The Best Paint Colors for Guest Rooms

A guest room is more than just a spare bedroom; the right paint color can significantly contribute to this inviting atmosphere, offering a sense of calm and hospitality.

When selecting paint for your guest room, think about colors that are universally appealing, promote rest, and provide a versatile backdrop for various decor styles. Here are some top recommendations for creating a perfect guest retreat:

1. Soft, Warm Neutrals: The Foundation of Comfort

• Why they're ideal: Neutrals are the quintessential choice for guest rooms because they are universally appealing and create a calm, uncluttered foundation. Sherwin-Williams excels at warm neutrals that feel inviting without being overwhelming, allowing guests to relax regardless of their personal style.

• Shades to consider:

  • Agreeable Gray SW 7029: A beloved greige (gray-beige) that strikes a perfect balance between warm and cool, making it incredibly versatile and welcoming. It's a top-seller for a reason – it creates an instant sense of comfort.

  • Accessible Beige SW 7036: A popular warm beige with subtle gray undertones. This color provides a soft, snug feel that's perfect for creating a cozy, yet sophisticated, guest room.

  • Alabaster SW 7008: Sherwin-Williams' 2016 Color of the Year, this soft, warm white is inviting and bright without feeling stark. It creates a serene and clean backdrop, perfect for layering textures and subtle colors in bedding and decor.

  • Shoji White SW 7042: A creamy, warm white that offers a bit more depth than pure white, providing a soft and modern haven that works beautifully in many rooms.

  • Pure White SW 7005: A crisp, versatile white that provides a clean slate. While bright, its inherent warmth keeps it from feeling clinical, making it a great choice for a fresh, open feel.

    
    

2. Calming Blues & Greens: Spa-Like Serenity

• Why they're ideal: Colors found in nature, like blues and greens, are inherently soothing and promote relaxation – exactly what you want for guests after a long journey or busy day. These shades evoke a sense of peace and a connection to the outdoors.

• Shades to consider:

  • Sea Salt SW 6204: A famous Sherwin-Williams color, this soft, muted green-blue shifts wonderfully with the light, creating a tranquil, spa-like atmosphere that most guests will find incredibly soothing.

  • Tradewind SW 6218: A beautiful, light blue that's reminiscent of a clear sky, bringing a sense of calm and openness to the room. It's refreshing without being too vibrant.

  • Silver Strand SW 7057: A subtle blue-gray-green that is incredibly serene and adaptable. It's a sophisticated neutral that adds a touch of color without overwhelming the space.

  • Evergreen Fog SW 9130: Sherwin-Williams' 2022 Color of the Year, this gentle green with a hint of gray and blue is deeply calming and provides a connection to nature, making a guest feel grounded and relaxed.

  • Quietude HGSW6212 (HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams): A soft sage green with a whisper of blue, offering transcendent tranquility. It's an excellent choice for a serene and enduring guest room design.

    
    

3. Soft, Muted Tones: Subtle Sophistication

• Why they're ideal: These colors offer a touch more personality than a pure neutral but remain muted enough to maintain a relaxing atmosphere. They provide a sophisticated backdrop that can be dressed up or down with linens and accessories.

• Shades to consider:

  • Acacia Haze SW 9132: A beautiful, sophisticated green-gray that adds a touch of earthy elegance and a serene ambiance to any bedroom.

  • Drift of Mist SW 9166: A light, ethereal gray that offers a subtle hint of warmth. It's perfect for creating an airy and open feel, especially in rooms with less natural light.

  • Fawn Brindle SW 7537: A warm, muted taupe-gray that is incredibly cozy and versatile, providing a comforting embrace for your guests.

  • Pussywillow SW 7643: A soft, ethereal gray with a slight hint of purple, offering a unique and soothing character without being overtly colorful.

    
    

Tips for Painting Your Guest Room:

• Consider Natural Light: Observe how much natural light the room receives throughout the day. Lighter colors can make a darker room feel brighter, while sunny rooms can handle slightly deeper, more saturated hues.

• Balance with Linens & Decor: Even with a neutral wall color, you can introduce pops of personality and warmth through bedding, throw pillows, artwork, and curtains. This allows you to easily update the room's feel without repainting.

• Comfort First: The ultimate goal is to make your guests feel welcome and comfortable. Choose a color that evokes a sense of peace and calm, rather than one that might be too stimulating or specific to a very niche taste.

• Test Samples: Always purchase Sherwin-Williams peel-and-stick samples or paint chips and view them on the actual walls in your guest room at different times of day. Colors can look drastically different under varying light conditions.

  
  

By choosing one of these inviting hues, you'll create a guest room that's a true home away from home, ensuring your visitors feel refreshed and appreciated.