Selecting a paint color may seem straightforward, but the vast array of choices can be overwhelming. One shade of blue might evoke a sense of calm, while another may be less inviting. A warm beige can appear ideal in the store but may turn yellow once applied to your walls. How do you choose the right color for your space?

Paint is not merely about aesthetics; it also influences mood and the perception of space. The right color can make a home feel welcoming, energizing, or calming. This guide will assist you in selecting colors that complement your home’s style, lighting, and purpose.

How Color Affects a Room’s Atmosphere

Colors not only alter a room’s appearance, but they also influence our emotions. Consider the last time you entered a rich red dining room or a gentle blue bedroom; the color established the atmosphere for the entire space.

Warm colors (reds, oranges, yellows) create a cozy, inviting feel. They work well in social spaces like living rooms and dining rooms because they encourage conversation.
Cool colors (blues, greens, purples) have a calming effect. These are great for bedrooms and bathrooms where relaxation is key.
Neutrals (beige, gray, white) provide flexibility. They create a timeless backdrop that allows furniture and decor to stand out.

Studies show that restaurants often use red and orange colors to increase appetite and create a lively atmosphere for diners. In contrast, offices and hospitals choose blue and green colors to help people focus and relax.

Consider an Accent Wall

Creating an accent wall is an excellent solution if you’re moving into a new home or want to add personality to a space without fully committing to a bold color scheme. An accent wall—one wall painted a different color than the others—can highlight architectural details, define a space in an open floor plan, or serve as a focal point in the room. In Austin homes, styles range from modern minimalism to rustic Texas charm, and accent walls can complement both. Here are a few ways to incorporate them:

Living Room Accent Wall Color Ideas. Deep green or navy in a living room with natural wood and leather for a modern yet warm feel.

Evergreen Fog (SW 9130) – A soft, muted green with an earthy, organic feel.
Naval (SW 6244) – A deep navy that adds richness and depth.

Sherwin Williams Paint Color Chips. L to R. 9130 Evergreen Fog, 6244 Naval

Dining Room Accent Wall Color Ideas. Earthy terracotta behind a dining area to bring in Southwest-inspired tones that complement limestone or exposed brick.

Cavern Clay (SW 7701) – A warm, earthy terracotta with a desert-inspired feel.
Redend Point (SW 9081) – A muted, natural clay tone that feels cozy and welcoming.

Sherwin Williams Paint Color Chips. L to R. 7701 Cavern Clay, 9081 Redend Point

Bedroom Accent Wall Color Ideas. Muted blue-gray in a bedroom for a calming, restful backdrop behind the bed.

Misty (SW 6232) – A soft, blue-gray with a light and airy touch.
Morning Fog (SW 6255) – A balanced gray with subtle blue undertones for a relaxing feel.

Sherwin Williams Paint Color Chips. L to R. 6232 Misty, 6255 Morning Fog

Home Office or Den Accent Wall Color Ideas. Dark charcoal or black in a home office adds sophistication and depth without overpowering the space.

Iron Ore (SW 7069) – A deep charcoal gray that feels modern and dramatic.
Tricorn Black (SW 6258) – A genuine, bold black that makes a striking statement.

Sherwin Williams Paint Color Chips. L to R. 7069 Iron Ore, 6258 Tricorn Black

An accent wall works best by enhancing the room’s features rather than competing with them. It can also be a great way to use bolder colors that might feel overwhelming on all four walls.

Best Paint Colors Based on Room

To make choosing easier, here are some tried-and-true Sherwin-Williams paint colors that work well in different areas of the home. If you’re using another brand, most paint stores can provide a similar color match.

Living Room & Common Areas Colors

These spaces should feel warm and inviting. The best colors are warm neutrals and soft earth tones that make guests comfortable.

Accessible Beige (SW 7036) – A light, warm beige with a modern feel.
Evergreen Fog (SW 9130) – A soft, muted green that adds a natural touch.
Repose Gray (SW 7015) – A versatile, light gray that works with almost any decor.

Sherwin Williams Paint Color Chips. L to R. 7036 Accessible Beige, 9130 Evergreen Fog, 7015 Repose Gray

Avoid dark colors unless you’re going for a dramatic, moody look.

Kitchen Colors

Kitchens benefit from bright, energizing colors that make the space feel fresh. Warm neutrals and soft yellows work well, while cooler shades sometimes feel uninviting.

Alabaster (SW 7008) – A warm white that feels clean but not sterile.
Butter Up (SW 6681) – A cheerful, soft yellow that adds warmth without overpowering.
Redend Point (SW 9081) – A muted, earthy red that feels cozy and welcoming.

Sherwin Williams Paint Color Chips. L to R. 7008 Alabaster, 6681 Butter Up, 9081 Redend Point

Avoid cool grays and blues, which can make a kitchen feel cold.

Bedroom Colors

Bedrooms should have soothing, muted tones that feel soft and relaxing for restful sleep. Blues, greens, and warm neutrals are great choices.

Sleepy Blue (SW 6225) – A soft, dusty blue with a tranquil feel.
Sea Salt (SW 6204) – A pale greenish-blue that works well with natural light.
Natural Linen (SW 9109) – A warm, light neutral with a cozy undertone.

Sherwin Williams Paint Color Chips. L to R. 6225 Sleepy Blue, 6204 Sea Salt, 9109 Natural Linen

Avoid overly bright or bold colors, which can be too stimulating for a restful space.

Bathroom Colors

Bathrooms should feel clean and spa-like, so crisp whites, soft grays, and gentle greens are great choices.

Pure White (SW 7005) – A true white that feels fresh and modern.
Silver Strand (SW 7057) – A soft gray with blue-green undertones for a subtle coastal vibe.
Rainwashed (SW 6211) – A soothing green-blue that pairs well with white trim and tile.

Sherwin Williams Paint Color Chips. L to R. 7005 Pure White, 7057 Silver Strand, 6211 Rainwashed

Avoid dark or heavily saturated colors in small bathrooms, as they can make the space feel even smaller.

Home Office Colors

The ideal home office color should promote focus and productivity without feeling too stark. Greens and blues help concentrate, while warm neutrals add a grounded feel.

Naval (SW 6244) – A deep navy that adds sophistication and depth.
Acacia Haze (SW 9132) – A soft green-gray that feels natural and balanced.
Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) – A popular neutral in any office setup.

Sherwin Williams Paint Color Chips. L to R. 6244 Naval, 9132 Acacia Haze, 7029 Agreeable Gray

Avoid overly bright colors that might be distracting during work.

We’re Here to Help with Paint Projects & More

Choosing the right paint color is the first step—getting a flawless, professional finish makes all the difference. At Best Austin Handyman and Remodeling, we help homeowners bring their visions to life with expert painting services and home renovations.