Deciding on the right white paint for your home can be a nightmare. So many shades to choose from and you get overwhelmed. But the colour you choose can make all the difference to a room.
The right white paint can make a space look brighter, more airy and even bigger. But with so many options – warm and cosy to cool and crisp – how do you know which one is the best?
The truth is there is no one answer. The best white paint is down to your personal style and the room you’re painting. Do you want a paint that will make the space feel warm and cosy or a clean modern look?
In this article, we’ll look at the different types of white paint and what to consider when choosing the right one for your home. By the end, you’ll know how to choose the perfect white paint for the look you want.
Types of White
When it comes to white paint there’s more variety than you think. White paint can have undertones that make it look slightly warmer or cooler. Understanding these different types of white will help you choose the right one for your space.
Neutral Whites
When it comes to white paint some shades are more neutral, not leaning too warm or cool. These types of white paint are super versatile as they can work in many different spaces and styles.
Oxford White: One of the neutral whites is Oxford White. This shade is perfectly balanced, not leaning too warm or cool. A true middle-of-the-road white that can sit in any room, whether your style is modern or traditional. Oxford White has a clean look that works in any space and creates a fresh atmosphere.
Simply White: Another neutral white is Simply White. This shade has a hint of warmth so it’s not too stark or cold. Simply White has a comfortable feel that can brighten up a room without making it feel clinical or sterile. Great for spaces where you want a clean look but with a bit of cosiness that a pure neutral white wouldn’t give. The result is a warm and light space.
The beauty of these neutral whites is their versatility. Whether your home is modern or traditional these balanced whites will adapt and work with the style. They provide a blank canvas for other design elements like furniture and decor to shine. If you’re looking for timeless and adaptable white paint, neutral shades like Oxford White and Simply White are worth considering.
Warm Whites
Some white paints have a hint of yellow or beige undertones. These are called “warm” whites and can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere in a room. Warm whites are great for spaces where you want to feel snug and comfortable like a living room or bedroom. Popular warm white paint colours are creamy shades like Sherwin-Williams’ Alabaster or Benjamin Moore’s White Dove.
Cool Whites
On the other hand, some white paints have bluish or grey undertones and are called “cool” whites. These crisp modern-looking whites are great for spaces where you want a clean fresh look like a bathroom or kitchen. Cool whites can also make a room feel a bit larger and more open.
Bright Whites
Finally, there are bright pure whites with no undertones. These super clean stark whites reflect a lot of light and can make a space feel airy and open. Bright whites are great for maximising the feeling of openness especially in smaller rooms. Iconic bright white paint shades are Benjamin Moore’s Simply White and Behr’s Ultra Pure White.
Once you understand the differences between these white paints you can choose the one that suits the mood and style you want in your home. It’s all about picking the right undertone to work with the other colours and finishes in the space.
Choosing The Right White Paint for Your Home
Now here are some things to consider when choosing white paint;
Room Lighting
When choosing the perfect white paint the lighting in the room is a big factor to consider. The way white paint colour looks can change dramatically depending on whether the space is getting natural light or artificial light. A white that looks crisp and clean in the day might look warmer and cooler at night under incandescent bulbs and in a room with limited natural light a bright white can start to feel cold and stark. That’s why it’s so important to consider the unique lighting conditions of the space you’re painting. Think about how the light will interact with the white paint and that will help you choose a shade that will look its best and create the atmosphere you want.
Undertones
Another thing to consider is the undertones in a white paint colour. While white may seem like a simple colour white is very nuanced. Like stated previously, some whites have warm yellow or beige undertones and others have cool blue or grey undertones. These subtle differences can make a big impact on the overall feel of a room. A warm white can give a space a cosy and inviting feel and a cool white can make a room feel airy and modern. Understanding the undertones and how they’ll work with the other colours in your space is key to choosing the right white.
Paint Sheen
The finish or sheen of the white paint is another thing to consider. White paints come in a range of sheens from flat matte to high gloss. The sheen you choose can affect the brightness and reflectivity of the white. A flat matte white will have a soft subtle look and a glossy white will be more bold and reflective. The right sheen can also impact the style - matte whites have a more rustic farmhouse feel and glossy whites feel more modern. Think about the mood you want to create and let that guide your choice of paint sheen.
Personal Preference
Ultimately there’s no one “best” white paint, it’s all about your personal style and taste. What looks perfect in one home won’t work in another. The key is to think about your space, your lighting and your overall design style. Try a few samples and see how the whites look in your home before you decide. With a bit of trial and error, you’ll find the white paint that makes your space look and feel just how you want it to.
Get Professional Help with Adam Painters and Decorators
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the white paints or unsure which one is right for your space don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at Adam Painters and Decorators. With years of experience in the industry, we have a team of experts who can provide you with personalised advice to help you choose the perfect white paint colour and finish for your home. From undertones to lighting we’ll take the guesswork out of it and ensure you end up with a beautiful cohesive look.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right white paint for your home is all about considering several key factors. From the lighting in the room to the undertones and sheen of the paint, each element counts.
The key is to try and find the white that speaks to your style and works with the unique needs of your space. Don’t be afraid to try a few samples before you decide. With a bit of trial and error, you’ll find the white that makes your home look and feel just how you want it to.
There’s no one “best” white paint - it’s all about finding the one that’s right for you and your design. Take the time to think about your space and all the factors above and let that lead you to the white paint.