Exclusive! The Most Popular Benjamin Moore Colors Across the US

No two individuals are alike. Similarly, each region in the U.S. has distinct styles in fashion, food and music. “These traditions and trademarks permeate all elements of the region’s culture, including into the homes of its residents,” Hannah Yeo, Color & Design Expert at Benjamin Moore, tells Freshome.

In fact, Yeo says Benjamin Moore has been able to spot a geographic design trend in how colors are being used. These are the most popular paint hues in eight cities across the U.S.

white entrance

Benjamin Moore: Simply White. All images courtesy of Benjamin Moore.

Los Angeles

“Lighter colors are favored in the interior of the home across the nation and Los Angeles leads this trend,” Yeo says. As a hub for great design, she says white becomes an essential color in this area. “From warm pinkish white to the palest blue — or even the combination of whites — the soft nuances of whites enhance LA homes.”

On the home’s exterior, Yeo says homeowners often use richer colors to add curb appeal. In the photo above, you’ll see a top pick: Simply White. It’s a clean, crisp, multi-purpose white. Simply White is a favorite for ceilings, trim and walls. Iceberg, Swiss Coffee, and Revere Pewter are some of the other popular colors in the area.

Black kitchen

Benjamin Moore: Black HC-190

San Diego

With over 39 million residents, California is the most populous state in the U.S. Although San Diego is only 120 miles away from Los Angeles, the state is so large that it could be considered a separate region. And San Diego also has a different color palette. While Los Angeles embraces shades of white, San Diego leans toward the most stylish color of every year: black.

“San Diego isn’t afraid of color,” Yeo says. “Dark, neutral colors, like black, are balanced with light yellows, blues and pinks.” Black HC-190 is part of the Historical Collection inspired by America’s historic landmarks and works well in traditional and contemporary spaces. Other popular colors in this area include Eagle Rock, Sidewalk Gray, Butterfly Kisses and Love & Happiness.

Blue attic

Benjamin Moore: Van Cortland Blue

Denver

“In Denver, nature-inspired hues such as blues, greens and cool neutrals complement the surrounding landscape,” Yeo says. Van Courtland Blue is a decorative old-world blue that also works well in contemporary spaces. Plus, it mimics the city’s mountainous views. Other popular colors in this part of the country include Kendall Charcoal, Pale Oak, Decorator’s White and Silver Marlin.

Balboa Mist office

Benjamin Moore: Balboa Mist

Chicago

“From off whites to light grays, soft neutrals dominate Chicago,” Yeo says. “Blues with gray undertones are fresh additions to the soft, neutral palette.” Balboa Mist, a part of the Classic Color Collection, is a timeless, elegant color that is always a favorite among consumers and professionals in the Windy City. Other popular colors include Edgecomb Gray, Sea Haze, Gray Owl and Beach Glass.

If you’re selling your home, take a note from Chicago. Soft, neutral colors are recommended by many realtors when your home is on the market.

Blue door

Benjamin Moore: Toronto Blue door

Miami

“Florida also has a distinct color palette,” Yeo says. “Due to the warm temperature, cool whites are often used on the exterior of the home to keep the heat away. Bright blue accents are used to bring a nice breeze indoors.” Toronto Blue is a bold, saturated hue that excites and inspires, adding pops of color. Mountain Peak White, Collingwood, Evening Blue and Pale Oak are other popular colors in this area of the U.S.

beige room

Benjamin Moore: Shaker Beige

Philadelphia

“Philadelphia’s palette is comforting yet sophisticated,” Yeo says. “From cool grays to warm neutrals, these versatile hues provide a soothing backdrop to any space.” Shaker Beige is an inviting mid-toned tan with a beachy vibe. Other popular colors in Philadelphia include Stonington Gray, Pleasant Pink, Buckland Blue and Woodlawn Blue.

Caliente door

Benjamin Moore: Caliente door

Dallas

“Red, white and blue colors best represent Dallas,” Yeo says. “Off-whites and pale neutrals provide a soft backdrop for bold reds and blues to pop.” Caliente is a vibrant, charismatic shade of red — radiant, strong and full of energy. Other popular colors in this part of the country include Bermuda Turquoise, Icicle, Chantilly Lace and Iron Mountain.

gray walls

Benjamin Moore: Raccoon Fur

Nashville

“Nashville also embraces colors from the Benjamin Moore Historical Collection, which was inspired by 18th– and 19th-century architecture,” Yeo says. “Neutrals and blues feel calm and composed for an updated traditional look.” Raccoon Fur is a pure gray color that can be used in a variety of color combinations. Other popular colors in Nashville include Manchester Tan, Palladian Blue, Wickham Gray and Shaker Beige.

pink desk area

Benjamin Moore: Touch of Pink and Sunlit Coral

Tips for homeowners trying to choose paint colors

Selecting colors for your home can be overwhelming, but Yeo provides a few tricks to make the process easier.

“First, start by finding a point of inspiration. This can be anything from a favorite fabric to the colors in your kitchen countertops,” Yeo says. “Even a color drawn from a piece of wall art, a page torn out of a magazine or a picture found online can be a great source of inspiration.” This can be a helpful first step in narrowing down the color choices you consider.

Navy wall

Benjamin Moore: Hale Navy

“Once you’ve figured out which general color families appeal to you, set your focus on that portion of the display at the store or that section of the fan deck,” she explains. “Within each color family, you will see a wide range of colors, so go with your instincts. Chances are you will be drawn to a few colors that will help you narrow down the choices.”

Yeo also recommends thinking about the existing dominant color in your space. “This can help you to further narrow down your selection,” she says. “For example, if you have cherry wood kitchen cabinets, you should consider that in making your color choice.”

beach glass walls

Benjamin Moore: Beach Glass

Before making a final selection, Yeo recommends buying a pint sample to fully understand how the color will look in your home. “Remember that the light in the store will be different from the light in your home,” she says. “So the best way to make an informed decision is by painting a sample in the room where you’ll be using the color.”

Be sure to view the sample during the day to determine if you like it. Also, consider the different types of paint sheen — flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss and gloss — to ensure you pick the right finish for your project.

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Get Inspired By This 1970s Color Flashback

1970s Color Inspiration Room

Get 1970s color inspiration from this stunning living room. Image: MindfulDaze

Retro paint colors have us falling in love right now. Neutral colors have ruled the interior design world for years, but now we’re seeing exciting new colors everywhere. Though the colors we’re seeing may seem new, many are flashbacks to more colorful palettes of the past.

The paint and decor colors of the 1970s are making their way back into today’s color palettes. The 70s design trends moved away from the bright and psychedelic colors of the 1960s into more natural colors. These 1970s natural colors were far from neutral; they came from the more colorful elements of nature. Everything from paint color and carpets to stoves and refrigerators could be found in colors like Avocado Green, Harvest Gold and Burnt Orange. Though the industry may have gone overboard with these iconic colors in the 1970s, many have been reformulated for today’s homes.

1970s paint colors

Here are the prettiest ways to use 1970s-inspired colors today:

  • Mid-Century Modern – This decorating style is associated with the 1950s and 1960s, but the earth-inspired colors of the 1970s made their way into mid-century homes as homeowners redecorated over the years.
  • Lodge Style – The rich greens and warm reds of 1970s palettes are a great fit for rustic rooms with lots of natural stone and wood.
  • Exterior Color Schemes – The typical beige and gray exterior color palettes are now being joined by richer colors like deep gold and dark blue for dramatic curb appeal.
  • Family Room Color Palette – Earthy colors inspire socializing and relaxing together in a warm and unpretentious way.

You probably won’t want to recreate a totally 1970s color palette for your home unless you’re looking for a completely retro look, but you can find inspiration from these gorgeous shades in today’s most popular paint colors.

1970s Color: Harvest Gold

1970s color Harvest Gold

Sherwin-Williams’s Ceremonial Gold is an updated color that warms up any room. Image: Sherwin-Williams

Harvest Gold is the most recognizable color from the 1970s era. This warm and inviting gold was the focal point of kitchens, popping up on appliances, linoleum floors and even wallpaper. Decorators in the 1970s used Harvest Gold as a neutral, the way we use beige and gray today. When the color schemes of the 1980s were developed, Harvest Gold was the last of the 70s colors to get phased out because it was so popular. Gold can be a dynamic color in any decorating color scheme, but finding the perfect one can be elusive. This is definitely a color that needs to be tested on your wall before committing. 

1970s Color: Avocado Green

Avocado Green color ideas

Avocado Green is still popular now. Behr’s Bermuda Grass brings a fresh update to this decades-old color. Image: Behr

As proof that Avocado Green is still popular, many paint brands still include it in their color palettes. Of all the iconic 1970s paint colors, avocado green was the most versatile. It has evolved slightly as a paint color. The new shades are less muted and more dynamic.

1970s Color: Burnt Orange

Orange Paint Colors

Though today’s orange paint colors are not as vivid as a 1970s color palette, colors like Behr’s Japanese Koi can bring energy to any space. Image: Behr

Burnt Orange was a big part of the 1970s decorating scene. Decorators and homeowners weren’t shy about including it in most designs, even for carpeting and countertops. While we don’t recommend carpeting your house in orange, this vibrant color can still have a place in your palette. Today’s orange paint colors are softer and could be the warm accent color your kitchen or dining room needs.

1970s Color: Autumn Brown

Dark brown bedroom colors

Benjamin Moore’s Clinton Brown continues in the tradition of rich, earthy browns from 1970s color palettes. Image: Ballard Designs

Autumn Brown was a rich and rustic brown that was popular in 1970s decorating. Even though this brown was dark, it had a soft and muted look. Today’s popular brown paint colors are crisper and more neutral. The right brown can anchor a rustic neutral color palette or complement pastels in a contemporary space, but watch for unexpected undertones. Dark brown can also be used in place of black or navy blue in almost any color scheme.

1970s Color: Barn Red

Red paint color ideas

Red will always be a popular paint color, especially for accents and front doors. Behr’s Red My Mind is a beautiful and warm red that brings energy to an eclectic dining room. Image: Behr

Barn Red was just one of the popular red shades in the 1970s. Today, it’s still easy to add red to most interior decorating styles, especially as an accent color. The most popular 1970s red was warm and earthy, rounding out a palette that could be easily considered autumnal. There will always be a place for red, both cool and warm, in home decorating. If you love the color but can’t find a way to incorporate it into your home’s interior color palette, it can also be the perfect color for your front door and exterior accents.

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These Are The 2019 Color Trends We’re Loving

The new year is here, bringing with it all sorts of new interior design trends to fawn over. Today, however, we’re focusing exclusively on color. Each year, color giants like Behr and Sherwin-Williams release their top picks for which colors will soon be everywhere. From their wide selections, we picked the 2019 color trends that we think are most likely to take off and laid out how to use them. Read on below to get ahead of the curve.

night watch

A dark green shade called “Night Watch” is PPG’s 2019 Color of the Year. Image: Black Lacquer Design

Dark greens

Recently, a dark green shade called “Night Watch” was given the honor of being named PPG’s Color of the Year. According to a senior marketing manager with PPG, this color was chosen because “the restorative power of nature is important in society now more than ever. Night Watch is about bringing the healing power from the outdoors into your home through color.”

We couldn’t agree more. We’ve progressively been seeing nature-inspired decor take over our interiors. From incorporating live plants to embracing the jungle trend, we can’t get enough. That’s why we think dark green shades are set to be everywhere this year.

As for how to use this shade in your home, embracing dark greens is all about creating a bold look. Pair it with darker neutrals like black and brown or opt for an even more on-trend aesthetic and incorporate some jewel tones. Choose warm metals like copper or gold to create a sense of contrast.

dusty rose

Bye, Millennial Pink. Hello, Dusty Rose. Image: Nathan + Jac

Dusty pinks

For years, the cheekily-named Millennial Pink has graced us with its presence. It was nearly impossible to see a scandi-inspired interior without it. However, 2019 is all about change. These days, we’re seeing the bright, almost bubblegum hues of Millennial Pink being replaced with a more subdued, timeless version. It’s time to say hello to dusty pinks.

This year, as part of their Colormix Color Forecast, Sherwin-Williams released 42 trend-forward shades that spanned six unique color palettes. Dusty pink shades showed up on three of them. For us, that’s enough indication that this color will soon be everywhere.

This color is a wonderful accent shade. Use it in an accent wall, a piece of statement furniture or some throw pillows. You can bring out the color to its fullest by pairing it with plenty of white, which will give your design a sense of contrast. Alternatively, you can go a bit more playful and round out the look by incorporating plenty of richer reds or pale blues.

warm cream

Warm creams are the new “it” neutral. Image: Jenni Leasia Interior Design

Warm creams

Since the era of gray-everything is finally coming to an end, it’s time to zero in on a new neutral to take its place. Enter warm creams. This group of colors is especially exciting because it offers the perfect middle ground. It’s less stark than the all-white interiors we’ve grown used to seeing in conjunction with modern aesthetics, yet it’s less expected than a traditional tan shade.

Benjamin Moore’s Color Trends for 2019 feature two distinct cream-inspired shades: “Cloud White” and “Balboa Mist.” With just 15 colors in total, that’s not a bad percentage. However, we suspect this is just the start of seeing warm creams crop up everywhere.

Using this color is all about adding a sense of warmth and serenity to the room. Think about pairing it with warm neutrals like browns and tans. Serene blues and grounding earth tones are also a good match. In this case, you’ll want to stay away from colors that feel harsh and opt for more muted versions.

2019 color trends

“Blueprint” is Behr’s 2019 Color of the Year. Image: Jessica Buckley Interiors

Medium blues

Our final 2019 color trend alert is for medium blue shades. This one comes to us from Behr, who named a hue called “Blueprint” their 2019 Color of the Year. On the choice, Erika Woelfel, Vice President of Color and Creative Services at Behr, explained, “Much like the sketches builders rely on to bring an architectural design to life, Blueprint S470-5 lays a foundation for consumers to make their unique vision a reality. This universally appealing hue provides a steady stream of positivity and is poised to be an instant classic for years to come.”

We like “Blueprint” – and shades like it – because they’re incredibly versatile. On the one hand, like navy, a medium blue can be used as a neutral shade. It can stand up to bolder colors like vibrant reds and yellows. However, on the other, a medium blue shade can also be an accent color. It can be the pop of visual interest that livens up an otherwise neutral design.

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Cavern Clay: The Sherwin-Williams 2019 Color of the Year

Cavern Clay Dining Room

Sherwin-Williams 2019 Color of the Year, Cavern Clay, warms up an inviting dining room. Image: Sherwin-Williams 2019  Color of the Year

Cavern Clay is the Sherwin-Williams 2019 Color of the Year – and we are already falling in love with the possibilities. This unexpected, warm terracotta is a color chameleon with endless decorating opportunities. Cavern Clay looks like it fits with the heart of Southwestern decorating (which is making a comeback this year!). Paired with muted colors like blue, tan and even pink, the hues of the Painted Desert can be realized in your home’s decor.

Cavern Clay Living Room

Blue color accents balance the warmth of Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay. Image: Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay

“American Southwestern isn’t the only inspiration for Cavern Clay,” says Sue Wadden, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams. “We believe 2019 will be a renaissance of the 1970s — with a twist. In the coming year, we will embrace our pioneering spirits and artisan ingenuity. Our 2019 Color of the Year, Cavern Clay, embodies renewal, simplicity and free-spirited, bohemian flair.”

Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay can be more than an accent wall color. Though muted, Cavern Clay is crisp enough for an entire room with the right lighting and accent colors. A rich terracotta paint color is the perfect palette for all types of wood and natural surfaces but, of course, you’ll want to sample it in your home before committing.

How to Use Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay In Your Home:

Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay Accent Wall

Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay is perfect as an accent wall color. Image: Sherwin-Williams 2019 Cavern Clay

  • Cavern Clay is a classic front door color. This rich, warm hue is an awesome backdrop for a door wreath or porch decor.
  • If you’re not ready for Cavern Clay on every wall, your ceiling could be the perfect spot. Choose a room where a dramatic ceiling color can make a statement, like a foyer or dining room.
  • Don’t listen to the rumors that accent walls are out of style this year — they will always be in fashion, and Cavern Clay has the right amount of warmth and drama.
  • Your dining room is not the only gathering space that can handle a bold color; Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay can bring instant warmth and comfort to your kitchen.

Each year, Sherwin-Williams not only names a Color of the Year, but they also provide innovative color palettes that give inspiration for the coming year. (Cavern Clay is part of the Colormix Color Forecast for 2019, found in the Wanderer palette.) This stunning master palette is divided into six themes for 2019 — each with their own story:

The Shapeshifter Palette

Sherwin-Williams Shapeshifter palette

Soft colors create a relaxing living room color scheme. Image: Sherwin-Williams 2019 Colormix Shapeshifter

The Shapeshifter palette is the answer for all of us who love pastels but have yet to find a way to incorporate them into our homes. The subtle pastels of Shapeshifter are paired with anchoring colors to moderate the palette. This sweet color scheme is all about balance and creating a space that is truly “you.”

Sherwin-Williams says: “There are those who always seem a little ahead of their time. Visionary and creative, this palette reaches into the cosmos and returns with a whole universe of inspiration. Atmospheric wisps of colors, grounded by deep, dark blues, capture the unique space between technology and spirituality.”

The Wanderer Palette

Sherwin-Williams Wanderer Colormix Palette

The Sherwin-Williams 2019 Colormix Wanderer color palette is rustic and relaxing. Image: Sherwin-Williams 2019 Colormix Wanderer

The Wanderer color palette is a natural backdrop for all of your favorite treasures. Natural materials and artwork blend beautifully in this relaxing palette. Cavern Clay, the 2019 Color of the Year, can play a starring role on your walls, or as a perfect pop of warm color.

Sherwin-Williams says: “Some spirits can never be fenced in. They need to soak in the blue of endless horizon and the subtle earthy colors of the high plains and desert. Sun-washed and warm, this palette can be seen in the baked clay canyons, worn leather and woven wool blankets of the true New West.”

The Aficionado Palette

2019 Colormix Aficionado Palette

The Sherwin-Williams Aficionado palette is dramatic and welcoming. Image: Sherwin-Williams 2019 Colormix Aficionado

The Aficionado palette signals a return to color. Neutral colors are still popular, but deep colors are joining them in many palettes today. The gorgeous smoky hue of Blue Charcoal or the rich Grandiose Gold are more than accent colors when you choose the right lighting and accessories.

Sherwin-Williams says: “Devotees of the best in life appreciate the well-worn, the bespoke and the rare. Like a bookcase of leather-bound classics, this polished palette evokes nostalgia and timeless tradition. With copper and gold anchored by merlot and deep, dark gray, these tailored tones make everything feel impeccable, tasteful and elegant.”

The Enthusiast Palette

Eclectic living room

The Sherwin-Williams Enthusiast palette is just the right mix for an eclectic living room. Image: Sherwin-Williams 2019 Colormix Enthusiast

Eclectic style-lovers rejoice — the Sherwin-Williams Enthusiast theme is everything you’ve been craving in a color palette. These iconic and energetic colors work seamlessly with each other, tempered with a neutral or two for balance.

Sherwin-Williams says: “There are those who don’t know the meaning of ‘less is more.’ Passionate and eclectic, they have a calling to be unique. They embrace the details and create scene-stealing worlds that burst with beauty. The proof is in this palette that features bold pops of vivid color, maximum impact and lots of energy.”

The Naturalist Palette

Sherwin-Williams blue dining room

The Sherwin-Williams Naturalist palette in a light and airy dining room. Image: Sherwin-Williams 2019 Colormix Naturalist

The Naturalist theme from the 2019 Colormix Forecast does natural without being boring. Reminiscent of the lush 1970s color palettes, the fresh green of Primavera plays off of Eros Pink for a charming and updated color scheme.

Sherwin-Williams says: “Walking barefoot in the garden, nature lovers instantly connect with the wonder of the world in full bloom. With roots in the forest, this palette’s colorful tendrils grew in hothouses and conservatories until they became these lush, sophisticated tones. Ranging from mushroom to leafy green to passionate floral pink, they’ve now found a place where they’ll never fade.”

The Raconteur Palette

Contemporary Bedroom Sherwin-Williams

The Sherwin-Williams Raconteur palette is perfect in a contemporary bedroom. Image: Sherwin-Williams 2019 Colormix Raconteur

The Raconteur palette is all about finding beauty in our experiences and surroundings. Colors gathered from our shared histories create a soothing and meaningful backdrop for our favorite decor.

Sherwin-Williams says: “From ancient sagas to today’s motivational speakers, we love our storytellers. With colorful accounts, they sum up our very nature and remind us how we’re all connected. Passed from grandmothers, traders and nomads, the tales traveled the world, gaining artistry, until we’ve translated them into a rich and modern palette that spans space and time.”

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