I bet you've been wondering about off-white paint colors and their sneaky undertones. Well, let me tell you, off-whites are a challenge to choose. They can have splashes of blue, touches of purple, hints of green, or even a subtle pink hue. Gone are the days of boring builder beige. We'll explore the top 10 off-white shades by Benjamin Moore & Sherwin Williams and uncover their unique qualities.
Sherwin Williams Aesthetic White, best off-white paint colour. Bathroom with Quartz Cambria Wellington, free-standing white tub. Kylie M INteriors Edesign
Off-whites are tricky to select because they have a higher Light Reflectance Value (LRV), which means they reflect more light. If there's a specific color in the environment, such as green grass or a red-painted porch floor, the off-white walls can pick up a hint of that color. Additionally, the direction your room faces can also affect how the off-white appears.
Farrow and Ball Clunch with whitewash oak wood floor, Magnolia Teak Cups built-in office cabinets, sliding barn door. CLIENT PHOTO of Kylie M Interiors Edesign
Now, let's dive into the top 10 off-white paint colors. These colors are relatively neutral, but keep in mind that there are no fool-proof neutrals. The perfect off-white depends on factors such as your home's lighting, furnishings, and personal taste. Nevertheless, these colors will give you a fantastic starting point.
1. Benjamin Moore Classic Gray OC-23
Classic Gray is a warm gray in the off-white range. It's a versatile color that pairs well with a reasonably white trim. Although it appears neutral, it does have a subtle purple undertone. Classic Gray's understated warmth and high LRV make it a popular choice for many homeowners.
2. Sherwin Williams White Duck SW 7010
White Duck is the perfect blend of cream with a tan/gray base, offering a cream-like appearance without the yellow undertones. It's a warm off-white that works splendidly in various spaces. The subdued, neutralized cream color creates a calming atmosphere.
3. Benjamin Moore Silver Satin OC-26
Silver Satin is a soft, slightly warm gray in the off-white range. Although it's not my personal favorite, it has gained popularity for its non-committal warmth. It does have a subtle purple undertone. If you prefer lighter walls, Benjamin Moore Calm is a comparable option.
4. Sherwin Williams Creamy SW 7012
Creamy is a warm off-white paint color that's not beige or gray. It walks the line between off-white and creamy white. Creamy's slightly lower LRV gives it a rich depth, but its subtle warmth makes it a versatile choice for various spaces.
5. Sherwin Williams Eider White
Eider White is a warm gray off-white with a noticeable violet undertone. It's an acquired taste, perfect for those who appreciate purple undertones. However, it's best to be cautious when using it on cabinets or trim.
6. Sherwin Williams Drift of Mist
Drift of Mist is a warm gray off-white that has become increasingly popular. It has a gentle warmth with noncommittal undertones, making it a flexible neutral. However, it may pick up green or taupe cues from its environment.
7. Sherwin Williams Aesthetic White 7035
Aesthetic White is a soft, light beige in the off-white range. It has a subtle warmth with a touch of gray, making it an elegant and sophisticated choice. Aesthetic White is set to become a popular paint color due to current trends.
8. Sherwin Williams Moderate White 6140
Moderate White is a beautiful warm beige off-white that complements homes with abundant beige finishes. It's a modern take on the rich beiges of the early 2000s. Its muted undertones make it suitable for a wide range of interior finishes.
9. Sherwin Williams White Heron
White Heron is a flexible off-white that can lean towards a taupe or cream hue. Its subtle pink-taupe undertone gives it a unique look. However, if you prefer to avoid pink undertones, it may not be the best choice for you.
10. Benjamin Moore China White (Sea Pearl)
China White, also known as Sea Pearl, is an off-white with a creamy-tan/beige base. It has the most muted undertones, making it a great option for those who don't want overt yellow, orange, green, or pink hues. It pairs beautifully with Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace for trim.
Remember, the best way to determine the perfect off-white paint color for your space is to sample and compare. Paint samples on your walls and observe how they look in different lighting conditions. These top 10 off-white paint colors will help guide your decision-making process.
Kylie M Interiors, online paint color expert, consulting, e-design, Best Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams.
If you need assistance in selecting the perfect paint colors for your home, consider my Expert Paint Color Consulting Packages. I'll help you find the ideal colors that suit your style and bring your space to life.
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Kylie M Interiors, decorating blog, e-design, online color consulting expert.
First published in 2019, superbly updated in 2023.
