4 Paint Colors Designers Would Never Use

A picture might say a thousand words, but a fresh coat of paint may render you speechless. Whether you opt for an airy neutral, bold bright, or something more moody, the right paint shade can evoke an emotion, transform a space, and set the mood in an instant. But while there are a rainbow of hues designers would happily coat a room in, some shades a hard pass for the pros.

Today, decorators are spilling the tea on the colors they’d never, ever paint a room. From ultra-saturated colors to stark shades, you won’t see industry insiders swapping these hues any time soon. Though these designers have their sizzling hot takes, remember that everyone’s entitled to their own opinion. Beauty ultimately lies in the eye of the beholder, so should you always paint your room a color that brings you joy.

“It’s our fundamental belief that any shade can be used provided two things: It makes sense with the comprehensive design of the space and the client absolutely adores it,” says Krista Nye Nicholas of CLOTH & KIND. The designer—who resides in Athens, Georgia—even found a way to make a bright blue and avocado chic look chic together, as seen in this whimsy children’s bedroom. However, if you’re overwhelmed by the hundreds of hues available and are looking for a place to start, you can eliminate the below shades from your list.

Stark White

We know what you’re thinking: Really, white?! As one of the most versatile colors out there, it feels like a must-paint hue; however, Sarah Hargrave of The Collective in Dallas argues that a starker shade can often create “a cold and uninviting atmosphere.” “Its lack of undertones can make a space feel flat and dimensionless,” she explains.

But just because an icier shade is off-limits doesn’t mean you should pass on white altogether. Instead, Hargrave recommends looking for paint brands that create their whites with warm undertones. “Sherwin-Williams offers a variety of exquisite options, such as Alabaster, Ivory Lace, and Shoji White,” she adds. “These hues not only brighten a room, but also infuse it with a sense of serenity and warmth, making it a more inviting space for both residents and guests.”

Meanwhile, Tara Engelberg is partial to Eider White from Sherwin-Williams. “The warm grey undertones create a soft soothing vibe throughout the home, and makes this family room feel extra cozy, but still modern and clean,” the Memphis designer explains. “Eider White strikes a beautiful balance by allowing the natural light to enhance the warmth of the space without overwhelming it.”

If you’re having a tricky time finding the right white, check out these designer-approved hues.

Loud Limes

Limes might look great a lush tree or topped over a frozen margarita, but on your home’s walls? Georgia-based Maggie Griffin says not so much. “They’re so hard to nail right, plus the glow on skin isn’t flattering,” she explains. However, if you want to give your space an equally mouth-watering color moment, you can find excellent inspiration in other parts of your kitchen. “I would defer to more mustard tones especially if you’re into yellow, sage-like greens,” she says. “Antique Pewter by Benjamin Moore is my favorite!”

Bright Yellow

Of course, a lime isn’t the only citrus to avoid on your walls. According to Liz Williams, who resides in the Atlanta area, a lemon yellows is also a paint faux pas. “Never say never, but I would never paint a room bright yellow,” she explains. “[They] are very difficult and can often read as neon or too gold. It can be reflective and harsh.” Still, yellow brings an undeniable warmth that oozes pure joy. To strike a balance, Williams recommends a cream or even a pale green that has a yellow hue. Topping this designer’s list is Benjamin Moore’s Dark Linen, a flax tone that has a lightweight luxury to it.

Aqua Blue

Though blue might be associated with calmness and relaxation, Nashville designer Haley Beckham-Shetty would never paint a room aqua blue—and for good reason. “While kids love blue, parents often choose ultra-bright, saturated shades that can overwhelm rather than calm,” she says. In its place, Beckham-Shetty would recommend a muted-yet-moodier shade like Peacock Plume from Sherwin-Williams. “It’s a deeper, more soothing hue that still feels playful but creates a balanced, peaceful atmosphere,” she says. “This shade brings color into the space without adding to the chaos, making it ideal for a kid’s room.”