How to Choose Paint Colours That Won’t Date Quickly
- Eileen Jemmett
- Nov 25
- 2 min read
Hi, I’m Eileen! Choosing paint colours can feel like one of the trickiest parts of designing a home. We’ve all seen colours come in, take over every Pinterest board, and then suddenly disappear again.
So how do you pick colours that stand the test of time? Here’s my honest take.
If you’re creating a home that’s truly for you and your family, and you plan to stay for a few years, the colours you love will never go out of style. If a shade or pattern brings you joy, that feeling will last far longer than any trend.
Trends Come and Go and Come Back Again
Like fashion, colours and styles have their moment, then slowly fade, only to return years later with a new twist. Think of the soft greens and warm neutrals that are back in style, they’ve all had their turn before!
The key is not to chase what’s “in” right now, but to choose colours that reflect your personality and how you want your home to feel.
Playing It Safe with Neutrals
“Neutral” is a word that gets thrown around a lot. For some, it’s the go-to when they want to keep things simple and timeless. And it’s true. Neutrals are easy on the eye and appeal to many, which makes them a popular choice if you’re renovating to sell or want broad appeal.
But if you’re creating a home for yourself, don’t be afraid to go beyond beige and white. Add depth with texture, contrast with earthy tones, or include a pop of colour that lifts your mood.
Playing it safe can be beautiful but only if it still feels like you.
Choosing Exterior Colours That Last
When selecting exterior colours, it’s important to think beyond the latest trend. The goal is to complement the home’s architecture and its natural surroundings.
Take into account:
The style of your home - modern, coastal, traditional, or cottage-inspired.
The materials and textures - brick, timber, render, or stone.
The environment - what’s around you? Lush greenery, ocean views, or urban streetscapes?
Your exterior palette should harmonise with the landscape, not compete with it. Forget what’s “in” this year and focus on what works with your home’s character. That’s the true key to timeless appeal.
Creating a Seamless Transition Indoors
Internally, the best colour stories start from the outside in. When your interior palette flows naturally from your exterior, your home feels connected and considered.
White-based interiors are a great foundation because they’re timeless and flexible. The secret is in the undertone:
Choose cooler whites if your exterior colours have greys, blues, or charcoals.
Choose warmer whites if your exterior features earthy or sandy tones.
That subtle link between inside and out creates a sense of calm and cohesion, something that will never date.
My Final Tip
The most timeless homes are the ones that reflect their owners. Whether you’re drawn to soft neutrals, deep charcoals, or warm terracottas, trust your instincts. If a colour makes you feel good every time you walk through the door, that’s a colour worth choosing.
Contact me today and let’s make your home feel like you 🏡