Alex here 👋
Choosing a trim colour (skirting, architraves, doors and windows) is one of those details that can feel more overwhelming than it needs to be. So let’s look at a simple formula to make it easier.
When picking a trim colour, just ask yourself two questions:
1. What level of contrast do I want?
2. What undertone am I working with?
Lets start with the classic white trim, at Tint we have four go-to white paints that cover almost every situation: So Fresh and So Clean, Paper Plane, Old School, and C.R.E.A.M. Here’s how they fit the formula.
First Tip — Match your whites
If you are painting the walls white, most of the time you can simply use the same white on all your trims. This keeps everything cohesive and you don’t have to worry about things looking flat — the difference between the sheen levels of our Wall paint and Trim paint will provide just enough contrast to make everything look considered.
Now back to the questions... 1. What level of contrast do I want? and 2. What undertone am I working with?
High Contrast + Any Undertone → So Fresh and So Clean
So Fresh and So Clean is our brightest, freshest white with a neutral undertone. It makes for beautiful bright trims and bonus points that works with pretty much any wall colour.
Use it when you want that classic white trim look. It will highlight your trims, bounce light, and is an stress-free choice.
High Contrast + Cool Undertones → Paper Plane
When you’re working with cool wall colours, like our cool greys, then this is the one time I'd consider Paper Plane over So Fresh and So Clean.
It's our cool white paint and matching the undertone with those cool grey hues works so well. So Fresh and So Clean can still work but check this combo at home, in your own light, as it's the one time it can feel warmer up against our cool greys.
Gentle Contrast + Warm Undertones → Old School
If your walls have warmer tones (like beiges, pinks, yellows and most greens), then Old School is usually the winner.
It’s still light and bright but softer and creamier compared to So Fresh and So Clean. This creates a more gentle contrast rather than crisp.
Want the trim to fade away more? Go with C.R.E.A.M. It’s the warmest, softest white and works especially well in heritage homes, cosy bedrooms, or anywhere you want a softened look.
NOTE: Pair these only with warm undertones on your walls — putting it against a bright white or cool wall colour will highlight their yellow undertones and feel a bit dated.
The current 'trend': Same colour, different finish
One of my favourite looks is using the exact same colour on walls and trims. This works not just with whites but for colours as well. The difference between our low sheen (Wall paint) and semi-gloss (Trim paint) creates quiet interest and but the full wash of colour across the room creates such an elevated feeling.
Wild Card: Bold Contrast
Sometimes you just want drama! We did this in our own office (pictured below) with Midnight Pancakes on the walls and a similar but darker hue Gracie on the trim (watch the reel here). The confidence of contrast trims speaks for itself. It’s fun and playful, and works particularly well to highlight traditional detailed trims.
Image by The Design Files and Eve Wilson.
The fool proof way to achieve this look is to pick a similar tone but in a different depth. Simply view our hues by colour collections, choosing a lighter or darker version of the same colour family — as above.
Does this apply to ceilings?
Pretty much — a great place to start is always "what level of contrast do I want?" and "what undertone am I working with?". There are a few extra notes on picking ceiling paint I’ll break that down in a bit more detail next.
As always, test your samples in your actual space and next to the main colours in your room.
Have a specific room or wall colour in mind? Jump on the chat or send us a DM and we are happy to give you a personalised suggestion.
Happy tinting!
Alex
Head of Colour and Founder
