Designer Leanne Ford reveals her go-to paint colors for creating timeless, neutral interiors – discover her popular choices for a proven palette.
Leanne Ford, a renowned interior designer, has shared her go-to neutral paint shades that she believes are essential for creating serene, cozy, yet sophisticated spaces. Her preferred choices include Sherwin-Williams Shoji White, Behr's Natural White, Crisp Linen, PPG Paints' Sandstone Cliff, and Ultra Pure White from Behr Paints.
Ford highly recommends these neutrals for their versatility and timeless quality. These shades have consistently proven reliable for achieving a calm, composed atmosphere that avoids feeling flat or overly warm. She advises always testing paint colours in your specific home environment, as lighting can dramatically affect the appearance of shades.
One of Ford's standout choices is Ultra Pure White by Behr, a bright, stark white without any tint. This versatile shade works beautifully in both high gloss and flat finishes and is suitable for application on textured surfaces such as exposed brick. It lifts the space while maintaining warmth and coziness, making it an ideal choice for minimalist interiors.
Sherwin-Williams Shoji White is another favourite of Ford's, offering a warmer, more natural-feeling white that creates a deeply calming effect in spaces. PPG Paints' Sandstone Cliff is a rich cream shade that evokes warmth and elegance, while Behr's Natural White provides a refreshingly serene vibe with a hint of cream.
Ford's style often integrates these neutrals to set a serene foundation, allowing other elements like salvaged furniture, lighting, and architectural details to stand out while maintaining an overall sense of cohesion and elegance. She describes these shades as 'our greatest hits' and emphasises their ability to work well with various textures and lighting conditions without overwhelming.
In addition to her favourite neutrals, Ford includes a single green paint, PPG Paints Thyme Green, in her list of favourite shades. Thyme Green is an olive green mixed with brighter tones, suitable for year-round use and adding a cozy, sophisticated, and timeless feel to spaces. Ford used this shade on the walls and ceiling of a past bathroom idea, creating a unique and inviting space.
Ford's spaces are always lessons in how to decorate with neutrals, and her favourite shades are sure to inspire homeowners looking to create a tranquil and sophisticated home decor scheme. Whether you're planning a renovation or simply looking to refresh your space, these neutral paint shades are worth considering for their versatility and timeless quality.
[1] Source: Leanne Ford's Instagram post on 12th October 2020 [3] Source: Leanne Ford's interview with Domino magazine, 2019
Interior design enthusiasts will appreciate Leanne Ford's go-to paint choices for a cozy, sophisticated lifestyle. Her collection of neutral shades, such as Sherwin-Williams Shoji White, Behr's Natural White, Crisp Linen, PPG Paints' Sandstone Cliff, and Ultra Pure White from Behr Paints, is perfect for achieving a serene home-and-garden ambiance.
