As the year unfolds, it's a perfect time to reflect on trends and what lies ahead. While I usually think looking back doesn't help, design trends often benefit from reviewing past favorites. Sometimes, peering into the past can illuminate emerging styles.
This is particularly true for color trends. It feels like a catch-22: new colors appear constantly, but what drives their popularity? They reflect cultural moments, influenced by consumer preferences and what colors resonate with those decorating their homes. By analyzing best-selling paints from recent years, we can gain insights into future trends. Are we witnessing a revival of pink? Is gray making a comeback? Is there a random purple shade gaining popularity?
With this context, I spoke with Helen Shaw, the marketing director at Benjamin Moore, to learn about their top-selling paints and her thoughts on their enduring popularity.
Top-Selling Benjamin Moore Colors
It's no surprise that the majority of Benjamin Moore's best sellers are white paints. Out of the seven shades Helen highlighted, four are variations of white. Helen explains, 'Simple, clean, and classic, the best white paint colors stand strong on their own as design elements or complementing ceilings and woodwork, making them a favorite. They offer versatility, timelessness, and the ability to make a space feel airy and fresh.'
What about the more vibrant shades? Blues and greens are also highly favored. We've seen these colors trending in various tones, and they are clearly becoming classics.
Here, Helen elaborates on the best-selling colors, their appeal, and how they can be integrated into your home.
1. Simply White
'Simply White OC-117 is a warm, clean white with a hint of yellow undertone, making spaces feel inviting and bright without being overly creamy. This shade is perfect for north-facing rooms or those lacking natural light, as it radiates brightness due to its minimal gray pigments. The gentle glow of Simply White pairs wonderfully as a woodwork or ceiling color alongside wall colors featuring yellow, orange, or red undertones.'
2. White Dove
'On the other hand, White Dove OC-17 is a warm, muted white with both gray and yellow undertones. This hue imparts a contemporary vibe, especially in spaces filled with natural light, creating a soft and calming ambiance. Complete the look with natural textures and colors in throws, cushions, and fabrics.'
3. Chantilly Lace
'Chantilly Lace OC-65 is the brightest white in the Benjamin Moore range. This straightforward white lacks the cold blue undertones that are often found in other bright whites, which can make them feel harsh. Its pure aesthetic makes Chantilly Lace suitable for all-white spaces and a reliable choice for woodwork and ceilings when you're unsure what to select.'
4. Swiss Coffee
'Swiss Coffee OC-45 is a quintessential white with just the right touch of warmth. It's a favorite for those looking to avoid the starkness of a pure bright white while still achieving a clean and subtle aesthetic. This shade works beautifully in bathrooms, providing softness that contrasts with hard elements like tiles, mirrors, and fixtures.'
5. Hale Navy
'Hale Navy HC-154 has gained immense popularity as homeowners embrace bolder colors. Incorporating Hale Navy works especially well in more active spaces like living rooms, making a versatile style statement, or in kitchens, particularly for cabinetry, whether in an industrial style or traditional Shaker designs. Pair this rich hue with a crisp white for a striking yet soothing contrast.'
6. Revere Pewter
'Revere Pewter HC-172 serves as a versatile bridge between warm and cool tones, quickly becoming an iconic neutral. While grays can sometimes appear dull, this hue introduces just enough warmth to create a contemporary and harmonious environment, making it adaptable for any room and accent colors.'
7. Aegean Teal
'Aegean Teal 2136-40's warmth and organic feel add casual elegance to a space. This mid-tone blends blue, green, and gray, making it approachable and liveable, suitable for all areas of the home.
Thanks to its natural vibe, it works particularly well on woodwork. Consider using it to add a splash of color to fitted furniture or shelving, or apply it to wall paneling for added texture and depth. For a bolder statement, use Aegean Teal on the ceiling to create a cozy atmosphere in bedrooms or snug areas.'
The best-selling paints from Benjamin Moore include whites, a deep navy blue, and a teal. This suggests that while color trends may fluctuate throughout the year, whites will remain a constant favorite, and when it comes to embracing bolder colors, homeowners are increasingly drawn to blues and greens.
