My Can’t Miss Paint Palette: 4 Refined Neutrals (and One Bold Black) I Use on Repeat

Great rooms start with great paint, and this is the tried-and-true neutral paint palette I reach for again and again. These hues play beautifully with Florida light and create that chic-yet-comfortable vibe my clients love.

Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black (SW 6258)

When I want crisp contrast and architecture to stand out, Tricorn Black is my go-to. It’s a deep, neutral black that frames windows, doors, and built-ins with impact and polish. On a front door or interior accent wall, it adds instant sophistication without feeling trendy.

Sherwin-Williams Pure White (SW 7005)

Pure White is the clean, gallery-fresh backdrop I use to let textures and finishes shine. It’s bright and versatile, with just the softest warmth so rooms never feel sterile. I love it for walls in open plans and for trim when I’m pairing it with moodier cabinetry. Think breezy and fresh, without being cold. 

Sherwin-Williams Analytical Gray (SW 7051)

If you’re after a refined neutral that still feels inviting, Analytical Gray brings a warm, stone-inspired elegance. It bridges cool and warm furnishings effortlessly, which makes it a hero shade for living rooms and dens where natural light shifts throughout the day. It’s calm, cohesive, and livable. 

Benjamin Moore Hampshire Rocks (1450)

Hampshire Rocks is a pale, luminous hue with subtle gray that softens its delicate violet cast. The result is airy and sophisticated; beautiful in bedrooms or powder rooms where you want a hint of color that still behaves like a neutral.

Benjamin Moore Marina Gray (1599)

For coastal-cool depth, Marina Gray is quiet, modern, and endlessly layerable. It’s lovely with natural woods, woven textures, and polished nickel, making it a smart pick for offices, dining rooms, or moody kitchen islands that still feel timeless. 

A quick word on paint finishes (aka sheen)

Finish matters just as much as color. For most interior walls, eggshell or satin are the sweet spot. Their low sheen hides minor imperfections but is durable enough for everyday life. Note that satin leans a touch more wipeable, which is great for kitchens and baths. Ceilings typically look best in flat/matte so they don’t steal the spotlight.

For trim, doors, and cabinetry, step up to semi-gloss to highlight profiles and stand up to scuffs. If you’re painting furniture, semi-gloss also offers a smooth, cleanable surface. And if you're looking to make your home office or bar shine, high-gloss creates a luxe, jewel-box feel. Most importantly, make sure to always sample both color and finish in your actual light before you commit. 

Let’s take the guesswork out of color. Book an à la carte paint consultation and I’ll create a custom scheme for your home.

Warmly,

Kim