How to Choose the Perfect White Paint Color for Your Walls
Choosing the right whiter paint can be surprisingly tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. In this post, we’re breaking down how to pick the perfect white for your walls, with tips on undertones, lighting, and designer approved favorites that work in every home.
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Choosing a white paint color might seem simple, until you’re standing in the paint aisle staring at a wall of swatches that all look nearly identical. Warm whites, cool whites, soft whites, bright whites…who knew there were so many ways to say “white”?
But here’s the truth: the right white can completely transform a space. It can make your home feel airy and open or soft and cozy. It can highlight your trim, calm your space, or provide a crisp backdrop for bolder accents. The key is knowing how to choose a white that works for your home, not just one that looks pretty on Pinterest.
Let’s take the guesswork out of it. Here’s how to confidently choose the perfect white paint color for your walls so your home feels like the calm, collected space you’ve been dreaming of.
1. Understand Warm vs. Cool Whites
All white paints are not created equal. Some have subtle undertones that can completely change how they read in a room.
Warm whites have yellow, red, or beige undertones. They feel soft, cozy, and inviting, These are perfect for traditional, cottage, or rustic interiors.
Cool whites have blue or gray undertones. They feel crisp, clean, and modern. These feel great in coastal, contemporary, or minimalist spaces.
True whites are more neutral, with very little undertone. They’re bright and versatile, but can feel stark if not styled intentionally.
Rocky Hill Tip: If your space doesn’t get much natural light, a warm white will help it feel less sterile. If your room is already bright and sunny, a cooler white can help balance the warmth.
2. Consider Your Lighting
White paint is a chameleon. It changes based on your lighting.
North-facing rooms tend to cast a cooler, blue-ish light. Look for warmer whites to counteract this and keep things feeling soft.
South-facing rooms are filled with warm, natural light. You can use a cooler or true white here and still have it feel balanced.
East-facing rooms get gentle, cool morning light. A soft white with a bit of warmth can make the room feel welcoming all day.
West-facing rooms glow in the evening but can feel dull in the morning. Choose a white that holds its own in dim light but doesn’t overheat later in the day.
3. Sample in Your Own Space
Never (we mean never) pick a white based on a paint chip alone. What looks perfect in the store may look too yellow or too stark once it’s on your walls.
Buy samples of 2–3 options and test them on large patches.
Try them in different spots in your room and look at them throughout the day.
Be sure to view them with your lighting, furniture, and flooring in place.
Rocky Hill Tip: Samplize offers warm white and cool white bundles of 8 paint samples each. This is a great option if you really don’t know where to start, but I highly recommend buying 2-3 for testing even if you do. These samples can be stuck on your walls, and easily moved around from room to room.
4. Match the Mood of Your Home
What’s the overall feeling you want your home to have? Relaxed coastal? Refined and traditional? Minimal and bright?
Here are some of our favorite go-to whites for different vibes:
For a cozy, timeless look:
Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee: a soft, warm white with subtle depth. A Rocky Hill Home favorite.For a clean, classic backdrop:
Chantilly Lace: a bright, neutral white that pairs beautifully with modern or traditional designs.For a vintage-inspired, collected home:
White Dove: warm but not yellow, soft but not gray. The ultimate “lived-in elegance” white.For a modern coastal feel:
Decorator’s White: crisp with a hint of coolness. Great for trim or bright, airy rooms.Tip: Patrick Ahearn, the king of coastal New England architecture, shared the special mix he uses in his homes. The signature color he refers to as “Ahearn White”, is a 50/50 mix of Benjamin Moore’s China White and Linen White.
5. Don’t Forget the Trim
Your trim color will influence how your wall color looks. You can either:
Match it for a seamless, soft effect.
Go brighter on the trim for a fresh, defined contrast.
Rocky Hill Tip: Try pairing White Dove walls with Simply White trim for just the right amount of contrast without feeling stark.
6. Trust Your Eye (and Your Gut)
You don’t need to overthink this. Trust your instinct for what feels right in your space. If a white makes your room feel warm, bright, and elevated, you’ve found your match.
Remember, the goal isn’t to find the “perfect” white in theory. It’s to find the one that feels perfect for you.
At Rocky Hill Home, we believe creating a home you love doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little guidance (and the right white!), you’ll be designing with confidence in no time.
Still unsure where to start?
Download the Free Mini Paint Guide for 3 timeless color combos that work beautifully in any home. It’s the perfect first step to finding a color palette you’ll love, without the overwhelm.
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Top 5 Slipcovered Sofas for a Timeless Living Room
Looking for the perfect slipcovered sofa? Discover the top 5 slipcovered sofas that combine comfort, durability, and timeless style. Perfect for creating a cozy, collected living room you’ll love for years to come.
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When it comes to creating a living room that feels effortlessly elegant, comfortable, and built to last, a slipcovered sofa is one of the best investments you can make.
Slipcovered sofas strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined. They’re classic, inviting, and (bonus!) they’re practical (especially if you have kids, pets, or a passion for red wine). Just remove the cover, toss it in the wash, and voilà: fresh as new. (Make sure you follow the care instructions!)
But not all slipcovered sofas are created equal. If you want that collected, you’ll want a piece that's beautifully tailored, built to last, and stylish without feeling stuffy.
Here are our top 5 slipcovered sofas that will elevate your living room, and stand the test of time.
1. Pottery Barn York Slipcovered Sofa
Why we love it:
The York is a Rocky Hill Home staple. It’s versatile, beautifully crafted, and endlessly customizable. Its deep seat and plush cushions make it insanely comfortable, while its clean lines keep the look elevated. Choose from classic or deep seat depths, wide or narrow arms, and a range of performance fabrics that are both family and pet-friendly.
Perfect for:
A cozy, collected home that’s equal parts inviting and polished.
2. Arhaus Ashbury Slipcovered Sofa
Why we love it:
The Ashbury brings luxurious comfort to the slipcovered sofa game. With standard or deep seats, a relaxed silhouette, and hand-finished frames, this sofa feels effortlessly elegant without being too formal. Arhaus pieces are known for their quality craftsmanship, and the Ashbury is no exception.
Perfect for:
An elevated, heirloom-quality living space with casual charm.
3. Serena & Lily Spruce Street Slipcovered Sofa
Why we love it:
Serena & Lily's designs always feel fresh, coastal, and classic, and the Spruce Street Sofa is no exception. With a slightly more structured silhouette and crisp piping details, it feels a touch more tailored, perfect if you want a traditional look without sacrificing comfort.
Perfect for:
A bright, airy space inspired by New England coastal charm.
4. Ballard Designs Baldwin Slipcovered Sofa
Why we love it:
If you love a custom look without the custom price tag, Ballard Designs is your best friend. The Baldwin Slipcovered Sofa offers dozens of fabric options, from performance linens to cozy cotton blends. The silhouette is timeless: rolled arms, a supportive back, and a skirted base.
Perfect for:
A classic, timeless home with room for a little personalization.
5. IKEA HYLTARP Slipcovered Sofa
Why we love it:
If you’re looking for an affordable, high-impact option, the HYLTARP may be the one for you. With its clean lines and relaxed shape, it brings a classic, homey feel to any space. It’s high end elegance at a price that hovers around $1,000. Plus, replacement covers are easy to find (and easy to swap out for a new look).
Perfect for:
First homes, family rooms, or anyone who wants style and flexibility without the splurge.
Style Takeaways
The right slipcovered sofa doesn’t just anchor your living room, it sets the tone for how your home feels.
Casual yet elegant. Lived in but intentional. Relaxed, timeless, and full of life.
When you invest in quality pieces like these, you’re not just buying a sofa, you’re creating a space where memories are made, conversations flow, and your style shines.
Looking for more living room inspiration?
Explore our curated collections and styling guides to design a space that feels completely you—with confidence.
Spring Living Room Refresh with Target Finds
Give your space a fresh start with this Spring Living Room Refresh featuring affordable and stylish Target finds. From woven baskets and cozy throws to vintage inspired art and greenery, with timeless pieces that blend form and function.
This article contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here.
There’s something about spring that makes us crave a fresh start. The longer days, open windows, and blooming branches inspire a home that feels lighter, brighter, and a little more relaxed. If your living room is still holding on to winter’s heaviness, this is the perfect time for a simple seasonal refresh, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Today I’m sharing how to give your living room a spring refresh using affordable, high-impact finds from Target. From textural throw pillows to natural wood accents, everything I’ve sourced is under affordable and curated to help you get that designer look without the designer price tag.
Whether you're looking to make a few easy swaps or restyle your entire space, these ideas are timeless, cozy, and rooted in that layered, lived in look we love.
1. Lighten Up Your Textiles
Nothing transforms a room faster than switching out textiles. For spring, I like to trade heavy knits and dark tones for lighter, airier fabrics. Think linen pillow covers, lightweight cotton throws, and soft, washed neutrals that reflect the season.
Styling Tip:
Use a mix of pillow sizes (20x20, 22x22, lumbar) in complementary tones like ivory, taupe, and faded blue for a balanced, layered look.
2. Bring in Natural & Woven Accents
Spring is all about organic texture and materials that echo the outdoors. A few woven accents—like baskets, trays, or rattan frames—add warmth and character instantly.
3. Add Fresh Greenery (Faux or Real)
Nothing says spring like a touch of green. Whether it’s a full potted plant or a few faux branches in a ceramic vase, greenery instantly livens up a room and makes everything feel more vibrant.
Styling Tip:
Group greenery in odd numbers and vary the heights to keep things feeling balanced but organic.
4. Refresh Your Coffee Table & Shelves
You don’t need to overhaul your entire room—sometimes just restyling your coffee table or shelves can make everything feel new again.
Try this formula for a fresh tabletop look:
One tray to ground the space
One small stack of books
One candle or diffuser
One vase with greenery or branches
One sculptural object (like a decorative knot or bowl)
5. Swap in Seasonal Art & Accents
Spring is a great time to refresh your wall art or add small seasonal swaps to your decor. Think soft coastal landscapes, botanical prints, or vintage-style artwork in muted tones.
Style Takeaways
A spring living room refresh doesn’t have to mean a total overhaul—or a massive budget. With just a few intentional swaps from places like Amazon and Target, you can create a space that feels lighter, fresher, and more in tune with the season.
Focus on soft neutrals, layered textures, natural accents, and a touch of greenery. It’s all about thoughtful updates that add personality and warmth without starting from scratch.
Need help pulling it all together?
Check out my Spring Living Room Refresh Mood Board for my favorites of the bunch!
Best Warm Neutral Paint Colors for a Cozy Home
Looking for the perfect cozy paint color? These warm, timeless hues create a soft, inviting feel that makes any room feel like home.
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When it comes to creating a warm, welcoming home, few elements are as impactful as paint color. Warm neutral paint colors bring an effortless sense of comfort, making your space feel cozy without feeling heavy. Whether you're designing a family friendly living room, a restful bedroom, or a welcoming entryway, the right warm neutral can set the perfect tone.
In this guide, we’re diving into the best warm neutral paint colors to create a cozy home, plus tips for choosing the perfect shade for your space.
Not sure where to start? Grab my FREE Mini Paint Guide featuring 3 timeless Benjamin Moore color combos that always work. It’s the perfect starting point for creating a home you love, without second guessing. Send Me the Guide
BM Muslin. Ai imagined by Rocky Hill Home
What Are Warm Neutrals?
Warm neutrals are colors with yellow, beige, red, or brown undertones. Unlike cool neutrals (which lean gray or blue), warm neutrals feel sunny, soft, and inviting. They’re incredibly versatile — acting as a soothing backdrop for any decor style, from modern farmhouse to classic traditional.
Popular examples include soft beiges, creamy off-whites, and earthy taupes.
Warm neutral paints are ideal for:
North-facing rooms that need a boost of warmth
Creating a collected, layered aesthetic
Spaces where you want cozy, timeless style
The Best Warm Neutral Paint Colors
1. Benjamin Moore Lime White (1528)
Benjamin Moore Lime White is a soft, warm neutral that sits beautifully between a creamy off-white and a muted beige. It has subtle yellow and beige undertones that give it a sun-kissed warmth without feeling heavy or dated.
Why it's cozy: It brings a sense of understated elegance and coziness, making rooms feel naturally bright yet comfortably grounded.
Pairs beautifully with: Crisp white trim, warm wood tones, soft sage greens, and antique brass accents.
2. Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige (SW 7036)
Accessible Beige is the gold standard for a warm, sophisticated beige that doesn’t feel dated. It has subtle gray undertones that keep it from leaning too yellow.
Why it's cozy: It gives warmth without overpowering, creating a peaceful, neutral canvas.
Best for: Living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms where you want understated elegance.
3. Benjamin Moore Pale Oak (OC-20)
Pale Oak is a beautiful light greige (a mix of gray and beige) that reads warm but airy. In some lights, it almost looks like a very soft taupe.
Why it's cozy: Its lightness keeps spaces feeling open, while its warmth wraps the room in softness.
Great option for: Bedrooms, dining rooms, and light-filled spaces.
BM Pale Oak, Design by Rocky Hill Home
4. Sherwin-Williams Shoji White (SW 7042)
Shoji White offers a creamy off-white with subtle warmth — think of it as a perfect "not-too-white" neutral.
Why it's cozy: It feels soft and organic, perfect for creating a calm and cozy foundation for natural textures like wood and linen.
Ideal for: Whole house color palettes, modern cottages, and minimalist spaces.
5. Benjamin Moore Grant Beige (HC-83)
Grant Beige is a classic mid-tone beige that strikes the right balance between warm and sophisticated.
Why it's cozy: It's rich without feeling heavy, ideal for spaces where you want depth and comfort.
Looks beautiful with: Black accents, warm wood floors, and traditional furnishings.
BM Grant Beige, Design by Rocky Hill Home
Loving these ideas? Let’s make your color choices even easier. My FREE Mini Paint Guide includes three foolproof Benjamin Moore palettes you can use in any room for that cozy, collected look. You can grab my free paint guide here.
6. Farrow & Ball Slipper Satin (No. 2004)
A subtle, warm off-white with creamy undertones, Slipper Satin brings a refined coziness.
Why it's cozy: It feels soft, clean, and timeless — never stark or cold.
Perfect for: Bedrooms, powder rooms, and historic homes where you want a warm but fresh backdrop.
7. Benjamin Moore Muslin (OC-12)
Muslin is a warm beige that feels natural and earthy. It’s a soft, muted choice without any orange or pink undertones.
Why it's cozy: It feels calming and organic — the perfect neutral for a relaxed, collected home.
Pairs well with: Deep greens, soft blues, and rich browns.
How to Choose the Right Warm Neutral for Your Space
1. Pay attention to lighting:
Warm neutrals can shift dramatically depending on your room's light. North-facing rooms tend to cool colors down, so you might want a deeper beige. South-facing rooms will naturally enhance warmth.
Rocky Hill Tip: BM Grant Beige is my favorite neutral for low-light rooms.
2. Test large samples:
Always sample paint on multiple walls at different times of day. Look at it in morning, afternoon, and evening light to make sure it stays cozy and flattering.
3. Think about your furnishings:
If you have warm-toned wood floors or cream-colored furniture, lean into warmer neutrals. If your furnishings are cooler or more modern, a greige might balance everything out beautifully.
4. Consider the mood you want:
Light beiges like Pale Oak create airy coziness.
Rich beiges like Grant Beige create depth and comfort.
Creamy whites like Shoji White create soft, bright warmth.
Rooms That Shine with Warm Neutrals
Warm neutral paint colors aren’t just versatile — they can transform every space in your home:
Living Room
Accessible Beige, Revere Pewter
Bedroom
Grant Beige, Muslin
Entryway
Pale Oak, Shoji White
Dining Room
Slipper Satin, Pale Oak
Kitchen
Shoji White, Accessible Beige
Style Takeaway: Cozy Starts with Color
Choosing the right warm neutral paint color is one of the simplest, and most powerful, ways to create a cozy, inviting home. Whether you love a soft creamy white or a rich, earthy beige, there’s a perfect shade for your space.
Ready to Design with Confidence?
Want a shortcut to choosing the perfect paint color?
Download my FREE Mini Paint Guide with 3 designer approved Benjamin Moore combos that work with 3 different vibes. Whether you’re starting fresh or refreshing a space, this guide takes the guesswork out of picking the right hues.
How to Style a Studio McGee Bedroom on a Budget
Love the Studio McGee look but not the designer price tag? Here’s how to style a beautiful, budget friendly bedroom with timeless pieces and high impact details.
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The Studio McGee look is beloved for a reason—layered textures, timeless furniture, and that high-end, designer feel that looks effortless (even though we know it’s not). But recreating a Studio McGee inspired bedroom doesn’t have to mean blowing your entire decor budget.
With the right strategy, a curated eye, and a few affordable sources, you can achieve the same polished, cozy aesthetic, without the designer price tag. Here’s how to style a Studio McGee bedroom on a budget while keeping it refined, livable, and uniquely yours.
Ai imagined by Rocky Hill Home
1. Start with a Classic Color Palette
The Studio McGee look begins with a neutral, inviting foundation. Think warm whites, soft beiges, creamy taupes, or muted grays. These tones make the space feel calm and collected, while providing the perfect backdrop for vintage accents and layered textures.
Rocky Hill Tip:
Shea McGee doesn’t gatekeep when it comes to her favorite paint colors. Her tried and true is Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee at 75% strength.
2. Mix High-Low Bedding Like a Designer
Studio McGee bedrooms are known for their layered bedding: crisp sheets, cozy quilts, throw pillows with contrast piping, and relaxed linen duvets. The trick? Mix different price points and textures.
How to Get the Look:
Start with a crisp white base (Target’s Threshold line is a great option)
Add a patterned throw quilt in a muted floral or a textured solid (check Quince or Etsy)
Top with a quality duvet (Quince is an absolute favorite for high-end quality on a budget) and one lumbar pillow with pattern or texture.
3. Embrace Affordable Accent Furniture
Studio McGee's furniture selections often feature rich wood tones, caning, and traditional silhouettes. You can mirror that style with budget-friendly pieces that echo the same lines and finishes.
Look for:
A wood or cane nightstand (World Market and 1 Stop Bedrooms have great lookalikes)
A wooden bench or slipcovered stool at the foot of the bed
A ceramic lamp with a linen shade—Target and HomeGoods have amazing options under $75
Rocky Hill Tip:
Swap out hardware on budget furniture for something more substantial—aged brass or matte black knobs can elevate a piece instantly.
4. Incorporate Art with Vintage Character
Art is where Studio McGee rooms shine. Landscape paintings, antique still lifes, and moody seascapes bring in story and depth. You don’t need a gallery budget to bring this charm into your bedroom.
Budget-Friendly Options:
Download vintage art prints from Etsy and frame them with IKEA or Target frames
Look for ornate gold frames at thrift shops and fill them with printable art
Layer smaller art pieces casually on dressers or shelves for that effortless, “collected” feel
5. Bring in Texture Through Accessories
Layering textures is key to nailing the Studio McGee bedroom look. Think natural fiber rugs, woven baskets, ceramic vases, and soft, gauzy curtains.
Affordable Additions:
Linen-look curtains from Walmart or IKEA
Woven trays or rattan baskets for styling the nightstand
A jute or flatweave rug as a base layer under the bed (check Rugs USA or Boutique Rugs for deals)
Ai imagined by Rocky Hill Home
6. Add a Statement Mirror or Overhead Light
A bold mirror above the dresser or an updated ceiling light can instantly elevate the space. Look for pieces with personality—arched mirrors, black metal frames, or simple lantern-style flush mounts.
Steal the Look:
Target’s Threshold and Studio McGee collections offer budget-friendly designer lighting
IKEA’s Hovet mirror or McGee and Co dupes on Wayfair give big impact for less
Style Takeaway
A Studio McGee style bedroom doesn’t have to be out of reach. By combining thoughtful sourcing with strategic styling, you can create a room that feels elevated, collected, and uniquely you, without the designer price tag.
Start with a clean, cozy base, then build in warmth through vintage style art, wood tones, and textural accents. Mix budget finds with a few investment pieces, and focus on how the space feels: lived-in, layered, and calm.
Because good design isn’t just about what you spend, it’s about how intentionally you style it.
Want the shoppable version of this look?
Check out my Studio McGee Bedroom on a Budget mood board with links to budget-friendly pieces that look designer (but won’t break the bank).
Shop this Mood Board Here
Design Your Whole Home with Confidence
Loved this Studio McGee style bedroom? Take the guesswork out of paint colors with my free mini guide: 3 Timeless Benjamin Moore Combos That Always Work. It’s the perfect first step to creating a polished, pulled together look (on any budget).
7 Simple Ways to Make Your Home Feel Collected, Not Cluttered
Want a home that feels intentional, not overwhelming? These 7 simple styling tips will help you create a space that’s curated, cozy, and beautifully collected.
This article contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here.
At Rocky Hill Home, we believe that a truly beautiful home tells a story, your story. A thoughtfully collected space feels warm, lived in, and welcoming, while a cluttered one can leave you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. The difference isn't about having more or less, it’s about having what matters most.
If you’ve ever wondered how to create a home that feels curated rather than chaotic, you’re in the right place. Here are 7 simple ways to make your home feel collected, not cluttered, no major overhaul required.
1. Start with Meaningful Pieces
The heart of a collected home is intention. Fill your spaces with items that have meaning to you: a framed letter from a loved one, a vintage chair you scored on a memorable trip, or a piece of art that just speaks to you. When each item tells part of your story, your home naturally feels layered and personal.
Rocky Hill Tip: If you wouldn’t move it with you to your next home, reconsider keeping it.
2. Curate, Don’t Crowd
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking more decor = more style. But true charm lies in curation. Group similar items together in thoughtful vignettes — a stack of vintage books, a small ceramic bowl, and a candle can feel complete without overwhelming a surface.
Rocky Hill Tip: Leave a little breathing room on every shelf and tabletop to give the eye a place to rest.
3. Mix Old and New
A collected home feels timeless because it layers the old with the new. Pair your clean-lined sofa with an antique side table. Hang a modern light fixture above a weathered farmhouse table. The contrast adds depth and keeps your home from feeling like a furniture catalog.
Rocky Hill Tip: Aim for a 70/30 mix: about 70% newer pieces and 30% vintage or secondhand finds.
4. Stick to a Cohesive Color Palette
Nothing ties a room together like a harmonious color story. Whether you love soft neutrals, earthy greens, or classic blues, weaving a consistent palette through your rooms helps everything feel intentionally connected, even if your pieces are from different eras.
Rocky Hill Tip: Choose 3-5 main colors for your home, and repeat them across walls, upholstery, and accents.
5. Use Textures to Add Interest
When you keep your color palette tight, texture becomes your best friend. Think nubby linen, aged leather, woven baskets, smooth marble, and cozy knits. A collected home doesn’t rely on loud patterns or busy prints, it relies on tactile beauty.
Rocky Hill Tip: Every room should have a mix of at least three different textures.
Ai imagined by Rocky Hill Home
6. Tell Your Story Through Art and Accessories
Instead of filling every inch of wall space, be selective about what you hang. Choose artwork, mirrors, and photographs that evoke a feeling or memory. Collections, like a wall of botanical prints, framed vintage maps, or black-and-white family photos, can make a space feel rich and personal without feeling messy.
Rocky Hill Tip: Larger pieces often feel calmer than many small ones. Go big when you can.
7. Edit Seasonally
Life changes, and your home can, too. Make it a ritual to walk through your rooms each season with fresh eyes. Donate or store anything that feels tired or no longer fits the story you’re telling. A little regular editing keeps your home feeling intentional and collected all year long.
Rocky Hill Tip: Focus on keeping only what you truly love, use, or would miss if it were gone.
A Few Last Notes
At Rocky Hill Home, we believe that a well-designed space isn’t about perfection — it’s about connection. A collected home feels easy, welcoming, and deeply personal. Start with intention, curate with care, and celebrate the beauty of what you love most.
Looking for more inspiration?
Browse our mood boards and color palettes designed to help you create a home that feels every bit as collected, and comforting, as it should.
Another Secret to a Collected Home? Cohesive Color.
A well chosen paint palette is the foundation of that layered, lived in look. Download my free mini guide: 3 Timeless Benjamin Moore Combos That Always Work. Perfect for creating a home tat feels curated, not chaotic.