Warm paint undertones refer to the underlying colors in paint that lean towards yellow, red or orange hues. When used in interior design, warm paint colors can make a room feel cozy, inviting and energetic. Knowing how to identify warm undertones in paint can help you select the perfect colors for your home.
What are paint undertones?
Every paint color has undertones – these are subtle hues that come through in the base color. For example, a blue paint may have green or purple undertones, while a red paint could lean slightly orange or pink. Undertones affect how we perceive a color.
Paint undertones fall into two main categories:
- Warm undertones – these lean towards yellows, oranges and reds on the color wheel.
- Cool undertones – these lean towards greens, blues and purples.
Warm and cool undertones evoke different moods and feelings in a room. Warm colors feel cozy and inviting, while cool colors feel crisp and relaxing.
How to identify warm undertones in paint
Here are some tips for spotting warm undertones in paint colors:
- Look at the base color – Does it lean towards red, orange or yellow? These are warm base colors.
- View paint swatches in natural daylight – This shows the undertones best.
- Compare to known warm colors – Hold swatches next to oranges, terra cottas or tans.
- Notice the temperature – Warm colors feel hotter and brighter than cool ones.
- Check the color name – Names like ‘sunshine,’ ‘daffodil’ or ‘marigold’ indicate warm tones.
- Observe the effect – Warm colors make a room feel cozy, energetic and welcoming.
Trust your eyes and instincts when evaluating undertones. The most foolproof way is to paint large swatches on the wall and view at different times of day.
Common warm paint undertones
Here are some of the most common warm undertones found in interior paint colors:
- Yellow – Adds brightness and feelings of happiness/optimism.
- Red – Stimulating, lively, passionate.
- Orange – Energizing, friendly, welcoming.
- Terracotta – Earthy, soothing, rustic.
- Peach – Soft, feminine, romantic.
- Gold – Luxurious, glamorous, warm.
- Pink – Sweet, nurturing, gentle.
These undertones bring warmth and positive energy when used in interior spaces. They make ideal accent colors or for key living areas like living rooms, dining rooms and kitchens.
Best warm paint colors
Here are some of the most popular warm paint colors for walls and homes:
| Color | Undertone | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Buttery Yellow | Yellow | Warm, cheerful, bright |
| Terracotta Orange | Orange/red | Earthy, inviting, cozy |
| Rosy Tan | Peach | Soft, romantic, elegant |
| Sunshine Yellow | Yellow | Uplifting, friendly, optimistic |
| Desert Rose | Pink | Gentle, soothing, feminine |
These paint colors with warm undertones are versatile choices that suit many design styles. Buttery yellows, peachy tans and rosy pinks create warmth in any room.
Best places to use warm paint colors
Here are some rooms that benefit most from warm paint colors:
- Living rooms – Warm tones make lounges feel welcoming and cozy.
- Dining rooms – Oranges and reds stimulate appetite and conversation.
- Kitchens – Yellows and peaches add energy and brightness.
- Bedrooms – Soft warm tones help create a peaceful retreat.
- Bathrooms – Warms shades give a spa-like feel.
- Entryways – Welcome guests with warm greeting colors.
- Offices – Peaches and pinks add creativity and focus.
Use warm shades in the rooms you spend the most time in. Save cooler tones for bathrooms, bedrooms and formal spaces.
Tips for using warm paints
Some tips for successfully using warm paint undertones in your home:
- Test colors first – Paint large swatches to view undertones.
- Use warm white trim – This prevents clashing with warm walls.
- Add texture – Warm stucco or brick accent walls work well.
- Incorporate wood tones – This enhances the cozy factor.
- Repeat colors in furnishings – Upholstery in similar warm tones ties everything together.
- Add pops of color – Accent with contrasting blues or greens.
- Use layered lighting – Mix lamps, sconces and overhead lighting.
Achieve a harmonious look by extending warm paint colors throughout the decor. Layer textures, patterns and accent colors for maximum visual interest.
Pairing warm and cool paint colors
Warm and cool paint undertones can work beautifully together. Here are some creative ways to pair them:
- Warm walls with cool trim and ceilings
- Warm main rooms and cool bedrooms/bathrooms
- Warm accent wall with cool remaining walls
- Warm north facing rooms and cool south/west rooms
- Warm dining room and cool living room
Think about the mood you want to create in each space. Contrasting warm and cool tones adds visual interest and depth throughout the home.
Conclusion
Warm paint colors feature yellow, orange and red undertones that make rooms feel welcoming and cozy. Buttery yellows, peachy pinks and tomato reds are versatile choices that suit many design aesthetics. Use these energizing hues in main living areas to create an inviting mood. With creative pairings of warm and cool tones, you can design a harmonious, multifaceted color scheme that reflects your personal style.
