Step into a newly constructed home and you’ll likely spot a predictable paint combination: white trim and doors, no matter the wall color. While this approach is safe, it’s also a telltale sign of builder-grade design choices — or, rather, a lack thereof — that can leave even the most personalized space feeling uninspired.
The solution? An easy paint fix. Painting your trim and doors the same color as your walls will instantly add sophistication to your space. Here’s why tonal painting works well, according to two interior designers.
The Problem With White Trim
“White trim and doors are often considered ‘builder-basic’ because they’re the default, not the result of a considered design decision,” says Helena Clunies-Ross, an interior designer based in New York and London. Because builders often choose standard whites with little consideration for undertones or natural light, the result can feel stark and generic.
Los Angeles-based interior designer Sarah West agrees. “It tends to look off-the-shelf and lacking in warmth or nuance,” she says. “It rarely feels custom or considered.”
The High-End Alternative
Opting for a single color across walls, trim, and doors delivers a high-end effect. “It creates a more seamless, cohesive look that feels intentional and elevated,” West says.
Monochromatic paint is an especially good match for modern and transitional spaces without eye-catching architectural molding. This allows color to flow seamlessly from the doors to trim to walls, creating an enveloping atmosphere. Moody palettes — think deep charcoal, olive green, mauves, and rich taupes — make a big impact, but soft neutrals are effective too.
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When White Trim Works
There are always exceptions to design guidelines, including this one. In traditional or coastal homes, crisp white trim can offer classic contrast. Likewise, if your doors and trim are made of a beautiful wood, put down the paintbrush and highlight their natural tone instead.
“[Monochromatic paint] can feel flat in very ornate interiors with highly detailed trim, where the contrast helps define craftsmanship,” Clunies-Ross says. “In those cases, introducing a different color or tone can help celebrate the architectural detailing rather than mute it.”
Shine On
When going tonal, keep the color consistent but not the sheen. Designers recommend eggshell or matte finishes on walls, complemented by a satin finish (which is hard-wearing for high-traffic areas) on the trim and doors.
“That subtle shift in sheen adds depth and light play without breaking the visual continuity,” Clunies-Ross explains. “It’s a quiet detail, but it really elevates the finish.”
