Explore the vibrant world of interior paint colors in 2023, where greens rule, soft reds emerge, warm yellows make a comeback, and even neutrals take on a cozier hue. Discover the trends that will transform your living spaces!
Gone are the days of merely neutral walls. While the calming, tranquil colors that you've become used to haven't disappeared entirely, they are taking on a warmer hue as we approach 2023. The design world's aesthetic is shifting from the understated to the vibrant. Raleigh-based interior designer Maggie Dillon is sensing a desire in her clients to explore color more boldly, stating, “Moving beyond the all-white comfort zone might seem intimidating, but I find it's getting easier to persuade clients to embrace color from the floor to the ceiling.” We concur: Now's the time to mix things up! Curious about what your home could look like in 2023? Read on.
Green Continues to Rule
Green remains a favorite and a beautiful "new neutral." From soft sage to deep emerald, greens are pervading interior spaces of all styles: modern, traditional, or bohemian. Ideal for kitchens, mud rooms, and entryways, shades like Sherwin Williams' 2022 Color of the Year, Evergreen Fog (SW 9310), continue to shine.
Soft Reds Are Emerging
Although subtle earth tones have been prominent in recent years, deeper and more romantic reds are starting to trend. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams have selected red-based hues for their 2023 Color of the Year: Raspberry Blush (BM 2008-30) and Redend Point (SW 9081). Expect to see reds ranging from dusty cedar to cranberry to muted magentas in the coming year.
Warm Yellows Are Back
The minimalistic cool palettes of the past are giving way to luscious tones like soft saffrons, mustards, and marigolds. The interior design trend is swinging from minimalism to maximalism, inspiring rich and decadent wall colors. Tones like Farrow and Ball’s India Yellow (No. 66), Behr’s Luscious Lemon (HDC-MD-24), and Benjamin Moore’s Buttercup (2154-30) embody these warm and appealing hues.
Even Neutrals Are Taking On Warmth
While we still adore serene primary bathroom spaces, traditionally white or blue areas are adopting a cozier tone. Behr’s 2023 Color of the Year, Blank Canvas (DC-003), showcases this trend. The once common cool, blue-based whites are giving way to colors with yellow undertones, creating a more relaxing ambiance. Research from Behr reveals that homeowners seek comfort and relaxation in their living spaces, and warm white walls certainly contribute to that feeling.
If you're considering a refresh, Maggie suggests embracing color completely: “Paint the walls, trim, and ceiling in the same shade. This approach creates a unified mood in the space, prevents it from feeling disjointed, and fosters harmony.” If you're hesitant about transitioning from neutral to vibrant, she reassures, “Go for the color! It’s an affordable and easily reversible choice.” Happy painting!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the preferred interior paint type? Water-based paints, including latex and acrylic paints, are the most favored. Latex paint is particularly appealing for being eco-friendly and easy to clean, making it suitable for interior walls and ceilings.
- How should you prepare to paint your interior walls? Before commencing with painting, clean the area with a damp cloth and let it dry thoroughly. Remove old paint with a scraper or sandpaper to create a smooth surface. Finally, apply a primer before adding your fresh coat of paint.