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Pure White: A List of My Top Three Favorites
Choosing a white paint might sound easy, until you’re standing in front of a wall of paint swatches, wondering how there could possibly be this many shades of white. It’s a little overwhelming, right? Over the years, I’ve seen white paint do all sorts of unexpected things. It can look too yellow, make a room feel chilly and gray, or even clash with floors and furniture in ways you wouldn’t expect. Good news: I’ve done the work for you! After working with countless shades, I’ve narrowed it down to a list of my top three favorites- the top purest whites: ones I always trust to look stunning, no matter the light or the space. Think of these as the design world’s version of a classic white button-up: crisp, clean, and effortless.
Why Pure White?
Many whites have undertones, subtle hints of green, yellow, pink, or gray, that can shift dramatically depending on the lighting or surrounding colors. For example, a white that looks crisp in natural light might appear green in the afternoon or yellow under artificial lighting. Even these seemingly subtle changes can throw off the look and feel of your entire space.
That’s where pure whites come in:
- No surprises: Without undertones, pure whites stay consistent in any lighting.
- Seamless pairing: They work beautifully with everything from flooring and furniture to art and accents.
- A perfect canvas: Pure whites create a neutral, balanced backdrop that lets other colors truly shine.
With these pure whites, you can trust your space to look timeless, cohesive, and beautifully balanced.
The Top Three Purest White Paint Colors (Across Brands)
When it comes to pure white paint, these three stand out in my book for their unmatched brightness and versatility. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, minimalist vibe or a timeless backdrop for bold accents, these three options have you covered:
- Benjamin Moore: Chantilly Lace (OC-65)
Description: Crisp, clean, and bright without leaning too cool or warm.
Why it’s great: This white works beautifully in spaces with varying light conditions, maintaining a true blank canvas effect.
Ideal for: Modern interiors, gallery-style walls, and rooms with bold accent colors. - Sherwin Williams: High Reflective White (SW 7757)
Description: The brand’s brightest and whitest paint, with no noticeable undertones.
Why it’s great: Reflects light effortlessly, making it perfect for spaces that need a bright, open feel.
Ideal for: Homes with limited natural light or those seeking a sleek, contemporary aesthetic. - Behr: Ultra Pure White
Description: Known for its unmatched brightness and true white appearance straight from the can.
Why it’s great: Affordable, easy to find, and widely regarded as one of the purest whites on the market.
Ideal for: Budget-friendly projects and versatile applications across a variety of styles.
No matter which one you choose, these pure whites are tried-and-true favorites that deliver beauty and consistency in any space.
Why Pure Whites Are My (and Every Designer’s) Best Friend
Pure whites are the secret when it comes to creating a bright and versatile space. Here is a list of (what I would say are) the major benefits:
- Consistent in any light: Whether it’s natural, artificial, or a mix of both, pure whites stay true to their color, so you don’t have to worry about them shifting under different lighting.
- Unmatched versatility: They pair effortlessly with any furniture, flooring, or color palette, making them a reliable choice for any design style.
- Aesthetic neutrality: Pure whites provide a perfect backdrop for bold decor, vibrant artwork, or accent walls to shine.
How to Choose the Right White for Your Space
Even the best require a little thought to find the perfect fit for your home. Here’s how to make the most of them:
- Consider the sheen: The finish matters! Use flat or matte for walls to create a soft, velvety look, while satin or semi-gloss works best for trim, adding subtle dimension.
- Test first: Lighting can still play tricks, even with pure whites. Swatches or sample pots are your best friends—try them in your space and observe how they change throughout the day.
- Think big picture: One of the greatest strengths of pure white is its flexibility. It’s timeless, so as trends change or your furniture evolves, your walls will remain effortlessly compatible.
Chantilly Lace, High Reflective White, and Ultra Pure White have earned their place as industry favorites for a reason. I can attest that they are reliable, versatile, and create a perfect canvas. Whether you’re revamping a modern interior or brightening up a space that needs a little more light, these pure whites are my (and now your) go-to. I encourage you to test these options out in your own space.
Bonus: Quick Reference Guide
Here’s a simple breakdown of my top three pure whites to help you choose the perfect one for your space:
- Benjamin Moore – Chantilly Lace
Undertone: None
Best For: Modern, bright interiors looking for a clean, crisp look. - Sherwin Williams – High Reflective White
Undertone: None
Best For: Spaces that need to feel open, airy, and full of light. - Behr – Ultra Pure White
Undertone: None
Best For: Budget-friendly projects that still need a fresh, versatile white.
Choosing the perfect paint colors is an exciting, albeit daunting, step in designing your space, and I understand that sometimes you might need a little help to bring that vision to life. If you’re ready to give your space a fresh look but don’t have the time to tackle it all yourself, we’re here to help! All you have to do is relax and enjoy the journey. Reach out to us at hello@revelryinteriordesign.com or book a free consultation with us here.
Cheers,
Dana Feagles, Principal Interior Designer