Painting Basics: Selecting Trim Paint Colors

A homeowner can choose to coordinate the trim colors with the walls or pick contrasting colors.

The walls are the most noticeable parts of any room. So, when contemplating a painting project, most homeowners pay the most attention to choosing the right wall paint color and often overlook the trim. However, selecting a suitable trim color holds equal importance. The correct trim paint color adds a finishing touch to the newly-painted room and accents its key features. It can further beautify the wall color and make it stand out, regardless of whether the home has panel molding, baseboard, crown molding, chair rail, picture rail, or wainscotting. 

Selecting the right trim paint color is no less overwhelming than choosing the wall colors. A homeowner can choose to coordinate the trim colors with the walls or pick contrasting colors. The key is to choose a paint color that accentuates the walls, ceilings, and furnishings and makes the room more interesting visually. Here are a few tips for picking the perfect trim colors:

Using white as a trim color

White is the most popular and timeless trim paint color. Homeowners love white as it goes with any paint color and gives the room a classic appearance. Pair white with darker wall colors to get a lighter appearance. For soft or pastel walls, white trims create a perfectly subtle contrast. White paint colors come in varied shades, from classic white to soft gray, with cool, warm, or creamy undertones. White is the ideal choice for people who are indecisive about the perfect trim color. White can act as a complementary or contrasting color depending on the selected shade. A professional painting company can assist in choosing the suitable shade of white based on your preference.  

Choose the same color for the trim and walls

Choosing the same trim paint color as the walls for smaller rooms can make them appear larger. It also helps give the room a modern appeal and create a streamlined effect. It is an ideal option for homes where each room has a different color paint. 

Go for darker colors

Dark trim paint colors have gained popularity in recent years. Darker colors create a contrasting look, add depth, and bring attention to the windows and doors. In addition, they can make a room feel more intimate. You can choose colors like black, blue, or brown or the darker shades of the wall color for a more dramatic look.

Neutral colors

White is not the only neutral trim paint color. Black, gray, charcoal, and cream or beige are other neutrals that homeowners can select. Black can make the trims pop. Matching black with white or light-colored walls can help achieve the perfect balance. Gray trim can add sophistication and class to any room. Cream and beige are ideal for trims, where walls and ceilings have similar undertones. 

Besides paint color, choosing the right sheen is also crucial. Gloss or semi-gloss are popular paint finishes for trims. They are durable, suitable for high-traffic areas, and have reflective qualities. 

Choose the best trim color

The final trim color choice usually depends on individual taste and preference and the desired look a homeowner is trying to achieve. Countless color options are available whether you want to create a monochromatic, bold, or modern look. Hire a local painting company to transform the look of the trims without compromising durability.  


M & B Painting, a Father-Son family-run business, has a proven record of Service Excellence in residential and commercial interior and exterior paint projects. Call us at 623-289-3366 for all of your painting needs!