How to Choose the Right Paint Color for Your Home

by Rebeca Perez, Founder & Interior Designer at H3 Interiors

Choosing the right paint color is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—steps in creating a beautiful home. I’ve seen many of my clients light up with joy when we find the one, and others feel stuck staring at 72 swatches taped to their walls (don’t worry, I’ve been there too!).

If you're feeling unsure about where to begin, this guide will walk you through my process to help you confidently select the perfect color for your space. Whether you're painting just one room or your entire home, these tips will set you up for success.

1. Start with the Mood You Want to Create

Before even opening a fan deck, ask yourself: How do I want to feel in this space?

• Calm and restful? Go for soft neutrals, airy whites, or muted blues and greens.

• Cozy and warm? Think deeper tones like terracotta, olive, or charcoal.

• Energetic and vibrant? Consider bolder hues like mustard, navy, or even jewel tones.

Each color carries an emotional weight. At H3 Interiors, I always start with how my clients want their space to feel before we talk color.

Tip: Pinterest is your friend! Collect inspiration images and look for color trends in what you're pinning—your instincts often already know what you love.

2. Work With What You Have

Your paint color shouldn't fight your floors, furniture, or finishes; it should complement them.

If you’re not starting from scratch, take stock of the following:

• Flooring (wood tone, tile color, carpet hue)

• Large furniture pieces (sofa, bed, cabinets)

• Built-ins or trim (especially if they’re staying as-is)

• Countertops or backsplash (in kitchens and bathrooms)

Paint is usually one of the last things I select in a full-service design project, because it needs to pull everything together.

Pro Insight: Paint is flexible. That stunning deep green you saw on Instagram might not work if your tile has a yellow undertone. But a slightly cooler version might be just right.

3. Understand Undertones

Here’s where things get a little nerdy in a good way.

Colors are not just what they appear to be at first glance. A beige might have a pink undertone, or a white might lean blue or yellow. And those undertones will show up in different ways depending on your lighting.

Test your favorites:

• In natural daylight

• In artificial light (lamps or ceiling lights)

• During different times of the day

What looks like a soft greige in the morning might go full lilac in the afternoon. I always recommend testing a sample before committing!

Pro Insight: Never choose a paint color just from a swatch. Always sample on your wall—and in more than one spot.

4. Think of Flow From Room to Room

Even if you love variety, your home should still feel cohesive. Think of paint colors like characters in a story; they need to connect.

A good approach:

• Pick a base neutral for most shared areas (like an off-white or warm greige)

• Add bolder or moodier tones in more private rooms (like bedrooms, offices, or powder rooms)

• Use a consistent trim color throughout (I love a crisp white like Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace)

This creates a natural flow that feels polished and intentional, not patchy or chaotic.

5. Trust the Classics, But Don’t Be Afraid to Be Bold

There’s a reason why some paint colors become tried-and-true designer favorites: they just work. Here are a few of my go-tos:

• Benjamin Moore Classic Gray – the softest, most versatile greige

• Sherwin-Williams Alabaster – warm white perfection

• Farrow & Ball Hague Blue – a rich navy with depth and drama

• Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter – timeless with a modern twist

But I also believe your home should reflect you. If you’ve been dreaming of a moody forest green dining room or a pale blush bedroom, go for it! The best interiors have personality.

Bright and inviting living room designed by H3 Interiors, featuring cozy ivory seating, stylish accent chairs, and a gallery wall for a modern, relaxed ambience.

At the end of the day, paint is powerful, but it’s not permanent. The most important thing is that you love the way your space feels. Trust your instincts, do your testing, and don’t rush the process.

And if you’re still stuck between “Simply White” and “White Dove”… you’re not alone. That’s what designers like me are here for!

Need Help Choosing Paint?

At H3 Interiors, I offer color consultations (virtually or in person) to take the guesswork out of your paint decisions. If you’re in the Owings Mills or Greater Baltimore area or just want a pro’s eye, I’d love to help.