Historical Paint Colors Making A Comeback

As Sue Wadden, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams, puts it: “In these tumultuous times, we’re all craving a little comfort,­­ and historical hues give us a wonderful sense of familiarity and tradition.” Timeless shades have never been so timely.

Antique Paint Colors for Historic Houses

Historical Paint Colors to Try

Rich Teal Blue

With a hint of green and a touch of black, this blue hue from Benjamin Moore’s Williamsburg Collection has both vibrancy and depth. Here, it’s used to bring out the detail in traditional woodwork. But you could also wrap a whole room in this lush, sophisticated color. Shown: Everard Blue, Benjamin MooreOr try: Mountain Midnight, ValsparOr try: New Moon, Pratt & Lambert

Uplifting Golden Yellow

What could be more welcoming? This energetic yellow with a hint of orange from Sherwin-Williams’s Arts & Crafts Collection is warm and inviting without overwhelming a space. Tempered with gray trim, it offsets dark Craftsman-style oak furnishings in this entry space. Shown: Hubbard Squash, Sherwin-WilliamsOr try: Lira, PPGOr try: Egyptian Gold, California Paints

Velvety Moss Green

Looking for a color with character? This deep yellow-green from California Paints’ Historic Colors of America recalls the rich jewel tones of the Victorian era. It also suits this sitting area’s strong, stylish mix: a handsome Chesterfield sofa, modern metal accents, and a cowhide-style rug. Shown: Newbury Moss, California PaintsOr try: Moss Covered, Dunn-EdwardsOr try: Winning Ticket, Glidden

Neutral Pale Pink

Inspired by a pastel shade popular in homes during the 1930s, this pink from PPG has been updated with a brown undertone and a touch of gray that ground it and give it nuance. The result is a soothing shade that’s more sophisticated than sweet. Use it to brighten a bath, create calm in a bedroom, or warm up a living room. Shown: Cheerful Heart, PPGOr try: Abalone Shell, Sherwin-WilliamsOr try: Sugar Berry, Behr

Elegant Earthy Gray

A slight green undertone heightens the appeal of this midtone gray, which Behr developed to evoke weathered wood structures from the 18th century. Its strength, simplicity, and enveloping warmth make it a relaxing backdrop for any space, including a sleek bedroom. Shown: Barnwood Gray, BehrOr try: Archway House, MylandsOr try: Geddy Gray, Benjamin Moore

Versatile Sage Green

Soft enough to be neutral but prominent enough to set a mood, this green—part of Benjamin Moore’s Historical Collection, inspired by colors from the 18th and 19th centuries—has a warm gray undertone. It naturally pairs well with, and enhances, a variety of wood tones. Shown: Louisburg Green, Benjamin MooreOr try: Olive Fog, Pratt & LambertOr try: Clary Sage, Sherwin-Williams