When it comes to home decor, choosing a wall color is one of the most impactful decisions you can make. The right wall color can transform the look and feel of a room. But with so many paint options to choose from, how do you know which shades are the most popular right now? Let’s take a look at what interior design experts say are the trendiest wall colors for 2023.
Neutrals Remain Timeless Choices
Neutral wall colors like off-whites, beiges, grays, and tans never really go out of style. They provide a versatile blank canvas that allows you to easily update your decor. Neutral walls also make rooms appear larger and brighter. Here are some of the most popular neutral wall color options:
- White – Clean and bright white is a go-to neutral that looks fresh and opens up small spaces.
- Greige – A mix between gray and beige, greige offers a softer alternative to plain gray walls.
- Almond and tan – These warm neutrals add subtle depth and work with many styles.
- Light gray – Cool, modern, and tranquil, light gray makes a relaxing backdrop.
Bold and Vibrant Hues
While neutrals are safe, don’t be afraid to get adventurous with bolder colors! Vibrant paint shades add personality, create an energizing mood, and really make a statement. Here are some eye-catching colors that are trending:
- Navy blue – From nautical to modern, navy looks refined in any room.
- Forest green – Earthy and peaceful, green adds natural flair.
- Mustard yellow – This sunny shade livens up any space.
- Terracotta – A warm rusty red-orange that brings a rustic vibe.
- Sage green – Soothing and subtle, sage makes a sophisticated palette.
The Most Popular Wall Colors
According to leading paint companies, the following 10 shades rank among the most popular wall colors right now:
| Rank | Color |
|---|---|
| 1 | White and off whites like Alabaster, Extra White |
| 2 | Light neutrals like Swiss Coffee, Accessible Beige |
| 3 | Greige tones like Revere Pewter, Edgecomb Gray |
| 4 | Soft gray like Repose Gray, Gray Owl |
| 5 | Light blue like Nebulous Blue, Baby Blue Eyes |
| 6 | Navy blue like Hale Navy, Midnight Blue |
| 7 | Sage green like Jojoba, Tradewind |
| 8 | Light pink like First Blush, Dusty Rose |
| 9 | Yellow like Sunbeam, Pale Primrose |
| 10 | Black |
As you can see, off-whites, light beiges, greiges, and soft grays dominate the most popular list. These easy-to-live-with neutrals offer flexibility in design. However, lighter blues, navy, sage greens, and pinks are also rising in popularity this year. Black makes a dramatic but sophisticated color choice too.
Best Wall Colors for Various Rooms
When selecting a wall color, it helps to consider the room and your overall design goals. Here are some recommended shades for popular rooms:
Living Rooms
- Light neutrals to open up the space
- Blues and greens to create a calm oasis
- Grays to anchor the room
Kitchens
- White or off-white for a clean, bright look
- Yellows and greens to add cheer
- Grays or navy for modern style
Bedrooms
- Soothing colors like blue, gray, and light green
- Romantic shades like blush pink or mauve
- Crisp white to open up a small space
Bathrooms
- White, light gray, or soft blue
- Soothing sage green
- Crisp black and white for drama
Home Offices
- Blue or green for productivity
- Grays or taupe to support focus
- Citrus yellows to boost creativity
Factors to Consider
Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting wall colors:
- Natural light – Rooms with good natural light can handle deeper shades, while dim spaces look best in lighter colors.
- Room size – Dark colors tend to make rooms feel smaller, while light colors open up the space.
- Ceiling height – Use lighter wall colors in rooms with low ceilings to give the illusion of more space.
- Mood and use – Energizing reds and oranges or calm blues and greens? Choose accordingly.
- Personal preference – Pick colors that make you happy!
Choosing Paint Finishes
The paint finish impacts the look and feel of your wall color. Here are some popular options:
- Flat – Provides a matte look that masks imperfections. Works for ceilings and low-traffic areas.
- Eggshell – Soft sheen, easy to clean. Good for living rooms, bedrooms.
- Satin – Subtle shine, fairly durable. Ideal for hallways, kids’ rooms.
- Semi-gloss – Reflective and washable. Best for kitchens, baths, trim.
Test Samples First
Don’t rely on small paint chips alone. Buy sample size cans or paint poster board sized sections on your wall. View them in both natural and artificial light at different times of day. This will give you the best sense of how the color truly looks in your space.
Conclusion
When choosing wall colors for your home, opt for timeless, versatile neutrals or inject personality with vibrant, saturated hues. Look to current trends for inspiration but ultimately pick shades that make you happy. Consider the room, lighting, and your design vision. Finally, always test samples first before committing to a color!