When it comes to decorating an interior, choosing the right paint color can seem challenging, especially when it comes to white. With all the shades available on the market, from pure white to off-white and whites tinged with gray or beige, how can you be sure to make the right choice?
Discover our tips to help you choose the perfect shade of white paint for your interior.
Why choose white paint for your interior decor?
White is often considered a simple and classic color, an easy solution. But in reality, it is extremely versatile and has many advantages.
Indeed, this color naturally reflects light, giving a sense of space to the room. It pairs well with all other shades, softening or enhancing them depending on how it is used. Applied to a skirting or a ceiling, it brings contrast to any other color.
A white paint also conveys a feeling of calm while having a timeless quality, far from decor trends. Finally, if you want an even more authentic look, you can opt for a lime paint, which has a slightly textured quality that enhances all the subtleties of the shade.
What are the different shades of white?
Before diving into the choice of the ideal shade, it is essential to understand the different undertones of white, as these influence the overall ambiance of a space.
- Warm white. This type of white contains yellow, red, or sometimes pink pigments. It is ideal for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for rooms where a sense of comfort is desired, like the living room or bedroom.
- Cool white. This is white with shades of blue, green, or gray, colors considered cold. It is better suited to modern, minimalist spaces, or those with plenty of natural light, like bathrooms or kitchens.
- Pure white. Without visible undertones, this shade is perfect for contemporary spaces or monochromatic interiors. However, it can sometimes appear clinical if not well balanced with other decorative items.
The importance of natural light
As with all colors, light greatly influences the appearance of your white paint. In fact, it is common for the same sample to change drastically depending on the different times of day! It is therefore essential to coordinate your shade of white with the exposure of your room.
- North light: Rooms facing north receive cold light, which can give a slight bluish tint to the paint. Opt for warm whites to offset this effect.
- South light: Rooms facing south benefit from warm light throughout the day. You may choose cooler whites to balance the look.
- East and west light: The light changes throughout the day. In these spaces, a neutral shade of white can provide a good balance.
Where to find the most beautiful shades of white paint?
To avoid disappointment, we recommend choosing your white paint from a specialized colorist. Indeed, the quality of the pigments and the finishes will truly make a difference in your room.
Start by purchasing test pots, which you can try directly on your walls and which will help you find the ideal white paint.
My advice: try several samples on different parts of the room, including corners and areas near windows, and observe them at different times of the day. The changing light will reveal how each shade of white evolves throughout the day. You can also compare the shades side by side: this will help you visualize the subtle differences between the undertones.
Image source for the featured image: Historiska hem.
