1. Understand the Undertones
Not all whites are the same. Some whites have warm undertones, while others lean cooler. Understanding undertones is key to choosing a white that complements your space.
- Warm Whites
Whites with yellow, red, or brown undertones create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. They work well in spaces with a lot of natural light or in rooms where you want to add warmth, such as living rooms or bedrooms. Examples of Benjamin Moore’s warm whites include:- Simply White OC-117: A soft, warm white that adds a welcoming glow.
- Cloud White OC-130: A versatile warm white that works well in any room.
- Cool Whites
Whites with blue or gray undertones offer a crisp, clean look, making them perfect for modern and contemporary spaces. These whites are ideal for rooms with less natural light or areas where you want a more refreshing and airy feel. Some great options include:- Chantilly Lace OC-65: A bright, clean white with no visible undertones, perfect for creating a crisp look.
- Decorator’s White OC-149: A cool, sophisticated white that pairs beautifully with modern decor.
2. Consider the Room’s Lighting
The amount of natural and artificial light in a room will greatly influence how a white paint color appears. A white that looks crisp in one room may appear dull or stark in another. Here’s how to choose based on lighting:
- Rooms with Plenty of Natural Light
In rooms flooded with sunlight, both cool and warm whites will look great, though cool whites tend to balance out the brightness. A popular choice for bright spaces is Chantilly Lace OC-65, which stays true to its color no matter the lighting. - Rooms with Little or No Natural Light
For rooms that don’t get much natural light, such as bathrooms, hallways, or basements, opt for warmer whites to create a cozier, more inviting feel. White Dove OC-17 is a great choice for these spaces, offering a soft, warm hue that adds light without feeling stark. - Artificial Lighting
Pay attention to the artificial light in your room—cool whites work best with cooler lighting (like LED or fluorescent lights), while warm whites complement incandescent or warm LED lighting. Cloud White OC-130 is an excellent option if you’re using warm-toned lighting.
3. Choose the Right Finish
Benjamin Moore offers various finishes, and selecting the right one can impact the final look of your white paint. Consider the following:
- Matte or Eggshell Finishes
These finishes are ideal for low-traffic areas like bedrooms or living rooms. They offer a soft, velvety appearance and help create a cozy atmosphere. Whites like White Dove OC-17 look stunning in a matte finish, giving rooms an elegant feel. - Satin or Semi-Gloss Finishes
If you’re painting high-traffic areas like kitchens or bathrooms, opt for a satin or semi-gloss finish for better durability and easy cleaning. These finishes also reflect light, making whites like Decorator’s White OC-149 or Chantilly Lace OC-65 look fresh and polished.
4. Test Before You Commit
Before you fully commit to a white paint color, it’s essential to test it in your space. Paint swatches or small samples of your top choices on the walls and observe how they look at different times of the day. Colors can shift depending on lighting, and testing can prevent potential disappointments.
At GTA Paint & Decor, we offer Benjamin Moore sample pots so you can see how your chosen white looks in your actual space. Take the time to live with the color for a few days and view it in different lighting conditions.
5. Ask for Expert Advice
With so many shades of white to choose from, selecting the perfect one can feel overwhelming. That’s where our team at GTA Paint & Decor comes in! Our paint experts are here to help you find the right Benjamin Moore white that complements your space, lighting, and decor style. Whether you’re repainting a single room or your entire home, we’ll guide you to the best choice.
Visit GTA Paint & Decor Today!
Choosing the right white paint color is an important decision, and we’re here to help. Visit us at 8855 Woodbine Ave, Markham, Ontario, L3R 5G1, and explore our wide range of Benjamin Moore whites. Our experts will provide personalized recommendations to help you achieve the look and feel you want for your home.
Let’s make your space bright, beautiful, and timeless with the perfect shade of Benjamin Moore white!
