12 Best Calm Paint Colors: Try These Top Picks from Designers Now!

Tranquil calming hues, soft pastels, and soothing neutrals lend a serene, sedative feeling to these home interiors and restful spaces. Not sure where to begin in your search for the best calm paint colors for your room? Start with this primer post with photos of beautifully relaxing, calming paint colors and expert opinions from designers who share their favorites. 12 Best Calm Paint Colors has been freshly updated and aims to help you capture all the zen feels.

Stony Ground Farrow & Ball paint color is on this gorgeous front door of an English stone cottage with topiaries on porch. #paintcolors #stonyground #farrowandball #interiordesign #exteriorpaintcolors #frontdoorpaintcolor
Keep reading to learn the tranquil color of this gorgeous front door!

12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!}

You’ll note there are a fair number of Farrow & Ball colors mentioned by designers…did you know you can order samples of them now? Yep. Find them RIGHT HERE.

Farrow & Ball Wimborne White

Wimborne White by Farrow and Ball - It’s counterpart in Benjamin Moore is Simply White. Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!}
PIN ME! Try a sample of Farrow & Ball Wimborne White

Brooke Giannetti of Giannetti Home masterfully creates tranquility in the spaces she designs and likes to use Farrow & Ball paints. She definitely knows her way around relaxing, calm, colors.

One of Brooke’s favorite paint colors I learned from reading her blog Velvet and Linen is Wimborne White.

Wimborne White paint color by Farrow & Ball on walls of a glorious country kitchen by Siobhan McFadden of Homestead. #wimbornewhite #farrowandball #paintcolors #whitepaintcolors #interiordesign
Wimborne White paint in kitchen with design by Homestead
Wimborne White paint color by Farrow & Ball in a magnificent home's entry with soaring ceilings, paneled walls, and elegant staircase. #wimbornewhite #farrowandball #paintcolors #bestwhitepaintcolors
White Paint color is F&B Wimborne White via JG Interiors

WIMBORNE WHITEFarrow & Ball. This just off white is named after the market town of Wimborne in Dorset and home to Farrow & Ball. Only a shade away from a pure white, the addition of the smallest amount of warm yellow pigment creates a very versatile shade which is just a little softer than All White.

A serene and neutral bedroom with walls painted Farrow and Ball in Wimborne White.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #wimbornewhite #neutralinterior #bedroomdecor
Wall paint: Farrow & Ball Wimborne White (via Brunch at Saks)…12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

Farrow & Ball Pointing

Pointing paint color by Farrow & Ball. #paintcolors #pointing #farrowandball #whitepaintcolors
Paint color: FARROW & BALL Pointing
Pointing, Farrow & Ball "This is the perfect ivory for almost every setting — not too bright and not too creamy." -Anne Maxwell Foster.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!}
PIN ME! Try a sample of Farrow & Ball Pointing

POINTING…Farrow & Ball. “This fresh and uncomplicated white is named after the colour of lime pointing used in traditional brickwork. One of our Red Based Neutrals, Pointing has a warm undertone to it which creates the prettiest of spaces when used on walls and always softens the feel of a room alongside strong, traditional colors.”

Pointing by Farrow & Ball is a paint color used on the walls of this English country kitchen with rustic ceiling trusses and farmhouse pendants. #pointing #farrowandball #paintcolors #calmpaintcolors #interiordesign
Pointing by Farrow & Ball – sample it HERE
Pointing paint color by Farrow & Ball on a handmade charming wooden growth chart ruler by Etsy maker RealRulerCo. #pointing #farrowandball #paintcolors
Wooden Ruler Growth Chart for Kids (painted in Pointing), RealRulerCo on Etsy
Inspirational quote and faith quote about the soul on Hello Lovely Studio. #faithquote #inspirationalquote #christianity #soulquote #quotes
Walls in this beautiful living room with neutral decor are painted: Pointing by Farrow & Ball.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #pointing #farrowandballpointing #paintcolors
Wall Paint Color: Pointing by Farrow & Ball (via Remodelista)…12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

If you like a less yellow white, consider Farrow & Ball’s School House White.

School House White by Farrow & Ball. #paintcolors #schoolhousewhite #farrowandballschoolhousewhite #whitepaintcolors
FARROW & BALL Schoolhouse White – sample it HERE
School House White by Farrow & Ball. #paintcolors #schoolhousewhite #farrowandballschoolhousewhite #whitepaintcolors
Schoolhouse White FARROW & BALL

Benjamin Moore Cape May Cobblestone

When I researched the topic of designer picks for tranquil paint colors, this paint color from Benjamin Moore kept popping up: CAPE MAY COBBLESTONE: Benjamin Moore. This classic, elegant gray confers a sense of spaciousness that makes it ideal for small bedrooms and areas like hallways and mudrooms.

Cabinet paint color is Cape May Cobblestone. Rich mid tone warm gray. Jennifer Carvosi Design.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #capemaycobblestone #paintcolors
Cabinet Color: Benjamin Moore Cape May Cobblestone – via DecorPad...12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

Modern Farmhouse Finds

SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Black or Bronze Accent Table
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Laurel Wreath Mirror
San Jose Handleset for Front Door
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Louis Ghost Chair
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
Tulip Style Modern Round Dining Table
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Bridge Kitchen Faucet (Stainless)
Jute Area Rug
Farmers Market Wreath
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Linen Headboard
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Marble Column Lamp
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Shop My Kitchen!
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Modern Brass Globe Pendant
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
Leather Chesterfield Sofa
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Linen Slipcover Dining Chair
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing

Farrow & Ball: Ball Green No. 75

Ball Green by Farrow & Ball paint on the ceiling of a beautiful French country bedroom with chandelier and beams. #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #interiordesign #farrowandball #ballgreen #paintcolors
Ceiling Paint: Farrow & Ball Ball Green Wall Paint: F&B New White (via Farrow & Ball)…12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

Greet Lefevre of Lefevre Interiors and Belgian Pearls

“One of my favorite tranquil paint colors is Farrow & Ball – Ball Green.”

 Ball Green paint color by Farrow & Ball.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #paintcolors #farrowandball #ballgreen
PIN ME! Farrow & Ball – Ball Green – try a sample HERE

BALL GREEN…Farrow & Ball. This muted green is a tribute to Richard Ball, the paint pioneer who first founded our company in Dorset, England with John Farrow. It is an old distemper colour with a more sober, established feel than fresh Cooking Apple Green. It has a magical quality of appearing almost silver in candlelight, so is great for use in dining rooms.

Ball Green by Farrow & Ball in an elegant entry with soft green grey walls and beautiful trim and moldings.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #paintcolors #farrowandball #ballgreen
Farrow & Ball Ball Green via Farrow & Ball. 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}
Frida Kahlo inspirational quote about endurance on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquotes #endurance #struggle #pandemic #covid19
Ball Green paint color (Farrow & Ball) in a classic bathroom with clawfoot tub. #ballgreen
Farrow & Ball – Ball Green – try a sample HERE

Farrow & Ball Stony Ground No. 211

Greet Lefevre also favors Farrow & Ball’s Stony Ground:

STONY GROUND…Farrow & Ball. This strong neutral is one of our most popular wallpaper background colours, so we couldn’t resist adding it to our collection of richly pigmented paints. A classic stone colour, Stony Ground has a slight underlying red which adds warmth and creates a soft beige finish. It pairs incredibly well with the lighter Shaded White or stronger Mouse’s Back for a quietly cohesive scheme.

Stony Ground (Farrow & Ball) is the paint on the exterior of this cottage, and Hague Blue is the paint color on the front door. #farrowballstonyground #stonyground #farrowandballhagueblue #hagueblue #paintcolors #housecolors
Exterior paint: F&B Stony Ground; Door: F&B Hague Blue (via Farrow & Ball) 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

Benjamin Moore Alaskan Husky

Sherry of Design Indulgence:

“I once used Benjamin Moore Alaskan Husky for a gender neutral nursery and fell in love with it’s gray blue tones……It would be a pretty dining room or bedroom wall color mixed with creams and maybe a little gray sprinkled in!”

Alaskan Husky by Benjamin Moore is oOne of the most perfect gray paint colors for serene and calm.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #paintcolors #benjaminmoorealaskanhusky #AlaskanHusky #bluegreypaintcolor
Paint Color: Benjamin Moore Alaskan Husky (via Blackhawk Hardware) – 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}
A calm and serene bedroom with walls painted Alaskan Husky by Benjamin Moore.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #paintcolors #benjaminmoorealaskanhusky #alaskanhusky #lightgreypaintcolors
Benjamin Moore Alaskan Husky (via Cynthia Hayes Interior) 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}
Alaskan Husky paint color by Benjamin Moore for tranquil, calm, relaxing interiors.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #paintcolors #lightgreypaintcolor #benjaminmoore #alaskanhusky
Benjamin Moore Alaskan Husky – PIN ME!

ALASKAN HUSKYBenjamin Moore. This color is part of the Classic Color Collection. Surround yourself with your color favorites. These timeless, elegant, Classic Colors guarantee beautiful, usable color all the time, every time. A collection of 1,680 inspired hues that consumers and professionals have enjoyed for years, the colors in this palette are as timeless as they are forward.

Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray

BM Edgecomb Gray paint color on walls of tranquil bedroom with design by Jennifer Palumbo. #benjaminmoore #edgecombgray #paintcolors #calmpaintcolors
Jennifer Palumbo – Edgecomb Gray

Elizabeth of Pretty Pink Tulips:

“My favorite tranquil paint color for walls is “Edgecomb Gray” by Benjamin Moore; it’s a perfect greige and super soothing.”

Wall Color is Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray and trim is Cotton Balls from Benjamin Moore.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #paintcolors #edgecombgray #benjaminmoore
Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore (via Indulgy) 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}
Edgecomb Gray paint color by Benjamin Moore on kitchen cabinets in a lovely modern farmhouse kitchen with shiplap by Willow Homes. #edgecombgray #benjaminmoore #paintcolors #lightgreypaintcolor
BENJAMIN MOORE Edgecomb Gray on kitchen cabinets – Willow Homes
Brene Brown inspirational quote about grace on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #brenebrown #gracequotes #faithquotes #spirituality #personalgrowth
Edgecomb Gray paint color by Benjamin Moore for trim in a lovely family room by Barnard & Speziale. #edgecombgray #benjaminmoore #paintcolors
BM Edgecomb Gray on trim – Barnard & Speziale
Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray HC-173.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #paintcolors #edgecombgray #benjaminmooreedgecombgray
Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore – PIN ME!

EDGECOMB GRAY…Benjamin Moore. A go-to gray that’s timeless with a modern edge, this earthy, organic neutral is soft and stylish, creating a setting that feels distinctly personal.

Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray. A light warm gray with just the right mix of warm and cool undertones.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #benjaminmoore #paintcolors #edgecombgray
Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray (via The Creativity Exchange) 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}
Edgecomb Gray paint color by Benjamin Moore on kitchen cabinets in a lovely modern farmhouse kitchen with shiplap by Willow Homes. #edgecombgray #benjaminmoore #paintcolors #lightgreypaintcolor
Willow Homes – Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore on kitchen cabinets

Benjamin Moore Hollingsworth Green

Amy of Maison Decor loves this soothing green.

Laundry room with cabinetry painted Hollingsworth Green HC-141. Design by Fourchairsfurniture. #paintcolors #hollingsworthgreen #benjaminmoore #laundryroom
Cabinet Color: Benjamin Moore Hollingsworth Green (via Four Chairs Furniture) 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}
Benjamin Moore Hollingsworth Green paint color.  #benjaminmoorehollingsworthgreen #hollingsworthgreen #paintcolors #calmpaintcolor
PIN me! Hollingsworth Green – Benjamin Moore

HOLLINGSWORTH GREEN…Benjamin Moore. This color is part of the Historic Color collection. A collection of 191 time-honored hues comprises our most popular palette. Steeped in tradition, the refined, elegant colors of the Historical Collection deliver timeless color that can be used in traditional as well as contemporary spaces. Unveiled in 1976 to celebrate the US bicentennial, a collection of 191 colors inspired by America’s historic landmarks.

Hollingsworth Green (Benjamin Moore) paint color on walls of a beautiful traditional style bathroom. #holilngsworthgreen #benjaminmoore #paintcolors
BM Hollingsworth Green via BHG
Beautiful calm bedroom with traditional decor and walls are Benjamin Moore Hollingsworth Green HC 141. #paintcolors #benjaminmoorehollingsworthgreen #calmpaintcolor #hollingsworth
Benjamin Moore Hollingsworth Green 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

Similar in mood but less green and more grey, BEHR Quiet Time is a light green-gray, lovely for a house exterior. (Free shipping when you order samples from Home Depot!)

BEHR Quiet Time paint color. #paintcolors #behrquiettime #quiettime #bestlightgrey
TRY this paint color: BEHR Quiet Time
Behr Quiet Time paint color on a house exterior for a soothing, light grey green tranquil color. #paintcolors #behrquiettime #quiettime #lightgrey #housecolors
BEHR Quiet Time
Inspirational quote about peace on Hello Lovely Studio. #peacequote #inspirationalquotes #quotes

Benjamin Moore Glass Slipper

Mary Ann of Classic Casual Home:

“One of my favorite tranquil colors for bedrooms is Benjamin Moore – Glass Slipper.”

Calm light blue paint color for a bedroom! Glass Slipper by Benjamin Moore. #paintcolors #benjaminmoore #glassslipper #lightbluepaintcolor #calmpaintcolors #benjaminmooreglassslipper
Pin me! Glass Slipper – Benjamin Moore

GLASS SLIPPERBenjamin Moore. This color is part of the Classic Color Collection. Surround yourself with your color favorites. These timeless, elegant, Classic Colors guarantee beautiful, usable color all the time, every time. A collection of 1,680 inspired hues that consumers and professionals have enjoyed for years, the colors in this palette are as timeless as they are forward.

Glass Slipper by Benjamin Moore is the paint color on the walls and ceiling of this classic bathroom with pedestal sink and tall glass front cabinet. #benjaminmooreglassslipper #glassslipper #paintcolors #bathroomdesign
Benjamin Moore Glass Slipper (via Minimalist Interior Design Ideas) 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

Farrow & Ball Light Blue

Megan Pflug of Megan Pflug Designs

“I love Farrow & Ball Light Blue–its looks more like a green but I find it very tranquil. In general, I love colors that visually, you can’t easily name. I think wall color looks best when the color formulas are complex.”

Soft aqua green walls in a pretty, light-filled apartment in Linnéstaden — a neighborhood in the central part of Gothenburg, sweden. built in 1885, it’s been given a modern facelift — they’ve added modern furnishings and lighting fixtures, and painted it a calming shade of pale green that looks really fresh with all that light streaming in. but they’ve kept all those turn of the century details intact — wide double doors, the high ceilings and gorgeous crown moldings. #lightblue #paintcolors #farrowandball
Farrow & Ball Light Blue (via SFGirlbyBay) 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}
Farrow and Ball Light Blue painted walls in a modern country room with a calm feel. #paintcolors #farrowandballlightblue #aquapaintcolors #calmpaintcolors
Pant color: Farrow & Ball Light Blue (via Modern Country Style) 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

LIGHT BLUE…This silvery blue was so named because it was the lightest blue Farrow & Ball made in its first collection of colours. Light Blue becomes a little more silver in tone when used in shaded areas so is very popular for use on the walls of internal halls, especially when the remainder of the house is painted in cooler, more neutral greys. When used in well lit areas it feels both peaceful and calming, especially when paired with a cool white like Blackened.

Light Blue - Farrow and Ball paint color is a soft, more green than blue, calm aqua hue.  Come learn about the 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Picks from Designers!} #paintcolors #farrowandballlightblue
Farrow & Ball Light Blue (via Farrow & Ball ) 12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

More Love for Light Blue

As for Hello Lovely, we’re in agreement about the tranquil power of Farrow and Ball Light Blue!

Farrow & Ball Light Blue painted cabinetry in a stunning traditional kitchen in the Southeastern Designer Showhouse 2017.
Farrow & Ball Light Blue painted cabinetry in a stunning traditional kitchen in the Southeastern Designer Showhouse 2017.

Who can forget those gorgeous painted kitchen cabinets in the Southeastern Designer Showhouse in 2017!?!

Farrow & Ball Light Blue painted cabinetry in a stunning traditional kitchen in the Southeastern Farrow & Ball Light Blue paint color on cabinets in kitchen. Southeastern Designer Showhouse 2017 - Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles. #farrowandballlightblue #lightbluepaint
Farrow & Ball Light Blue on cabinets in Southeastern Designer Showhouse 2017

As for my personal picks for the best tranquil paint colors to use, I love all the shades of white, and I painted our interiors Benjamin Moore White OC-151. Yep, it’s just WHITE, and you can sample it HERE.

Paint color is Benjamin Moore White. French country style all white bathroom with plantation shutters, vintage clawfoot tub, tufted Louis arm chair, and leaded glass window. Design and photo by Hello Lovely Studio. #whitebathroom #frenchcountry #allwhitedecor #bathroomdesign #vintagebathroom #hellolovelystudio #benjaminmoorewhite
Hello Lovely Studio….OC-151 on walls in case you’re calmed by all white design.

I love tender muted blue-greys that whisper and quiet grey-greens where you can’t clearly say immediately what tones you are seeing.

Benjamin Moore Wythe Blue front door on a beautiful white (SW Alabaster) brick home - built by Michael Ladisic. #benjaminmoorewytheblue #paintcolors #frontdoor
BENJAMIN MOORE Wythe Blue on front door; SHERWIN-WILLIAMS Alabaster on brick – Ladisic Fine Homes

They’re floaty colors that whisper. We used this almost white, light and quiet Benjamin Moore Classic Gray for walls in a bathroom we built from scratch at our former fixer:

Classic Gray by Benjamin Moore paint color on wall with abstract landscape. #hellolovelystudio #classicgray #benjaminmoore #paintcolors #benjaminmooreclassicgray
Hello Lovely Studio. Wall Paint: Benjamin Moore Classic Gray.  12 Best Calm Paint Colors {Top Wall Color Picks from Designers!}

Benjamin Moore Classic Gray

Benjamin Moore - Classic Gray. One of the best chalky white paint colors. #paintcolors #benjaminmoore #classicgray #greywhitepaintcolors
Benjamin Moore Classic Gray 1548

CLASSIC GRAY 1548Benjamin Moore. This color is part of the Classic Color Collection. Surround yourself with your color favorites. These timeless, elegant, Classic Colors guarantee beautiful, usable color all the time, every time. A collection of 1,680 inspired hues that consumers and professionals have enjoyed for years, the colors in this palette are as timeless as they are forward.

Revere Pewter paint color by Benjamin Moore was used to paint this cottage style bedroom furniture by Hello Lovely Studio. #paintcolors #reverepewter #benjaminmoore #calmpaintcolors
My bedroom…Paint Wash on Furniture: Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter + Diluted with Water. Hello Lovely Studio

Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter

And I love Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter, which I diluted with water for a wash on the stool above and for our bedroom furniture.

REVERE PEWTERBenjamin Moore. A light gray with warm undertones, this classic shade creates a unifying look that calms and restores. A great transitional color, it’s perfect for an open floor plan.

Ultimate Guide to the Best calm Paint Colors has ideas for wall paint colors for your rooms to create a calm, serene, tranquil feel! Hello Lovely Studio. #calmpaintcolors #paintcolors #neutralpaintcolors #hellolovelystudio
PIN me to save for later!

HOW ABOUT YOU? Have a calming paint color you rely on to create a peaceful vibe? Let us know!

For more ideas for choosing the right white paint colors, read this story.

12 Best Calm Paint Colors - come find ideas to try on Hello Lovely!

For expert advice from a wall finish expert, here’s help from Segreto Finishes. Easiest way to see if a color is right? Order samples to be delivered to your door with Samplize (a peel and stick sheet of “paint” to stick on your wall and easily move around to other walls!).

And check out these smart tips for DIY painting like a pro.

Anais Nin quote about living on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #anaisnin #inspirationalquotes #frenchquote

I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

Shop for items you already intended to buy on Amazon RIGHT HERE, and also find home decor here to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!

Hello Lovely is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing
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45 Comments

  1. March 1, 2018 / 6:39 am

    Thanks for the info. We built this house 5 years ago and the builders white walls made me CRAZY:) I am a color person so couldn’t wait to get some color on the walls. These colors may be calming for some but I need a LITTLE more:) Have a beautiful weekend.

    • michele
      Author
      March 1, 2018 / 10:41 am

      I LOVE hearing from folks who love living with color and about a living with more philosophy – it all belongs, doesn’t it? If it was one size fits all, uniform world, this would be a bland universe. Thank you for adding to the beauty, Pinky. 🙂

  2. March 1, 2018 / 12:20 pm

    Benjamin Moore’s “Revere Pewter” was my daughter’s recommendation after she used it for the interior of her two-story family home. It’s lovely for the shell of each room, so I chose it for our guest room with its muted gold brocade duvet cover set and drapers. For our drawing room and hallway, I’m thinking “Stony Ground” by Farrow & Ball.

    • michele
      Author
      March 1, 2018 / 6:30 pm

      Jo, I love how gold and brass finishes look with the Revere Pewter! Great pairing! Let me know if you decide on Stony Ground and how it feels. Thanks for adding to the beauty and graciously sharing feedback about these colors. 🙂

  3. March 1, 2018 / 5:47 pm

    How wonderful…did some pinning and will put on facebook. There are some problems with the text…looks like text on top of text. I can send you a screen shot if you like.

    • michele
      Author
      March 1, 2018 / 6:28 pm

      You’re a superstar, Mary Ann! Everything looked fine on my laptop, but when I looked at it on a mobile device, it was nutty. Thank you!!! All fixed now I hope. 🙂

  4. mary
    March 2, 2018 / 1:33 am

    Ben Moore, Nimbus. Soft, blue/gray. One of my go to colors. Also mixed it with 1/3 China White for a softer look. Love to play with paint! What a perfect post. Awesome inspiration.

    • michele
      Author
      March 2, 2018 / 7:21 am

      Love that color, Mary! I’ll include it in the next story about the perfect blue-grey and credit you! Thanks for reading, friend.

  5. Jolene
    March 18, 2018 / 6:19 pm

    We painted great room and kitchen in edge comb gray and love it! Such a nice warm greige. Awesome with simply white trim work.

    • michele
      Author
      March 18, 2018 / 7:10 pm

      Thanks for the recommendation – I want to try it! Happy Sunday, Jolene. 🙂

  6. Diana
    April 26, 2018 / 8:40 am

    Another excellent soft neutral calming paint is BM Muslin! I have BM Edgecombe Gray in my home and love it too!

    • michele
      Author
      April 26, 2018 / 8:59 am

      Ooooooh, I don’t think I know Muslin. I’ll check it out. Edgecombe Gray is a winner for sure. Thanks for adding to the beauty, Diana. xox

  7. July 23, 2019 / 3:10 pm

    I’m a REALTOR and my go-to color for refreshing homes is Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray — has just a touch of khaki to it, blends beautifully with upholstery of varying tones, really nice with warmer woods like oak and golden bamboo.

    • Michele
      Author
      July 23, 2019 / 3:46 pm

      Thanks, Lauren! I do love that color and need to devote a post to it – a great post idea too is what to paint your house before placing it on the market. 🙂

  8. Jeannie
    October 21, 2019 / 10:03 pm

    What is your go to color for trim when using calm wall paint colors?

    • Michele
      Author
      October 21, 2019 / 10:11 pm

      Benjamin Moore White Dove is hard to beat! 🙂

  9. Kathy
    October 23, 2019 / 2:30 pm

    What white trim do I use with Benjamin Moore classic gray? This is for a condo on the beach of siesta key, fl

    • Michele
      Author
      October 23, 2019 / 3:41 pm

      I like Benjamin Moore White Dove best for an off white that is calm with minimal undertones and perfect for traditional interiors. If your space is in need of light or a touch of modernity though and you desire a brighter gallery-like white, BM Decorator White or Behr Ultra Pure White. Hope this helps – let me know if any other questions pop up. 🙂

  10. Lynn
    November 7, 2019 / 12:52 pm

    Thank you for this post! The colors you are describing are just perfect. Especially for an older home. Whispery colors are the best. Just so difficult to find when looking at paint chips & samples. That’s why we need a blog like yours to share with the rest of us!

    • Michele
      Author
      November 7, 2019 / 1:27 pm

      I’m so glad it’s helpful, Lynn. I agree, it is overwhelming so starting with a handful of color options that designers keep turning to is a great place to start. Best to you.

  11. Bec
    February 8, 2020 / 10:08 pm

    We recently repainted the living area portion of our finished basement beige with one accent wall painted with Mega Greige. We loved how it turned out. Love Mega Greige so much, thinking of painting the small bedroom in this finished basement Mega Greige. There are only two small high windows in this room. Thoughts? Will it be too dark? Trim closet and door is a light wood color. I thought about changing those to white…but then the basement would need to be this way for consistency, right? But main question is…what do you think about Mega Greige(Sherwin Williams) for a small bedroom?

    • Michele
      Author
      February 9, 2020 / 5:50 pm

      I love Mega Greige – reminds me of all that taupe-grey you see in Paris. If you love it in the room that gets more light, my suggestion is to use it at 50% in the room that gets less light. If you’re not sure, ask for a sample of Mega Greige at 50% saturation so you can tweak it from there. This is how designers approach a project where they choose one color for the whole house but customize it according to each room’s exposure. That said, I painted a guest room here with a taupe-gey (BM Ashley Gray) and tired of it in less than a year. Painting it white took more coats than I can say…oy. But it’s still white! I would probably keep the trim consistent for the rooms, and I’m sure white trim would look amazing with the greige. I have painted more trim than I can say and have never regretted it. But if the wood trim looks good with the paint color – I wouldn’t go to the trouble.

  12. Amy
    May 8, 2020 / 3:02 pm

    Love Edgecomb gray and would highly recommend for kitchen cabinets if you want a lighter neutral, but not white! We used Edgecomb gray (after laboring over it!) on our kitchen cabinets with shiplap walls in White Dove (looks like pic in your post) and I couldn’t be happier. I like white but not stark white so White Dove was perfect for me. I also painted our interior doors Edgecomb for added interest and love the subtle contrast against the White Dove trim. All other walls are Shoji White and the subtle contrast between those three colors throughout the house is so calming and pleasant and looks great with all wood tones of furniture and wood flooring.

    • Michele
      Author
      May 8, 2020 / 3:44 pm

      You’re making me want to buy or build another house, Amy! You know the way to my heart with all this white paint chatter – the contrast of white dove and edgecomb gray is so gorgeous, and I’m not surprised you love it! Thanks so much for adding to the beauty here and helping all the peeps searching for inspiration. xox

    • Nora Glass
      May 23, 2020 / 5:43 am

      I would love to see a picture. Have you posted one anywhere Amy.

  13. Brooke
    July 24, 2020 / 6:06 pm

    I love all these recommendations. I decided on balboa mist for the entire but I ended up painting the office agreeable gray. Should I keep this pattern going and paint the bedrooms all agreeable gray or maybe just the master that’s also downstairs with the office. Then I could paint the upstairs bedrooms classic gray? Would that look ok?
    Also, Would you recommend I keep the living room and dining also balboa mist? Or something else?
    It would look like this, balboa mist in all the living areas, agreeable gray downstairs bedrooms, classic gray upstairs bedrooms.
    I thought another greige for all the bathrooms
    Thoughts?
    I’m so lost. Thank you for your help

    • Michele
      Author
      July 26, 2020 / 7:28 pm

      I am partial to Balboa Mist, and yes, I’d suggest it for the living areas and downstairs bedrooms. If the upstairs bedrooms and baths don’t get great natural light, I’d go with Classic Gray. If they get plenty of light, I would probably stick with Balboa Mist since it would make life easier in the future when rooms need touch-ups. I love white bathrooms so a color like White Dove or Classic Gray is a safe bet esp when you want the space to feel clean and bright.

  14. Janet
    September 25, 2020 / 3:31 pm

    Looking for a paint color for a north facing room. I have jewel tones colors and beige and also have natural oak floors. I am lost I tried greys and they look green. Please help me.

  15. Annette Fergusson
    September 28, 2020 / 6:26 pm

    We are planning to paint our two small bathrooms in our condo and we need your advice! Both bathrooms have no natural light as they are inside bathrooms. The countertop are black/brown granite and the floors and shower stalls have tuscan tiles. We would like to lighten the look of the bathrooms would paint the vanities in white as well. We like Farrow and Ball’s Wimborne White. Have you any other suggestions that would work? We have painted the living room and bedrooms in White Tie and we love the colour but wonder if that would be too dark in the bathrooms with no light as it tends to look green when there is little light in the room…Thank you!!

    • Michele
      Author
      September 28, 2020 / 7:36 pm

      I agree that if you’re not after those green undertones, you might want to avoid White Tie in the baths. I like Wevet – maybe try a sample of it?

  16. Fran Aurelia
    October 14, 2020 / 12:27 pm

    Hi would love your input i have a very large master bedroom/ bath that is painted in benjamin moore wythe blue with cloud white trim. And mostly white furniture with a grey brick accent wall behind my bed and grey floors. I’m looking for a serene spa like color to lighten it up and make it less busy since I have the accent wall and floors. Right now sherwin williams windowpane is sampled on the wall but feels too light or stark but I definitely want a color on lighter side and nowhere near the medium/darkness of the wythe blue . Thanks so much for any help !

    • Michele
      Author
      October 14, 2020 / 8:26 pm

      I think a grey color will create the tone on tone, calm effect you’re after and won’t be boring with those multiple textures. I wonder if you might like Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray. I just used it last week on a design project and it is one of those greys that looks wonderful in rooms with dim and bright light. Two other greys I like using are Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter and for a light grey, BM Balboa Mist. Let us know what you ultimately decide!

  17. Carrie Gray
    March 9, 2021 / 11:09 am

    Hello! I so appreciate your post and your paint recommendations! I am working on calming neutral tones upstairs in my bedroom with an office off to the side and a bathroom. I am wanting to create a shabby chic bedroom and I was looking at Benjamin Moore Swiss coffee but I know that when I go to light it just feels too cool to me!
    what are your favorites for a creamy warm neutral tone for the bedroom and then other warm tones may be bringing in a soft blue or green into the office space in the bathroom
    i’m looking for a rich and creamy beige that has more brown than gray or yellow in it
    Colors I’m considering now for the bedroom are
    BM Brandy Cream
    BM Carlisle Cream
    Farrow and Ball Stonyground
    Maybe office
    mega griege
    warm stone

    What is your fave benjamin moore OC colors for bedroom that are WARM neutrals ?
    Thank you!

    • Michele
      Author
      March 9, 2021 / 12:27 pm

      Thanks so much for including me in your quest. I have the most experience and love for BM White Sand and BM Ballet White – these work in a variety of settings and lighting conditions for a warm, earthy, natural, soothing, and nurturing mood. Soft blues are difficult to get right and so interdependent on lighting/location. In the Southwest, with harsh yellow sunlight, a cool grey color like Behr Classic Silver reads gentle, pale, blue-grey. A lot of Hello Lovely readers love BM Quiet Moments. An atmospheric, pale, blue-green, light grey that has worked in many Arizona rooms for me: Behr Eon. While it may look tan on the computer screen, in person it is one of those hues that is hard to pin down or describe – those are always my favorite paint colors.

  18. Shirley F
    April 14, 2021 / 8:08 pm

    I love Benjamin Moore Pale Oak/Athena as a very light beige with an ethereal feeling.

    • Michele
      Author
      April 14, 2021 / 8:53 pm

      Thanks so much for letting us know – have been meaning to try it myself as it is on one of my favorite BM swatches and such a soothing hue! 🙂

  19. annemarie bertrand
    April 16, 2021 / 6:54 am

    Hi there, love this article! Was wondering what you would recommend for a stucoo house we want to repaint the exterior The roof will be cedar shingles. We are thinking about a warm white or soft griege
    Thank you 🙂

    • Michele
      Author
      April 16, 2021 / 10:16 am

      You might like Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist or White Sand. You’ll find plenty of ideas if you peek around my archives or type a few keywords into the search box on the home page – start here: https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/?s=exterior+paint+colors Feel free to ask follow up questions as I’m always happy to help and brainstorm. 🙂

  20. June 15, 2021 / 8:18 pm

    Can you tell me how you painted your furniture by watering down paint? Was it wood stain before you painted it? Thank you!

    • Michele
      Author
      June 15, 2021 / 11:12 pm

      Sure. The furniture had an antique white baked on finish to begin with (very yellowy). I thinned regular paint (satin) with a little water so that when I applied it, some of the warm white underneath came through – sort of a striated effect but very subtle. It doesn’t look busy. After it dried, I rubbed on a creme wax with a rag. Let me know if you have any other questions as I am happy to help. Sorry there is no tutorial – I can never find the time to slow down enough with these projects and document each step, and I apologize!

  21. Angela Krivoruk
    August 17, 2021 / 8:33 pm

    Can you please help me choose a color for my kitchen that has grey tile floors , glossy white top cabinets and grey bottom cabinets

    • Michele
      Author
      August 18, 2021 / 2:26 pm

      If the base cabinets and floor tile is a dark grey, consider Benjamin Moore Classic Gray for walls since it is a greyed white which will provide a little contrast with the white uppers. If they are a light grey and you want to keep things very tranquil and calm, choose an off-white with minimal undertones like Benjamin Moore White Dove or Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace. You didn’t say the color of the counters which would influence the choice too. If they are bright white, you might want to bring home paint swatches and view them in natural light to make sure you like how they work with the color of counters.

  22. Lynn
    June 7, 2022 / 11:45 am

    I sampled BM Ashwood & it seemed to be a very soft gray/beige. It turned out to be the most beautiful very soft green/gray & is stunning! Trim is BM Simply White. Medium gray/brown floors & natural linen duvet & upholstered bed & chair. Furniture is soft washed gray oak. Drapes are a soft ivory. The color is NOT what I was aiming for but it is SO much better. Room gets both north & west lighting. One of those muted colors that is hard to describe. It is the most beautifully soft & soothing room.

    • Michele
      Author
      June 7, 2022 / 4:41 pm

      It truly sounds like a heavenly mix, Lynn. Ashwood reminds me of Sherwin-Williams Agreeable Gray which is also very atmospheric, sort of a chameleon, and a gentle green-greige. It is what our current bedroom is painted, and I love it, but it may be changing since it so closely matches the color of the furniture. I wouldn’t mind if it didn’t appear that we purposely matched it! I painted the furniture in 2015 and had no idea we would move into a new house with the exact same tone freshly painted on the walls. 🙂

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