It’s not surprising to see mixed reaction to Pantone’s 2026 pick of Cloud Dancer (see it here) since white is oft considered dull, unimaginative, lazy, and unfashionable. I especially appreciate the criticism out there calling the pick PANTONE DEAF. Clever! It’s true the culture seems full of messages urging us to “calm down” at a time so much societal revolution and systems failure are unfolding. I’m exploring my own relationship with pale neutrals these days and opening with increased curiosity to contrasting views. As we explore a gallery with Benjamin Moore Simply White examples, let’s imagine how fans of color may regard such choices.
Benjamin Moore Simply White Examples
One of the criticisms of white paint color floating around suggests it is a “landlord hue.” I suppose neutral walls in spaces renters will occupy are common and could be interpreted as lacking personality.
But plenty of us regard neutral walls as a blank slate upon which to layer individuality and character. It is practical and understated. Additionally, there are endless white tones with varying temperatures and undertones.
In our prior renovation, we were anxious to swap yellow interiors for white. But a quest for a just right whit ewas not as easy as we imagined.
The first white we tried was Benjamin Moore 2143-70 Simply White. Designers and homeowners at that time were swathing everything in it. It wasn’t cool enough for what I was after, but its warmth may be just right for your own walls, trim, doors, siding, ceilings, and cabinets.
What Sets Benjamin Moore 2143-70 Apart?
Are all creamy whites pretty much the same? Goodness, no. Undertones! Light reflectance! You’ll especially appreciate all the nuance when you begin to sample various whites in your unique setting. I’m not sure fans of color can truly appreciate the impact of undertones in white paint. Magenta, brown, blue, and purple are playing a role in a pale color’s perception.
A hint of warmth helps BM SIMPLY WHITE OC-117 become a favorite for use just about anywhere. Notice the cozy feel on shiplap above.
Simply White reflects a fair amount of light into the space. 89.52% to be exact as the light reflectance value (LRV) is 89.52.
How many whites should we sample to arrive at the just right pick? A minimum of three, but five is preferable.
Which Colors are Like Simply White?
Take a closer look at these colors: Mountain Peak White, Navajo White, Cotton Balls, Snowfall White, Linen White, and Acadia White. For folks who are turned off by white walls or are bored to tears, I am always curious about what the objective is. Do you want to feel energized and stimulated in a den, bedroom, or bath? While a color such as teal can be calm, isn’t it more difficult to layer other colors with it as a backdrop?
Gallery of Exteriors & Interiors With BM Simply White
Since there isn’t a failsafe white that works in every single project, it helps to start the selection process with an open mind.
Browsing galleries online can be helpful if only because you’ll soon see how the same color looks so different across various settings. Not only does lighting vary in different regions of the country, the amount of natural light a room receives is also a contributing factor.
Colors to Match Simply White?
Doesn’t every color match with white? According to Benjamin Moore, Simply White matches with: Dove Wing, Somerville Red, Silver Satin, and Casco Bay.
What do you suppose “matching” refers to?
Matching refers to accent colors that work well with the color for exterior features like trim and doors.
For me, Drop Cloth as an accent is suggestive of a beautiful pale wood tone. This light wood tone below feels similar and harmonious with the Simply White exterior.
In recent years, black has become more common as a trim color with white exteriors:
Is black also considered a boring neutral to folks upset by pale tones?
I’m not certain, but the accent color below may be BM Boothbay Gray…a gorgeous blue-gray I have used for trim on a white house.
Gallery of Simply White Kitchens
Since white kitchens defy trends, BM 2143-70 is a great choice to sample in your space for white cabinets.
Just a reminder that this white could read differently than what you see in images. The lighting in your space and time of day will affect perception.
It is important to reserve a major decision such as cabinet color until the lighting is established.
Make sure to sample multiple similar white options. Notice how they change with the changing light in your kitchen from day to night.
The exact white on the custom cabinets in Tina’s Enchanted Home former kitchen is custom with an antique glaze on top, but we do know the walls in here were painted BM Simply White.
Layering Whites in a Space
It’s true you can’t see expanses of Simply White in this beyond beautiful kitchen, it strikes me as a prime example of different whites in harmony.
Notice warm stone and taupe neutrals from the floor elevating warm cabinetry and cool walls. Also note the expanses of Calacatta Gold marble.
All of those whites play a role in the overall harmony. They aren’t singing in unison. (Psst. Love her accessories and belljar lights? Find them in her shop HERE.)
Designers such as Shea McGee trust this white (McGee is also a fan of Swiss Coffee). See her tour a home with creamy white walls and find resources from her shop HERE.
I see an increasing number of messages in the culture suggesting calm is but one response to stimuli and not always the wisest, responsible one. With so much attention (and marketing!) aimed at self-care practices and therapy to calm nervous systems (there isn’t a shortage of folks revved up in the 2020s), many maintain that quieting will not lead to changes needed for individuals and systems to thrive.
What’s your take? Is calm inappropriate for the changing times we’re in?
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
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