How to Choose Paint Colors That Actually Work in Your Home

If you’ve ever stared at a wall of paint swatches and thought, “Why do they all look the same?”, you’re not alone. Choosing paint colors can be one of the hardest (and most stressful) parts of designing a room. What looks like the perfect soft gray in the store can suddenly turn blue, purple, or green once it’s on your walls at home.

As a designer, I’ve seen it all. Clients who spent weeks repainting, others who froze at the paint aisle, and even one who ended up with four different beige samples on the same wall. So, let’s break down how to actually pick colors that work for your home not just in theory, but in real life.

1. Pay Attention to Lighting

Lighting is the #1 reason paint colors look different at home than they do in the store.

Natural light: North-facing rooms get cooler light (which can make colors look more blue or gray), while south-facing rooms get warmer light that enhances yellows and reds.

Artificial light: Warm bulbs (yellowish) soften and cozy up cool tones, while cool bulbs (bright white or daylight) make everything look crisp, but sometimes harsh.

💡 Pro Tip: Always test paint samples on every wall and check them throughout the day before committing. Morning, afternoon, and evening light can completely change how a color reads.

2. Don’t Skip Undertones

Every color has an undertone, that sneaky tint underneath the surface. A “neutral” gray might lean blue, green, or even purple.

To spot undertones:

Compare your color swatch next to a true white and a warmer beige.

You’ll instantly see which direction it leans.

If you’re going for a soft, timeless palette, stick with undertones that complement your existing furniture or flooring. For example, if your floors have a warm, honey tone, a gray with a green or purple undertone can clash fast.

3. Think About Flow Between Rooms

Your home should feel cohesive, even if each room has its own personality.

One of my favorite tricks is to use a consistent neutral base (like a soft white or greige) throughout main areas, and then bring color in through accent walls, art, and décor in connecting rooms.

It creates a sense of calm and continuity and makes your space feel more custom without being overwhelming.

4. Sample Before You Commit

Don’t trust the tiny paint chips, they lie! 😅

Always get sample pots or peel-and-stick swatches and test them on the wall. Go big, too at least 12” x 12” so you can really see it.

Move around the house with your sample boards and hold them next to your trim, flooring, and furniture. You’ll quickly see what works and what doesn’t.

5. Trust Your Gut (and Your Lighting Again)

At the end of the day, the “right” color is the one that feels right to you.

If a color makes you smile every time you walk into the room, that’s the one. Don’t second-guess yourself because it’s not trending on Pinterest.

The goal is to create a space that feels balanced, timeless, and you.

Final Thoughts

Choosing paint colors doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach and a little patience you can create a home that feels cohesive, cozy, and beautifully intentional.

And if you ever get stuck between “Alabaster” and “White Dove” (because honestly, who hasn’t?), that’s where I come in. I help my clients choose colors that not only photograph beautifully but also feel good to live in.