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As a decorator, one thing I’m always getting asked is “What color is that?”. I hate to disappoint but I am not a walking paint fan (although that would be pretty snazzy!), and I don’t always have my Benjamin Moore sku numbers memorized to spew off at the drop of a straw hat.

Like any good decorator, however, I DO have a list of go-to paint colors in my back pocket handy at all times. These hues have survived me through many client projects, and I’ve even used them when it comes to designing products. Well today is your lucky day because I’ve decided to share my little secret colorful weapons with the world! I’ve limited my selections to my dear Benjamin Moore and of course the legendary Farrow & Ball (for when things get a little fancy) since, simply put, they are masters of their craft.

Tried and true, I present to you my fav paint colors!

“Hale Navy” by Benjamin Moore – This deep grayed out navy hue is a go-to pick when re-painting vintage furniture pieces scoured from flea markets. It’s subtle and a great substitute for black when you want something a little more unexpected.

“Newburg Green” by Benjamin Moore – Similar to “Hale Navy” this color reads more greenish-teal. I love it painted on a kitchen island to contrast with surrounding white cabinets.

“Blue Bonnet” by Benjamin Moore – We painted our entire office in this color and absolutely love it! People say it always looks bright and happy when they walk in so we must have done something right. It’s fresh and inviting and also a great option for a kid’s room.

“Calypso Blue” by Benjamin Moore – Remember this powder room I designed for Marlien Rentmeester? Say hello to the paint that made it all possible!

“Swiss Coffee” by Benjamin Moore – A beautiful warm white that gives you that “blank canvas” without being too stark. This is also a great color for ceilings.

“Chantilly Lace” by Benjamin Moore – This white reads slightly more gray and just a bit brighter. I love this for a beach house or for a room with a blue and turquoise color palette.

“Cornforth White” by Farrow & Ball – A huge favorite among designers, this is just a great staple “white” that adds instant elegance.

“Middleton Pink” by Farrow & Ball – Pink walls can be a fickle friend. There’s nothing worse than walking into a room that looks like a bottle of Pepto Bismal. Farrow & Ball nailed it with this sophisticated coral-toned pink. (Benjamin Moore makes one similar called “Sunlit Coral”.)

“Down Pipe” by Farrow & Ball – There is something so velvety and luxurious about this deep gray. I recently painted a powder room, floor to ceiling, in this and it’s a knock-out!

“Elephant’s Breath” by Farrow & Ball – If I were a relationship therapist my first piece of advice to any couple would be to repaint their bedroom in this! This sexy lavender-gray has the perfect balance of coziness and femininity.

“Arsenic” by Farrow & Ball – Don’t let the name mislead you, I think this would make a super chic front door color. I could see myself having fun with this one…

Xo Hillary