Historic white is a popular neutral paint color from the Dunn Edwards historic color collection. This versatile off-white shade works well in a variety of interior spaces and decor styles. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what exactly historic white looks like and how to use it in your home.
The Dunn Edwards Historic Color Collection
The historic color collection from Dunn Edwards includes over 100 historically-inspired paint colors. This line of paints is designed to mimic the palette of the past, with colors drawn from European architecture, Americana motifs, and historically significant landmarks.
The collection includes a wide range of hues from antique whites and vintage taupes to rich jewel tones and deep charcoals. Whether you want to recreate a Victorian vibe or add some Georgian flair, the historic colors offer endless possibilities.
In addition to unique shades, many of the historic colors are lower in VOC content than standard Dunn Edwards paints. This makes them a good option for eco-conscious homeowners looking for green paint solutions.
What Color is Historic White Dunn Edwards?
As the name suggests, historic white Dunn Edwards is a pristine white paint color. It has a hint of warmth rather than stark bright white, giving it a soft, welcoming look.
Specifically, historic white has the following characteristics:
- LRV (Light Reflectance Value): 83
- Base: Neutral
- Undertones: Warm
With an LRV over 80, historic white has a high light reflectance. This makes it an excellent choice for maximizing brightness in dark rooms or small spaces.
In terms of undertone, historic white leans slightly warm rather than cool. So you’ll notice subtle creamy or ivory nuances rather than an intense bright white.
Comparing Historic White to Other Whites
How does historic white compare to other popular white paint colors? Here is an overview:
| Color Name | LRV | Undertone |
|---|---|---|
| Historic White Dunn Edwards | 83 | Warm |
| Extra White Sherwin-Williams | 86 | Clean |
| White Dove Benjamin Moore | 85 | Warm |
| Chantilly Lace Benjamin Moore | 92 | Cool |
As you can see, historic white is slightly less bright than true whites like Extra White or Chantilly Lace. But it offers more warmth than stark bright white tones.
Using Historic White Dunn Edwards in Your Home
What are some good ways to incorporate historic white into your home’s decor? Here are a few tips:
Walls
Historic white makes an excellent wall color for nearly any room. It feels fresh and clean without being clinical. Pair it with muted paint colors like grays, taupes, and blues for a relaxed yet refined look.
Trim and Molding
Use historic white on all your interior trim and molding for a crisp, consistent look. The versatility of this white allows it to mesh well with walls painted any hue.
Ceilings
Thanks to its high LRV, historic white is ideal for ceiling paint. It will make rooms feel open and airy while bouncing light around.
Doors
Front doors painted in glossy historic white give a welcoming first impression. For interior doors, use it on shaker or paneled styles to add traditional character.
Kitchen Cabinets
The barely-there warmth of historic white stops it from looking sterile in kitchens. Use it on cabinets for a light, breezy look. Pair with marble, butcher block, or white countertops.
Bathrooms
In bathrooms, historic white keeps things looking crisp when used on wainscoting, vanities, or shiplap. Add navy or black accents for some contrast.
Furniture
Give dated wooden furniture or tired flea market finds new life with a coat of historic white paint. Use a matte finish for a smooth, opaque effect.
Historic White Color Combos
What are some go-to color combinations that coordinate well with historic white?
Historic White and Navy
Pair historic white walls with navy blue accent pieces like chairs or throw pillows for a classic look.
Historic White and Slate Gray
Slate gray has a subtle lavender undertone that gives warmth to historic white without overpowering it.
Historic White and Antique Brass
Metallics like brass bring out historic white’s subtle warmth. Use vintage-style brass lighting or hardware.
Historic White and Soft Green
Muted sage greens are soothing companions to bright historic white in bedrooms or living spaces.
Historic White and Black
For dramatic contrast, pair jet black accents and furniture against crisp historic white walls.
Tips for Using Historic White
Ready to use historic white Dunn Edwards in your home? Keep these tips in mind:
- Test your paint first – colors look different on walls than on swatches
- Prep your walls properly for best paint adhesion
- Use flat paint on ceilings, satin or eggshell on walls, and semi-gloss on trim and cabinets for ideal sheen
- Purchase all paint for a single wall or room at once to ensure color consistency
- Apply with a premium angled brush, dense roller cover, or airless sprayer
- Work in sections, cutting in edges before rolling flat areas
- Use painter’s tape for clean lines and edges
- Caulk gaps and holes before painting for a seamless look
Conclusion
With its barely-warm white tone, historic white Dunn Edwards offers versatility for all types of home interiors. It provides a welcoming, softened white backdrop that allows other colors to take center stage. Complement historic white with shades like navy, gray, brass, and sage green for stylish, livable rooms.
Prepping surfaces properly and using high-quality applicators will ensure you achieve an even, consistent finish. Follow the tips above to make your historic white paint look its best. With this adaptable neutral white, you can give any space a fresh new look rooted in timeless appeal.