Between the Layers | Design Guide Series
SUBSCRIBE
Design

The Best White Paints: Here Are My Favorites

A Thoughtful List of Our Tride and True Shades

Let’s chat about something we’ve all got on our walls but might not have thought much about– white paint. These white paint colors are ones that we have used time and time again. I’ve used them in client projects and even in our own investments. But here’s the kicker – not all whites are created equal. 

It’s kinda like trying to find the perfect pair of jeans. You know, they may all look the same, but once you’ve found “the one,” you get it! It sets the mood, and trust me, it’s not as straightforward as you’d think. So, let’s talk about why choosing the right white paint is so important.

“Simply White”

We’ll kick things off with an absolute classic: Benjamin Moore’s “Simply White.” This one holds a special place in my heart. I mean, I first dipped my brush into this beauty when it snagged the “Color of the Year” in 2016.

And let me tell you, it lives up to its name — it’s simple (no pun intended), clean, and oh-so-versatile. This shade of white isn’t too bright, but it’s not drifting off into the yellow sunset either. It’s that sweet spot right in the middle.

What’s so great about “Simply White” is that it can adapt to any situation. Seriously, it can swing from modern to traditional. That’s why I keep it in my back pocket for just about everything – trim, cabinetry, doors, ceilings – you name it! 

“Swiss Coffee”

This is another gem from Benjamin Moore – “Swiss Coffee.” This one’s got a little secret – a touch of brown in the mix. And it’s right there in the name, so no surprises there. Think of a super creamy, frothy cup of your favorite coffee.

But here’s where it gets interesting – I like to have the paint store mix it at half strength. Yep, we’re talking 50% of the usual strength they’d use for a gallon of paint. This little tweak does wonders; it cuts down on some of the brown but still leaves you with this beautiful warm white. 

We went all-in with “Swiss Coffee” in our old home, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer, especially in those sun-drenched bedrooms. It’s like a warm, cozy hug from your wall paint, especially when you’re working with more traditional or transitional home vibes. This shade pairs best with warm, natural materials, so if you’re into that organic, inviting feel, “Swiss Coffee” might just become your new best friend. 

“Chantilly Lace”

Alright, buckle up, because we’re about to explore Benjamin Moore’s “Chantilly Lace,” and this one’s a real game-changer! If you’ve been on the prowl for that perfect, clean, and bright white, with not a hint of pink or blue in sight, then you’re in for a treat. In my books, it’s not just any white; it’s one of the “purest” whites out there. The name itself hints at its elegance – picture that crisp, delicate lace you might’ve inherited from your grandma.

When it comes to achieving that modern aesthetic, “Chantilly Lace” is the unsung hero – cool, suave, and always in style. However, it’s not just limited to modern settings. This shade can effortlessly dance with black, neutrals, and those cozy, earthy tones, creating a visual contrast that’s simply stunning. So, here’s the inside scoop: I highly recommend it for bathrooms and kitchens, where its pristine, clean look works like a charm.  

“White Dove”

And now, for the grand finale, we’ve got Benjamin Moore’s “White Dove.” This one’s an absolute favorite, especially in rooms that bask in the glory of abundant natural light. It’s got these warm, creamy, almost gray-ish undertones that create a serene and cozy atmosphere, making it the go-to choice for a dreamy bedroom. I mean, if you’re all about those soothing, calming vibes, “White Dove” is your wingman (pun totally intended). 

So, if your space is blessed with sunshine aplenty and you’re looking for a paint color that radiates tranquility, “White Dove” is the answer. It’s the white paint equivalent of a good night’s sleep. You won’t want to hit the snooze button on this one!

Clouz Houz tip #1: 

Every white paint can have its own little personality in each home. So, here’s the deal – before you dive headfirst into a sea of white paint cans, take a breath and consider this. It’s worth every penny and a bit of your time to grab some samples! You can either purchase those little paint sample pots or opt for a nifty solution like sheets from Samplize. These babies come with a sticky backing, so you can peel and place them in your desired room – no mess, no fuss!

Now, here’s the real secret: live with the paint color for at least a day. Give it some time to shine, or not, in different lighting scenarios. Observe it in the morning sun, the daytime glow, and the cozy evening light. You’d be surprised how a color can change its tune and you want to make sure that you’re in love with that white paint in all its moods.

 

Clouz Houz tip #2:

And here’s our last piece of advice: if you’re aiming for that super sleek and streamlined palette in your space, here’s a trick we swear by: keep the same white for both your walls and trim. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Won’t that be too much white?” Well, believe it or not, by playing around with different sheens, you can work wonders. Picture this – matte or eggshell for the walls and satin for the trim. What you end up with is a beautifully complimentary look with the added bonus of gorgeous shadow lines where the two meet. So, if you’re all about keeping things crisp, clean, and elegant, consider this white-on-white strategy.

 

I hope this guide has lightened the load and empowered you to confidently choose the ideal shade of white for your home. Remember, the right paint cant transform your living spaces, creating the atmosphere your desire. So go ahead and paint your world with the color that truly feels like home!

***

Looking for even more inspiration before you get started? Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter and upon signing up you will receive our ‘Complimentary Paint Guide’ directly in your inbox! a 40 + page guide complete with nine neutral and eight bold paint colors that are timeless and CH approved!

Join the Conversation

get inspired
#clouzhouz
follow along
@clouz_houz
“Why bring in a designer when I could do it on my own?”
You absolutely can. Most people can get a space to look good but does it function and translate over time?
But what you don’t always see is everything happening behind the scenes: the planning, the sequencing, the material decisions, the scale, the problem-solving when something doesn’t quite work.
It’s not just about choosing pieces. It’s about making hundreds of small decisions that all need to relate to each other.
We’ve been doing this for years, we know what to look for (and what to avoid), we have access to resources you won’t find online, and we manage the chaos so you don’t have to.
If you’re ready to take that off your plate, you can inquire through the link in bio!
Because I know I’d be overwhelmed by this list if I wasn’t privy to the industry.
Send this post to someone who is considering hiring a designer!
It gave us a lot of left hooks- but we are still standing. 💪
When I talk about holding our clients hands through projects- I sure wish I had someone holding mine on this one! There were plumbing debacles… we discovered pipes running every which way, structural issues, electrical wires that were a fire hazard, a layout that tested my creativity… the list goes on and on! 
Feeling so grateful for all the trades who helped us get here. 
The window coverings still need to get installed (the prettiest cafe curtain if you can picture it ) but I just couldn’t wait any longer to share with you…
Now tell me, what is your favorite detail? Because I truly can’t decide. And if you could share/like/save… all the things, to show her some love I would appreciate it so much. 🥰
Life is too short to live in a flat, one-note space.
The details that don’t immediately stand out are often the ones doing the most work. This is one of those.
• Satin on trim
• Eggshell on walls
• Flat on the ceiling
Save this for when you’re picking paint... it makes more of a difference than you think.
Nothing makes me happier than getting to reveal our long awaited upstairs guest bath!
Comment ‘BATH’ and I’ll send you everything to get this look.
This was the very first room we demoed at the Sixth Street Bungalow, and easily one of the biggest transformations. What started as a simple update turned into redoing floors, vaulting the ceiling, and completely reworking the plumbing.
Now it actually works for how we live and host. With proper storage, a place for guests to hang clothes, built-in linen space, and a layout that finally makes sense.
At the core of every project for us is this idea: designing for how a space feels and functions, not just how it looks on paper. Every decision here was about creating something that feels lived-in, thoughtful, and quietly layered.
The details are what bring that to life. The custom sink skirts might be my favorite. They’re slightly feminine, but grounded in a way that still feels tailored and not too precious.
A long time coming, but exactly how it was meant to be! Hope you enjoy it:)
Don’t mind the current state of things... it’s a bit of a disaster in here right now. I shared the vision on stories, but I’m such a visual person that I wanted to pull everything together (both for you and honestly for myself) to see how all the elements will work together.
The first things I knew I wanted in this space:
A fun pop of color (Charlotte’s Locks by @Farrow&Ball)
A mosaic floor
An inset mirrored medicine cabinet
I think this is going to be such a fun space for when we have people over. A powder bath is the perfect place to do something a little unexpected (or a few things) and really lean into it.
I’ll share more as we go!