In a Southern home, rooms like kitchens, bars, mudrooms, laundry rooms, and libraries often feature lots of built-ins. This custom millwork and cabinetry deserves a little drama when it comes to paint colors. Standard white is always timeless, but hues with depth and richness add a layer of personality and soul to these spaces. Below, five Southern designers share their favorites for these special spots.
Color: Classic Burgundy, Benjamin Moore
“We knew the library (of NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson’s home, above) would be a nighttime cocktail room. I consider oxblood red a neutral because you can put anything with it. And while this particular finish was a custom lacquer, Classic Burgundy by Benjamin Moore is very, very close. It’s also my go-to for furniture that needs a makeover.”
—Barrie Benson, Barrie Benson Interior Design
Color: India Yellow, Farrow & Ball
“I love a nice bright kitchen, and this specific ochre is a perfect refined option. This color totally changes shades throughout the day as the light hits it differently. I imagine the cabinetry with polished nickel—the kind that tarnishes a little like sterling silver. How chic would it be paired with blue and white Portuguese tiles and white marble? A totally classic color combination, and one my grandmother has had in her kitchen for years.”
—Jared Hughes, Jared Hughes Design, Atlanta
Color: Railings, Farrow & Ball
“This is a really dark, moody, charcoal blue. It’s a strong, handsome color that complements pretty much anything. I especially love it in a high-gloss finish mixed with brass hardware.”
—Rachel Halvorson, Rachel Halvorson Designs, Nashville
Color: Wenge, Benjamin Moore
“This rich chocolate tone is perfect for a library, a kitchen, a bar, or a mudroom. A high-gloss finish or lacquer will keep the space reflective and bright. I like brown in general because it’s a great backdrop to greenery through a window, and it’s not a total break from traditional wood tones so it’s timeless. This really is a true chocolate brown—definitely not heading in the orange family at all.”
—Colleen Waguespack, Colleen Waguespack Interiors, New Orleans
Color: Brassica, Farrow & Ball
“This subtle lavender is lovely because it is cozy and elegant and reminiscent of an old English drawing room.”
—Jen Langston, Jen Langston Interiors, Charleston, South Carolina
NOTE: For a true color match, pick up a paint chip or sample. Computer monitors and phone screens are calibrated differently, and may show variations.
More on Perfect Paint Colors:
>A Southern Tradition: Painted Floors
> Perfect Porch Ceiling Colors
> A Mess of Southern Green Paints
> Shutters, Dining Rooms, and More
