April 02, 2022

Choosing the Right White

Whites will never go out of style, but with hundreds to choose from it can be very overwhelming to pick the right one.

Here’s a few tips on choosing the perfect shade for you.

Warm Whites

Whites that have a yellow, orange, pink or red base are called warm whites. These tones are great for creating a cosy atmosphere, particularly in rooms that don’t get to see a lot of sunlight, or in older style homes, like the one shown in the image below with the colour Atrium White OC-145.

hall with large arches and chandeliers

Warm whites pair well with earthy, nature inspired hues and textures.

Benjamin Moore’s Mountain Peak White OC-121, Cloud White OC-130 and Atrium White OC-145 are great examples of that cosy, warm hug warm whites create.

Cool Whites

Whites that have a blue, purple, green or grey base are cool whites. They are crisp and fit perfectly with minimalist, edgy architecture. 

Cool whites are also used to counteract warm tones in spaces that are naturally light filled, however, cool whites are more susceptible to artificial lighting tones. A cool white artificial light source can turn a cool white painted wall cold and uninviting.

Benjamin Moore’s White Heron OC-57, Decorator’s White OC-149 and Paper White OC-55 will work perfectly to help create that modernist or contemporary feel as shown in the image below which shows White Heron on the walls and Paper White on the trim.

bedroom with white walls doors and a bed with green backboard and frame

Before You Choose

It’s important before setting your heart on the perfect white to have a look at what will ultimately influence the colour you choose. 

There are 2 main factors that are likely to impact your white. Furnishings and lighting.

If your furnishings are warm, earthy shades, lean towards a warm white. The same goes for warm white lighting or a less naturally lit space.

If they are cooler tones of blue, green or purple, go for a cool white. Again, the same for lighting or if the space receives a lot of natural light.

Before You Paint

Choose several whites you like. Paint a large piece of cardboard, 1 for each colour, and place around the room. Be sure to move them to different spots and look at them at different times of the day. This will give you a better idea of what the finished result will look like.

Ordering Your Paint

Once you have settled on a colour, jump on benjaminmoore.com.au to order your colour in your desired quantity.