Bold colour needs somewhere quiet to sit. These are the neutrals we return to, and what each one does best.
Sea Pearl 961, Benjamin Moore
A classic neutral that walks the line between warm and cool very well. We especially love it in a room with travertine tile. It is equally at home next to concrete floors in a more modern scheme.
Silver Satin 856, Benjamin Moore
A soft grey, so light in morning light that it reads almost white. As the day goes on, be ready for a touch of magenta to come out in the warmer sunset light. We use it in rooms with warm red-toned blues or purple accessories.
White Duck 7010, Sherwin Williams
This soft neutral works well with classic rattan. White Duck gives the beachy, slightly bohemian look a bit of warmth in the backdrop.
Shell White 8917, Sherwin Williams
Light, bright and a little creamy. A favourite for modern homes using accent colours in hibiscus red, bougainvillea pink and other sunset shades.
Eider White 7014, Sherwin Williams
A cool-toned pale neutral that pairs well with indigo and mid-toned wood floors. A fresh update on classic British West Indies style.
One habit worth keeping: sample every one of these on the actual wall, and look at it in the morning and again at sunset. Island light moves further through the day than most people expect.