Not sure which colors to use in your rooms? See which one of these room paint color palettes describe the effect you want to create.

Our unique RoomColors system shows you which room paint colors interior designers use most… then divides those hues into color types based on their color symbolism and compatibility. For more information on our easy-to-use color charts for interior home design, click here.

A quick summary…

Modern colors (1)
...are cool, clean and transparent. These spacious, clear hues include white, lemon, tangerine and other refreshing colors inspired by citrus fruits, spring water, air fresheners and laundry detergent. This is a good color chart to use if you want to make a room look bright, youthful, clean, energetic or optimistic. Modern room paint colors work well with Bauhaus and mid century modern furniture styles, 20th century art, industrial materials, light wood, playful patterns and plenty of white space.
Elegant colors (2)
... are soft, pretty and whimsical. These white-infused, feminine hues include coral, lavender, watermelon and other flattering colors inspired by flowers and perfume, delicate lingerie and cosmetics. This is a good color chart to use if you want to make a room look charming, alluring, flattering or well-mannered. Elegant room paint colors work well with French or English 18th century furniture styles, shapely curves, floral patterns, crystal, silk, brocade, chintz, silver and gilded finishes.
Chic colors (3)
... are urban, exclusive and professional. These sophisticated, executive hues include steel, taupe, black and other cool, nearly-neutral colors inspired by state-of-the-art electronics, high-end cars, menswear and career apparel. This is a good color chart to use if you want to make a room look urban, stylish, professional or understated. Chic room paint colors work well with tailored furniture styles, glass, granite, leather, suede, pinstripes, animal prints and very light or very dark woods.
Nostalgic colors (4)
... are melancholy, muted and enigmatic. These hazy, complex hues include parchment, cameo, mauve and other sentimental colors inspired by old–fashioned stationery, vintage clothing and potpourri. This is a good color chart if you want to make a room look romantic, complex, Victorian or personal. Nostalgic room paint colors work well with antique furniture styles with painted or well-aged patinas, down-filled sofas, faded floral patterns, old lace, ribbons, painted porcelain and wicker.
Traditional colors (5)
...are serious, deep and old-fashioned. These established, masculine hues include navy, burgundy, bronze and other do-not-disturb colors inspired by medieval tapestries, leather-bound books, liquors, cigars and imported foods. This is a good color chart if you want to make a room look warm, quiet, private, masculine or intellectual. Traditional room paint colors work well with heavier, old-world furniture styles, grainy wood, brick, tweed, plaid, leather, nail studs and burnished metals.
Country colors (6)
... are earthy, friendly and uncomplicated. These comfortable, appetizing hues include straw, moss, tomato and other frontier colors inspired by farmer’s markets, whole grain breads, denim jeans and folk art. This is a good color chart if you want to make a room look cozy, hospitable, casual, aromatic and familiar. Country room paint colors work well with chiseled American furniture styles, distressed pine, oak, hickory, gingham checks, patchwork quilts and wrought iron.
Global colors (7)
... are ethnic, spicy and robust. These multi-cultural, fascinating hues include jute, chili pepper, salsa and other indigenous colors inspired by safari gear, hand-crafted artifacts, Indian blankets and exotic spices. This is a good color chart to use if you want to make a room look conversation-worthy, warm, exotic or resort-like. Global room paint colors work well with hand-carved furniture styles, hand-crafted artifacts, batik, animal prints, jute, rattan, hand-painted ceramic tile and plaster.
Classic colors (8)
... are rich, luxurious and unforgettable. These strong, regal hues include gold, ruby, amethyst and other saturated colors inspired by jewel stones, fine wines, red-carpet gowns and upscale luxury goods. This is a good color chart to use if you like to make a room look grand, indulgent, patriotic, luxurious or transitional in style. Classic room paint colors work well with stately Louis Philippe furniture styles, polished woods, velvet, silk, brass, marble, solid colors, damask, diamonds and bold stripes.
Organic colors (9)
... are earthy, neutral and calm. These quiet, soothing hues include khaki, sand, caf_ au lait and other diffused colors inspired by tranquil vacation resorts, spa products, granola, coffee shops and Japanese gardens. This is a good color chart to use if you want to make a room look quiet, relaxed, light-infused or spacious. Organic room paint colors work well with chunky furniture styles in matte finishes, reclaimed woods, bamboo, teak, natural linen, cotton, seagrass, stones and diffused lighting.