When it comes to choosing a paint color for interior walls, there are so many options to consider. The type of paint finish, undertones, brightness and shade all factor into finding the perfect wall color. While personal taste plays a big role, there are some consistently popular paint colors that stand the test of time.
Most Popular Neutral Wall Colors
Neutral paint colors are versatile and can work in just about any room. They act as a subtle backdrop that allows you to easily change up decorative accents like throw pillows, rugs and artwork. Here are some of today’s most popular neutral wall paint colors:
- White – Clean and bright white is a popular choice for modern, airy spaces. It makes rooms feel open and spacious.
- Beige – Warm beige is ideal for achieving a cozy, inviting look. The undertones complement wood tones.
- Gray – Cool, moody grays lend an elegant, sophisticated look. Gray is especially trendy in living rooms and bedrooms.
- Tan – As a warm neutral, tan works well in traditional and casual spaces. It has classic appeal.
- Cream – Creamy off-whites provide a soft, romantic vibe. They give new spaces a vintage cottage charm.
These versatile neutrals can be dressed up or down with different decorative styles. They make an excellent base for changing color trends and seasonal redecorating.
Most Popular Blue Wall Colors
From pale sky blue to dramatic navy, blue is a top choice for interior walls. Here are some of the most popular blue wall colors today:
- Sky Blue – This pale, airy blue evokes serene skies. Use it in bedrooms or bathrooms for a peaceful look.
- Powder Blue – Slightly deeper than sky blue, powder blue has a soft, hazy effect. It’s ideal for vintage styled spaces.
- Periwinkle – Periwinkle has purple-blue undertones. It works beautifully in cottage, farmhouse or shabby chic decors.
- Navy Blue – Sophisticated navy blue adds drama and intimacy to living rooms and dining spaces.
- Azure Blue – Vibrant azure blue makes a bold color statement. Use it to create an energetic, lively ambiance.
From the palest blue to the deepest navy, blue is a versatile paint color that sets the mood in any room.
Most Popular Green Wall Colors
Earthy green is intrinsically calming and relaxing. Here are some of today’s most popular green paint colors for walls:
- Sage Green – Natural sage green exudes peaceful Zen vibes. Use it in meditation rooms or bedrooms.
- Olive Green – Darker olive green has a traditional, Tuscan feel. It works well in libraries, offices and living rooms.
- Chartreuse – Bright, yellow-green chartreuse makes a cheerful color statement. It’s playful in kids’ rooms.
- Forest Green – Deep forest green adds drama and intrigue to any space. Pair with antique wood furniture.
- Lime Green – Vibrant lime green infuses energy and fun. Use it in recreation rooms or laundry rooms.
Green is versatile enough to create a relaxed sanctuary or lively atmosphere.
Most Popular Warm Wall Colors
Warm paint colors with hints of red, yellow and orange are inviting and cozy. Here are some trending warm wall color options:
- Terracotta – Earthy terracotta has a southwestern vibe. It brings warmth to living spaces and dining rooms.
- Peach – Soft peach creates a romantic look. Use it in bedrooms or bathrooms for a soothing feel.
- Buttercup – Cheerful buttercup yellow accents cottage chic or farmhouse decors. It’s sunshine in a can!
- Coral – Playful coral adds energy to any space. It looks fresh in kitchens, bathrooms and kids’ rooms.
- Cinnamon – Spicy cinnamon makes a bold, welcoming color statement in entryways and living areas.
Warm paint colors range from subtle peach to vibrant coral to add cozy warmth to your walls.
Most Popular Cool Wall Colors
Cooler paint colors with hints of blue and green have a calming, tranquil effect. Here are some of today’s top cool wall color choices:
- Lavender – Soothing lavender has a soft, romantic Victorian feel. Use it in bedrooms and bathrooms.
- Silver Gray – Airy silver gray lends rooms a breathable, open look and feel.
- Seafoam Green – Cool seafoam green provides relaxing oceanic vibes. It’s ideal for bedrooms and living spaces.
- Ice Blue – Pale icy blue creates serene, dreamy spaces. Use it in combination with white trim.
- Robin’s Egg Blue – Robin’s egg blue offers vintage charm. It complements cottage style decors beautifully.
From tranquil lavenders to misty blues, cool hues are widely popular for creating peaceful retreats.
Most Popular Color Combinations
Creative color combinations make for stunning, uniquely personal wall colors. Here are some of today’s most stylish two-tone paint ideas:
- Navy Blue + White – Classic navy and bright white make a preppy nautical statement.
- Robin’s Egg Blue + White – Vintage robin’s egg blue pops against crisp white.
- Sage Green + Cream – Earthy sage green and warm cream complement each other beautifully.
- Gray + Terracotta – Cool gray and vibrant terracotta create striking contrast.
- Yellow + Gray – Cheerful yellow energizes sophisticated gray walls.
Two-tone colors open up endless possibilities for creating a custom look.
Most Popular Trim and Accent Colors
Trim and accents like moldings, ceilings, doors and cabinets are the perfect way to weave extra color into a space. Here are some of today’s most popular accent colors:
- White – Crisp white trim and accents keep rooms feeling light and airy.
- Black – Chic black accents lend rooms a modern, trendy edge.
- Navy Blue – Navy trim and accents inject preppy personality.
- Wood Tone – Warm wood trim has traditional, rustic appeal.
- Matte Black – Understated matte black accents provide cool contrast.
Accent colors help highlight architectural details and tie the whole room together.
Most Versatile Paint Finishes
The paint finish impacts a color’s look and feel. Here are some of the most versatile, popular paint finishes for interior walls:
- Matte – Matte has a subtle, velvety look. It works with any color and hides imperfections.
- Eggshell – Slightly shiny eggshell has a classic look. It stands up well to cleaning.
- Satin – Silky satin has a hint of sheen. It allows colors to flow smoothly across walls.
- Semi-Gloss – Semi-gloss offers medium reflectivity. It’s ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
The most popular finishes offer the ideal midpoint of aesthetic appeal and durability.
How Long Do Paint Color Trends Last?
While personal taste has a major influence, paint colors trends do fluctuate in popularity. Here is how often major paint color trends change:
- Neutrals – Neutral palettes evolve gradually over 3-5 years.
- Blues – Blue tones shift subtly every 2-3 years.
- Greens – Green palettes change every 4-6 years.
- Warm Tones – Warm color trends last 2-4 years.
- Cool Tones – Cool palettes change every 3-5 years.
- Combos – Two-tone colors go in and out every 1-2 years.
While some classics like white remain forever stylish, bolder trends come and go more quickly.
Most Popular Paint Brands
When it comes to choosing a quality paint brand, these companies come out on top for interior wall paints:
| Brand | Price Range | Notable Qualities |
|---|---|---|
| Behr | Mid-range | Trendy colors, excellent hide and coverage |
| Benjamin Moore | Mid- to high-end | Refined color collection, durable finish |
| Sherwin-Williams | Mid- to high-end | Vast color selection, consistently smooth application |
| Valspar | Low- to mid-range | Affordable, quality finish for the price |
| Clark + Kensington | Low- to mid-range | Playful, trendy colors and finishes |
When choosing a brand, consider factors like price point, color options, quality and warranty.
Paint Color Forecast for 2023
Looking ahead, here are some of the biggest paint color trends predicted for 2023:
- Organic neutrals – Natural clay, sand and stone tones.
- Vivid accent walls – Bold pinks, oranges, greens and blues.
- New pastels – Innovative soft shades like lilac, lemon and seafoam.
- Warm monochromes – Rich tones of a single hue like deep red or green.
- 1990s inspired colors – Nostalgic cocoa brown, sage green and terracotta.
The 2023 paint color trends offer fresh, nature-inspired hues along with fun nods to yesteryear.
Choosing the Right Paint Color
With so many options to consider, here are some tips for choosing the perfect paint color for your space:
- Decide on your overall style – modern, vintage, rustic, etc. and let that guide your color selection.
- Consider the room’s purpose and ideal mood – bright and energetic or calm and peaceful?
- Look at undertones to make sure the color works with other finishes like floors and furniture.
- Opt for versatile neutrals if you plan to redecorate frequently.
- View color samples on walls at different times of day to gauge lighting effects.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors on accent walls.
- Choose a high quality paint brand and finish for great hide and durability.
Finding your perfect wall color is exciting – and with some strategic planning, you can pick a paint color you’ll love for years.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing interior wall paint colors, the options are endless. But several shades consistently rise to the top in terms of popularity and versatility. Clean whites and bright neutrals allow for easy decorating changes. Mood-enhancing blues and greens provide a sense of serenity. Warm tones like peach and buttery yellow create an inviting look. And don’t forget sophisticated grays, which work everywhere from living rooms to bedrooms. Combining two tones is also a big trend for a custom look. While personal preference rules, you really can’t go wrong with these tried and true, top-rated paint colors for your home’s walls.