Finding the right paint color for your home can be a daunting task. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to settle on just one shade. One popular paint color that has stood the test of time is toasted almond. This versatile neutral works well in a variety of settings and can complement many different decor styles. But with several major paint brands offering their own take on toasted almond, how do you know which one to choose? Here’s an in-depth look at who makes the best toasted almond paint.
Overview of Toasted Almond Paint
Toasted almond paint is a warm, inviting neutral that pairs well with many colors. It falls somewhere between tan and light brown on the color spectrum. This flexibility makes toasted almond a great choice for all areas of the home, from living spaces to bedrooms. It creates a cozy and comfortable backdrop that allows other furnishings and decorative accents to take center stage.
The warm undertones of toasted almond give it more character than basic beige. Depending on the specific brand and finish, it can take on subtle golden, brown, or caramel tones. This adds depth and visual interest to walls while still remaining neutral enough to act as a blank canvas.
Toasted almond paint works well in both traditional and contemporary spaces. In traditional settings, it has an earthy, organic feel that complements antiques, dark woods, and burnished metals. In more modern rooms, it provides a soothing contrast to sleek furnishings and cool color accents. The versatility of toasted almond makes it popular among interior designers.
Major Brands of Toasted Almond Paint
Many leading paint manufacturers produce their own take on the toasted almond color palette. Here are some of the top brands to consider:
Behr Toasted Almond
Behr offers a popular line of paint and primer in one, available at most home improvement stores. Their toasted almond shade has a warm, inviting presence with subtle clay undertones. It creates a cozy and tranquil background for living spaces and bedrooms.
Benjamin Moore Toasted Almond
Known for premium quality paints, Benjamin Moore’s toasted almond is part of their Affinity color collection. It has strong golden undertones, lending a rich and sophisticated look. This versatile neutral works well in formal and casual settings alike.
Sherwin-Williams Toasted Almond
Another trusted paint brand, Sherwin-Williams describes their toasted almond as a flexible neutral with yellow undertones. It has a creamy, organic look that pairs well with antique furnishings and distressed metals.
Valspar Toasted Almond
Sold exclusively at Lowe’s home improvement stores, Valspar’s toasted almond has a warm, inviting presence. Its subtle tan undertones make it an easy match for a variety of interior finishes and furnishing styles.
PPG Toasted Almond
Known for premium-quality paints, PPG’s version of toasted almond has strong brown undertones with a hint of gray. This creates a sophisticated, cohesive look in formal dining rooms, living spaces, and bedrooms.
Glidden Toasted Almond
Sold at most home improvement retailers, Glidden’s toasted almond has a soft tan/brown appearance. It works well in casual settings like family rooms, kids’ bedrooms, and craft nooks.
Comparing Brands Side-by-Side
While these major brands all offer their own take on toasted almond, there can be noticeable differences between them. Here’s a breakdown of how the most popular toasted almond paint colors compare:
| Brand | Undertones | Finish | Price Per Gallon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behr | Clay, taupe | Low-luster eggshell | $30-45 |
| Benjamin Moore | Golden yellow | Pearlescent low-sheen | $50-70 |
| Sherwin-Williams | Yellow tan | Low-sheen eggshell | $40-60 |
| Valspar | Tan | Low-luster eggshell | $25-40 |
| PPG | Brown-gray | Eggshell | $35-50 |
| Glidden | Soft tan | Satin | $20-35 |
As you can see, there are some noticeable differences between brands when it comes to undertones and finishes. For example, Benjamin Moore’s toasted almond has a much warmer, golden yellow tone while Glidden’s is more of a soft tan. PPG’s version looks a bit more sophisticated with subtle brown-gray undertones. Price can also vary widely, from budget-friendly options like Glidden up to premium brands like Benjamin Moore.
How to Choose the Best Toasted Almond Paint
With several major brands offering toasted almond paint, how do you decide? Here are a few factors to consider when choosing the right toasted almond shade for your needs:
Undertones
Look at the specific undertones in each brand’s toasted almond. Do you want something warmer with yellow/golden undertones or a cooler tan shade? Matching undertones to your existing decor is key.
Room Function
Take into account the room you’ll be painting. For formal living rooms and dining rooms, you may want a more sophisticated almond shade like PPG. For bedrooms and kids’ spaces, a warmer tone like Behr’s could work better.
Sheen
The finish of the paint impacts its look on walls. Matte finishes give a casual, cozy feel while higher sheens like satin are more elegant. Make sure to get the right paint sheen for the room’s purpose.
Budget
Higher quality paints from brands like Benjamin Moore tend to cost more per gallon. If budget is a concern, lower-priced options from Valspar and Glidden work well. Sales at home improvement stores can also cut costs.
Availability
If convenience is key, you may want a major brand sold at stores near you. Ordering online offers more choices but can take longer and involve shipping costs.
Samples
Don’t decide on a toasted almond paint without sampling it first. Paint companies can provide free sample chips or pots. Test it on a wall before fully committing so you can see the true tone and finish.
Lighting Impacts Toasted Almond Paint
It’s important to note that the look of any paint color can change drastically depending on the lighting. Toasted almond can take on warmer or cooler tones in different environments. Here’s how lighting affects this popular shade:
Natural Lighting
In natural daylight, toasted almond tends to look brighter and more neutral. Yellow, tan, and brown undertones come through but are muted in full sun. To best see the true color, view it in natural light.
Incandescent Light
Under incandescent bulbs, toasted almond often looks much warmer with stronger golden undertones coming through. While cozy, this can skew perception of the actual paint color.
LED Light
LED lighting has a cooler tone that can make toasted almond look more beige, stifling some of its natural richness. Avoid choosing paint in only LED lighting.
At Night
In the evenings when artificial lighting is in use, the undertones in toasted almond may look exaggerated. Yellows and tans can come across more prominently than in daylight.
Be sure to view paint samples in both daytime and nighttime lighting to get the full picture. You want the shade to complement your space around the clock.
Where to Use Toasted Almond Paint
Thanks to its versatility, toasted almond paint works well in just about every room of the home. Here are some of the best applications for this popular neutral shade:
Living Rooms
Toasted almond makes an inviting backdrop in living rooms, pairing nicely with colorful furniture and decor. Its warmth livens up the space without dominating.
Dining Rooms
In formal dining rooms, a brown-hued toasted almond paint can add an elegant touch. Accent the walls with dark wood furnishings and metallic decor.
Bedrooms
From master bedrooms to kids’ rooms, toasted almond helps create a soothing retreat. Layer in plush textiles and bedding in complementing tones.
Bathrooms
With its clean, neutral look, toasted almond works great in bathrooms. Add contrast with marble counters, black metal finishes, and greenery.
Offices
In a home office, toasted almond paint helps cultivate focus while also adding warmth. Keep the space energized with bright white trim and accessories.
Kitchens
For a naturally beautiful kitchen backdrop, use toasted almond on the walls. Tie in natural wood cabinets and granite or marble countertops.
Design Ideas for Decorating with Toasted Almond
Toasted almond paint serves as a gorgeous neutral backdrop that plays well with many styles. Here are some ideas for decorating rooms with this versatile color:
Contemporary
In modern spaces, pair toasted almond walls with sleek furnishings and bold art. Stainless steel, glass, and lucite accents will pop against the neutral background.
Farmhouse
For a cozy farmhouse feel, use toasted almond on shiplap walls and ceilings. Rustic wood furniture and antique accessoires will feel right at home.
Bohemian
Toasted almond’s earthy vibe blends perfectly with bohemian style. Accent with tapestries, woven poufs, and an eclectic mix of wood furnishings.
Rustic
In rustic rooms, try combining reclaimed wood beams and furniture with toasted almond walls. Wrought iron, leather, and natural fibers make great complements.
Transitional
For a blend of traditional and modern, use toasted almond as your neutral base. Layer in a mix of contemporary and antique furnishings and art.
Coastal
Toasted almond and white trim mimics beach house style perfectly. Add weathered woods, white linens, and navy accents for a coastal color palette.
Tips for Painting with Toasted Almond
Ready to paint your space in toasted almond? Here are some tips to ensure paint success:
- Prime walls first for enhanced adhesion and truer color.
- Do 2-3 coats for best coverage, allowing proper drying time between coats.
- Use a high quality roller and brush for smoothest finish.
- Paint in sections to avoid lap marks and maintain a wet edge.
- Work in the shade with adequate ventilation for ideal painting conditions.
- Use painter’s tape for clean edges along trim, moldings, and ceilings.
- Spot prime patched areas to prevent flashes of white peeking through.
- Apply a protective clear coat over painted furniture to prevent chips and scuffs.
Maintenance for Toasted Almond Paint
While toasted almond has good durability and stain resistance, all paints require some maintenance to look their best. Here are a few care tips:
- Dust regularly and wipe gently with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent buildup.
- Spot clean smudges and fingerprints as needed with mild soap and warm water.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners, sponges and scrubbing to prevent dulling the finish.
- For deeper cleaning, use a mild wall cleaner safe for painted surfaces.
- Repaint high traffic areas like hallways every 3-5 years to refresh.
- Repaint any areas with noticeable fading or damage to keep the color uniform.
- Use corner guards, wall protection, and décor items strategically to prevent scuffs.
Conclusion
With its inviting warmth and versatile, neutral tone, it’s easy to see why toasted almond remains one of the most popular paint choices. No matter which major brand you choose, use the tips above to pick the perfect toasted almond shade, decorate stylishly, and keep your paint looking fresh. Achieving this timeless look is a breeze with the right know-how. Here’s to welcoming toasted almond hues into your home!
