Favorite White Paints from Designers

There are many different shades of white paint that I favor… With my first attempt at white I went with Kelly Moore’s Swiss Coffee.   I recently painted this color throughout the majority of my home for the simple fact that I had to make a decision quickly and it matches my existing cabinetry.  It’s neither too yellow nor cold appearing and it accents all my existing white furniture pieces perfectly.  Now if I had to do it again… I would choose something a little cooler but for the mere fact that my floors have a little red in them and I think a cleaner, cooler white would contrast with them even more.

Tone, Lighting and Sheen are 3 very important factors you should consider when making your White Paint choice.

Tone and Lighting…  It’s important to make sure that whichever white you are leaning toward… to check and double check that it compliments ALL materials and fabrics in the spaces you are painting.  From kitchen cabinetry to carpet, hardwood floors and furniture you want to make sure that all reflect well with your choice.
I knew when making my decision that I’d need a white paint that can handle both the Amaretto reddish tone in my wood floors as well as the cooler tones in my granite and kitchen appliances.

Lighting is also an important consideration.  Many whites fair well in bright rooms with lots of light however darker spaces tend to appear more dull, gray and flat if painted in the wrong shade of white.  A slightly warmer white will lend a cozier appearance to a dark room.  Cooler white paint colors can have the opposite effect.

Sheen?  When I first moved into my new home several years ago we had flat texture paint on the walls.  After a couple of years my walls became filthy and a dust magnet.  I had always believed that a flat texture paint looked more classic and had more of a museum backdrop texture for my artwork… Instead I found that everyday living with kids and pets doesn’t mix well with flat.
My new favorite texture…?   Low Sheen or Satin.  Low Sheen falls in between the shinier Eggshell and chalky Flat textures.  You can wipe it clean and there is no glare.  A definite MUST for Moms and families.
You can read more about the difference between all sheens – here.

Below are my favorite go to links on choosing white paint from designer friends ~  

1.  http://beckiowens.com/bedrooms/white-paint-guide/

 

2.  http://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/color/advice/a3448/the-right-white-a-70889/

 

3.  http://laurelberninteriors.com/2014/03/26/great-shades-white-paint/

 

4.  http://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/colors/a1585/how-to-choose-white-paint/

 

5.  http://www.styleathome.com/decorating-and-design/colour/15-fabulous-white-paints/a/35249/7

 

6.  http://theinspiredroom.net/2012/02/16/the-best-white-paint/