Selecting the right exterior house colors can be a major decision when it comes to a new build or home renovation. A project’s outer shell serves as a vital first impression and can be a statement in and of itself. Though classic neutral exterior paint colors will never go out of style, there’s something to be said for a bold, saturated hue. AD PRO asked a few professionals from across the industry to share the exterior house colors they tend to use over and over again. Keep reading for their selections—and our tips—for choosing the best exterior paint color. (Looking for even more house color inspiration? Let the AD archive be your guide.)
What are the best exterior house colors?
The truth is, there’s really no one-size-fits all solution. The best exterior paint ideas will depend on a number of factors, ranging from the location of the house to its architectural style. What works for a seafront villa in a warm climate won’t necessarily work for a rustic barn-style home in the woods, a suburban Victorian, or a townhouse in the city.
First, you’ll need to check to see if there are any restrictions on the house paint colors in the area, which could be the case in historic districts or gated communities. You should also consider the materials used to construct the home, such as brick, wood shingles or siding, stone, or terra-cotta roof tiles. You may also want to take the neighbors into account so that the home doesn’t stick out too much from theirs—unless that’s the goal, of course.
What are the most popular exterior colors in 2023?
It may come as no surprise that understated neutrals make extremely popular exterior house colors—a short drive through the suburbs makes that clear enough, with shades of white, beige, and gray being very common. Earth tones like olive or sage green and variations of brown also appear prominently in exterior color palettes.
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For bolder hues, primary shades (red, yellow, and blue) can work well, depending on the kind of home you’re painting. Craftsman homes, for instance, often feature primary colors, as well as secondary shades like green. In the Mediterranean and in coastal areas, pinks and ochres are popular. Even on homes painted in neutral tones, a bold accent shade on the exterior trim, front door, window frames, garage door, or shutters can offer a delightful pop of color, as you can see in this Normandy-style compound on the California coast. There, French blue window frames and doors help offset the otherwise white exterior.
What exterior colors increase home value?
We’re seeing exterior house colors trend towards more vibrant shades, but a classic white or other neutral may be the safer bet when it comes to resale value. Beatrice de Jong, broker and consumer trends expert at Opendoor, shared with AD that “light neutral colors have the widest appeal and add significant value to a home.” These types of paints tend to have good curb appeal and can act as a “blank slate” for a buyer’s projected personalizations.
House Colors to Consider
Pure White
It’s hard to go wrong with a white exterior, as the versatile color works equally well on historic homes and stark modern ones. “My firm favors Fine Paints of Europe’s Eurolux Housepaint for the quality of the finish, durability, and environmental-friendliness,” says Peter Pennoyer of AD100 firm Peter Pennoyer Architects. “My favorite color is 0001 White, which gives exterior walls and woodwork crisp shadows but has a mellow depth that reflects changing light and weather. The subtle transformation from soft and warm to crisp and cool off-white as it reflects the seasons and environment make it an ideal finish for country houses.”
Ivory
For a classic look with a subtle hint of warmness, consider an off-white or ivory paint job. “A particular favorite white paint is Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee. It has a warmth without being creamy, which harmonizes well with both the summer landscape and also fall colors, never being too stark,” says Scott Sottile of Ferguson & Shamamian Architects, adding, “A dark green shutter is a perfect complement.” Or try White Dove by Benjamin Moore, which AD PRO Directory–listed architect Amie Sachs recommends paired with white trim in satin.
Gray
The market has a hearty crop of grays to choose from, whether it’s dove gray, greige, or a black charcoal shade. The effect can be subtle or bold, depending on the hue you choose. On the pale side, Sachs recommends Annapolis Gray by Benjamin Moore, which she says pairs well with trim in Benjamin Moore’s Sail Cloth.
But don’t be afraid to go for a deeper, more dramatic option, says Christine Gachot of AD100 firm Gachot Studios. “We have several homes right now that we are painting a very dark gray, such as Benjamin Moore’s Black Panther, the inspiration for which is a Japanese burnt-cedar technique called shou sugi ban,” she notes. “The effect is to turn a home into a graphic shadow, playing in sharp contrast off of snow or playing more harmoniously with green nature in the warmer months. It’s a statement without being a statement, because it’s a cohesive design gesture but executed in a relatively neutral tone.”
Blue-Gray
Dark blue and blue-gray can be excellent house color ideas for homes in colder climates. “Darker colors are having a moment, especially for home exteriors. Our favorite is French Beret by Benjamin Moore, which blends rich gray and navy for a timeless effect,” notes Dee Elms of Dee Elms Interior Design. “For classic homes, a deep, saturated color will accentuate architectural details like the layering of shingle patterns. On contemporary homes, a dark color can further simplify the form.”