The Best of Sherwin-Williams, Portola, and Benjamin Moore: A Designer’s Guide to Timeless Paint Colors

See Portola Paint's Half Dome in our latest rendering for our Mountain Retreat Project.

Choosing the right paint color can transform a space—it’s the backdrop for everything else and sets the tone for how a room feels. With so many options on the market, it helps to know which shades designers turn to again and again. Below are standout selections from three of the most beloved paint brands: Sherwin-Williams, Portola Paints, and Benjamin Moore. Whether you're designing a serene bedroom, a dramatic dining room, or a welcoming entryway, these colors never fail to deliver.

Sherwin-Williams: A Foundation of Soft Neutrals and Versatile Hues

Sherwin-Williams is a staple for designers for good reason—their palette is broad, dependable, and full of nuanced shades that read beautifully in real life.

1. Agreeable Gray (SW 7029): A longtime favorite, Agreeable Gray sits right on the edge between warm gray and soft beige, making it one of the most versatile neutrals out there. It works in both traditional and modern homes and looks especially great in living rooms, open-concept spaces, or anywhere you want a light, cozy, sophisticated feel. Its undertones are subtle enough to play well with both cool and warm accents.

2. Heron Plume (SW 6070): Heron Plume is a bright white with a subtle violet undertone, bringing a comfortably cool balance to any space. It's perfect for creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms, bathrooms, or any area where a tranquil ambiance is desired.

3. Alabaster (SW 7008): For a soft, creamy white that doesn’t feel sterile, Alabaster is the go-to. It has a warm undertone that adds subtle dimension while still reading clean. It's ideal for walls, trim, or even painted furniture. Think: a classic farmhouse kitchen or a serene primary bedroom.

Portola Paints: Earthy, Artful, and One-of-a-Kind

Portola is known for its handcrafted, mineral-based finishes and earthy, muted colors that feel like they were plucked straight from nature. Their paints are tactile, layered, and full of personality—even the flat wall finishes carry a depth you won’t find in mainstream brands.

1. Half Dome: This is one of Portola’s most iconic shades—a misty, cool gray that’s grounded and calm. Inspired by the granite cliffs of Yosemite, Half Dome is a natural fit for bedrooms, reading nooks, or minimalist spaces. It adds a quiet drama without overwhelming a room.

2. Piano Room: This is a warm, soft beige with earthy undertones that give it a natural, lived-in feel. It strikes a beautiful balance between cozy and clean—offering warmth without leaning too yellow or too pink. This shade works especially well in spaces where you want a neutral backdrop that still feels layered and inviting. It pairs effortlessly with natural materials like wood, stone, and linen, making it a go-to choice for modern rustic, California casual, or minimalist interiors.

3. Blondie (Lime Wash): Blondie is a bright off-white with a warm creamy undertone, available in Portola's traditional lime-based finish. The Lime Wash creates a beautiful weathered patina with subtle movement and natural color variation that softens and streaks with age, adding depth and texture to any space.

Benjamin Moore: Timeless Classics and Bold Statements

Benjamin Moore offers an incredible range of colors, and their fan favorites have rightfully earned their cult status in design circles.

1. Pale Oak (OC-20): Pale Oak is a soft, warm greige that lives somewhere between a creamy white and a subtle taupe. It shifts beautifully with the light, which makes it a dream for walls in bedrooms, entryways, or open-plan living spaces. It’s understated and elegant, never boring.

2. Hale Navy (HC-154): If you're after a bold, classic blue that still feels grown-up, Hale Navy is it. Rich and saturated, it’s equally at home in a coastal home or a high-contrast modern space. Use it on built-ins, front doors, or as a powerful accent wall. It plays well with crisp whites and polished metals.

3. Revere Pewter (HC-172): This beloved greige continues to be a top choice for designers and homeowners alike. Revere Pewter is warmer and deeper than Pale Oak, with a little more weight to it—making it perfect for cozy spaces like dens or family rooms. It’s neutral, but with personality.

No matter your style - coastal, classic, modern, or boho -there’s something in these palettes that will resonate. Sherwin-Williams gives you versatility and reliability, Portola adds that artisanal, earthy depth, and Benjamin Moore rounds things out with timeless sophistication.

The key is to sample your colors in your own space. Paint a few swatches, live with them for a few days, and see how they shift with light throughout the day. You’ll know when you’ve found “the one.”

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