Top 10 Modern Paint Colors From an Expert

Shades to Update Bedrooms, Kitchens, and Living Rooms

By
Christie Calucchia
Christie Calucchia

Christie has been writing for MyDomaine for almost two years. She was an assistant editor for the site for over a year before starting as a contributing freelance writer. She's currently an e-commerce lifestyle writer for Meredith Corporation.

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Updated on May 02, 2022

Graphic by Cristina Cianci

These days, the word "modern" means a variety of different things, especially when it comes to embarking on a new interior paint project. Some think pure white paint is modernity incarnate, while others picture deep, dramatic hues. But the truth is that both types of colors have the ability to take lifeless spaces to new style heights, depending on where, and how, they're used. Modern colors aren't necessarily reserved for modern architecture, either, explains Benjamin Moore's Andrea Magno. Rather, "they capture a modern sensibility," she explains.

While Magno acknowledges that in recent years, folks are straying from the dated idea that a modern room is one that's staunchly bright-white, she also admits that variations of white and gray—neutrals—are actually the forerunning color trends proliferating today's painting projects.

Meet the Expert

Andrea Magno is the director of color marketing and development at Benjamin Moore and has worked with the paint company for over 15 years.

Consider using one of these ultra-versatile paint colors to give your space a quick pick-me-up.

01 of 10

Benjamin Moore Caliente

Benjamine Moore - Caliente

Benjamin Moore 

"The captivating, upbeat power of red brings energy into every room," says Magno. Bold and energizing (and with brown undertones), Caliente completely transforms any space, whether covering an entire room or used as a simple accent. "Red never fails to make a statement," she adds, "and you can show off your color-confidence with this classic, dramatic hue."

A color swatch of Benjamin Moore's Caliente paint.
Benjamin Moore Caliente AF-290 $45.00
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02 of 10

Benjamin Moore White Opulence

Benjamn Moore - White Opulence

 Emily Henderson Design 

Some colors never go out of style, like this versatile, bright off-white. "White Opulence is crisp and clean with just the slightest touch of pink," Magno says. Use it anywhere you want to evoke a serene, tranquil feeling, such as a bedroom or bathroom.

A can of Benjamin Moore's White Opulence paint.
Benjamin Moore White Opulence OC-69 $45.00
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03 of 10

Benjamin Moore Black Beauty

Black Beauty

Devon Grace Interiors

To create depth and a dramatic effect, paint walls black. "It's a chic way to elevate other colors, and it makes a strong style statement," Magno says. Black Beauty is a warm, modern, rich tone that that pairs well with any hue, but especially whites, deep greens, pinks, and metallic tones.

This black is perfect for small spaces such as powder rooms, entryways, and dens.

A can of Benjamin Moore's Black Beauty paint.
Benjamin Moore Black Beauty 2128-10 $45.00
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04 of 10

Benjamin Moore White Heron

Benjamin Moore - White Heron

Phil Crozier; Design by Reena Sotropa In House Design

Another off-white, White Heron is a crisp variation with blue undertones that's particularly nice on trim, casings, and millwork. On walls, white is the perfect backdrop via which to show off artwork and decorative elements. Pair it with warm and cool shades—both work with it because it isn't too stark.

A can of Benjamin Moore's White Heron paint.
Benjamin Moore White Heron OC-57 $45.00
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05 of 10

Benjamin Moore Excalibur Gray

Benjamin Moore - Excalibur Gray

Benjamin Moore

"Sophisticated and subdued, Excalibur Gray has a slightly violet cast that's ideal in a bedroom or bathroom," says Magno. We love this romantic, moody shade that breathes new life into basic gray.

A color swatch of Benjamin Moore's Excalibur Gray paint.
Benjamin Moore Excalibur Gray 2118-50 $45.00
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06 of 10

Benjamin Moore Moonshine

Benjamin Moore - Moonshine

Devon Grace Interiors 

As its name suggests, Moonshine isn't quite white nor is it a full-on gray—it falls somewhere in the middle. "A pale gray with a tinge of green, Moonshine is a subtle color that complements many materials and textures; it's versatile and nuanced," says Magno.

A color swatch of Benjamin Moore's Moonshine paint.
Benjamin Moore Moonshine 2140-60 $45.00
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07 of 10

Benjamin Moore Wolf Gray

Benjamin Moore - Wolf Gray

Benjamin Moore

The statement-making Wolf Gray is cool, with strong blue undertones. It looks beautiful on kitchen cabinetry, built-in bookshelves, millwork, and yes, walls. Earthy neutrals, such as muted yellows and greens, and bolder colors, like cobalt and indigo, complement its richness.

A color swatch of Benjamin Moore's Wolf Gray paint.
Benjamin Moore Wolf Gray 2127-40 $45.00
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08 of 10

Benjamin Moore Silver Marlin

Benjamin Moore - Silver Marlin

Benjamin Moore

"This pale slightly-green gray is tranquil and elegant," says Magno. She recommends using Silver Marlin in a living room, bedroom, or bathroom and pairing it with soft, metallic accents such as antique brass or brushed nickel.

Try it alongside edgier hues (think: black, lime green, or deep magenta) for a fresher, more dynamic look.

A color swatch of Benjamin Moore's Silver Marlin paint.
Benjamin Moore Silver Marlin 2139-50 $45.00
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09 of 10

Benjamin Moore Sharkskin

Benjamin Moore - Sharksin

Benjamin Moore

Sharkskin reads as a deep, gray-green and is "a versatile color that pairs easily with pastels, and bolder colors, too," Magno says. Mustard and deep red accents will pop against its verdant undertones. Consider it for the exterior of your home, as well.

Benjamin Moore Sharkskin 2139-30 $45.00
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10 of 10

Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist

Benjamine Moore - Balboa Mist

Heidi's Bridge; Design by Jersey Ice Cream Co.

According to Magno, Balboa Mist is one of Benjamin Moore's most popular grays due to its ability to freshen and modernize any space. "It works beautifully with a wide range of other colors, and stands up well on its own," she says. Consider ceilings, trim, and walls.

A color swatch of Benjamin Moore's Balboa Mist paint.
Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist OC-27 $45.00
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Article Sources
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  1. Elliot AJ. Color and Psychological Functioning: A Review of Theoretical and Empirical Work. Front Psychol. 2015;6:368.doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00368