The best warm neutrals for harmonious interiors

Within the Architectural Colours, the Paint & Paper Library palette comprises a wide selection of warm and cool neutrals, each presented in five tonal shades. The offering ranges from classic greys and stones, to shades with stronger undertones of yellow, red, green and blue.

In recent years, there has been a shift towards the use of warmer neutrals in interior design, containing a touch of umber, ochre, yellow or pink. These shades offer natural warmth and comfort; they provide a versatile neutral backdrop whilst creating a gentle and soothing living environment.

Discover these neutrals and find inspiration for ways to incorporate them into your colour schemes…

Five warm neutral paint colours from the Architectural Colours palette

Canvas - contemporary sand-coloured neutrals

The Canvas palette of elegant sand shades is particularly well-suited to contemporary interiors. Their subtle red undertones provide noticeable warmth for a soothing, tranquil scheme. Consider the deepest tone, Canvas V, for a confident background to accompany red soft furnishings, fabric or wallpaper.

Chelsea from @thehousethatblackbuilt has used Canvas I throughout her home. This warm paint colour provides a seamless neutral backdrop that complements her sleek, contemporary interior style. She punctuates with strong black and warm white accents to create contrast.

Read more about using light and dark colours in combination.

Powder - soothing pink-based neutrals

For an earthy neutral that exudes warmth, consider the pink-based Powder neutrals. Powder is an excellent choice for both classic and contemporary homes. This warm neutral instils a gentle, soothing ambience to create a comforting scheme.

Instead of using one shade all over, incorporate two or three different shades on the skirting, walls and ceiling to benefit from a slight change of tone. The result will be a warm and enveloping scheme perfectly suited to a spacious living room or master bedroom suite.

Or use the lightest shade, Powder I, as an alternative to pure white paint colours in your bathroom scheme. @bobbins.at.home coordinates Powder I with terrazzo flooring, pink tiles and light wood to bring out the warmth of this delicate pink shade.

Explore our full collection of neutral paint colours in subtly varying tones.

Stone - classic light beige neutrals

The Stone neutrals are a classic choice to create a serene and sophisticated neutral backdrop. Highlighted as one of the most useful colour palettes on the chart, the lighter shades work wonderfully in open-plan living spaces. Or for a more traditional space, consider pairing the deeper Stone IV or Stone V with Stone I or Stone II to highlight architectural features.

@littlehouseonthecorner demonstrate how the Stone neutrals work equally well as a backdrop to bold colour accents on cabinetry and furniture. They contrast Stone II on the walls with cabinets painted in the beautiful middle-eastern red, Soumak.

Read our article on how to choose complementary paint colours.

Cashmere - uplifting yellow-based neutrals

The ultimate neutral, Cashmere has soft yellow undertones to provide any interior scheme with palpable warmth. It is ideal for north-facing rooms where natural light is scarce, to introduce a warm, uplifting and peaceful atmosphere.

@martharileynash has chosen one of the lightest shades, Cashmere II, to act as a continuous neutral backdrop in her home. In her living room, she adds warmth by utilising rich red and gold accents on statement artwork, accessories and soft furnishings.

Discover how the orientation of a space can impact colour choice.

Sand - restful warm neutrals

One of the softest Paint & Paper Library neutrals, Sand is a timeless shade that holds a little pink for added warmth. It works especially well in bedrooms and living rooms. Use two or more shades from the Sand palette to create an inviting tonal scheme.

@our_durham_home and @the_flint_house have used the deepest hue, Sand V, alongside related tones to achieve a restful ambience.

@the_flint_house teams Sand V on all walls with Sand IV on woodwork and Sand I on the ceiling to create her classic, comforting living space.

While @our_durham_home used Sand I on the upper walls and Sand V on panelling for a contrasting colour pairing. This combination complements the natural wood finishes and textural elements.