According to a recent survey, the color of your home’s exterior can have a significant impact on its perceived value and curb appeal. In fact, 70% of real estate agents agree that the right exterior color can increase a home’s marketability and attract more potential buyers. So, if you’re looking to refresh your home’s look and boost its appeal, choosing the best color for your exterior is crucial.
When it comes to selecting the ideal color for your home’s exterior, there are a variety of factors to consider, including the architecture of your house, your personal style, and current design trends. However, one thing is clear – neutral and traditional colors are the top picks that have widespread appeal and attract the broadest range of buyers.
Whether you prefer a warm and sophisticated look, a classic and versatile vibe, or a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, there is a perfect color out there for you. From taupe and navy blue to pale yellow and off-white, the options are endless.
In this article, we will explore the best color choices for the exterior of your house, providing insights, inspiration, and expert advice to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in and discover the top picks for the best color for your exterior house!
Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Choosing the right color for your home’s exterior can significantly impact its marketability and curb appeal.
- 70% of real estate agents agree that the exterior color can increase a home’s perceived value.
- Neutral and traditional colors have the widest appeal and attract the most potential buyers.
- There are various color options to suit different architectural styles and personal preferences.
- Consulting with a professional can help you make the best choice for your home.
Neutral and Traditional Colors for Exterior House
When it comes to choosing the perfect color for your home’s exterior, neutral and traditional colors are tried and true options that never go out of style. These colors have a broad appeal and can attract a wide range of buyers, making them a smart choice if you’re looking to increase your home’s curb appeal and market value.
Neutral exterior paint colors such as taupe, off-white, and gray create a sophisticated and timeless look. These colors provide a blank canvas for your home’s exterior, allowing potential buyers to envision their own personal style. Neutral colors also blend well with various architectural styles, making them a versatile choice for any type of home.
Traditional exterior house colors like navy blue, pale yellow, and lighthouse red can add a touch of personality and charm to your home. Navy blue is known for its classic and versatile appeal, while pale yellow creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lighthouse red, on the other hand, is a traditional color that stands out and adds a fresh pop of color to your home.
When selecting the right color for your home’s exterior, it’s crucial to consider your home’s architecture and surroundings. A consultation with a Realtor or professional paint consultant can provide valuable insights and help you choose the best color scheme for your specific property.
Expert Tip:
When using neutral colors, consider adding pops of traditional colors as accents. For example, navy blue shutters or a bright red front door can create a visually appealing contrast while maintaining a classic aesthetic.
By opting for neutral and traditional colors for your exterior house paint, you can create an appealing and marketable home that will catch the eye of potential buyers. Remember, choosing the right colors is an investment that can significantly increase your home’s value and make a lasting impression.
Taupe – Warm and Sophisticated Look
Taupe is a popular color choice for bungalow and ranch-style homes as it gives a warm and sophisticated look. This versatile color is a combination of gray and brown shades, creating a neutral backdrop that can work with various architectural styles.
When using taupe as an exterior paint color, it’s important to consider the complementary shades that will enhance its appeal. To brighten up taupe, consider pairing it with whites or off-whites for a clean and fresh look. These lighter colors will create a contrast that highlights the warm undertones of taupe.
Alternatively, for a more dramatic effect, taupe can be paired with darker grays or browns to create depth and richness. This combination adds a sense of sophistication and elegance to the overall exterior.
Choosing the Right Accent Colors
To further enhance your taupe exterior, carefully choose the accent colors for details such as doors, shutters, and trim. Consider using crisp whites or off-whites for a classic and timeless look. These lighter colors will create a striking contrast against the taupe backdrop.
For a more modern and contemporary feel, you can opt for darker grays or browns as accent colors. These shades will create a harmonious color palette that complements the warm and sophisticated look of taupe.
Creating a Coordinated Palette
When selecting other exterior elements such as roofing, landscaping, and hardscaping, it’s important to keep the overall color palette in mind. Choose materials and colors that harmonize with the taupe exterior, creating a cohesive and visually appealing look.
Consider using natural materials such as stone, wood, or brick, as they often blend beautifully with taupe. These textures and colors will enhance the warm and inviting feel of your home’s exterior.
Summary
Taupe is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to achieve a warm and sophisticated look for their exterior. By carefully selecting complementary colors and materials, you can create a cohesive and visually appealing palette that enhances the overall curb appeal of your home.
Navy Blue – Classic and Versatile
Navy blue is a classic and versatile color option for the exterior of your house. Its deep, dark shade of blue adds an air of sophistication and elegance to any home. Navy blue works particularly well with coastal and inland homes, lending a timeless and welcoming vibe.
One of the most popular choices when using navy blue for your house’s exterior is to pair it with white trim. This combination creates a striking contrast that never goes out of style. The navy blue siding stands out beautifully against the crisp white trim, creating a visually appealing and balanced look.
If you’re looking to add a touch of personality and flair to your navy blue exterior, consider incorporating accents in complementary colors. Turquoise and rustic brown are excellent choices that bring out the richness of navy blue. These accents can be added through doors, shutters, or even decorative elements such as flower pots or outdoor furniture.
Why Choose Navy Blue?
“Navy blue is a timeless color that exudes elegance and sophistication. It’s a versatile choice that complements various architectural styles and works well in both coastal and inland settings.” – Interior Designer, Emily Collins
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, navy blue offers practical benefits as well. It can help to hide dirt, dust, and other outdoor elements, making it a low maintenance color for your home’s exterior. Navy blue is also less likely to fade in the sun compared to lighter colors, ensuring a lasting and vibrant appearance.
Complementary Colors
When choosing complementary colors for your navy blue exterior, consider the following options:
- Turquoise: A fresh and vibrant color that adds a coastal charm to your home.
- Rustic Brown: A warm and earthy hue that adds depth and character to your exterior.
- White: The classic choice for trim that highlights the navy blue and creates a clean contrast.
By incorporating these complementary colors strategically, you can create a cohesive and striking color palette that enhances the overall appearance of your house.
Benefits of Navy Blue Exterior
The navy blue house color offers the following benefits:
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Timeless Appeal | Navy blue is a classic color choice that never goes out of style. |
| Versatility | Navy blue works well with various architectural styles and can be paired with a range of accent colors. |
| Low Maintenance | Its dark shade helps to hide dirt and dust, requiring less frequent cleaning. |
| Long-lasting Color | Navy blue is less likely to fade in the sun compared to lighter colors. |
With its classic charm and versatility, navy blue is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to make a bold yet timeless statement with their exterior paint color.
Pale Yellow – Warm and Inviting
Pale yellow is an eye-catching color that evokes feelings of cheer, happiness, and optimism. It can make your home look warm and inviting, and even make it appear bigger due to its light-reflecting properties. While bright yellow may be too bold for some buyers, pale yellows are a great option to capture attention and create a welcoming atmosphere.
A pale yellow exterior paint can transform the look of your house, giving it a fresh and vibrant appeal. Whether you have a modern or traditional-style home, pale yellow can complement various architectural designs. Pair it with white window trims and accents for a classic combination, or consider using light gray or beige to create a sophisticated color scheme.
The yellow house color creates a sense of warmth and positivity, making your home stand out in the neighborhood. It brings a touch of sunshine to your exterior, brightening up the surroundings and creating a welcoming curb appeal. Pale yellow is particularly popular for cottages, beach houses, and homes in picturesque settings, as it blends harmoniously with the natural beauty of the landscape.
“Pale yellows are a timeless choice to add character and charm to your home.” – Paint Consultant
When choosing a pale yellow paint for your exterior, consider the hue that best suits your personal taste and the surrounding environment. Some popular options include soft buttercream, sunny maize, and delicate lemon chiffon. Take into account the natural lighting conditions and the colors of neighboring houses to ensure a harmonious color palette.
Gray – Sophistication and Calm
Gray is a popular choice for the exterior of modern homes and bungalows. Its versatile nature allows it to create an air of sophistication and calm, making it an excellent option for those seeking an elegant and serene aesthetic.
One of the great advantages of using gray as an exterior paint color is the wide range of shades it comes in. From dark, near-black options to light, subtle grays, you can find the perfect shade to complement your home’s style and architecture.
To make the most informed decision when selecting a shade of gray, it’s beneficial to consult with your Realtor or a local expert. They can provide valuable insight into which shades of gray are most appealing to buyers in your specific area, ensuring that your choice resonates with the market.
When incorporating gray into your exterior design, consider whether you want to create a monochromatic look or pair it with other colors for contrast. Gray pairs well with bold colors like red or yellow for a striking visual impact, or it can be combined with softer hues like blue or green to create a more harmonious color scheme.
In summary, gray offers homeowners the opportunity to create a sophisticated and calm exterior. Its versatility and range of shades allow for endless design possibilities, while consulting with professionals ensures a choice that appeals to potential buyers in your area.
Off-White – Versatile and Warm
Off-white is an extremely versatile color that works well for both trim and siding. It provides a warm and softer alternative to bright white and pairs well with many other colors such as olive, brown, and black. Natural woods are also a great complement to off-white. When aiming for a warmer vibe, shades of off-white like cream, vanilla, ivory, and eggshell can be excellent choices.
Off-white is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a timeless and welcoming exterior color. It offers a subtle and elegant look that can enhance the overall appeal of any house. Whether you have a traditional or modern home, off-white can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that welcomes visitors.
“Off-white is a versatile color that effortlessly blends with various architectural styles and surrounding landscapes. It can be used to highlight key features of the house, such as intricate trim or unique architectural details.”
One of the advantages of using off-white for your exterior is that it pairs well with a wide range of accent colors. For example, combining off-white siding with olive green trim can create a stunning and natural aesthetic that blends harmoniously with the surroundings. Additionally, using off-white for the siding and brown accents for the doors and shutters can create a warm and inviting look.
Benefits of Choosing Off-White:
- Timeless and versatile color
- Creates a warm and inviting atmosphere
- Blends well with a variety of accent colors
- Complements natural woods
If you prefer a warmer vibe for your home, shades of off-white like cream, vanilla, ivory, and eggshell can be excellent choices. These warmer tones add depth and character to your exteriors, making them visually appealing and inviting.
Expert Tip:
When deciding on the perfect off-white shade for your house, consider the other elements of your exterior, such as the roof color, landscaping, and neighborhood aesthetics. This will help you choose the ideal off-white tone that complements the overall look and feel of your home.
| Off-White Shades | Color Description |
|---|---|
| Cream | A warm and inviting shade, perfect for a cozy home. |
| Vanilla | A subtle and creamy shade that adds a touch of sophistication. |
| Ivory | A versatile and elegant shade that complements any architectural style. |
| Eggshell | A soft and delicate shade that creates a calming ambiance. |
Blue-Gray – Welcoming and Broad Appeal
Blue-gray is an excellent choice for Victorian-style homes. Its pastel color with gray undertones gives it a lighter and softer appearance, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This color combination has a broad appeal, making it a popular option for homeowners looking to enhance their home’s curb appeal.
When pairing blue-gray siding with trim colors, classic white, off-white, and gray are highly recommended choices. These neutral tones complement the blue-gray exterior and create a visually appealing contrast. White trim provides a crisp and clean look, while off-white adds warmth and subtle elegance. Gray trim offers sophistication and complements the gray undertones in the blue-gray color.
“The blue-gray exterior paint color gives Victorian-style homes a timeless and charming appearance. It pairs beautifully with classic white, off-white, and gray trim, creating a welcoming aesthetic that appeals to a wide range of buyers.”
Choosing blue-gray for your home’s exterior can significantly enhance its architectural features and make it stand out in the neighborhood. Whether you have a historic Victorian-style house or want to add a touch of elegance to a modern home, blue-gray can transform your home’s appearance and increase its curb appeal.
For a visual representation of blue-gray’s appeal, take a look at the image below:
Wheat – Warm and Classic
When it comes to choosing the perfect color for your home’s exterior, wheat is a versatile and timeless option that combines the best qualities of white and yellow exterior paints. This warm and classic color choice provides a sense of coziness and joy, emanating the warmth of yellow while still maintaining the clean and elegant feel of white.
One of the advantages of using wheat as your house color is its ability to complement various architectural styles. Whether your home features modern lines or follows a more traditional design, wheat exterior paint can effortlessly blend in and enhance the overall aesthetic.
To create a harmonious color palette, wheat can be paired with a range of complementary shades. Dark browns add depth and richness, while off-whites and grays provide a subtle contrast. Blue-grays and charcoal tones offer a contemporary touch. By carefully selecting these coordinating colors, you can achieve a visually appealing and cohesive exterior look.
When it comes to selling a home, wheat is an excellent choice that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Its warm and classic nature creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, making potential buyers feel instantly at home. Additionally, the versatility of wheat allows buyers to envision their own personal style while appreciating the timeless elegance it offers.
If you’re unsure about selecting the perfect color for your home’s exterior, consulting with a professional paint consultant or a Realtor can provide valuable insights. These experts can guide you in choosing the ideal shades and color combinations that will maximize your home’s curb appeal and attract potential buyers.
“Wheat is a versatile and timeless color choice that combines the best qualities of white and yellow, offering warmth, elegance, and a classic appeal.” – Expert Home Designer
White – Simple and Timeless
When it comes to choosing the best color for your home’s exterior, white is a top contender. It is favored by many homeowners and real estate professionals due to its simplicity, timelessness, and universal appeal. White exterior paint has the power to transform any house into an elegant and inviting home.
The beauty of white lies in its versatility. It serves as a blank canvas, allowing potential buyers to envision their own style and personal touch on the property. Whether it is a modern abode, a Victorian-style house, or a charming cottage, white can complement any architectural design. Its clean and crisp look creates a sense of sophistication.
White is also a hue that pairs effortlessly with a wide range of other colors, making it a great choice for those who wish to incorporate different design elements into their home. Whether it’s black window frames, brown wooden accents, blue shutters, or gray roofing, white acts as a neutral backdrop that allows these colors to shine and create a harmonious overall appearance.
“White is the color of purity, simplicity, and endless possibilities. It exudes a sense of timelessness that never goes out of style, making it a safe choice for homeowners looking to attract potential buyers.” – Mary Thompson, Interior Designer
Furthermore, white house color has the added benefit of creating a sense of spaciousness and brightness. Its reflective properties help to bounce natural light, making the interior of the house feel more open and airy. This can be particularly appealing to buyers who prefer a light-filled living environment.
Pros of White Exterior Paint
- Simple and timeless
- Versatile and complementary to a variety of other colors
- Creates a sense of sophistication and elegance
- Enhances the architectural features of the house
- Reflects natural light, making the interior appear brighter and more spacious
If you’re considering repainting your home’s exterior, white is a color worth considering. Its simplicity, timelessness, and universal appeal can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and attract potential buyers.
Lighthouse Red – Traditional and Fresh
Lighthouse red is a traditional color option that feels both classic and fresh. When it comes to adding a pop of color to your exterior, red is a bold choice that can make a statement. Benjamin Moore Million Dollar Red (2003-10) is a popular shade known for its vibrant and eye-catching appeal.
Red exterior paint can add personality and charm to your home, making it stand out from its surroundings. This color works well with a variety of landscapes, whether you have a house nestled in a lush green setting or a clean and minimalist landscape. The vivid hue of lighthouse red can bring a touch of warmth and richness to your home’s exterior.
Consider using lighthouse red for your doors, shutters, or as accent colors to create a focal point and enhance the architectural features of your house. It pairs beautifully with neutral tones such as beige, gray, or white, creating a striking contrast that highlights the boldness of the red.
Key Features of Lighthouse Red:
- Classic and timeless color choice
- Vibrant and eye-catching
- Brings warmth and richness
- Creates a focal point on your home’s exterior
- Pairs well with neutral tones
Whether you have a traditional-style home or a modern architectural design, lighthouse red can complement various styles and add character to your property. It’s important to consider the overall aesthetic and surroundings of your home when choosing a red shade for your exterior. Additionally, keep in mind any homeowners association guidelines or historical preservation restrictions that may impact your color choices.
Choosing lighthouse red for your exterior can give your home a traditional yet fresh look that is sure to catch the eye of passersby. Its striking and vibrant appeal adds a touch of personality to your property, making it stand out from the rest.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Creates a bold and attention-grabbing exterior | May not appeal to all potential buyers |
| Complements various architectural styles | Requires regular maintenance |
| Adds warmth and richness to your home | Can be challenging to match with other colors |
Conclusion
Choosing the best color for your exterior house can significantly impact its curb appeal and attract potential buyers. When deciding on the color scheme, it’s important to consider the architectural style, surroundings, and personal preferences. Neutral and traditional colors, such as taupe, navy blue, pale yellow, and off-white, tend to have the broadest appeal.
Consulting with a Realtor or a professional paint consultant can provide valuable guidance in choosing the right color. Their expertise can help you explore the current trends and select colors that enhance your home’s features. Additionally, taking into account the preferences of potential buyers in your area can make your house stand out in a positive way, increasing its market value.
Keep in mind that the best color for your exterior house is one that complements the architecture, reflects the appropriate style, and harmonizes with the neighborhood. Making a thoughtful choice and investing in quality exterior paint can make a significant difference in creating a lasting impression and boosting the overall appeal of your home.
FAQ
What are the best colors for the exterior of a house?
The best colors for the exterior of a house are neutral and traditional colors. Some popular choices include taupe, navy blue, pale yellow, gray, off-white, blue-gray, wheat, white, lighthouse red, and beige.
Why are neutral and traditional colors recommended for exterior house paint?
Neutral and traditional colors have a broad appeal and can attract a wide range of buyers. They are timeless and versatile choices that complement various architectural styles and surroundings.
What are some tips for using taupe as an exterior house color?
Taupe is a warm and sophisticated color choice for bungalow and ranch-style homes. To brighten up taupe, it is recommended to pair it with whites or off-whites, or contrast it with darker grays or browns.
How can navy blue be used as an exterior house color?
Navy blue is a classic and versatile color option that works well with coastal and inland homes. It can be paired with white trim for a timeless look or paired with turquoise and rustic brown accents for a more unique style.
What are the benefits of using pale yellow as an exterior house color?
Pale yellow is an eye-catching color that evokes feelings of cheer, happiness, and optimism. It can make your home look warm and inviting and even make it appear bigger due to its light-reflecting properties.
Why is gray a popular choice for the exterior of modern homes?
Gray creates an air of sophistication and calm and is a popular choice for modern homes and bungalows. It comes in various shades, allowing homeowners to choose the one that best suits their style and appeals to buyers in their area.
How can off-white be used as an exterior house color?
Off-white is an extremely versatile color that works well for both trim and siding. It provides a warm and softer alternative to bright white and pairs well with many other colors such as olive, brown, and black.
What makes blue-gray a suitable choice for Victorian-style homes?
Blue-gray is a pastel color with gray undertones, giving it a lighter and softer appearance. It has a broad appeal and can make your home feel welcoming. Classic white, off-white, and gray are popular choices for trim colors when paired with blue-gray siding.
How can wheat be used as an exterior house color?
Wheat combines the best qualities of white and yellow exterior paints. It provides a feeling of warmth and joy from yellow, as well as a clean and classic feel from white. It can be paired with dark browns, off-whites, grays, blue-grays, and charcoal for a harmonious color palette.
Why is white considered one of the best colors for selling a home?
White is simple, timeless, and appeals to a wide range of buyers. It serves as a blank canvas that allows potential buyers to envision their own style in the house. White also pairs well with a variety of other colors, making it a versatile choice.
How can lighthouse red be used as an exterior house color?
Lighthouse red is a traditional color option that feels both classic and fresh. It works well with a variety of landscapes, from homes nestled in trees to those with clean landscapes. The bold red can be used for doors, shutters, or accents to add a touch of personality to your home.
How do I choose the best color for my exterior house?
When choosing the best color for your exterior house, consider factors such as your home’s architectural style, surroundings, and personal preferences. Consulting with a Realtor or a professional paint consultant can help you make an informed decision. It’s also important to stay updated on current trends and select colors that enhance your home’s features and make it stand out in a positive way.
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Katherine
Meet Katherine, the creative enthusiast at ByRetreat who infuses her boundless passion for design into every remote workspace she crafts. With an innate sense of creativity and an eye for unconventional beauty, Katherine brings a unique and inspiring perspective to the team.
Katherine’s love for design is infectious, and her ability to think outside the box sets her apart. She believes that true artistry lies in embracing a variety of styles and mixing them harmoniously to create captivating spaces. By combining different textures, colors, and patterns, Katherine weaves a tapestry of creativity that breathes life into each remote workspace.
