Color and palettes

Picking colors that go together, whites, LRV and exterior schemes.

• How do I choose paint colors that go together?

  Start from something that won't change, like flooring, countertops, brick, a rug or roof color, and pull colors from it. Build a palette of one main color, one supporting color and one accent, keep the undertones consistent (all warm or all cool), and test large samples on the wall in morning and evening light before you commit.

  Full answer

• What is the 60-30-10 color rule?

  The 60-30-10 rule is a simple way to balance a color palette: about 60 percent of a room is the main color (usually walls), 30 percent is a secondary color (furniture, cabinets or trim), and 10 percent is an accent (pillows, a door, art). It keeps a room from feeling flat or chaotic.

  Full answer

• What is LRV and why does it matter when picking paint?

  LRV, or light reflectance value, measures how much light a color reflects on a scale from 0 (black) to 100 (pure white). Most paint chips list it on the back. Higher LRV colors make rooms feel brighter and bigger; low LRV colors absorb light and feel cozy and dramatic.

  Full answer

• How do I pick the right white paint?

  Decide whether you want a warm white (slight yellow, red or beige undertone that feels soft) or a cool white (slight blue or gray that feels crisp). Compare several whites on the wall next to each other and next to your trim, cabinets and flooring. The difference becomes obvious side by side.

  Full answer

• Why does paint look different on the wall than on the chip?

  Three things change color: the amount of it (a whole wall intensifies a color compared to a small chip), the light (daylight direction, time of day and bulb temperature), and surrounding colors like floors and furniture that reflect onto the wall. That's why large samples tested in place are essential.

  Full answer

• How do I pick an exterior color scheme for my house?

  Work with the colors you can't change: the roof, stone, brick and the landscape. Choose a body color, a contrasting trim color and one accent for the front door and shutters. Look at the house from the street, consider the architecture and neighborhood, and test samples on several sides of the house.

  Full answer