Choosing the right white paint color for your home may seem straightforward, but with the myriad of options available, it can quickly become overwhelming. One of the most critical factors to consider when selecting a white paint is its undertone. While all white paints may look similar on a swatch, their undertones can significantly affect the final appearance once applied to your walls. Understanding and identifying these subtle undertones can help you choose the perfect white that complements your space.
What Are Undertones?
Undertones are the underlying colors that affect the overall hue of a paint color. While white is the primary color, the undertones are the subtle tints of other colors like blue, yellow, pink, or gray that influence how the white appears under different lighting conditions. For example, a white paint with a blue undertone will appear cooler and crisper, while a white with a yellow undertone will look warmer and cozier.
Identifying Undertones
To identify the undertone of a white paint, compare it to a pure white or a white with a known undertone. Chantilly Lace (Benjamin Moore OC-65) is thought to be a good 'pure white' to help establish undertones. Place the swatches next to each other and observe how the colors change. If a white looks a bit pinkish compared to the pure white, it has a pink undertone. If it appears slightly beige or yellow, then those are its undertones.
Pro Tip: Lighting plays a crucial role here—view the samples on the same plane that will be painted (on the appropriate wall or ceiling) in the room where they will be applied and at different times of the day to see how the undertones reveal themselves.
Matching Undertones to Your Space
The key to choosing the right white paint is matching the undertones to the elements in your room. The most prominent (and permanent) fixtures and furnishings should be considered. Flooring, Cabinetry, Tile, Countertops, and other surfaces that you would not be able to change easily should all be assessed before selecting a paint color. You want to avoid selecting a white with a violet (cool) undertone if your cabinetry has a orange (warm) undertone. There will be a disconnect and you may not be able to pinpoint why you're unhappy with the results if you are unaware of the undertones you're dealing with.
- **Cool Undertones**: White paints with blue, green, or purple undertones are considered cool. They work well in modern or minimalist spaces with cool color schemes. These whites pair beautifully with gray, blue, or black furniture and are ideal for north-facing rooms where natural light is limited, as they can make the space feel brighter and more open.
- **Warm Undertones**: Whites with yellow, orange, or red undertones bring warmth and coziness to a room. These are perfect for traditional or rustic interiors and blend harmoniously with warm wood tones, beige, or earthy color palettes. They’re also a great choice for south-facing rooms that receive abundant sunlight, as the warm undertones can balance the intense light.
- **Neutral Undertones**: Whites with gray or beige undertones are versatile and adaptable. They create a soft, muted look that can work in almost any space, making them a safe choice if you’re unsure about committing to a cooler or warmer white. These are especially effective in spaces where you want a clean look without the starkness of a pure white.
Test Before Committing
Always test a few samples of your chosen whites on the walls before making a final decision. This step ensures that you’re happy with the undertone and how it interacts with your room’s lighting and furnishings.
Pro Tip: We like to use painted sample sheets (these can be ordered from professional paint stores) vs. painting the wall. It is also helpful to place it on a large sheet of white paper to eleminate being influenced by existing colors.
Choosing the right white paint for your home really is more complicated than just picking a color from a swatch while you're standing in the hardware store.
By understanding and paying attention to undertones, you can ensure that the white you choose enhances your space and creates the desired atmosphere. Taking your time and evaluting the options will save you time and headaches later on.
If you find the process duanting and would like help in selecting the right paint color (white or not), Raini & Associates is here to help! Book your free discovery call today.
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