One of our favorite designer secrets for effortless elegance. Use ONE Neutral Color, in 3 Sheens: The Foolproof Formula for a Pulled-Together, Designer Look.
You’ve got your paint fan deck, 37 “white” chips fanned out on the table, and no clear winner in sight. Here’s the truth: Choosing multiple paint colors for walls, trim, and ceilings can be overwhelming—and risky. One wrong undertone and suddenly your “warm and welcoming” feels more like “what went wrong?”
Here’s the Fix:
Use the same paint color on everything—walls, trim, AND ceiling. Just switch up the sheen.
Why This Works
This technique is a professional favorite for a reason. Painting your entire space in one color:
- Unifies the room
- Eliminates awkward transitions
- Creates a rich, layered effect without being busy
Using different sheens adds subtle contrast and texture without breaking the color story.
The Sheen Strategy
- Walls – Matte or Eggshell Soft – elegant, hides minor imperfections
- Trim & Doors – Satin or Semi-gloss – Durable, easy to clean, adds definition
- Ceiling – Flat Non-reflective – disappears into the background
Pro tip: Using the same color makes your ceilings feel higher, your trim less choppy, and your whole home feel curated.
Who This Is For
- DIY decorators who want a look they can’t mess up
- Design-forward homeowners craving that clean, modern feel
- Stagers and flippers looking to appeal to broad tastes (and boost perceived value!)
Real-Life Color Inspo
- Shoji White SW 7042 – Warm and earthy with a soft, grounded feel
- Alabaster SW 7008 – A creamy classic that works everywhere
- Greek Villa SW 7551 – Light and fresh, with a whisper of warmth
- Dover White SW 6385 – Cozy and inviting without feeling yellow
Choose your favorite and layer it up—walls, trim, and ceiling. One color. Three finishes. Done.
