Mastering Neutral Paint Colors with Joanna Gaines
Neutral paint colors are the backbone of any well-designed space, providing a timeless canvas for decor and accent pieces to shine. Joanna Gaines, the renowned interior designer and co-host of HGTV's "Fixer Upper," is a master at incorporating neutral hues into her projects. Let's delve into the world of neutral paint colors, exploring Joanna Gaines' signature style and how you can replicate it in your own home.
Understanding Neutral Paint Colors
Neutral paint colors are not just about beige and white. They encompass a broad spectrum of hues that can create a sense of harmony and balance in a room. These colors include shades of gray, tan, brown, black, and even some shades of blue and green. The key to working with neutrals is understanding their undertones and how they interact with light.
Joanna Gaines' Neutral Palette
Joanna Gaines has a signature neutral palette that she often returns to in her designs. These colors are not only beautiful but also versatile, allowing her to create spaces that feel both cozy and inviting. Some of her go-to neutral paint colors include:

- Benjamin Moore's "Revere Pewter" (HC-172) - a soft, warm gray with brown undertones
- Sherwin-Williams' "Alabaster" (SW 7008) - a crisp, clean white with a hint of warmth
- Farrow & Ball's "Down Pipe" (No. 265) - a deep, moody gray with a touch of blue
- Behr's " Ultra Pure White" (190E-1) - a bright, true white
Creating Harmony with Neutrals
To create a harmonious space using Joanna Gaines' neutral paint colors, consider the following tips:
- Start with the largest surface areas - walls and floors - and choose your neutral paint colors from there.
- Consider the lighting in the room. North-facing rooms tend to have cooler light, so warmer neutrals may work best. South-facing rooms have warmer light, so cooler neutrals can help balance this out.
- Don't be afraid to use different shades of the same neutral. This can add depth and interest to a room.
Adding Warmth and Contrast
While Joanna Gaines is known for her love of neutrals, she also understands the importance of adding warmth and contrast to a space. She often achieves this by incorporating natural materials like wood and stone, as well as textured fabrics and accessories.
She also isn't afraid to use darker neutrals to create a sense of drama and depth. For example, she might pair a deep, moody gray with a lighter, more neutral shade to create contrast and interest.

Incorporating Color
While Joanna Gaines is a master of neutrals, she also knows how to incorporate color into a space without disrupting the harmony of the room. She often does this through accessories, textiles, and artwork. This allows the color to be easily changed out as trends or tastes shift.
She also likes to use color in unexpected ways, such as painting the inside of a cabinet or a door a bold shade. This can add a pop of color and interest to an otherwise neutral space.
Joanna Gaines' Neutral Paint Colors in Action
To see Joanna Gaines' neutral paint colors in action, take a look at some of her past projects. Her use of neutrals can be seen in everything from her farmhouse-style homes to her more modern designs. Some of her most iconic neutral paint colors include:
| Project | Neutral Paint Color |
|---|---|
| The Gaines' Farmhouse Kitchen | Benjamin Moore's "Stonington Gray" (HC-170) |
| The "Barndominium" Master Bedroom | Sherwin-Williams' "Accessible Beige" (SW 7036) |
| The "Hillcrest Estate" Living Room | Farrow & Ball's "Skimming Stone" (No. 229) |
By understanding Joanna Gaines' approach to neutral paint colors and incorporating these tips into your own designs, you can create spaces that are not only beautiful but also timeless and inviting. So go ahead, embrace the neutrals, and let your creativity shine!