This popular paint shade is anything but vanilla.
These superpowers are likely why white paint has been popular for so long.
Design expert Leigh Spicher offers some smart design facts about why painting with white is the right choice.
This complexity of options bespeaks the many ways that white paint can affect a room.
Warm white, which has an undertone of yellow or red, can make a room feel cozier.
To identify the undertone of your white paint swatch, hold it up against a sheet of white paper.
If you see hints of gray, this is a cool white.
you’re able to actually set the emotional tone of your room by choosing white paint!
It’s a Blank Slate
In the absence of color, white serves as a blank slate.
Starting with white walls might make it a little easier if you struggle to pull a room together.
“If you’re working in a large space, it will open it up even more.”
White paint can elevate your mood.
“White just clears your mind,” Spicher says.
Picture the white flag, the white wedding dress, and the white dove.
In the psychology of color, white symbolizes peace and purityfeelings most people are drawn to, Spicher says.
“People might not cognitively realize that white is actually the presence of light,” she says.
“White gives us a lot of light in our homes, and that makes us feel good.”
Unlike brighter colors, white doesn’t stimulate the brain and has a tranquil effect.
It can also serve as a backdrop for bedding and curtains in soothing colors like pale blue or gray.
Scuff marks and fingerprints appear on white more readily than on darker-colored walls.
That said, using a high-gloss or semi-gloss paint sheen will make them easier to clean.
Wipe off smudges with a sponge, warm water solution, and dish soap.
Or use a Magic Eraser.
There are no hard and fast rules about trim color with white walls.
you’re free to paint the trim white as well for a cohesive look.
Or you could choose another color, like gray.
Just double-check that the undertones match.
Avoid pairing a cool white with a warm color, and vice versa.
