pair well with Alabaster kitchen Cabinets? I looked at agreeable grey but it’s too dark. Any recommendations would be appreciated!
Christine says
It sounds like you have various shades of white for trim and ceilings in your home depending on the room. I can’t imagine doing that in my three bedroom, living room, dining room, two bath, small kitchen home. We ‘ve always used one white trim color and ceiling paint for continuity. Now I’m rethinking my plan for colors to paint later this year.
Susan says
Hi Kris! This post is the best especially for us color challenged people who have a tough time seeing the undertones. I’m wondering what would be your number one pick for white paint for trim and baseboards if you could only pick one. Also, what sheen do you use for trim?
Thanks much!
Susan
Kris Jarrett says
Honestly it really depends on the house and the kind of light it gets! The white that I’ve found works well in most homes is BM Simply White. I always use the same white on the trim as on the walls but in satin.
Pearl says
We just painted our entire house a compromise, Aesthetic White (SW). I wanted Alabaster (my husband thought it was too clinical) he wanted an ivory (yellowish ick). I think the Aesthetic White is a little dingy especially in corners but oh, well. What you gonna do?? Hopefully, when we get moved in and have pictures on the wall and pillows and all, I won’t notice.
Kathy says
I had Vista Paint in Santa Monica mix the color Sugar Dust for me in Safecoat Paint eggshell for my kitchen as my son
is chemically sensitive. Love It.
Konrad Motyka says
Hi, I recently did my hallway and removed old wallpaper that was on the walls. I picked BM Linen White for the walls and as for the trim and spindles, I used the same white trim all over the house which is BM Super White. Unfortunately, the Linen White and Super White seems to clash- one being on the warmer side while the other on the cooler side. The Linen White seems quite yellow now. I’ve heard of some people using a 50/50 mix of BM Linen White and Decorators White to quiet the yellow. Has anyone used this mix or is there another BM white I can use that isn’t so stark and that would still compliment the Super White without looking dirty?
I really appreciate your help!
Melissa says
Hi Kris, love this post! Thank you.
One question. What is the trim color in your room with White Dove? I love it!!! I am looking for a trim to go with white dove walls. Thank you so very much!!!
Cynthia says
Great article and really helpful answers but here’s my stumper — we’re moving into a condo in the Caribbean that has a 30’ wall of NE facing windows overlooking the ocean — obviously that’s amazing but it means the natural light has a cool, bluish reflection almost all of the time. I know the white paint suggestion is normally a warm-toned white like Simply White, but I’m worried it’ll go a bit green with its yellow base. I’m afraid that OC151 which I love, doesn’t have enough warmth to offset all that cool….ANY ideas? Thanks!!
Patricia says
Hi Kris,
Thanks for your e-mails. I found the one on paint particularly interesting as I am trying to decide on a white paint for my kitchen and living room. No decision yet but hopefully I will get there!
SusanR says
Nice post. I have an open floor plan but most of the light comes from the north/ northeast. Almost all the whites turned either yellow or g pale greige… jist dingy. I settled on BM Damask Pink for everything except the bedrooms. It reads as an incredibly light gray in the morning and almost pure white in the afternoon. Who would have guessed? I did buy the Samplesize samples! So glad I did!
SydneyH says
I always loved Alabaster from SW. But the light in our new home we had built 10 years ago, needed a slightly different white and we chose SWGreek Villa and love it! We did the same thing you did in color wrapping all of our public areas. I used SW Tidewater in my master bedroom and bathroom and in our family room. Brent chose Glimmer for his office/den and we put it in our tiny laundry room as well. We love our little home here in the Colorado Rockies.