Southern Living: Gorgeous Color Combos for the Home

Q: What’s a classic white paint shade for exteriors that won’t look too stark?

I love Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee—it’s warm and creamy, perfect for creating a welcoming vibe. Pair it with crisp white trim for contrast, or add soft gray shutters to keep things timeless.

Q: How do I choose shutters that pop without overwhelming my home’s exterior?

Go for bold hues like Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue or Railings. These deep tones add drama against lighter siding while still feeling traditional. Test samples at different times of day to see how light affects the color!

Q: Can I mix modern colors with a farmhouse-style home?

Absolutely! Try a muted sage green (like Sherwin-Williams’ Evergreen Fog) on siding with matte black doors. The blend of earthy tones and sleek accents bridges rustic and contemporary effortlessly.

Q: How do coastal-inspired colors work in non-beach locations?

Soft blues (think Benjamin Moore’s Skylight) or seafoam greens translate anywhere! They create a calm, airy feel—ideal for porches or interiors—even if you’re miles from the ocean.

HOME DECOR-Southern Living

March 29, 2025

Have you ever walked into a space that instantly felt like it belonged in a magazine? I’ve spent years studying how paint transforms rooms, and I can tell you—it’s not just about picking a shade. It’s about creating harmony between light, texture, and neighboring hues. Take it from designers like Mark Maresca, who layers warm neutrals with bold blues, or Jim Strickland, whose palettes whisper timeless elegance.

Choosing paint is as personal as finding your signature lipstick. Too cool, and a room feels sterile. Too warm, and it might clash with your favorite rug. That’s why I’ve gathered insights from top experts and brands like Benjamin Moore and Farrow & Ball. Their curated palettes—think Swiss Coffee for a breezy cottage or Railings for dramatic cabinetry—prove that every home has a story waiting to be told through color.

Want to see these ideas in action? My Pinterest page, AllyBerryBlogger, is packed with visuals that’ll make you rethink beige. Let’s explore how to blend practicality with Southern charm—one brushstroke at a time.

Key Takeaways

Expert-approved palettes from Benjamin Moore, Farrow & Ball, and Sherwin-Williams
How lighting and texture influence color perception
Practical steps to balance bold hues with neutral backdrops
Inspiration from real designer projects, including coastal and farmhouse styles
Access to curated visual ideas on the AllyBerryBlogger Pinterest page

Introduction to Southern Living Color Combos

What makes a front porch feel like a warm hug? It’s not just the rocking chairs—it’s the paint color that ties everything together. Architects like those behind the Southern Living Showcase House know this secret well. They layer shades like Sherwin-Williams Ancient Marble on shutters and Rainwashed on ceilings to create instant curb appeal.

Lighting plays tricks with color—morning sun softens grays, while afternoon shadows deepen blues. Texture adds another layer: matte siding absorbs light differently than glossy trim. That’s why Dover White siding paired with Iron Ore accents works so well—it’s a dance between light and material.

Modern trends lean into classics with fresh twists. Think ivory walls beside navy doors, or blush pillows against raw wood tables. As one designer told me, “Neutrals ground a space, but unexpected accents give it soul.”

Want to see these ideas come alive? My AllyBerryBlogger Pinterest page breaks down palettes from coastal cottages to farmhouse kitchens. You’ll find proof that the right colors don’t just decorate walls—they tell your home’s story.

Southern Living – Home Decor Color Combos

Transforming a room starts with the perfect color blend. I’ve seen crisp whites revive tired spaces and muted greens add instant calm. The magic lies in pairing shades that talk to each other—like Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee walls whispering to Farrow & Ball’s Railings trim.

A great palette balances boldness with restraint. Take Sherwin-Williams’ Double Latte paired with Palladian Blue—warm neutrals ground the scheme while soft blues lift it. Designers often use this push-pull effect: 80% base tones, 15% accents, 5% surprises.

Classic doesn’t mean predictable. I adore how Pratt & Lambert’s sage exteriors pop against Georgian Green doors—it’s tradition with a wink. For modern flair, try Tricorn Black shutters against Simply White siding. The contrast feels fresh yet timeless.

One architect shared a golden rule: “Choose three hues from the same landscape.” Coastal cottages might mix Sea Salt walls with Extra White trim, while farmhouses shine with Dried Thyme doors. Want more? My AllyBerryBlogger Pinterest board shows these palettes in real spaces—proof that your walls can tell your story.

Expert-Approved Exterior Paint Palettes

Curb appeal begins at the curb—literally. After testing dozens of exterior paint combinations, I’ve found that Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee paired with Georgian Green doors creates instant charm. Architects like Hannon Doody use this duo to balance freshness with earthy depth.

Jim Strickland’s go-to? Sherwin-Williams Roycroft Vellum siding with Classical White trim. “It’s like cashmere for your house—soft but structured,” he told me. For drama, Leigh Misso suggests Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter siding with Iron Ore shutters—a modern twist on Southern tradition.

Body Color	Trim/Shutters	Expert
Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee	Georgian Green Door	Hannon Doody
Sherwin-Williams Roycroft Vellum	Classical White	Jim Strickland
Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter	Iron Ore Shutters	Leigh Misso

Shutters matter more than you think. Mark Maresca once told me, “Black Forest Green shutters anchor a house like good boots complete an outfit.” Coastal homes shine with Sherwin-Williams Needlepoint Navy—a blue that whispers ocean breeze without screaming beach kitsch.

Farrow & Ball’s All White siding? Pair it with Mopboard Black shutters at 50% strength. It’s crisp yet grounded—proof that timeless palettes can feel fresh. Want bold? Try Benjamin Moore’s Copley Gray everywhere. It’s neutral, but in a “look-at-me” way.

Timeless White and Neutral Home Exteriors

Neutral palettes work like a favorite black dress—always appropriate, endlessly adaptable. Benjamin Moore’s Simply White (OC-117) proves this rule on a house in Pickens, South Carolina. Paired with matte black shutters, it creates crisp contrast that feels both fresh and familiar.

Take the Wellington, Florida homes dressed in Swiss Coffee (OC-45). This warm white wraps siding like softened butter, letting architectural details take center stage. “Neutrals aren’t boring—they’re the quiet confidence your façade deserves,” a local designer told me.

Why do these shades endure? They’re chameleons. Morning light turns Simply White golden, while dusk deepens Swiss Coffee into a cozy embrace. They also play well with others—think sage-green doors or terracotta pots bursting with red geraniums.

Practical perks matter too. Lighter hues hide dirt better than dark ones, and touch-ups blend seamlessly. Plus, they appeal to future buyers—no one ever regrets a classic.

Bold Accents and Colorful Shutters

Shutters aren’t just functional—they’re your home’s exclamation point. Charles Heydt, known for his Charleston restorations, once told me: “A saturated shutter color does the heavy lifting of curb appeal.” I’ve seen Sherwin-Williams Inky Blue transform dove-gray siding into a modern masterpiece—proof that one bold choice can redefine a façade.

Trim plays wingman to vibrant shutters. Pair Benjamin Moore’s Simply White trim with Wood Violet shutters for mysterious charm. Or try crisp white siding with Tricorn Black accents—a combo Russell Windham calls “edgy sophistication.” The magic lies in contrast ratios: 70% neutral base, 25% bold accents, 5% metallic finishes.

Doors deserve equal attention. Leigh Misso’s favorite trick? Matching shutters to entryways. A Georgian Green door with coordinating shutters creates instant cohesion. For drama, I love Farrow & Ball’s Railings on both—it’s like framing your home in velvet.

Three rules from pros:

Scale shutters proportionally to windows
Test colors at different daylight hours
Repeat accent hues in flower pots or porch swings

My Pinterest followers went wild for a Texas ranch using Rhinestone siding with Urbane Bronze shutters. The result? A modern farmhouse that whispers “heritage” while shouting “personality.” That’s the power of strategic boldness.

Coastal Inspirations for Your Cottage

Ever wondered how to bottle that ocean breeze feeling? Coastal cottages thrive on color stories that mirror sand, surf, and sky. Take the Kiawah Island beach home I studied—its Swiss Coffee walls paired with Sea Haze trim looked like sunlight dancing on morning waves.

Blue hues do more than hint at the sea. A muted coastal blue on shutters can make palm fronds pop, while soft sky tones expand cramped porches. “Light blues act like optical air conditioning,” says a designer from the 2017 Idea House project. Their nautical entryway proved it—Benjamin Moore’s Van Courtland Blue paired with crisp white wainscoting.

Body Color	Trim	Accent	Source
Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt	Extra White	Rainwashed Door	Watercolor, FL Cottage
Benjamin Moore Palladian Blue	Simply White	Hale Navy Shutters	Bald Head Island Idea House
Farrow & Ball Parma Gray	All White	Peach Blossom Pots	St. Teresa Renovation

Texture matters as much as color. That Gulf Coast cottage? Sisal rugs and rattan chairs made its Air Blue walls feel breezy, not sterile. For durability, try matte finishes on siding—they hide salt spray better than glossy options.

Want to test these ideas? Start with front doors. A Sherwin-Williams Tradewind entry against white siding creates instant vacation vibes. As one Mississippi homeowner told me, “Our peach door reminds me of sunsets over the Sound—it’s joy in paint form.”

Farmhouse Charm in Modern Southern Design

What’s the secret to making a 200-year-old farmhouse feel fresh? Caroline Brackett’s renovation in South Carolina shows how weathered beams and shiplap walls can dance with sleek countertops. Her 1800s property pairs original heart-pine floors with Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee walls—a warm neutral that whispers history without shouting “museum.”

Distressed finishes tell stories better than perfect surfaces ever could. I’ve seen chevron-patterned fireplace walls add rhythm to open-concept spaces, while reclaimed barn doors soften minimalist kitchens. “Scratches aren’t flaws—they’re proof of life,” a Charleston renovator once told me while showing off cabinet fronts mimicking century-old patina.

Modern twists come through intentional contrasts. That Alabama cottage using Moore Swiss Coffee? Its matte walls play against polished nickel fixtures, creating tension that feels alive. Open shelving displays heirloom stoneware beside geometric vases—tradition and trend sharing the same stage.

Why does this style endure? It’s nostalgia filtered through today’s lens. We crave textures that ground us (rough-hewn wood) alongside elements that spark joy (bold black window frames). As Brackett’s project proves, farmhouse charm isn’t about recreating the past—it’s building bridges between then and now.

Embracing Patina and Time-Worn Elegance

Aged finishes do more than decorate—they breathe life into a home’s character. I once watched a painter layer Farrow & Ball’s Verdigris Green (No. W50) over wrought iron gates. Within months, the shade developed a soft oxidation that mirrored Charleston’s historic balconies. “Patina isn’t perfection—it’s memory made visible,” explains preservationist Lydia Ellerbee.

Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray (OC-23) proves neutral walls gain depth as sunlight gently alters their tone. This evolution mimics weathered plaster seen in Savannah’s 19th-century cottages. For instant age, designers use Sherwin-Williams Rookwood Red (SW 2802) on shutters—its brick undertones suggest decades of exposure.

Subtle green traces work magic. I’ve seen SW Greenblack (SW6994) on window trim mimic mossy stone foundations. Pair it with Site White (SW7070) siding—this off-white shade avoids starkness while letting textures like cedar shakes shine.

Intentional aging elevates design through contrast. A Georgia porch combines crisp Sparrow (SW 6163) railings with Benjamin Moore’s Soot (2129-20) door. The result? Freshness grounded in history. As one architect noted: “True elegance lets color tell its story—one weathered layer at a time.”

Creating Contrast with Trim and Doors

Ever noticed how a crisp white trim can make a front door pop like red lipstick? I’ve seen designers work this magic across Charleston and Savannah homes. Take Leigh Misso’s project—Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal siding with White Dove trim, then a Sherwin-Williams Fame Orange door. The result? A modern twist on Southern tradition that stops traffic.

Contrast works best with restraint. Kirsten Schoettelkotte pairs Sherwin-Williams Egret White walls with Porpoise doors—a soft gray that whispers sophistication. “Your entryway should hint at the story inside,” she told me. For historic homes, Patti Wilbourne uses 50% Needlepoint Navy on trim to let original brickwork shine.

A neutral backdrop lets bold choices sing. Urbane Bronze doors against Felted Wool siding create mystery, while Sleepy Owlet trim warms up beige walls. My trick? Test samples at dawn and dusk—colors shift more than you’d think.

Three rules I’ve learned:

Match trim sheen to siding texture (matte with wood, gloss with stucco)
Repeat door hues in outdoor cushions or planter boxes
Let architectural era guide contrast levels—Colonials handle bolder pairings

That Georgia cottage with Blustery Sky trim? Its Quietude-blue door became the neighborhood’s charm signature. Proof that thoughtful contrast doesn’t just decorate—it defines.

Utilizing Texture and Light in Color Combinations

Light doesn’t just illuminate—it transforms. I’ve watched morning sun turn Sherwin Williams Classic White Buff walls from creamy to golden, revealing hidden warmth in what seemed like a simple neutral. The secret? Texture amplifies this magic. Think Venetian plaster catching afternoon rays or matte siding softening harsh shadows.

Natural light plays tricks with color. A designer once showed me how SW Tinsmith cabinetry shifts from cool gray to soft blue as daylight fades. “Light isn’t static—your walls shouldn’t be either,” she explained. For interior spaces, faux beams add depth while V-groove paneling creates rhythm through shadow lines.

Balance matters. In a Georgia cottage, sheer linen curtains diffused sunlight across Rookwood Dark Green walls, making the rich hue feel airy. Contrast this with glossy black slate floors that reflect light upward—proof that finishes choreograph how brightness dances through rooms.

Three rules from pros:

Test paint samples under morning, noon, and artificial light
Pair matte walls with glossy trim to guide the eye
Use texture to soften bold colors in sun-drenched spaces

When done right, texture and light don’t just decorate—they breathe life into every corner. It’s like giving your space a voice that changes with the time of day.

Mixing Classic and Contemporary Southern Styles

Balancing heritage with innovation transforms spaces from dated to dynamic. At Colonial Williamsburg’s recent restoration, I saw Georgian paneling meet sleek steel fixtures—proof that eras can converse through design. Benjamin Moore’s Historical Collection shines here, offering muted greens and grays that feel both ancestral and fresh.

Modern idea houses teach us to layer thoughtfully. A Raleigh farmhouse pairs original heart-pine floors with Benjamin Moore’s Simply White walls—clean lines let antique moldings pop. “Classic bones deserve modern breath,” says designer Mara Thompson, who blends unlacquered brass taps with shiplap ceilings in her North Carolina projects.

Moore Swiss acts as the ultimate peacemaker. This warm neutral bridges eras effortlessly—try it on wainscoting beneath bold abstract art. I recently used it in a Charlotte kitchen renovation, where 19th-century brick met minimalist cabinetry. The result? A space that honors history without fossilizing it.

Three ways to fuse styles seamlessly:

Use heirloom textiles on modern furniture shapes
Pair ornate frames with graphic black-and-white photos
Install oversized contemporary doors in traditional archways

True harmony lives in the tension between old and new. As that Raleigh home proves, a thoughtful blend doesn’t erase character—it writes your story across generations.

Seasonal Updates and Refreshing Your Home’s Look

Seasonal shifts offer the perfect excuse to refresh your house’s personality without a full renovation. The 2023 Idea House in Charleston proved this beautifully—they swapped out faded teal shutters for Behr’s Blank Canvas (DC-003), instantly brightening their exterior for spring. “A warm white acts like a reset button,” explained designer Lila Crane. Her team paired it with terracotta planters bursting with marigolds, creating a cozy yet current vibe.

Simple tweaks make big impacts. That Georgia cottage I visited last fall? They repainted just their front door in Sherwin-Williams Evergreen Fog (SW 9310)—a muted green that nods to autumn foliage. Paired with layered lighting (think up-lit trees + lanterns), the space felt inviting even as temperatures dropped.

Season	Update	Impact
Spring	Buttery yellow door + white rocking chairs	Fresh, airy curb appeal
Summer	Navy striped awnings + potted palms	Coastal coolness
Fall	Walnut-stained bench + mums in rust pots	Earth-toned warmth

Timeless doesn’t mean static. The key? Choose elements that honor your home’s bones while playing with trends. A Mississippi ranch kept its original brick but added black matte sconces—modern edge meets Southern grace. As Crane advises: “Let your living spaces evolve like your wardrobe—seasonal accents over total overhauls.”

Don’t underestimate lighting’s magic. Strand lights along a porch ceiling or recessed path lights can redefine nighttime charm. Last December, a client draped their pergola in amber bulbs—instant holiday cheer that stayed up through winter’s chill.

Your turn: Try Benjamin Moore’s Raspberry Blush on shutters come fall, or swap throw pillows for breezy linen come May. Small changes keep your living spaces feeling curated, not chaotic. After all, homes—like seasons—thrive on thoughtful change.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Perfect Palette

Choosing paint feels like matchmaking—it’s about finding the color that complements your space’s personality. Start by studying fixed elements: that heirloom rug or favorite artwork? Let their tones guide your palette. Designer Marla Warner advises, “Your sofa isn’t going anywhere—build around its undertones.”

Lighting is your co-conspirator. Test swatches at dawn, noon, and under evening lamps. I once watched Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt shift from seafoam green to misty gray as daylight faded—proof that shades have moods. Paint samples on multiple walls, then live with them for 48 hours.

Balance is key. Pair bold walls with quiet accents—think Hague Blue cabinets against White Dove trim. For open-concept spaces, use a 60-30-10 ratio: dominant hue, secondary tone, pop of contrast. Neutrals like Benjamin Moore’s Balboa Mist work magic here, adapting to light and decor.

Three quick tips from pros:

Snap photos of swatches in natural light—phone cameras reveal undertones
Match sheens to surfaces (eggshell for walls, semi-gloss for trim)
Sample paint colors beside white paper to see true tones

Trust your instincts. If a color makes you smile at 7 AM, it’s a keeper. As Warner says, “Homes should reflect the people inside—not just trends.” Now grab those swatches and start your love story with hue.

Conclusion

Finding your home’s color story is a journey where every shade becomes a character. From Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee creating cozy farmhouse warmth to crisp white trim framing navy shutters, each choice builds visual harmony. Designers like Strickland and Maresca remind us: successful palettes balance boldness with restraint.

Remember how exterior hues shift with sunlight? Or why matte finishes hide imperfections better than gloss? These insights transform paint from mere decoration to design language. Whether refreshing a porch or reimagining walls, strategic color lifts spaces from ordinary to extraordinary.

Thank you for exploring these creative combinations with me. For more inspiration, visit my AllyBerryBlogger Pinterest board—it’s bursting with real-world examples using Benjamin Moore and other trusted brands. Need help visualizing Railings No. 31 on your shutters? My curated boards show how light blue accents dance with neutral backdrops.

Your home deserves to reflect its unique spirit. With expert-approved palettes and practical tips, even small changes can spark big transformations. Now grab those swatches—your perfect hue is waiting to tell its story.

FAQ

What’s a classic white paint shade for exteriors that won’t look too stark?

I love Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee—it’s warm and creamy, perfect for creating a welcoming vibe. Pair it with crisp white trim for contrast, or add soft gray shutters to keep things timeless.

How do I choose shutters that pop without overwhelming my home’s exterior?

Go for bold hues like Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue or Railings. These deep tones add drama against lighter siding while still feeling traditional. Test samples at different times of day to see how light affects the color!

Can I mix modern colors with a farmhouse-style home?

Absolutely! Try a muted sage green (like Sherwin-Williams’ Evergreen Fog) on siding with matte black doors. The blend of earthy tones and sleek accents bridges rustic and contemporary effortlessly.

What’s a low-commitment way to refresh my home’s look seasonally?

Swap out porch cushions, rugs, or flower planters in seasonal hues. For example, terracotta pots in summer or deep burgundy textiles in fall add pops of color without repainting.

How do coastal-inspired colors work in non-beach locations?

Soft blues (think Benjamin Moore’s Skylight) or seafoam greens translate anywhere! They create a calm, airy feel—ideal for porches or interiors—even if you’re miles from the ocean.

Should I match my front door color to my shutters?

Not necessarily! A bright red door against navy shutters adds playful contrast. If you prefer cohesion, use varying shades of the same color family for depth without monotony.