Popular Indoor Paint Colors

Choose a wall color that works for you.

Interior paint is a high-impact decorating option with relatively low cost. Though white or cream walls are versatile and neutral, injecting color into your space can enhance design and mood. In previous years, homeowners showed preference for saturated Tuscan golds and berry reds. More recent trends in 2010 lean toward shades of blue. Variations of white remain the bestselling interior paint colors in the U.S., while black is becoming a popular accent color for trim. Choose a color that pleases and relaxes you and keep current popular colors in mind.

Blue

For calm and tranquility, blue is popular.

Shades of aqua have gained popularity because of their cheerful lightness. Deeper teals appeal to those who like a bold splash of color with the cool mood of the ocean. Turquoise has a tropical feel and looks crisp with white woodwork. Blue is a soothing tone, signifying tranquility and depth according to color theorists. Light blue is associated with calm and health, while deeper blues denote seriousness and power.

Gray

Gray is a trendy interior color.

Evocative of a stormy sea, gray can be a sophisticated neutral. "House Beautiful" cites its modernity and warmth, as well as its ability to incorporate both blue and green undertones complementing contemporary decor. Gray is also a dramatic backdrop to vibrant art or bold colors of upholstered furnishings.

Yellow

Yellow is a cheerful choice.

For warmth and cheerfulness, yellow is the common choice. Refreshing and energetic, yellow is associated with joy. Softer than stark white but still relatively neutral, its buttery light tones work well in a kitchen, while a richer honey color looks elegant with dark wood furnishings. A mango yellow looks lush and modern, while a lime-based citron yellow appears tropical.

References

• House Beautiful: Popular Paint Colors
• Color Theory
• Happy Living: Most Popular Interior Colors
• Bestselling Paint Colors
• HGTV: Decorating with Sunny Yellow Paint