Are you thinking of painting your bedroom white? White walls offer a timeless and popular choice for bedrooms. They have the power to make any room feel bright, airy, and spacious. But, how can you make your white room interesting and avoid it from becoming boring?
White and Subtle Accents
The easiest way to jazz up a room with white walls is to add color to your accent decor. But, did you know that you can still keep your room monochromatic white and make it interesting? You can achieve this by using various shades of white, such as off-white, ivory, or cream, to add depth and interest to your bedroom.
In addition, you can incorporate subtle accents and textiles, furniture, and decor to bring warmth and personality to your white space. When going for a white-on-white look, it's important to use texture to create visual interest. Consider choosing different textures of textiles for your bed, like an interesting knit throw or silky pillows, or opt for a velvet duvet. You can also introduce additional textures with your furniture, such as rattan or wicker, even if they aren't brightly colored, to add visual interest.
Understanding Undertones in White Paint Colors
Not all white paint colors are the same, and one of the biggest differences between different shades of white is the undertone. Undertones are the colors underneath the surface that give each specific color its unique look. A white paint color could have yellow, gray, green, pink, or even purple undertones.
Before committing to a white paint color for your bedroom, it's important to understand the undertones. Take a look at the existing features in your room that will not be changing, such as flooring, trim, and any furniture you plan to keep. If these features have warm undertones, like Golden Oak, it's best to pick a warm-toned white paint color. Similarly, if you have cool gray floors, gray tile, or cool-toned furniture or art, opt for a cooler white paint color. While this isn't a strict rule, sticking to one color undertone in your room can make the decorating process easier, especially for beginners.
Tips for Painting with White
When painting your walls white, keep in mind that white paint can take three coats or more, especially if you are painting over a dark color underneath. To achieve the best results, it's recommended to splurge on a high-end paint, especially if you're painting over a dark wall. Talk to the experts at the paint desk where you are shopping and inform them of the color you're painting over and that you are using white paint. They will be able to guide you in selecting the right paint. Remember that cheaper paints may require more coats, which will take more time and may end up costing you more in the long run.
Accent Colors for White Walls
Now that you've chosen to paint your bedroom walls white, you might be wondering which accent colors to pair with them. Here are some suggestions:
Soft Neutrals
Soft neutrals encompass warm grays and beige tones that effortlessly blend with white walls. These gentle hues create a comforting and harmonious atmosphere, making them an ideal choice for achieving a balanced and cozy bedroom retreat. Consider the following soft neutrals for your accent colors:
- Edgecomb Gray (HC-173) by Benjamin Moore
- Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) by Sherwin-Williams
- Revere Pewter (HC-172) by Benjamin Moore
- Accessible Beige (SW 7036) by Sherwin-Williams
Coastal Blues
Inspired by the soothing colors of the ocean and sky, coastal blues infuse a sense of tranquility and serenity into white bedrooms. These shades perfectly complement white walls, evoking a coastal-chic ambiance that transports you to a calming beachside retreat. Consider the following coastal blues for your accent colors:
- Sea Salt (SW 6204) by Sherwin-Williams
- Palladian Blue (HC-144) by Benjamin Moore
- Hale Navy (HC-154) by Benjamin Moore
- Watery (SW 6478) by Sherwin-Williams
Warm Greens
Bringing nature indoors, warm greens add a touch of earthy serenity to white bedrooms. These hues work harmoniously with white walls, creating a refreshing and inviting space reminiscent of a peaceful botanical oasis. Consider the following warm greens for your accent colors:
- Olive Grove (SW 7734) by Sherwin-Williams
- Rosemary Green (SW 6187) by Sherwin-Williams
- Sage Green Light (144) by Farrow & Ball
- Soft Fern (2144-40) by Benjamin Moore
Dusty Pinks
If you're looking to add elegance and softness to your white bedroom, consider incorporating delicate and subtle shades of dusty pink. These pink shades create a romantic and dreamy atmosphere, adding a hint of femininity and sophistication to the space. Consider the following dusty pinks for your accent colors:
- Pink Damask (2174-60) by Benjamin Moore
- Blushing Bride (2085-50) by Benjamin Moore
- Peignoir (286) by Farrow & Ball
Luxurious Golds
To infuse your white bedroom with a touch of glamour, incorporate luxurious gold accents. These warm metallic shades create a sense of grandeur and sophistication, elevating the overall elegance of the space. Consider the following luxurious golds for your accent colors:
- Antique Brass (SW 6228) by Sherwin-Williams
- Champagne Gold (K18-2) by Behr
- Warm Gold (2155-20) by Benjamin Moore
- Gilded (SW 6694) by Sherwin-Williams
The Top White Paint Colors for Bedrooms
Here are some of my favorite white paint colors to use in bedrooms, categorized by their undertones:
Bright Whites
- Chantilly Lace (OC-65) by Benjamin Moore
- Extra White (SW 7006) by Sherwin-Williams
- Super White (PM-1) by Benjamin Moore
- Pure White (SW 7005) by Sherwin-Williams
- White Dove (OC-17) by Benjamin Moore
- Decorator's White (OC-149) by Benjamin Moore
Warm Whites
- Alabaster (SW 7008) by Sherwin-Williams
- Ivory White (925) by Benjamin Moore
- Creamy (SW 7012) by Sherwin-Williams
- Simply White (OC-117) by Benjamin Moore
- Navajo White (SW 6126) by Sherwin-Williams
- Shoji White (SW 7042) by Sherwin-Williams
- Swiss Coffee (OC-45) by Benjamin Moore
Cool Whites
- Snowbound (SW 7004) by Sherwin-Williams
- White Heron (OC-57) by Benjamin Moore
- Chalk White (2126-70) by Benjamin Moore
- White Diamond (2121-60) by Benjamin Moore
True Whites
- Extra White (SW 7006) by Sherwin-Williams
- Pure White (OC-64) by Benjamin Moore
- Super White (OC-152) by Benjamin Moore
- High Reflective White (SW 7757) by Sherwin-Williams
These white paint colors are versatile choices that can create a stunning backdrop for any bedroom style. Experiment with different shades and undertones to find the perfect white paint that suits your personal taste and complements your bedroom decor.
What's your favorite white paint color? Share your preferences and experiences in the comments below!
Thanks for reading!
