White paint is a true classic that offers unmatched versatility and appeal. White seamlessly complements a range of design styles, from modern minimalist to farmhouse chic, making it adaptable to any aesthetic. However, there are thousands of shades to choose from and it can be difficult if you don’t know what you’re looking for.
Choosing the right white
Not all whites are the same. Some shades lean warm with cozy undertones, others feel cool and modern, while a few sit right in the middle as neutral tones. Choosing the perfect white paint requires carefully considering how undertones and lighting in your unique space can change how a color looks.
The first step is understanding undertones. Warm whites, like those with hints of yellow, beige, or red, create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, ideal for bedrooms or living areas. On the other hand, cool whites with blue or green undertones offer a crisp, modern look that works well in kitchens or bathrooms. For a more balanced and adaptable option, neutral whites are the perfect choice, striking harmony between warmth and coolness.
Once you’ve identified the undertones you prefer, it’s essential to test the paint in your space. Apply samples on multiple walls and observe how they look throughout the day under different lighting conditions. A white that appears bright and airy in morning sunlight may feel too stark under artificial lighting at night. By following these steps, you can confidently find the perfect white paint to elevate your home.
Understanding LRV
LRV (Light Reflectance Value) measures how much light a paint color reflects, rated on a scale from 0 (black) to 100 (pure white). Knowing the LRV helps you understand how bright or dark a shade will appear in your space.
- High LRV (70+): Ideal for dark rooms or small spaces, as they reflect more light.
- Mid-range LRV (50-70): Adds depth while maintaining brightness, perfect for larger rooms.
- Low LRV (<50): Creates moodier, cozier atmospheres, though less common for white paints.
Our Picks for the Best Shades of White
Sheep’s Wool is a warm, earthy white with beige undertones, perfect for creating a cozy feel in living rooms, dining rooms, and offices. Its mid-range LRV (73.36) ensures it reflects enough light to brighten the space without feeling stark.
Snowbound is a clean, cool white with subtle gray undertones. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and modern living rooms, it offers a crisp and refreshing aesthetic while maintaining versatility. This color has a high LRV rating of 83.
With an LRV rating of 83.22 and a warm, creamy white hue with rich beige undertones, Panna Cotta feels inviting and grounded. Perfect for living rooms and kitchens, it pairs beautifully with wood accents and natural textures.
A bright, true white with no noticeable undertones, perfect for creating crisp, clean lines on trim, cabinetry, or ceilings. Its high LRV of 90.04 maximizes light reflection, making it ideal for small or dimly lit spaces that need a brightness boost.
This neutral shade offers warm beige undertones that add depth and comfort to any room. Its LRV of 82.05 provides excellent light reflection, making it well-suited for large spaces with plenty of natural light or darker rooms needing a boost.
A creamy white with soft yellow undertones, perfect where warmth and elegance are desired. Its LRV of 83.16 reflects a high level of light, making it a versatile choice for both brightly lit and darker spaces.
This is a soft neutral white with subtle gray undertones, making it an excellent choice for family rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. With an LRV of 77.52, it reflects a significant amount of light, ensuring spaces feel bright and airy without being overpoweringly white.
True White is a crisp, clean white that works beautifully on shiplap, trim, or ceilings. With an LRV of 93, it reflects a significant amount of light, making it a top choice for creating a bright, airy atmosphere in small or dark spaces.
The soft greige with faint purple undertones of this color adds depth and subtle sophistication to any space. Its LRV of 74 reflects moderate light, making it ideal for open-concept spaces or rooms with moderate natural light.
This versatile neutral white with soft warm undertones is perfect for transitional spaces like hallways or multi-purpose rooms. With an LRV of 78.51, it reflects a higher level of light, helping to open up spaces while maintaining a subtle, welcoming warmth.
This tone strikes the perfect balance between warmth and coolness, making it a versatile choice for walls, trim, and ceilings. Its LRV of 84 ensures excellent light reflection, brightening any room while maintaining a natural and timeless feel.
With an LRV of 72.36, Eider White has a bright, and polished tone with a cool white base and gray undertone. This color is so versatile, perfect in any room.
Primary Suite Escape: Bedroom & Bathroom Renovation Reveal
