INTERIOR DESIGN TIP: HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT SOFT WHITE PAINT
- luvourfam
- Oct 8
- 3 min read
3 of our Most Used Soft White Paint Colors from Sherwin Williams
Choosing the right white paint can be surprisingly tricky. Too cool and it feels sterile, too warm and it turns yellow. As an interior designer, I know just how challenging it can be to choose the right white paint for your home. The wrong undertone can completely shift the mood of a room. That’s why I always gravitate towards paint colors that feel warm, welcoming, and timeless.
In this post, I’m sharing my top 3 designer-approved soft white paints from Sherwin Williams that I reach for again and again in client projects. These shades offer the perfect balance between crisp and cozy and they work beautifully in a variety of interior styles.
1️⃣ Sherwin Williams Origami White (SW 7636)
If you're looking for a soft, sophisticated white with subtle warmth, Origami White is a go-to choice. This versatile shade has a slightly warm undertone, making it perfect for open floor plans and transitional spaces.
Why I love it: Origami White adds elegance without feeling too yellow or cool. It works beautifully in both modern and traditional interiors and pairs effortlessly with a wide range of materials and finishes.
Best for: Living rooms, kitchens, ceilings, trim
Designer tip: Pair it with brass or matte black hardware for a refined, high-contrast look.
2️⃣ Sherwin Williams Sanctuary (SW 9583)
For a calm and serene environment, Sanctuary is a stunning soft white with a whisper of gray. It’s perfect for creating a peaceful, grounded atmosphere in bedrooms or home offices.
Why I love it: This shade feels modern yet cozy, and its cool undertones make it ideal for pairing with soft blues, sage greens, or charcoal gray.
Best for: Bedrooms, home offices, reading nooks
Designer tip: Use it in restful spaces to promote relaxation and balance.
3️⃣ Sherwin Williams White Sesame (SW 9587)
Looking for a creamy white that isn’t too yellow or too stark? White Sesame is the perfect middle ground. It has a warm, soft tone that looks stunning in natural light and pairs beautifully with wood finishes.
Why I love it: White Sesame brings warmth to any space while still feeling fresh and airy. It’s an excellent choice for transitional areas like entryways and dining rooms.
Best for: Entryways, dining rooms, transitional spaces
Designer tip: Combine it with natural oak or walnut for an earthy, welcoming color palette.
Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Color for Your Room
When selecting a paint color, especially a shade of white, it’s essential to consider more than just the swatch.
Here are a few interior designer-approved tips for choosing the right paint for your space:
Test before you commit: Always sample paint on your actual walls. Paint a large swatch (at least 12"x12") and observe it at different times of day. Light plays a huge role in how the color will actually look in your room.
Consider your lighting: Natural vs. artificial lighting can dramatically change how a paint color appears. North-facing rooms tend to make colors look cooler, while south-facing rooms bring out warmth.
Look at surrounding finishes: Your flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and furniture tones all influence how a paint color reads in a space. Make sure your paint choice complements these elements.
Sheen matters: For soft whites, a matte or eggshell finish creates a more subtle, elegant look, while semi-gloss or satin is ideal for trim and areas that require easy cleaning.
By following these best practices, you'll be able to choose a paint color that not only looks beautiful but also enhances the overall mood and functionality of your room.
Bonus Tip: Need Help Choosing the Right Paint?
Color decisions can feel overwhelming, and that’s where we come in. Our 90-minute design consultations are perfect for those quick-turn projects where you need expert guidance but aren’t quite ready for a full-service design package. Whether it’s choosing the right paint, rearranging your furniture, or giving your space a new sense of direction, we’ve got your back.
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