You’d think picking a white paint for the living room would be easy—just white, right? That’s what I thought too, until I realized how much personality each shade of white can have.
Some are soft and cozy, others crisp and modern. And then there are those whites that look completely different in morning light versus evening shadows.
I’ve been through the trials of testing swatches, second-guessing undertones, and debating over “warm” versus “cool.”
After all that, I’ve narrowed it down to 13 incredible shades of white that are perfect for living rooms.
These colors don’t just sit on your walls—they bring out the best in your furniture, light, and overall vibe.
If you’re looking for a white paint that feels just right, you’re in the right place.
How to Pick the Best White Paint Colors for living rooms?
Picking the best white paint for your living room isn’t just about choosing the brightest shade on the paint card. It’s about finding a white that complements your space, your style, and your mood.
Here’s a guide to help you make the right choice for your living room:
1. Consider the Room’s Lighting
Lighting plays a huge role in how a white paint color will look on your walls. Natural light will bring out different undertones than artificial lighting, so it’s essential to test your color at various times of the day. If your room gets a lot of natural sunlight, you can afford to go with a cooler or brighter white like Chantilly Lace. But if your living room feels a little dark or lacks natural light, a warmer white like Alabaster might help make the space feel cozier and more inviting.
2. Decide on Warm vs. Cool Undertones
Whites aren’t just white. They come in warm (with yellow, beige, or pink undertones) or cool (with blue, gray, or green undertones). If you’re aiming for a clean, fresh look, a cooler white like Extra White might be the way to go. If you want something softer and more relaxing, a warm white like Swiss Coffee will create a comfortable, homey atmosphere.
To figure out which direction to go, think about your furniture and other elements in the room. Warm whites work beautifully with warm-toned woods and earthy colors, while cool whites pair better with sleek, modern furniture and cooler color schemes.
3. Test a Few Samples
Never rely solely on paint chips when picking a white. They can be misleading, especially when you’re dealing with such a subtle color. Grab a few samples and test them on your walls. I always recommend painting at least two large swatches on different walls (preferably in spots where they’ll get natural light and artificial light) to see how the color looks at different times of the day.
4. Take Your Existing Decor Into Account
Your furniture, art, and accessories all play a big role in how the white paint will look. If your living room is filled with vibrant colors, a crisp white like Simply White will make the colors pop and give the space a modern, fresh feel. If your furniture has a more traditional vibe, a soft white like Wimborne White will bring out the warmth and elegance of your pieces.
Also Read: 13 Best White Paint Colors to Transform Your Home
Here Are the Top 13 White Paint Colors for Living Rooms
1. Alabaster SW 7008 By Sherwin-Williams
Alabaster holds a timeless charm that feels warm and welcoming, making it a popular pick for living rooms. Its creamy white tone has a subtle hint of beige undertone, which creates a soft, cozy atmosphere without overwhelming the space.
What I love about Alabaster is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with both modern and traditional decor, making it an easy choice for homeowners who want a cohesive look. If you’re someone who appreciates a tranquil living room, Alabaster will embrace natural light during the day and create a serene ambiance in the evening under soft lighting.
The reason it makes the top 13 list is simple: it’s the perfect balance of brightness and warmth. It doesn’t lean too cool or too yellow, which can be tricky with white paints. Alabaster gets it just right.
2. Pure White SW 7005 By Sherwin-Williams
If you’re a fan of clean, true whites, Pure White is your go-to color. It’s aptly named because it doesn’t have strong undertones, which gives it a crisp and straightforward feel. That said, it does carry a hint of warmth, making it softer than stark whites like Extra White.
This color is ideal for living rooms with bold accent colors or vibrant decor since it provides a neutral backdrop without competing for attention. I also love how it complements wood tones—whether light oak or dark walnut—making it incredibly flexible for various styles.
Pure White’s strength lies in its ability to feel modern and inviting at the same time. It’s a top contender for its sheer adaptability.
3. All White No. 2005 By Farrow & Ball
Farrow & Ball’s All White is the epitome of simplicity. Unlike some whites, this one doesn’t carry any noticeable undertones of gray or yellow, which makes it a purist’s dream.
What makes All White stand out is its finish options. In a matte or eggshell finish, it looks incredibly soft and understated. Pair it with bold architectural features or minimalist decor, and it effortlessly enhances the space.
I think this color is best for those who crave a refined and slightly sophisticated look. Its neutrality is why it lands on this list—because sometimes, all you need is a simple, unpretentious white to let your living room shine.
4. Chantilly Lace OC-65 By Benjamin Moore
Chantilly Lace is one of my all-time favorites for its bright, clean aesthetic. This white leans cooler with subtle blue undertones, giving it an airy and fresh feel.
I recommend Chantilly Lace for living rooms that need a boost of brightness, especially if you have limited natural light. It works beautifully with contemporary designs and even complements coastal-inspired decor.
What makes it a standout? Its crispness. It’s not too sterile, but it’s perfect if you want a clean, elegant vibe that feels fresh every time you walk in.
5. Cabbage White No. 269 By Farrow & Ball
This one is for those who like a whisper of color in their white paint. Cabbage White is a soft white with a faint blue-green undertone that gives it a unique, almost ethereal quality.
I find this shade especially appealing for living rooms that aim to feel calming yet slightly playful. Pair it with light gray furniture or natural wood tones, and you’ll get a cohesive, serene space.
It’s in the top 13 because it steps out of the box while still offering the brightness of white. It’s proof that white doesn’t have to be boring.
6. Extra White SW 7006 By Sherwin-Williams
Extra White is the go-to choice if you want a bright and bold white. It leans cool, with subtle blue undertones that give it a crisp, modern feel.
This color is perfect for living rooms with sleek, minimalist furniture or spaces that embrace contemporary aesthetics. I also think it works wonders in spaces with plenty of natural light, as it enhances the room’s openness.
Why is it on the list? Its clarity. Extra White makes a statement without being overpowering, which is a rare feat for a white paint.
7. Simply White OC-117 By Benjamin Moore
Simply White is one of the most celebrated white paints, and for good reason. It has a touch of warmth, which gives it a soft glow, yet it remains bright and fresh.
This shade works wonders in living rooms that aim for a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It pairs well with both cool and warm palettes, making it incredibly versatile. I love how it reflects light beautifully, creating a sense of spaciousness.
Simply White earns its spot because it’s the perfect middle ground—neither too stark nor too creamy. It’s simply perfect.
8. Distant Gray 2124-70 By Benjamin Moore
For those who prefer a whisper of gray in their white, Distant Gray is an excellent choice. It’s a bright white with subtle cool undertones that lean into light gray.
This shade feels polished and slightly edgy, making it ideal for modern or transitional living rooms. I especially love using Distant Gray with metallic accents or industrial-style furniture for a chic look.
Its inclusion in the list comes down to its unique ability to feel both classic and contemporary. It’s white with a twist.
9. School House White No. 291 By Farrow & Ball
School House White is a soft, off-white with gray-beige undertones that exude a sense of calm and sophistication.
This color is perfect for traditional or vintage-inspired living rooms. Its muted tone adds depth without feeling heavy, making it an excellent choice for rooms with rich textures like velvet or linen.
It’s on this list because it brings character and warmth to a space, proving that subtlety can be powerful.
10. Reserved White SW 7056 By Sherwin-Williams
Reserved White leans slightly cool with a touch of gray, making it a sophisticated option for modern living rooms.
I find this shade ideal for creating a serene and balanced atmosphere. It’s neither too bright nor too muted, which makes it a versatile choice for varied decor styles.
It earns its spot because it’s understated yet impactful—perfect for someone who wants a subtle, polished look.
11. Snowbound SW 7004 By Sherwin-Williams
Snowbound has a soft, warm undertone that makes it feel cozy and inviting.
This shade is fantastic for creating a welcoming living room. It’s not overly stark, so it feels approachable and works well with warm woods or earthy tones.
Why is it here? It’s a consistent crowd-pleaser that works in almost any lighting condition.
12. Swiss Coffee OC-45 By Benjamin Moore
Swiss Coffee is a creamy white with soft beige undertones, creating a warm and cozy vibe.
This color is ideal for living rooms that aim for a relaxed, homey feel. It pairs beautifully with warm neutrals and natural materials like wood and stone.
Swiss Coffee makes the list because of its timeless appeal and ability to make a space feel lived-in and loved.
13. Wimborne White No. 239 By Farrow & Ball
Wimborne White has a subtle warmth that gives it a slightly creamy feel without veering into yellow.
I think this shade is perfect for living rooms with classic or traditional decor. It adds just enough warmth to feel inviting while maintaining a clean and fresh look.
It’s on the list because it strikes the perfect balance—bright yet soft, classic yet modern.
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Final Thoughts
I’ll admit it—choosing the perfect white paint can feel overwhelming. But once you find the one, it all comes together. The shades I’ve shared here aren’t just pretty names; they’re tried-and-true options that bring life and character to any living room.
Whether you’re drawn to the soft warmth of Alabaster or the clean elegance of Simply White, each of these whites has the power to transform your space into something truly special.
My advice? Start with a sample or two, live with them for a few days, and trust your instincts. After all, it’s your living room—make it a space that feels just as amazing as it looks.
