Since late last year, there has been a lot of buzz (and a lot of blogging) about Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year for 2016, Simply White. It’s inspired me to write my own blog about white and off white paint selections.
Although I don’t spec white colors for interior walls very often, I do specify a lot of whites for interior trim, doors and millwork. White or off white paint usually represents a fairly small portion of an overall design project, yet can become a very important component running throughout a residential or commercial setting. There are so many white options out there, and the selection process can be daunting. Although it’s a singular decision among many, it often looms large for clients and can cause uncertainty and indecision. Help can be found with a designer who’s “been there, done that” many times.
Whites range from cool to warm, rosy to creamy, gray to beige. Do you want your interior to appear crisp and fresh? Soft and mellow? Stately? Modern and upbeat? The white paint selection will definitely influence the results. If possible, color decisions should be made on site, in lighting that is consistent with the lighting that ultimately will be present every day. Bright fluorescent store lights differ greatly from typical incandescent or LED lighting in home settings. White and off white surfaces change nicely from bright to mellow throughout the day, depending on the amount of natural light available. Generally I specify Benjamin Moore Ready Mixed Whites, but there are many great options in the Color Preview and Classic Colors paint decks as well. See some recent projects and selections below.
Combination of Antique White, Atrium White and Super White:
Nice example of Decorators White working with several colors:
Example of Atrium White complementing dark wood trim:
