50 (Thousand) Shades of white!
A Guide to Choosing the Right White for Your Walls
When it comes to interior design, few decisions feel as deceptively simple as choosing white paint. But if you’ve ever stood in front of a wall of white swatches, you’ll know just how many undertones, temperatures, and finishes there are to consider. The right white can completely transform your space — making it feel brighter, warmer, calmer, or more modern — while the wrong one can throw everything off balance.
Let’s break down how to choose the perfect white for your home and when to use different tones.
Cool Whites
Crisp, clean, and fresh — cool whites have subtle blue or grey undertones that create a modern and airy feel. They work beautifully in homes with plenty of natural light, especially north-facing spaces that get bright sun throughout the day. Cool whites are ideal for contemporary, coastal, or minimal interiors where you want a bright, sharp finish.
Best for:
Homes with warm natural light (to balance the warmth)
Coastal or modern spaces
Pairing with greys, blues, or black accents
Dulux favourites: Okarito, Sandfly Point, Mt Aspiring Half, St Clair
View all Dulux’s Cool Tones here
Neutral Whites
If you’re unsure where to start, a neutral white is your best friend. These whites sit right in the middle — not too warm, not too cool — and complement just about any colour scheme. They provide a soft, timeless backdrop that lets your furniture and finishes do the talking. Neutral whites tend to feel calm and balanced, perfect for open-plan homes where rooms flow together.
Best for:
All-day light or mixed lighting conditions
Creating a consistent, timeless base throughout the home
Pairing with both warm and cool finishes
Dulux favourites: Southern Alps, Cardrona, Haast
View all Dulux’s Neutral Tones here
Warm Whites
Inviting and soft, warm whites have yellow, beige, or red undertones that bring a sense of comfort to a room. These tones are perfect for spaces that feel a little cool or lack natural light — they instantly add warmth and cosiness. Warm whites pair beautifully with timber, stone, and organic materials, making them ideal for modern organic or contemporary farmhouse styles.
Best for:
South-facing rooms or spaces with cooler light
Creating cosy, welcoming interiors
Pairing with natural textures and earthy palettes
Dulux favourites: Sandfly Point, Dannevirke, Opononi Quarter
View all Dulux’s Warm Tones here
Tips for Testing White Paint
Test in multiple areas – Paint large swatches on different walls to see how light affects the tone throughout the day.
Observe at different times – Morning, midday, and evening light will all shift the colour slightly.
Compare finishes – Matte, low sheen, and semi-gloss can change how a white reflects light.
Check undertones – Place your sample against pure white paper to see if it leans warm, cool, or neutral.
Choosing the right white isn’t about finding the perfect shade — it’s about finding your perfect shade. Think about your home’s light, the mood you want to create, and how your finishes will work together. With the right choice, your white walls will become the ultimate backdrop — fresh, timeless, and beautifully you.
Need help choosing the perfect white for your space? Get in touch with us at Sunday Haus Studio — we’d love to help you create a home that feels calm, balanced, and effortlessly beautiful.
