Benjamin Moore Ballet White (OC-9) | Design by Week's End Co.
White interior paint is a timeless design choice, but the decision isn't as straightforward as you might think. Not only are there thousands of options, but each comes with its own undertones and will translate differently once applied to your walls depending on how much natural light you're working with and any surrounding colors.
Below are a few of our favorites to use as a guide. If you're going to try any of these out on your own, always be sure to test the paint on the walls before committing.
Benjamin Moore Ballet White (OC-9): Ballet White is what we'd describe as a muddy, creamy off-white. It's used in the image above in a north and west facing room. It picks up a grey tone in low-light, and a smooth off-white in direct sun, just enough to provide some contrast with a bright white trim.
Sherwin Williams Alabaster (SW 7008): While this isn't a true white, it serves as an extremely versatile off-white neutral for any space. Alabaster has subtle beige undertones, which makes it a Goldilocks color: not too warm, and not too cool. Alabaster also works great for exteriors.
Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee (OC-45) | Designed by Style by Emily Henderson
Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee (OC-45): A tried-and-true off-white, Swiss Coffee is as delicious as it sounds. This is a great neutral that leans a touch on the warm side. It's calming, but also lends a cozy and warming vibe to the room.
Benjamin Moore Decorator's White (CC-20): A slightly cool white, but not totally stark. Against pure whites, it may pick up a hint of shadow. This is a go-to for trim, but be sure to choose a semi-gloss sheen.
Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65) | Design by J. Miller Interiors
Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65): The whitest white of the bunch, Chantilly Lace is crisp and clean with nearly no undertones. However, that means this shade has a tendency to pick up on any colors that surround it. For instance, it may lean a touch green if your room has windows that look out on a lawn and lots of trees.
Benjamin Moore Simply White (OC-117) | Design by Studio McGee
Benjamin Moore Simply White (OC-117): This is a fresh, slightly warm white for any application, be it walls, ceilings, trim, or cabinetry. Just be careful with lighting, sun exposure, and surrounding tones. When partnered with cool accents, such as marble tile, its yellow undertone will likely shine through.
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