What is the best color palette for a home exterior?
Start with fixed elements
Your roof, brick, stone, and driveway are hard to change, so build the palette around them. Look at the undertones of those materials first. Warm brick usually pairs better with warm beige or cream than with a cool gray.
Check local rules too. Some neighborhoods, HOAs, and historic districts require approval for exterior color changes, and the rules vary by city and association.
Assign the roles
Keep contrast moderate. Very high contrast between the body and trim can look busy from the street. Many designers suggest a slightly darker or lighter accent to tie the scheme together.
- Body: the main siding color
- Trim: windows, fascia, and corners
- Accent: front door and shutters
- Details: gutters and downspouts, often matching the trim
Test in daylight
Paint sample boards or large patches on the exterior, and view them in the morning, midday, and evening. Sunlight changes colors significantly, so a sample that looks good on a shaded side may look different in full sun.
Exterior colors also need to work with landscaping. Greens, brick tones, and stone will change how a painted facade reads, so bring a plant or landscape photo when you compare sample chips in person.
Common mistakes
- Choosing colors from a small chip without viewing a large patch outdoors.
- Ignoring HOA or city rules until after the paint is already applied.
Related questions
- How do I choose a paint color for my living room?
- What is the best way to pick a paint color without seeing it in person?
- How many paint colors should I use in one room?
- Should I choose paint color before or after furniture?
- How do I pick a paint color that matches my existing decor?
- What is the best way to test a paint color on a wall?