KERI MICHELLE interiors

How To Select The Perfect Paint For Your Home White

Keri is the owner and designer of Keri Michelle Interiors, a client-focused boutique design firm based in North County, San Diego. Known for her simplistic, inspired designs, Keri has found her niche in creating timeless spaces by seamlessly blending earthy elements with a casual coastal take on residential interiors.

TO SEE MORE OF KERI’S PROJECTS: kerimichelleinteriors.com Instagram @KeriMichelleInteriors

As an interior designer, this is often one of my most asked questions via direct message or in casual conversations. Even in my own home I am often asked which paint color we used and although I love our Simply White by Sherwin Williams walls, it doesn’t mean that is the right white paint color for your home.

White paint will absorb anything and everything in its way. For example, a tan colored sofa or a blue comforter will have a direct effect on the hue of the white paint that you select. Blue will cast a blue undertone or tan will cast a brown undertone. Windows play a large role in the appearance of white paint, as well. The natural light coming in will have a huge impact on your space.

What may look great in your friend’s or neighbor’s home does not mean that same paint color will work or even look the same in your space.

It’s almost impossible to name my 5 favorite whites because each home carries its own color. However, I realize there are hundreds of whites out there so do your research and search top trending interior white colors.

SOME OF MY GO-TOS:

White Flour by Sherwin Williams

Alabaster by Sherwin Williams

Simply White by Benjamin Moore

Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore

White Dove by Benjamin Moore

I suggest requesting sample sheets from Dunn Edwards, Farrow & Ball, Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore of the ones you’re interested in. Hang the samples in different rooms around the house. Notice how the white paint changes color throughout the day and evening and from room to room.

After you have narrowed the paint selections down to one or two of your favorite colors, buy a sample and paint it in several different rooms (minimum two coats and prime first as the current paint undertone will affect the color).

Don't overthink it!

If the color makes you feel the vibe you are seeking, then it's probably the right choice. Paint, test and play until you find it!