When it comes to choosing paint colors for the walls of a new construction home or renovation project, builders and contractors typically opt for neutral, versatile shades that will appeal to the widest range of buyers. Whites, off-whites, grays, and beiges are common go-to colors for builders painting interior walls. Here’s a closer look at the most popular wall colors used by builders and the reasoning behind them.
White
White is hands down the most popular interior wall color used by builders and contractors. There are several reasons white rules as the builder’s choice for walls:
- White makes spaces feel open, airy, and spacious which appeals to buyers.
- It provides a clean, bright backdrop that allows accent colors in furnishings and decor to really pop.
- White reflects light well, helping rooms feel bright even with limited natural light.
- It’s a versatile neutral that pairs easily with any color scheme or style a homeowner may want to create.
- White is affordable and readily available. Builders can buy white paint in bulk.
- It’s easy to touch up and maintain during construction.
- White walls make a home feel light and spacious which is ideal for showing and selling.
For all these reasons, white is the hands-down top choice color for builders painting the walls of new homes and renovated spaces.
Off Whites/Cream/Ivory
Off whites are also hugely popular choices for builders painting wall interiors. While bright, stark whites are common for new constructions, many builders opt for slightly warmer off whites for renovated homes and condos. Common off white wall colors used include:
- Benjamin Moore Classic Gray
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Benjamin Moore White Dove
- Sherwin Williams Creamy
- Benjamin Moore Linen White
- Behr Swiss Coffee
These versatile, warm off whites pair beautifully with existing trims and finishes. They provide a clean, neutral backdrop that feels classic and elegant rather than stark or clinical.
Grays
Light to mid-tone grays are another hugely popular neutral wall color choice for builders and contractors. Like off-whites, grays provide a versatile neutral backdrop that feels warmer and more inviting than stark white. Plus, gray walls have mass appeal and pair well with all styles from modern to traditional. Some top grays used on new construction walls include:
- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter
- Sherwin Williams Gray Screen
- Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray
- Behr Silver Drop
Grays work in all lighting and complement cool tones like blues and greens or warm wood trims equally well. They are a foolproof choice for appealing to buyers.
Beiges
For a slightly warmer but still versatile neutral, many builders rely on beige paint colors for interior walls. Popular options include:
- Benjamin Moore Manchester Tan
- Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige
- Benjamin Moore Beach Glass
- Sherwin Williams Wishful
- Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist
- Behr Crisp Linen
These muted, sandy beiges work well in warmer climates where light is abundant. They provide a soothing, welcoming backdrop for furnishings and decor.
Conclusion
When selecting wall colors for new constructions and renovations, builders favor versatile, appealing neutrals. Whites, off whites, light grays, and beiges are popular standard colors used on interior walls. These provide clean, bright backdrops and mass buyer appeal. While personal tastes vary, these neutral, low-maintenance colors are safe bets for the widest range of buyers.
| Color | Paint Brands |
|---|---|
| White | Benjamin Moore Classic Gray, Sherwin Williams Pure White |
| Off White/Cream/Ivory | Benjamin Moore White Dove, Sherwin Williams Creamy, Behr Swiss Coffee |
| Grays | Benjamin Moore Gray Owl, Sherwin Williams Repose Gray, Behr Silver Drop |
| Beiges | Benjamin Moore Manchester Tan, Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige, Behr Crisp Linen |
