Painting a home in Southern California is different. Our bright, intense sunlight can completely change how a color looks, and the year-round sun exposure means durability is non-negotiable. A color that looks perfect in another part of the country might fall flat or fade quickly here. As local painting experts, we know what it takes to get a beautiful, long-lasting finish in the LA area. We’ll share our insider knowledge on choosing external wall paint colours that are specifically suited for our unique climate and architecture, ensuring your home looks fantastic and stays protected for years to come.

Key Takeaways

Prioritize Pro-Level Prep and Quality Paint: The secret to a lasting finish isn't just the color, but the work done beforehand. A thorough process of cleaning, repairing, and priming, combined with a premium UV-resistant paint, is the best way to protect your investment against the SoCal sun.
Match Your Palette to Your Home's Architecture: Create a cohesive look by selecting colors that enhance your home's unique style. Stick to a simple three-color scheme—a main, a trim, and an accent—and consider fixed elements like your roof and landscaping to ensure the final result feels balanced and intentional.
Always Test Paint Samples in Natural Light: Colors can look drastically different in bright sunlight versus in the store. Paint large swatches on multiple sides of your house and observe them throughout the day to see how the light affects the color before making your final decision.

A Pro's Guide to the Best Exterior Paint Brands

Choosing the right exterior paint is about more than just picking a color; it’s an investment in your home's protection and curb appeal. The quality of the paint you choose determines how long your home will look fresh and how well it will stand up to the Southern California sun, wind, and rain. A premium paint job starts with premium products, and skimping on quality here can mean re-painting years sooner than you should have to. A great paint provides a durable shield that resists fading, cracking, and peeling, keeping your home looking its best while protecting the underlying materials from moisture and damage.

Over the years, we’ve worked with countless brands, and a few consistently stand out for their performance, durability, and beautiful finish. These are the brands we trust to deliver the flawless, long-lasting results our clients deserve. While we can achieve a professional finish with many products, these three brands offer a fantastic starting point for almost any project, providing a reliable range of options for different budgets and style goals. Think of them as our tried-and-true partners in bringing a home’s exterior back to life.

Sherwin-Williams: For Lasting Durability and Endless Color Options

When it comes to a paint that can handle the elements while offering an incredible range of colors, Sherwin-Williams is a top contender. We trust their products because they’re formulated for superior adhesion and resistance to the fading and cracking that the California sun can cause. This durability means your investment lasts longer and your home stays looking sharp. What we also love is their extensive palette; whether you’re looking for a timeless neutral or a bold, modern hue, you’ll find it. Their library of exterior house colors provides endless inspiration, making it easy to find the perfect shade to reflect your personal style.

Benjamin Moore: For Rich Coverage and Greener Choices

Benjamin Moore has built its reputation on exceptional quality, and its exterior paints are no exception. If you're looking for a truly high-end finish, this is a fantastic choice. Their paints are known for rich, deep colors and incredible coverage—you can really see the quality in every brushstroke. For homeowners who are mindful of their environmental impact, Benjamin Moore also offers greener choices with low-VOC formulas that don’t compromise on performance. Their selection of exterior paint colors includes sophisticated classics that give any home a touch of elegance and lasting protection against the elements.

Behr: For Great Performance That's Easy on the Wallet

Great performance doesn't always come with a premium price tag. Behr is our go-to recommendation for homeowners who want a durable, beautiful finish that’s also easy on the wallet. Available exclusively at The Home Depot, Behr’s exterior lines, like BEHR PREMIUM PLUS®, provide reliable durability and a finish that looks great for years. It’s a workhorse paint that holds up well against the elements and offers excellent coverage. If you’re looking for a dependable product that delivers solid performance without breaking the bank, Behr is an excellent and accessible option. Their gallery of exterior paint ideas is a great starting point for any project.

Find the Perfect Palette for Your Home's Architecture

Your home’s architectural style is one of the biggest clues for choosing an exterior paint color that feels just right. The lines, materials, and history of your house all play a role in what colors will make it shine. Working with your home’s inherent style, rather than against it, is the secret to creating stunning curb appeal that looks intentional and timeless.

Not sure where to start? Let’s look at some of the most common architectural styles we see here in the Los Angeles area and the color palettes that make them look their best.

Modern Farmhouse & Contemporary

Modern and contemporary homes are all about clean lines, simple forms, and a lack of fussy details. To complement this minimalist aesthetic, the best color palettes stick to a sophisticated selection of neutrals. Think crisp whites, deep blacks, warm beiges, and a range of grays. These colors create a clean, uncluttered look that highlights the home’s structure. For a classic modern farmhouse, you can’t go wrong with a bright white body and black trim for windows and doors. This high-contrast look is striking and always in style. You can see how we’ve brought this look to life in our portfolio.

Traditional Colonial & Victorian

Homes with a more traditional design, like Colonial or Victorian styles, have a rich history that you can honor with classic color choices. These homes look stunning in timeless palettes that reflect their elegant and stately character. For Colonial homes, classic whites, stately blues, and even deep, historic reds are beautiful choices that feel authentic. Victorian homes, known for their intricate details, can handle more complex color schemes. Soft butter yellows, sage greens, and dusty blues paired with creamy white trim can highlight all the gorgeous gingerbread trim and decorative elements without overwhelming the eye. These historical color combinations are designed to enhance traditional architecture.

Craftsman & Cottage

Craftsman and Cottage-style homes are known for their connection to nature, handcrafted details, and cozy, welcoming feel. The best exterior paint colors for these styles are ones that enhance that natural charm. Think earthy tones and muted colors pulled from the landscape. Shades like olive green, warm beige, dusty brown, and deep grayish-blue complement the wood and stone accents that are so common in Craftsman design. For a charming cottage, you might consider softer shades like a buttery yellow or a sky blue to create a storybook feel. The goal is to make the house look like it belongs right where it is, perfectly settled into its surroundings.

Mediterranean & Spanish Revival

Here in Southern California, Mediterranean and Spanish Revival homes are everywhere, and for good reason. Their stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and arched doorways are perfectly suited for our sunny climate. To keep these homes looking bright and authentic, stick to colors that reflect the sun and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Crisp whites and warm off-whites are the most popular choices, as they provide a beautiful contrast against the terracotta roof tiles. You can also explore light grays, sandy beiges, and other sun-baked neutrals. These colors not only look beautiful but also help keep the home cooler. Our residential painting services can help you find the perfect shade for your stucco.

Mid-Century Modern

Mid-Century Modern (MCM) architecture is all about blending the indoors with the outdoors, featuring clean lines and large windows. While neutral tones like gray and white can work well as a base, this style also invites a bit of fun with color. Don’t be afraid to use an upbeat accent color on the front door or other architectural features. Natural reds, muted pinks, soft yellows, and classic teal or orange can provide a vibrant, retro touch that perfectly complements the MCM aesthetic. These pops of color add personality while balancing the home’s simple, geometric structure, creating a look that’s both playful and sophisticated.

How Paint Color Affects Your Home's Value and Curb Appeal

Choosing an exterior paint color is one of the most exciting parts of a home refresh, but it’s also one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make. The right palette doesn’t just make your home look great—it can significantly influence its perceived value and overall curb appeal. Think of it as your home’s first impression. A thoughtful color choice can highlight beautiful architectural features, create an inviting atmosphere, and even make your property more attractive to potential buyers down the road. Whether you’re looking to sell soon or simply want to fall in love with your home all over again, the colors you choose play a starring role. Let’s walk through how to pick a palette that works for your home, your style, and your investment.

Neutral Colors: A Smart Bet for Resale

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the next few years, you can’t go wrong with a neutral color scheme. Shades like warm whites, soft grays, and versatile beiges are consistent crowd-pleasers. Why? Because they create a clean, timeless look that appeals to the widest range of buyers. A neutral exterior acts as a blank canvas, making it easier for people to imagine themselves living there. It helps your home feel fresh and well-maintained without imposing a specific, personal style that might not resonate with everyone. This simple choice can make a huge difference in how quickly your home sells and can even increase its market value.

Bold Colors: How to Make a Statement the Right Way

Love color? Don’t worry—you don’t have to stick to beige to protect your home’s value. Using bold colors thoughtfully can make your home stand out in the best way possible. The key is to use them strategically to highlight your home’s best features. A vibrant front door, deep-colored shutters, or a rich accent on your trim can add personality and charm without overwhelming the entire facade. When choosing a bolder shade, consider your home’s architectural style and existing elements like brick or stone. The goal is to create a cohesive look that feels intentional and sophisticated. You can see how we’ve used accent colors to bring homes to life in our portfolio.

Popular Color Trends in the Los Angeles Area

Here in Southern California, our unique light and landscape influence what looks best. While classic whites will always be in style, we’re seeing a lot of homeowners embrace warmer, earthier tones. On-trend options include rich shades of dark brown, warm caramel, and sophisticated tans or off-whites. These colors complement the sunny, relaxed SoCal vibe and look stunning against lush greenery. A deeper, richer color can also give a home a modern, substantial feel that really makes it stand out on the street. These palettes feel both current and timeless, making them a great choice for any Los Angeles-area home.

Common Color Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the perfect color is only half the battle; proper execution is what ensures a beautiful, long-lasting result. One of the biggest mistakes we see is inadequate surface preparation. Without proper cleaning, sanding, and priming, even the highest-quality paint will fail to adhere correctly, leading to peeling and chipping. It’s also crucial to select the right paint finish for our climate and to invest in high-quality paint that can withstand the sun’s harsh rays. Skipping these steps can detract from your home’s appearance and end up costing you more in the long run. A professional team handles all the critical prep work to guarantee a flawless finish that protects your investment.

Create a Winning Color Combination

Choosing an exterior paint color is about more than just the main shade; it’s about creating a complete palette that includes the trim, shutters, front door, and other architectural details. A well-thought-out color combination brings your home’s best features to life and creates a cohesive, polished look. Think of it as dressing your home—the main color is the outfit, and the trim and accents are the accessories that pull it all together. A great palette can make a small home feel grander, highlight beautiful craftsmanship, and give your property a distinct personality that feels intentional and well-designed.

The right combination depends on your home's architectural style, your landscaping, and even the overall feel of your neighborhood. Whether you’re aiming for a look that’s classic and elegant, warm and inviting, or modern and bold, the key is balance. You want the colors to complement each other without competing for attention. We’ve painted countless homes across the Los Angeles area, and we’ve seen firsthand how a great color scheme can completely transform a property. Below are a few tried-and-true combinations that work beautifully for a variety of homes.

Classic Black & White for a Timeless Look

You can never go wrong with black and white. This high-contrast duo is the definition of timeless elegance, offering a crisp, clean look that flatters nearly any home style. The combination is incredibly versatile, allowing you to create anything from a classic white exterior with black trim to a contemporary all-black style that celebrates clean lines and modern design. This pairing is a fantastic way to make architectural details stand out, giving your home a sharp, sophisticated appearance that will look just as good in a decade as it does today. It’s a confident choice that always feels fresh and polished.

Earthy Tones for a Warm, Inviting Feel

If you want your home to feel like a welcoming retreat, earthy tones are the perfect choice. Shades inspired by nature create a grounded, serene atmosphere that blends beautifully with Southern California’s landscapes. Neutral colors like warm whites, beiges, taupes, and grays are among the most popular choices for house exteriors because they are so versatile and calming. These hues work wonderfully on Craftsman, Mediterranean, and ranch-style homes, creating a cozy yet sophisticated look. Paired with a crisp white trim and natural wood or stone accents, an earthy palette makes your home feel both elegant and approachable.

Modern Charcoal with a Pop of Accent Color

For a look that’s modern and dramatic, consider a deep charcoal or dark gray base. These moody hues create a stunning backdrop that feels both luxurious and contemporary. The key to making this work is pairing the dark base with a contrasting accent color to add personality and visual interest. Popular trim colors like crisp white or off-black create a sharp outline, while a vibrant front door in green, yellow, or even a bold blue can add a playful pop of color. This approach adds incredible depth and character, giving your home a sophisticated edge that stands out from the crowd.

Soft Pastels for Charming Storybook Homes

Pastel colors can give your home a charming, storybook quality that is full of personality. Don’t think of nursery colors—today’s exterior pastels are muted, sophisticated, and incredibly inviting. Think about options like light, calming sage greens, dusty blues, and buttery yellows for a subtle and welcoming aesthetic. These gentle hues are perfect for Victorian, cottage, or Spanish-style homes with unique architectural details you want to highlight. Paired with a creamy white or light gray trim, a pastel palette creates a whimsical and friendly vibe that is sure to make you smile every time you pull into the driveway.

Choose Colors That Can Handle the SoCal Climate

Southern California is famous for its sunshine, but that constant sun can be tough on your home's exterior. The intense UV rays and heat don't just fade colors; they can cause paint to break down faster. That's why choosing the right color here is about more than just curb appeal—it's a practical decision that affects your home's comfort, energy bills, and the longevity of your paint job.

When you're picking a palette, you have to think like a local. A color that looks great in a catalog might look completely different under the bright LA sun, and a dark, trendy shade could turn your home into an oven during a heatwave. The key is to find a balance between the style you love and the performance your home needs. By selecting colors and paint formulations designed to withstand our climate, you're making a smart investment in your home's protection and beauty. We'll walk you through exactly what to consider so your home looks fantastic for years to come.

Picking Colors to Beat the Heat

It’s no secret that dark colors absorb heat while light colors reflect it. This simple principle has a big impact on your home's exterior in Southern California. Choosing lighter paint colors can genuinely help keep your house cooler by reflecting the sun's rays instead of absorbing them. This can lead to a more comfortable indoor temperature and even lower your air conditioning costs during those long, hot summers.

Think about shades like soft whites, light beiges, pale grays, or gentle pastels. These colors are not only timeless and versatile, but they also work with our climate, not against it. This doesn't mean you have to paint your house stark white, but considering lighter shades for the main body of your home is a smart move.

Why UV-Resistant Paint Is a Must

The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are the primary culprit behind fading paint. A beautiful, vibrant color can look dull and washed out in just a few years if the paint isn't up to the task. That's why using a high-quality, UV-resistant paint is non-negotiable in our sunny climate. These premium paints are formulated with special additives that protect the color pigments from breaking down under constant sun exposure.

Investing in a quality paint means your chosen colors will stay true and vibrant for much longer, extending the life of your paint job and protecting your home's siding. At ALLBRiGHT PAINTING, our residential painting services always use top-tier products designed to handle harsh weather, ensuring your home is shielded from sun, pollution, and moisture.

How Sunlight Changes Your Color's Appearance

A paint chip you love under the fluorescent lights of a hardware store can look shockingly different on the side of your house. The intensity and angle of natural light play a huge role in how a color is perceived. Here in Southern California, the bright, direct sunlight can wash out colors, making them appear much lighter than you expected. It can also pull out hidden undertones—that perfect greige might suddenly look purple in the late afternoon sun.

Because of this, you can't fully trust a small sample or a digital mockup. The only way to know for sure how a color will look is to see it on your home, in its own unique lighting conditions. This is a critical step that prevents costly "do-overs" and ensures you'll love the final result.

The Right Way to Test Paint Samples

To avoid any color surprises, you have to test your top choices properly. Start by getting sample pots of your final two or three colors. Instead of painting a tiny patch, paint large swatches—at least two-by-two feet—directly on your home's exterior. Be sure to apply two coats to get the true color.

Paint these test patches on different sides of your house, like a sun-drenched south-facing wall and a shadier north-facing one. Then, watch them over a few days. Observe how they look in the soft morning light, the bright midday sun, and as the sun sets. This process lets you see how the color interacts with your home's environment and helps you choose a shade you'll be happy with from every angle, which you can see in our portfolio of completed projects.

How to Budget for Your Exterior Paint Project

Planning your budget for an exterior paint job involves more than just picking a color and buying a few gallons of paint. A successful, long-lasting finish depends on quality materials, thorough preparation, and skilled application. Thinking through the total cost upfront helps you avoid surprises and ensures you’re making a smart investment in your home’s curb appeal and protection. Let’s break down the key factors that will shape your budget, from the paint itself to the essential prep work that makes all the difference.

Premium vs. Mid-Range Paint: Is It Worth the Splurge?

It’s tempting to save a few dollars by choosing a mid-range or budget paint, but this is one area where you truly get what you pay for. High-quality paint is an investment that pays off. Premium paints, like those from Sherwin-Williams, are formulated with better ingredients—superior pigments for richer color, and stronger binders for durability. This means they resist fading from the intense SoCal sun, stand up better to moisture, and are less likely to crack or peel. While the upfront cost is higher, a premium paint job can last years longer, saving you the expense and hassle of repainting sooner. Think of it as buying a durable shield for your home, not just a temporary color.

Where to Find Deals and Professional Discounts

Even when you’re committed to quality, there are smart ways to save. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales at major paint retailers, which often happen around holiday weekends. Another great tip is to look for deals on paint samples. Brands like Benjamin Moore frequently offer promotions on their small sample pots, allowing you to test your top color choices on your home without a big financial commitment. The best discount, however, often comes from working with professionals. As an established painting company, we have access to contractor pricing on top-tier paints and materials—savings that we pass on to our clients. It’s one of the many benefits of having a professional team manage your painting project.

Beyond the Paint Can: Factoring in Primer, Tools, and Labor

The final cost of your project goes far beyond the paint itself. Proper surface preparation is the most critical step for a beautiful, lasting finish, and it requires its own budget for materials and time. Before a single drop of color is applied, surfaces need to be cleaned, sanded, and repaired. This means accounting for costs like primer, caulk to seal cracks, sandpaper, and painter’s tape. Skipping these steps is a recipe for failure, as paint applied to a dirty or damaged surface will quickly peel and chip. When you hire a professional crew, your estimate includes all of this—the expert labor, the specialized tools, and the high-quality materials needed to get the job done right from the start.

Get a Flawless Finish with Pro-Level Prep

You can pick the most beautiful, high-end paint color in the world, but if you apply it to a poorly prepared surface, you’ll be disappointed with the results. The secret to a stunning, long-lasting exterior paint job isn’t just in the can—it’s in the meticulous prep work that happens before a single drop of color touches your walls. This is the foundation of the entire project, and it’s where professionals dedicate the most time and attention. Skipping these steps is a shortcut to peeling, cracking, and having to repaint far sooner than you should.

Why Cleaning and Repair Come First

Think of it this way: you wouldn’t put on a fresh outfit without showering first. The same goes for your home’s exterior. Over time, walls collect dirt, mildew, and chalky residue that prevent new paint from sticking. A thorough cleaning is the essential first step. We always clean, sand, repair damage, and ensure the surface is completely dry before painting. This often involves power washing to remove grime, scraping away any loose or failing paint, and sanding down rough spots for a smooth canvas. Any cracks in stucco or gaps in wood trim are also filled and repaired, because a flawless finish requires a flawless surface. This careful preparation is what ensures your new paint adheres properly and lasts for years.

Choose and Apply the Right Primer

Primer is the unsung hero of a great paint job. It’s a common mistake to see it as an optional step, but it’s truly non-negotiable for a professional-quality result. Primer does a few critical jobs: it seals porous surfaces so your topcoat doesn’t soak in unevenly, it blocks old stains from bleeding through your new color, and it creates a uniform base for the paint to grip onto. This ensures better adhesion and the true durability of the paint. Selecting a high-quality primer that’s specifically designed for your home’s exterior material—whether it’s wood, stucco, or brick—is key. It’s the difference between a good paint job and a great one that stands the test of time.

Brush, Roller, or Sprayer: What's the Best Method?

The tools you use are just as important as the paint you choose. The method of application can significantly affect the final look and texture of your home’s exterior. Each tool has a specific purpose. Brushes are perfect for precision work, like cutting in around windows, doors, and trim. Rollers are great for efficiently covering large, flat surfaces like siding. For the smoothest, most uniform coverage, especially on textured surfaces like stucco, a paint sprayer is often the best choice. A professional crew knows exactly which tool to use for each part of your home to achieve a seamless, beautiful finish, which you can see in our project portfolio.

Work with the Weather, Not Against It

Here in Southern California, the weather plays a huge role in a successful paint job. Painting in the wrong conditions can quickly undo all your careful prep work. Extreme heat or direct, intense sunlight can cause paint to dry too fast, leading to brush marks, bubbles, and poor adhesion. On the other hand, painting when it’s too damp or humid can trap moisture under the paint film, which can cause blistering and peeling later on. That’s why it’s so important to check the forecast and choose a dry, mild day for painting. Professionals are experts at scheduling work around the weather to ensure the paint cures correctly for a durable, long-lasting finish.

Avoid These Common Paint Selection Mistakes

Choosing an exterior paint color feels like a huge commitment, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the endless options. But a little bit of planning can help you sidestep the most common pitfalls. The goal is to find a color you love that also honors your home’s character and fits its surroundings. By avoiding a few frequent missteps, you can feel confident that your final choice will be one you’re happy with for years to come.

Don't Let Your Colors Clash with Your Home's Style

Every home has its own personality, defined by its architectural style. A sleek, modern home can handle a bold, monochromatic palette, while a historic Victorian home often shines with a more complex, traditional color scheme. Choosing a color that complements your home’s design will enhance its best features and add to its value. Before you fall in love with a trendy color, take a moment to consider your home’s bones. Does it have intricate trim, stone accents, or specific window styles? The right paint color will work with these elements, not against them. You can see beautiful examples of this harmony in our portfolio of Los Angeles homes.

Resist the Urge to Overcomplicate Your Palette

When you’re surrounded by thousands of beautiful paint chips, it’s tempting to want to use them all. However, the most effective exterior color schemes are often the simplest. A good rule of thumb is to stick to three colors: a primary field color for the main body, a trim color for windows and eaves, and an accent color for doors and shutters. This classic approach creates a cohesive and polished look that doesn’t overwhelm the eye. Keeping your palette limited ensures that each color has a clear purpose, resulting in a design that feels intentional and timeless rather than busy and chaotic.

Take a Cue from Your Neighborhood's Aesthetic

Your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Its curb appeal is part of the larger picture of your street and neighborhood. Take a walk around the block and notice the colors of the homes around you. You don’t have to match your neighbors, but you should aim for a color that feels harmonious with the overall environment. Consider fixed elements you can’t change, like nearby landscaping, your roof color, and even the quality of natural light your home receives. A color that looks great on a shady, tree-lined street might feel too intense in the bright Southern California sun. Thinking about these factors helps ensure your home fits beautifully into its surroundings.

Know When It's Time to Ask for Help

Let’s be honest—picking the perfect color combination is tough. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, it’s a smart move to consult with a professional. An experienced painter does more than just apply the paint; they can offer valuable guidance on which colors and products will perform best in our local climate. A professional can help you see undertones you might have missed and suggest combinations that will highlight your home’s best features. Instead of spending weeks agonizing over samples, you can get expert advice to make a confident decision. If you’re ready for a flawless finish, our residential painting team is here to help you through every step of the process.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I expect a professional exterior paint job to last? A high-quality exterior paint job is an investment that should stand the test of time. When done correctly with thorough prep work and premium materials, you can generally expect your home's new finish to last anywhere from 7 to 10 years. Factors like the Southern California sun and the specific materials of your home play a role, but our goal is always to give you a beautiful, durable finish that offers maximum protection for as long as possible.

Is it really worth the extra cost for a premium paint brand? Absolutely. While the upfront cost is higher, premium paint pays for itself in the long run. It’s formulated with better ingredients that provide superior coverage, richer color, and most importantly, greater durability. This means it will resist fading from our intense sun and hold up better against the elements, so you won't have to worry about repainting nearly as soon. Think of it as buying a better shield for your home.

My house gets a ton of direct sun. Are there specific colors I should avoid? This is a great question for any Southern California homeowner. Very dark colors tend to absorb more heat, which can put extra stress on both the paint and your siding, and may even lead to higher cooling bills. Lighter shades are a smart choice because they reflect sunlight and help keep your home cooler. If you have your heart set on a dark, dramatic color, consider using it as an accent on trim or shutters rather than on the entire body of the house.

You talked a lot about color, but what about the paint finish? Does that matter? The finish you choose is just as important as the color. For home exteriors, a satin or eggshell finish is usually the best choice for the main siding. It has a slight sheen that is durable and easier to clean than a flat finish, but it isn't so shiny that it highlights imperfections. For trim, windows, and doors, a semi-gloss finish is ideal. It provides a subtle contrast and is incredibly tough, standing up well to nicks and scuffs in high-traffic areas.

I'm still nervous about picking the wrong color. What's the best way to be sure? The single best thing you can do is test your top choices on your actual house. Paint large swatches—at least two-by-two feet—on a couple of different walls, like one that gets full sun and one that's often in shade. Live with them for a few days and see how they look in the morning, at midday, and in the evening. The way natural light changes a color can be surprising, and this is the only way to know for sure that you'll love the final result.

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